Fistula-Forming Catheter Electrode With Spring Support for Calcified Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheter systems struggle to effectively form fistulas in calcified vessels due to electrode deformation and reduced height when high power or prolonged RF energy is required, limiting their reuse and effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The catheter system incorporates a spring mechanism or push/pull elements to provide resistance against lateral movement of the electrode, allowing it to maintain shape and expand radially for effective fistula formation in calcified vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high power or prolonged RF energy is supplied to the electrode to cut through thicker calcified vessels, then the electrode can penetrate the vessel wall, but the electrode deforms and its height reduces by up to 60%
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is designed with a spring element that allows it to dynamically adjust its position. The spring compresses when the electrode is deployed, allowing the electrode to maintain contact with the vessel wall while accommodating the radial forces applied during cutting of calcified vessels, thereby preventing permanent deformation and height reduction.
2Temperature
If the electrode is made thinner to reduce heat buildup, then heat accumulation is reduced, but the electrode becomes more susceptible to deformation under high power
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is constructed as a composite structure combining a thin wire element with a spring element. The thin wire reduces heat accumulation while the spring element, made of a resilient material, provides structural support and prevents permanent deformation, allowing the electrode to withstand high power RF energy application without losing structural integrity.
3Length of moving object
If the electrode height is increased to improve cutting capability in calcified vessels, then the electrode can reach through thicker walls, but the electrode becomes more prone to lateral movement and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a dynamic support mechanism that allows the electrode to extend to greater heights for penetrating calcified vessels while maintaining stability. The spring's elastic properties enable it to resist lateral movement and prevent permanent deformation, ensuring the electrode maintains its position and shape during high-power RF energy application.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables more efficient and reliable fistula formation in thicker, calcified vessels by maintaining electrode height and providing increased force against vessel walls, reducing deformation and enhancing the catheter's ability to cut through.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is configured to provide resistance against lateral movement of the intermediate portion
Implementation Method 2
the RF energy supplied to the electrode must be at a higher power or supplied for a longer time to allow the electrode to cut through the thicker vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A system for forming a fistula between two vessels. The system comprises a first catheter comprising a housing with an opening, and an electrode disposed at least partially within the housing. The electrode comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion and an intermediate portion therebetween for contacting a vessel wall and forming the fistula. The first catheter is configured to provide resistance against lateral movement of the intermediate portion, for example, through a spring, a push element, a guide element or a pull wire.