Friction-Adaptive Vascular Device for Clot Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing blockages in blood vessels, such as those causing ischemic stroke, often fail to address frictional forces effectively, leading to increased complications and damage during clot removal.
Innovation Solution
A device that surrounds the obstruction using traversing filaments, converting from a low friction mode to a high friction mode to securely engage and remove the clot without causing axial translation, thereby reducing frictional forces and minimizing damage to the vessel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods are used to remove clots by translating them axially, then the clot can be removed from the vessel, but frictional forces increase causing vessel damage and clot fragmentation
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically changes its frictional characteristics by transitioning from a low-friction configuration during delivery to a high-friction configuration during clot engagement. The filaments can be repositioned or reconfigured to increase surface area contact with the clot, thereby adapting the device's interaction with the obstruction to optimize removal while minimizing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the frictional parameter of the device by using filaments with varying surface properties or configurations. The filaments may be coated with materials that provide controlled friction or have geometries that allow adjustment of contact area with the clot, thereby modifying the frictional forces applied during removal.
2Reliability
If high friction is applied to secure the clot, then the clot can be firmly engaged, but the clot may be fragmented or the vessel damaged during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies different frictional qualities to different parts of the clot through multiple filaments. Some filaments may engage the proximal end while others engage the distal end, distributing the securing force locally across the clot surface. This localized engagement prevents concentrated stress that could cause fragmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The frictional engagement is dynamic rather than static. The filaments can adjust their contact pressure and distribution as the device is withdrawn, maintaining secure engagement while adapting to changes in clot position and vessel geometry to prevent fragmentation.
3Productivity
If the device translates the clot axially during removal, then the clot can be moved out of the vessel, but frictional resistance increases causing unacceptable damage
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying solely on axial translation, the device utilizes radial dimension by deploying filaments that extend outward to engage the clot circumferentially. This multi-dimensional engagement allows the clot to be secured and removed through a combination of radial containment and controlled axial movement, reducing frictional resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The filaments act as intermediaries between the device and the clot, providing a controlled interface that reduces direct frictional contact. The filaments may be flexible or coated to minimize friction while maintaining engagement, serving as a mediator that protects both the vessel and clot from damaging frictional forces.
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 device effectively secures and removes obstructions with reduced risk of fragmentation or vessel damage, improving the success rate and reducing complications in restoring blood flow.
Implementation Method 1
converting from a low friction mode to a high friction mode to securely engage and remove the clot without causing axial translation
Data Source
AI summary
The devices and methods described herein relate to clearing of blockages within body lumens, such as the vasculature, by addressing the frictional resistance on the obstruction prior to attempting to translate and/or mobilize the obstruction within the body lumen.