Native Heart Valve Repair Reinforcing Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional collapsible prosthetic heart valves face challenges in anchoring within the native valve annulus, especially where plaque is lacking, and there is a need to restore native valve function instead of replacing it, as existing methods are invasive and not effective for all heart valve types.
Innovation Solution
The development of reinforcing structures, such as toroidal bodies with coils and hooks, and tethering devices with adjustable tethers, to remodel the geometry of native heart valves, allowing for proper coaptation of leaflets and stabilization without the need for extensive invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If collapsible prosthetic valves are used for less invasive delivery, then invasiveness is reduced, but anchoring reliability deteriorates when plaque is lacking in the native valve annulus
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional components: a collapsible valve body for minimally invasive delivery, separate anchoring elements (such as clips or engagement structures) that can be deployed independently, and a delivery system. This segmentation allows the valve to be delivered less invasively while maintaining reliable anchoring through the separate deployment of specialized anchoring components.
2Reliability
If native heart valve is replaced with prosthetic device, then valve functionality is restored, but loss of native tissue and increased invasiveness occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses an intermediary approach by providing support and reinforcement to the native valve structure rather than complete replacement. The device includes supporting members that extend from a reinforcing structure to contact and stabilize the native valve leaflets, acting as a mediator that preserves native tissue while restoring functionality.
3Reliability
If reinforcing structures are used to remodel native valve geometry, then valve function is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure employs flexible, thin-walled components such as a toroidal body with coils and supporting members that can conform to the native valve geometry. These flexible structures provide the necessary mechanical support for remodeling valve geometry while maintaining a relatively simple and adaptable design that reduces overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for repairing a native heart valve includes a reinforcing structure configured to couple to a portion of the native heart valve to remodel a geometry of the native heart valve, and at least one supporting member connected to the reinforcing structure.