Imaging Catheter Thrombectomy for Pulmonary Clot Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for treating pulmonary embolisms, such as anticoagulation therapy and conventional thrombectomy devices, are inadequate in effectively navigating the vascular anatomy of the lungs, removing thrombotic material, and providing real-time sensor data during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A thrombus removal system comprising an elongated catheter with a distal portion for vascular navigation, an imaging element for visualization, a capture element to engage and draw thrombus, a fluid delivery mechanism to fragment thrombus, and an aspiration mechanism to aspirate fragments, all integrated with sensors for real-time feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional thrombectomy devices are used, then the procedure can be performed with simpler equipment, but the devices cannot navigate the vascular anatomy of the lungs effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested catheter design where multiple functional components are nested within each other. The inner catheter can be advanced through the outer catheter, allowing the system to navigate complex vascular anatomy while maintaining a compact profile for insertion. This nested structure enables the device to access pulmonary vasculature that conventional devices cannot reach.
Solution Approach 2:
The thrombectomy device is divided into multiple functional segments including an imaging element, capture element, fluid delivery mechanism, and aspiration mechanism. Each segment performs a specific function and can be independently controlled, enabling the device to navigate and operate within the complex pulmonary vascular anatomy effectively.
2Productivity
If conventional thrombectomy devices are used, then the equipment is simpler, but the devices are not effective in removing thrombotic material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple thrombus removal mechanisms into a single integrated system. The capture element mechanically engages the thrombus, the fluid delivery mechanism fragments it through pressurized irrigation, and the aspiration mechanism removes the fragments. This combination of mechanisms significantly improves thrombus removal efficacy compared to conventional single-mechanism devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter system is designed to perform multiple functions: imaging the vasculature, navigating to the thrombus, capturing the thrombus, fragmenting it with fluid, and aspirating the fragments. This multi-functional design enables effective thrombus removal while providing real-time feedback, making the system adaptable to various thrombus types and locations within the pulmonary vasculature.
3Loss of information
If conventional thrombectomy devices are used, then the procedure is simpler, but the devices lack the ability to provide sensor data or other feedback to the clinician
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates imaging elements and sensors within the catheter system that provide real-time feedback to the clinician during the procedure. The imaging element visualizes the vasculature and thrombus location, while sensors monitor procedural parameters. This feedback enables the clinician to make informed decisions about thrombus removal strategy and assess procedural progress.
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 effectively navigates the pulmonary vasculature, fragments and removes thrombus while providing real-time imaging and sensor data, enhancing procedural efficacy and safety.
Implementation Method 1
directing fluid from at least two different points toward the thrombus
Implementation Method 2
an aspiration mechanism configured to aspirate the fragments of the thrombus
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology relates to systems and methods for removing a thrombus from a blood vessel of a patient. In some embodiments, the present technology is directed to systems including an elongated catheter having a distal portion configured to be positioned within the blood vessel of the patient, a proximal portion configured to be external to the patient, and a lumen extending therebetween. The system can also include an imaging element at the distal portion, an illumination source at the distal portion, a capture element at the distal portion and configured to engage the thrombus, a fluid delivery mechanism within the lumen and configured to apply fluid to (1) at least partially fragment the thrombus and (2) provide an optical path for the imaging element, and an aspiration mechanism fluidly coupled to the lumen and configured to aspirate the fragmented thrombus.