Intravascular Imaging Catheter for CTO Crossing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for treating chronic total occlusions (CTOs) in blood vessels are risky due to complications such as thrombosis, dissection, and hemodynamic deterioration, and lack effective visualization tools for safe crossing.
Innovation Solution
An intravascular imaging catheter apparatus with a crossing member and intravascular imaging capabilities that captures 3D images to guide the catheter through the vessel, avoiding complications by providing real-time visualization and tools for safe crossing and re-opening the true lumen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a wire is used to cross through the CTO using true lumen strategy, then the occlusion can be effectively punctured and blood flow restored, but serious complications such as thrombosis, dissection, collateral perforation, and equipment entrapment occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing intravascular imaging and 3D reconstruction of the CTO before attempting wire crossing. This allows the operator to identify the precise location, composition, and orientation of the occlusion, plan the crossing trajectory in advance, and select the appropriate crossing strategy (true lumen vs. subintimal), thereby reducing complications while maintaining crossing effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through real-time intravascular imaging during the CTO crossing procedure. The imaging system provides continuous feedback on wire position, vessel anatomy, and crossing progress, allowing the operator to adjust the crossing strategy dynamically and respond to emerging complications, thus improving procedure safety without compromising crossing success
2Reliability
If intravascular imaging is added to the catheter apparatus, then real-time visualization and safe crossing guidance are achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the intravascular imaging system with the catheter apparatus by integrating the imaging catheter, contrast delivery system, and crossing tools into a single unified device. This combination allows simultaneous imaging and intervention, reducing the need for multiple separate devices and procedures, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining enhanced safety through real-time visualization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional catheter apparatus that can perform multiple functions: intravascular imaging, contrast delivery for angiography, CTO crossing, and post-crossing treatment. This universal device eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function, managing complexity through consolidation while providing comprehensive safety and treatment capabilities
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides devices with integrated intravascular imaging and methods for crossing a CTO within the true lumen of a vessel. An interventional catheter with intravascular imaging capabilities can be guided into an affected vessel and to a CTO. An included intravascular imaging device captures a 3D image of the environment. The catheter includes a crossing member that can be extended out from a distal tip of the catheter, causing the crossing member to directly cross through the CTO creating a new channel through the CTO.