Fully Implantable LVAD Controller Thermal Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implantable blood pump controllers generate heat, causing discomfort and potential pain due to increased heat transfer to the patient, especially in the presence of thrombus.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for thermally stimulating the patient by using a heating pad on the neck to reduce core body temperature when the controller temperature exceeds a threshold, with communication between internal and external controllers to generate alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the controller provides more power to the pump, then the pump performance increases, but the heat generated by the controller increases causing discomfort and pain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary cooling system that acts as a mediator between the heat-generating controller and the patient's body. The cooling catheter with coolant flow serves as an intermediate heat transfer medium, absorbing excess heat from the controller before it reaches the patient, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining high pump power and controlling controller temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary cooling action by continuously or proactively cooling the controller before excessive heat accumulates. The system monitors controller temperature and activates cooling measures in advance to prevent temperature rise that would cause patient discomfort, allowing the controller to maintain high power output without thermal side effects.
2Temperature
If the controller is cooled down, then patient comfort improves, but the controller may not have enough power to operate the pump effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic thermal management where the cooling system operates adaptively rather than statically. The cooling intensity is adjusted in real-time based on controller temperature readings and pump power requirements, allowing the system to maintain optimal balance between temperature control and power delivery. The cooling catheter flow rate can be modulated dynamically to match operational demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of the cooling system based on real-time conditions. By adjusting coolant flow rate, temperature differential, and timing of cooling interventions, the system optimizes the balance between heat removal and power maintenance. This parameter-based control allows flexible adaptation to different operational scenarios without compromising pump performance.
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
Effectively reduces controller temperature by 33% and minimizes thermal tissue damage and pain, allowing time for the patient to seek medical attention.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a temperature of an internal controller with a temperature sensor coupled to the internal controller
Implementation Method 2
the alert notifying the patient to thermally stimulate a back of the neck of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A method of cooling a mammal with an implantable blood pump. The method includes measuring a temperature of an internal controller, the internal controller being in communication with the implantable blood pump. an alert is generated if the temperature of the internal controller exceeds a predetermined temperature threshold.