Interwoven RF Energy Device for Cardiac Tissue Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for treating cardiac tissue, such as closing patent foramen ovale and left atrial appendage, are complex to manufacture, inconsistent in performance, lack anatomic conformability, and can cause complications like thrombus formation, chronic inflammation, and conduction system disturbances.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a sheath with an elongated member made of a non-conductive material interwoven with an energy transferring material, such as copper or ceramic, which is advanced to contact cardiac tissue and applies energy like radio frequency energy to treat and close cardiac openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current devices are used to treat cardiac tissue, then closure of cardiac openings can be achieved, but the devices are complex to manufacture and require technically complex implantation procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a delivery catheter, a collapsible frame, and a scaffold material. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for manufacturing and simplifies the implantation procedure by enabling step-by-step deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy transferring material is extracted as a separate layer from the scaffold structure, allowing it to be applied only where needed and simplifying the overall manufacturing process. The frame is designed to be collapsible and deliverable through a catheter, separating the delivery function from the treatment function.
2Reliability
If current devices are used to treat cardiac tissue, then closure can be achieved, but performance is inconsistent and anatomic conformability is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold material is designed with varying properties in different regions to match the local anatomical requirements. The frame geometry can be adjusted to conform to specific anatomical shapes, and the energy transferring material distribution can be optimized for different tissue types and defect locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed to be collapsible and expandable, allowing it to adapt dynamically to different anatomical configurations during implantation. This dynamic capability enables the device to conform to various cardiac anatomy shapes and sizes, improving both consistency and adaptability.
3Reliability
If current devices are used to treat cardiac tissue, then closure can be achieved, but complications such as thrombus formation, chronic inflammation, and conduction system disturbances occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a temporary implant that performs its closure function and then can be removed or degrades safely. This approach eliminates the need for permanent foreign material, reducing the risk of long-term complications such as thrombus formation and chronic inflammation.
Solution Approach 2:
The scaffold material and frame geometry are optimized to minimize tissue irritation and foreign body response. The energy transferring material parameters (such as energy type, duration, and intensity) are controlled to achieve effective closure while minimizing thermal damage and inflammatory responses.
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 treats cardiac tissue by ensuring consistent performance, reducing complications, and enhancing anatomic conformability, thereby improving treatment outcomes for cardiac septal defects and appendage closure.
Implementation Method 1
the second material is an energy transferring material... applying the energy source to the second material to transfer energy to the cardiac tissue
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally relates to devices and methods for treating cardiac tissue, including percutaneous closure of cardiac openings such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and obliteration of the cardiac cul-de-sacs. The invention includes a device having at least one elongated member. The elongated member has a first material and a second material interwoven with at least a portion of the first material. The second material is capable of transferring energy to tissue in need of treatment.