Intravascular Articulating Retrieval for Tilted Filter Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing intravascular filters and foreign bodies are challenging due to difficulties in snaring and deploying the devices, tilting, and embedding in the vessel wall, requiring excessive force, and limited maneuverability, especially in tortuous vasculature.
Innovation Solution
An intravascular articulating retrieval apparatus with externally controlled manipulators, featuring forceps and actuators that allow independent rotation and manipulation of actuating portions, enabling precise access and retrieval of intravascular filters and foreign bodies through a slim profile conduit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard catheter/snare retrieval mechanisms are used, then the retrieval process is simple, but the ability to access tilted or embedded filters is limited and excessive force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The retrieval device incorporates an articulating mechanism with multiple degrees of freedom that allows the distal end to dynamically adjust its orientation and position. The first and second actuating portions can rotate independently about first and second pivots, enabling the device to adapt to tilted or embedded filter configurations that static catheters cannot access.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds rotational dimensions to the traditional linear catheter path. By introducing first and second pivots with independent rotation capabilities, the device transforms from a single-axis linear approach to a multi-axis articulating system, providing access to filters in three-dimensional space including tilted and embedded positions.
2Force
If force is applied to remove embedded filters, then retrieval may be achieved, but excessive force damages the vessel wall and surrounding tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating mechanism allows the operator to dynamically adjust the approach angle and apply force vectors that are optimized for each specific retrieval scenario. This enables effective retrieval of embedded filters while distributing forces more evenly across the vessel wall, reducing localized damage compared to direct linear pull approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating mechanism acts as an intermediary between the operator's control and the retrieval force applied to the filter. It provides mechanical advantage and force vector control, allowing the operator to apply sufficient retrieval force while the articulation joints absorb and distribute the stress, protecting the vessel wall from direct excessive force.
3Ease of operation
If a large diameter sheath is used to remove filters, then retrieval is easier, but vascular access sites require larger punctures increasing complication risk
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating mechanism is designed with compact pivot joints that allow significant rotational movement within a small envelope. This enables the device to achieve full articulation functionality while maintaining a small overall profile, allowing passage through standard-sized vascular access sites without requiring enlarged punctures.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second actuating portions are nested within the catheter body, with the articulation mechanism collapsed or contained within the conduit during insertion. Once positioned, the articulating portions can deploy or extend to provide full range of motion, allowing the device to transition from a compact insertion profile to a functional articulating configuration.
4Productivity
If the snare is advanced to capture filter hooks, then retrieval can begin, but the snare is not easily directed or deployed in tortuous vasculature
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating mechanism with independent first and second actuating portions provides dynamic control over the distal end orientation. This allows the operator to navigate tortuous vasculature by sequentially adjusting the articulation angles, directing the snare along complex vascular paths that would be inaccessible to straight catheters.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation system divides the catheter into segmented sections with independent rotational control. The first actuating portion controls rotation about the first pivot, and the second actuating portion controls rotation about the second pivot, allowing incremental navigation through tortuous vessels rather than requiring single-axis bending.
Data Source
AI summary
An intravascular articulating retrieval apparatus may be used to move objects within the vasculature, such as to remove an intravascular filter, tissue and other items from the vasculature. The apparatus has a user interface to manipulate a first and second actuating portion that are coupled to the distal end of the apparatus conduit. A retrieval apparatus may include forceps coupled to the second actuating portion whereby the retrieval actuator opens and closes the forceps for retrieval of an IVF or other device, such as stent or stent graft. An intravascular articulating retrieval apparatus may be used to dissect thrombus from the interior of the vascular wall, move a stent or remove a portion of a stent or stent graft to provide better blood flow or to allow blood flow into a branched vessel.