IVC Filter Removal Catheter with Orientation-Independent Engagement Head
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing inferior vena cava filters are hindered by the difficulty in aligning and grasping the filters due to their anchored position, making retrieval challenging, especially when the filters are not vertically aligned and are embedded in the vein wall.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a catheter with an engagement head and a pull rod, where the engagement head has a cylindrical shape with a serrated edge and internal relief area, allowing it to grab and hold items independently of the catheter's orientation, facilitating the removal of IVC filters from the vein wall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a snare and retrieval sheath are used to remove IVC filters, then the filter can be captured and removed, but the procedure becomes difficult when the filter is not vertically aligned or becomes embedded in the vein wall
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement head is divided into multiple functional elements: a cylindrical outer surface for engagement, a serrated proximal edge for grasping, and an internal relief area for positioning. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, enabling reliable engagement with filters regardless of orientation or embedding depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement head features an asymmetric design with a serrated proximal edge that faces proximally, creating a directional grasping mechanism. This asymmetric configuration allows the engagement head to securely grab filters from any orientation by rotating into the correct engagement position, eliminating the need for precise pre-alignment.
2Reliability
If the IVC filter is anchored with hooks to prevent migration, then the filter remains securely in place, but retrieval becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement head is designed to perform preliminary engagement with the filter before removal. The serrated proximal edge and internal relief area work together to grasp the filter and free it from the vein wall anchors in advance, allowing the filter to be detached and removed without requiring forceful extraction that could cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement head acts as an intermediary tool between the retrieval system and the anchored filter. By extending into the vein and engaging the filter with its serrated edge, the engagement head mediates the separation process, allowing the filter to be freed from its anchors and then removed from the vessel.
3Ease of operation
If the engagement head has a cylindrical shape matching the catheter internal surface, then it can be easily inserted and retracted, but it may have difficulty engaging filters from various orientations
Solution Approach 1:
While maintaining a cylindrical outer shape for catheter compatibility, the engagement head incorporates an asymmetric serrated proximal edge. This combination allows the engagement head to be easily inserted and retracted through the catheter while simultaneously providing directional grasping capability that works regardless of the filter's initial orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement head is designed with multi-functionality: the cylindrical outer surface provides catheter compatibility and smooth insertion/retraction, while the serrated proximal edge provides universal filter engagement from any orientation. The internal relief area adds positioning functionality, making the single component capable of handling multiple operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for assisting in the removal of items endovascularly includes a catheter, an engagement head, and a pull rod. The pull rod has a proximal portion and a distal end connected to the engagement head. The pull rod is movable within the catheter to selectively extend and retract the engagement head from the distal end of the catheter. The engagement head is arranged to grab an item without regard to a particular orientation of the item. The engagement head has a generally cylindrical outer shape that corresponds to an internal surface of the catheter. The engagement head has a serrated proximal edge arranged to grab and hold an item against the distal end of the catheter, and an internal relief area located radially inwardly from said serrated proximal edge to aid in engaging an item.