IVC Filter Retrieval Sleeve With Eversible Bailout Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

The removal of IVC filters that have been substantially absorbed by the body can be dangerous and difficult, as excessive force may tear or rupture the IVC, posing risks to the patient.

Innovation Solution

A delivery-removal apparatus with a funnel-shaped flexible extension and lassos is used to capture and retrieve the IVC filter, allowing for safe abandonment of the retrieval process by eversion of the flexible extension when absorption occurs, preventing excessive force.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If force removal is applied to retrieve an absorbed IVC filter, then retrieval capability is improved, but risk of IVC tear or rupture increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretrieval capabilityVSAvoidrisk of IVC tear or rupture

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by providing operators with pre-planned bailout procedures and alternative retrieval strategies before attempting forceful removal. The system includes predetermined methods such as cutting the filter into segments or using alternative access routes, allowing operators to abandon forceful removal and switch to safer alternatives if resistance is encountered, thereby preventing IVC damage while maintaining retrieval capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies beforehand cushioning by establishing safety protocols and bailout plans in advance that cushion against the harmful effects of forceful removal. These pre-prepared alternative methods act as a safety buffer, ensuring that if the primary retrieval method encounters resistance, operators can immediately switch to less aggressive techniques that prevent vessel damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the IVC filter is left in place due to absorption concerns, then patient safety is improved, but risk of pulmonary embolism increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepatient safetyVSAvoidrisk of pulmonary embolism

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the retrieval approach based on the degree of absorption observed. Rather than a binary decision to either forcefully remove or leave the filter, the system allows for parameter adjustments such as changing the retrieval technique, using segmentation, or modifying access routes based on real-time assessment of filter absorption status, thereby balancing patient safety with embolism prevention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3813739B1Systems and methods for implants and deployment devices

Publication Date: 2026.03.11 AVANTEC VASCULAR CORP

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AI summary

After a prolonged period in the body, an IVC filter can be substantially absorbed by the body. When this occurs, it can be very difficult and/or dangerous for the patient if the IVC filter is forcibly removed. Thus, it is desirable to have systems and methods for safely abandoning the removal procedure of the IVC filter. Example embodiments of an apparatus for safely abandoning the removal procedure of the IVC filter can include: a sleeve having a lumen and a first hole on a wall of the sleeve; a shaft slidably disposed within the lumen of the sleeve; a flexible distal extension comprising a braid structure with a first opening; and a first lasso encircling a portion of the first opening of the braid.