Kidney-Shaped Mitral Valve Prosthesis for Minimally Invasive Implantation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transcatheter mitral valve replacement technologies face challenges due to the mitral valve's complex structure and location, requiring difficult access and causing complications such as obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract and increased thrombosis risk, with existing systems failing to mimic the natural mitral valve's shape and function.
Innovation Solution
A heart valve prosthesis with a stent-like holder having a kidney or banana-shaped cross-section, self-aligning to the natural mitral valve anatomy, mimicking its function, and featuring flexible, bicuspid leaflets that adapt to the heart's movement, allowing minimally invasive implantation via a transvenous route without obstructing the left ventricular outflow tract.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a circular or D-shaped stent is used for mitral valve replacement, then the implantation can be simplified, but the natural shape and function of the mitral valve cannot be mimicked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the stent with a kidney-shaped or banana-shaped cross-section that mirrors the natural asymmetry of the mitral valve annulus. This asymmetric geometry allows the prosthesis to conform to the native valve shape while maintaining ease of implantation through standard catheter delivery systems.
2Strength
If the stent is made thick and rigid to provide structural support, then the valve function is improved, but the left ventricular outflow tract is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the stent thickness and rigidity in different regions. The stent is thicker and more rigid in areas requiring structural support for valve function, while being thinner and more flexible in regions adjacent to the left ventricular outflow tract, thereby providing necessary strength without causing obstruction.
3Productivity
If a transapical access route is used for implantation, then the valve can be replaced, but open surgery is required and complications increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a delivery catheter as an intermediary device that enables transvenous delivery of the stent valve prosthesis. This intermediary system allows the valve to be implanted through a minimally invasive transapical or transseptal approach, avoiding the need for open surgery while maintaining effective valve replacement capability.
4Reliability
If the valve leaflets are optimized for aortic valve function, then the aortic valve performance is improved, but the mitral valve function is compromised due to incorrect thickness and geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the leaflet thickness, curvature, and geometric parameters to match the specific functional requirements of the mitral valve. The leaflets are designed with appropriate thickness and shape parameters that differ from aortic valve designs, enabling proper mitral valve function including correct coaptation and flow dynamics.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a heart valve prosthesis for a minimally invasive intravenous implantation, comprising a biocompatible flexible material with at least one movable valve leaflet for opening and closing a through-opening between the atrium and the ventricle of the heart, said through-opening being secured to a holding element consisting of a stent-like cylindrically designed lattice structure which consists of a radially expandable material. The invention is characterized in that the stent-like lattice structure has the shape of a kidney, a bean, or a banana or a double-D shape, which contacts itself on the rear face, in plan view of the valve device.