LAAC Device Space Filling Elements Tissue Ingrowth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices for closing the left atrial appendage (LAA) in patients with atrial fibrillation are limited in their ability to effectively prevent thrombus formation and migration, leading to potential stroke or heart attack risks.
Innovation Solution
A left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) device featuring an expandable frame with space filling elements, such as embolic coils or fibrous materials, that facilitate thrombus formation within the device, and an occlusive element to prevent emboli from entering the bloodstream, with various securing methods like welding, adhesion, or constraining the elements to the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an occlusive element is used to close the left atrial appendage, then the risk of thrombus migration is reduced, but the device cannot effectively prevent thrombus formation within the appendage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by intentionally promoting thrombus formation within the enclosed left atrial appendage. The occlusive element seals the appendage to prevent thrombus migration, while simultaneously creating a controlled environment where thrombus formation is encouraged. This converts the harmful effect of thrombus formation into a beneficial containment strategy, isolating thrombi within the appendage where they cannot cause systemic embolization.
2Reliability
If the left atrial appendage is completely sealed off, then thrombus migration is prevented, but blood pooling and stagnant flow may occur within the enclosed space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs porous materials in the occlusive element design, allowing controlled fluid flow through the structure. This porosity enables blood to slowly drain from the enclosed appendage while maintaining effective isolation from the systemic circulation. The controlled permeability prevents complete stagnation by allowing gradual outflow, thereby reducing blood pooling while still preventing thrombus migration into the bloodstream.
3Ease of operation
If existing LAAC devices are used, then the procedure can be performed, but they lack integrated features for encouraging tissue ingrowth and thrombus formation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated occlusive element structure. The device combines thrombus promotion features, tissue ingrowth encouragement mechanisms, and occlusive sealing capabilities in one unified structure. This integration maintains procedural simplicity while enhancing therapeutic effectiveness through combined functionality that addresses both immediate occlusion and long-term tissue integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials that incorporate different functional properties within the occlusive element. These composite structures combine materials that promote thrombus formation with materials that encourage tissue ingrowth and provide structural support. The composite nature allows simultaneous achievement of multiple therapeutic goals without compromising procedural ease or device performance.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device such as a left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) device includes an expandable frame that is moveable between a collapsed configuration for delivery and an expanded configuration for deployment. One or more space filling elements that are adapted to facilitate thrombus formation are secured to the expandable frame. An expandable element spans at least part of the expandable frame.