Medical Lead Anchoring via Tethered Loop Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable lead systems for stimulating anatomical structures face challenges in reliable anchoring, leading to inconsistent or unintended tissue stimulation due to lack of secure fixation.
Innovation Solution
A lead system comprising an implantable lead with an anchor configuration, including a ring and a flange, that forms a loop around tissue to securely anchor the lead, utilizing a tether and needle for embedding electrodes and attaching the anchor to the lead, ensuring stable positioning and preventing movement of the electrode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lead is implanted for stimulating anatomical structures, then electrical energy can be delivered to targeted tissue, but the lead may become dislodged or移位 leading to unreliable therapy delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is nested within the lead structure, with the ring receiving the lead body and the flange extending from the ring to engage with tissue. This nested configuration allows the anchor to provide stable positioning while maintaining the lead's electrical function, resolving the contradiction between reliable therapy delivery and lead positioning stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor is pre-assembled with the lead before implantation, with the ring positioned to receive the lead and the flange prepared to engage with tissue. This preliminary preparation ensures that the anchoring mechanism is ready to provide immediate stable positioning upon implantation, preventing lead dislodgement and ensuring reliable therapy delivery from the outset.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the lead is secured firmly to prevent dislodgement, then stable positioning is achieved, but the anchoring mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring mechanism is segmented into two distinct functional components: a ring that receives and secures the lead body, and a flange that extends from the ring to engage with tissue. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, providing stable lead positioning while keeping the overall design relatively simple and manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments concern a lead system for anchoring a lead, the lead system comprising a lead and an anchor. The anchor can comprise a ring and a flange extending from the ring. The anchor can be mounted on the lead such that the lead extends through the ring and the flange extends over an electrode of the lead. The lead system can further comprise a tether having a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion of the tether can attached to the lead while the distal portion of the tether can be attached to a needle. During an implantation procedure, the tether can be cut to remove the needle. The tether can then be attached to the flange. The lead, the anchor, and the tether can form a loop around a section of tissue to anchor the lead to the tissue.