Low-Profile Shock Wave Catheter Electrodes for Calcific Crossing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing angioplasty systems face challenges in treating tight, hard-to-cross calcific lesions due to the larger crossing profile of the angioplasty balloon, necessitating additional pre-dilatation and pre-treatment devices, which increase cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of low-profile shock wave electrodes positioned at the distal segments of the angioplasty balloon, including the distal leg and cone segments, allows for the generation of shock waves to facilitate the crossing and treatment of calcified lesions, with emitters in the straight segment providing additional treatment and dilatation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard angioplasty balloon is used to treat calcific lesions, then the balloon can provide dilatation capability, but the larger crossing profile requires additional pre-dilatation devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shock wave generation electrodes with the angioplasty balloon structure, integrating two previously separate functions (shock wave delivery and balloon dilatation) into a single device. This allows the balloon to cross tight calcific lesions using shock waves before dilatation, eliminating the need for separate pre-dilatation devices
Solution Approach 2:
The angioplasty balloon is designed to perform multiple functions: delivering shock waves through integrated electrodes, crossing tight lesions, and providing subsequent dilatation. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of devices needed in the procedure
2Ease of operation
If additional pre-dilatation devices are used to facilitate crossing, then the crossing capability is improved, but the cost and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the shock wave electrodes with the balloon structure, the invention eliminates the need for separate pre-dilatation devices, reducing both equipment costs and procedural complexity while maintaining the ability to cross tight calcific lesions
3Ease of operation
If shock wave electrodes are positioned in the distal segments of the balloon, then the profile is reduced for easier crossing, but the treatment coverage must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The shock wave electrodes are strategically positioned in the distal segments of the balloon where they are needed for initial crossing, while the balloon body maintains its full treatment capability. This localized electrode placement provides the low profile needed for crossing while preserving overall treatment effectiveness
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates the crossing of tight calcific lesions by reducing the profile of the balloon, allowing for efficient treatment without the need for additional pre-dilatation devices, thereby simplifying the procedure and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
A series of high voltage pulses are applied to the electrodes within the balloon, with each pulse generating a shock wave in the conductive fluid. The shock waves pass through the balloon wall and into the occlusion, cracking the calcified plaques.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for treating tight, hard-to-cross calcified lesions in which an angioplasty balloon is used to dilate the lesions and provide shock waves to restore normal blood flow in a patient's artery. An exemplary device includes an elongated tube and a balloon wrapped circumferentially around the tube and sealed to a distal end of the tube. During treatment, the device is advanced into a patient's vasculature and the balloon is inflated with conductive fluid such that the balloon is fixed to walls of the vasculature proximal to the calcified lesion. The balloon includes at least one low-profile emitter positioned near the distal end of the balloon, which may be activated to generate shock waves to break loose calcifications in the lesion. After calcium in the tight lesion has been modified, the balloon can be deflated and advanced further into the lesion to continue treatment.