Lymphatic Decompression Pumps for Elevated Venous Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for decompressing the lymphatic system, such as external drainage of the thoracic duct, are invasive and can lead to metabolic and immunologic imbalances, while internal drainage procedures like TD to subclavian vein anastomosis are complex and their long-term efficacy is unknown, especially in patients with elevated central venous pressure due to conditions like congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis.
Innovation Solution
Devices and methods involving pumps and stents to actively or passively decompress the lymphatic system by alleviating unfavorable pressure gradients and enhancing flow capacity, including sensors to monitor pressure changes and control fluid flow, with options for internal or external implantation and use of valves to prevent reflux.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external drainage of the thoracic duct is used to decompress the lymphatic system, then lymphatic congestion is reduced, but metabolic and immunologic imbalances occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an internal drainage device that acts as an intermediary between the thoracic duct and the venous system. The device includes a catheter with a filter that intercepts lymphatic fluid within the thoracic duct and redirects it into the venous system, thereby decompressing the lymphatic system while avoiding external drainage complications through internal containment and filtration
2Ease of operation
If TD to subclavian vein anastomosis is performed for internal drainage, then external drainage limitations are overcome, but surgical complexity increases and long-term efficacy is unknown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drainage function into separate components: a filter element positioned within the thoracic duct to capture lymphatic fluid, a catheter for fluid transport, and a delivery system for implantation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall procedure compared to complex anastomosis while maintaining internal drainage benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a catheter with filter as an intermediary device that mediates between the thoracic duct and venous system without requiring direct surgical connection (anastomosis). This intermediary approach simplifies the surgical procedure by avoiding complex tissue joining while still achieving internal drainage
3Productivity
If passive decompression of the TD into the venous system is used, then drainage is achieved, but elevated central venous pressure impedes lymph flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a pressure-sensing mechanism that monitors the pressure differential between the thoracic duct and venous system. When central venous pressure rises and impedes lymph flow, the sensor triggers active pumping to maintain drainage, creating a feedback loop that compensates for pressure variations and ensures continuous lymphatic decompression
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes an active pump that autonomously generates the force needed to overcome elevated central venous pressure and propel lymphatic fluid into the venous system. The pump self-regulates based on pressure conditions, eliminating the need for external manual intervention while maintaining productive drainage despite adverse pressure conditions
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
The devices effectively reduce lymphatic congestion, alleviating symptoms like tissue edema and ascites, and provide a long-term solution for conditions like congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis by maintaining favorable pressure gradients and enhancing lymphatic drainage.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure controlled chamber for providing a favorable pressure gradient for the flow of lymph fluid from the lymphatic system and into the device
Implementation Method 2
The disclosed subject matter relates to devices for decompressing the lymphatic system. In certain embodiments, the disclosed subject matter relates to devices for reducing the congestion of the lymphatic system that include a pump
Implementation Method 3
a sensor that can detect the changes in pressure, which can, in certain embodiments, be coupled to the controller. For example, and not by way of limitation, the sensor can detect a change or increase in pressure of the thoracic duct and/or central venous system
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to methods and devices for decompressing the lymphatic system. In particular, the present disclosure provides devices for actively or passively decompressing the lymphatic system and methods of their use and deployment within a subject. In certain non-limiting embodiments, a device of the present disclosure can include a pump for actively transferring lymph fluid from the lymphatic fluid into the venous system.