Magnetic Annulus Reshaping for Mitral Valve Repair

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for mitral valve regurgitation, especially functional mitral regurgitation due to dilated cardiomyopathy, are invasive and have high morbidity and mortality rates, with existing surgical methods failing to effectively address progressive functional mitral regurgitation and maintaining significant valve dysfunction.

Innovation Solution

The use of magnetic tools and catheters to reshape the heart valve annulus through a trans-septal approach, employing a bridging element that applies mechanical forces to shorten the minor axis of the mitral valve annulus, thereby restoring a more normal anatomic shape and tension conducive to proper leaflet coaptation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional surgical methods are used to treat mitral valve regurgitation, then the valve can be repaired or replaced, but the procedure has high morbidity and mortality rates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetreatment effectivenessVSAvoidmorbidity and mortality rates

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical surgical intervention with a magnetic field-based system. Magnetic tools delivered via catheters apply forces to reshape the annulus without requiring open heart surgery, thereby reducing surgical trauma and associated risks while maintaining treatment effectiveness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses magnetic fields as an intermediary to transmit force from the catheter-based tools to the annular tissue. This intermediary approach allows remote manipulation of the annulus shape without direct mechanical contact or invasive surgical exposure, reducing procedural risks

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If surgical annuloplasty is performed to address the annulus, then valve function can be improved, but the invasive nature of surgery increases patient risk

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevalve function improvementVSAvoidinvasiveness of procedure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes invasive mechanical surgical annuloplasty with a minimally invasive magnetic actuation system. Catheters deliver magnetic tools that apply forces to reshape the annulus through tissue interaction, avoiding the need for surgical incisions and direct manipulation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and properties of the annulus by applying magnetic forces that induce tissue deformation and remodeling. The magnetic tools apply controlled forces to alter the annular geometry, transitioning it from a dilated to a more normal configuration without surgical intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Shape

If existing surgical methods are used, then the annulus can be constricted, but they fail to effectively address progressive functional mitral regurgitation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveannulus constrictionVSAvoideffectiveness against progressive dysfunction

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic magnetic actuation that can adapt to progressive changes in the annulus. The magnetic tools can be repositioned and reactivated to continue reshaping the annulus as it changes over time, providing ongoing treatment for progressive functional mitral regurgitation rather than a static surgical correction

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies controlled magnetic forces to induce specific geometric changes in the annulus, transforming it from a dilated, dysfunctional shape to a more normal, functional configuration. This parameter change in annular geometry directly addresses the root cause of functional mitral regurgitation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This method reduces mitral regurgitation by enhancing leaflet coaptation, improving cardiac output, and increasing survival rates with lower morbidity compared to traditional surgical interventions.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic or ferromagnetic materials placed adjacent the distal openings of both guide lumens. The magnetic or ferromagnetic materials are desirably sized and configured to magnetically couple the distal opening of the first catheter to the distal opening of the second catheter

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS10172621B2Devices, systems, and methods for reshaping a heart valve annulus, including the use of magnetic tools

Publication Date: 2019.01.08 VENTURE LENDING & LEASING IV

AI summary

Implants or systems of implants and methods apply a selected force vector or a selected combination of force vectors within or across the left atrium, which allow mitral valve leaflets to better coapt. The implants or systems of implants and methods make possible rapid deployment, facile endovascular delivery, and full intra-atrial retrievability. The implants or systems of implants and methods also make use of strong fluoroscopic landmarks. The implants or systems of implants and methods make use of an adjustable implant and a fixed length implant. The implants or systems of implants and methods may also utilize a bridge stop to secure the implant, and the methods of implantation employ various tools.