Magnetic Vascular Snare for Lead Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vascular snare systems are ineffective in extracting elongated objects like pacemaker and defibrillator leads without a free end, often leading to inadvertent release during traction, and require cumbersome procedures that increase patient and physician exposure to radiation and risk.
Innovation Solution
A vascular snare system with flexible deployment elements and magnets that form a closed loop around a midsection of the lead, allowing secure extraction without the need for a free end, and featuring steerable and retractable components to facilitate safe coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If closed loop snare systems are used to extract leads without a free end, then the ability to extract elongated objects is improved, but the risk of inadvertent release during traction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The snare system is divided into multiple independent loops (first loop, second loop, third loop) that can be deployed sequentially. Each loop can independently engage the lead, providing redundant capture points that prevent inadvertent release during traction.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple loops are nested within a single catheter, with each loop capable of independent deployment and engagement. The loops can be positioned at different locations along the lead, creating a nested configuration that secures the lead at multiple points simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two interlocking closed loops are used to engage midsection of lead, then extraction capability is improved, but the complexity of proper placement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex two-loop system is segmented into three simpler loops that can be deployed independently through a single catheter. Each loop has a standardized configuration that simplifies deployment while maintaining the ability to engage the lead at multiple points.
Solution Approach 2:
Each loop is designed to be multi-functional, capable of engaging the lead independently or in combination with other loops. The loops can function individually or work together as a system, reducing the complexity of precise placement while maintaining extraction capability.
3Productivity
If existing snares are used for lead extraction, then the procedure can be performed, but procedural time and radiation exposure increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple loops are pre-positioned within the catheter in a compact configuration before insertion. This preliminary arrangement allows for rapid deployment of all loops simultaneously or in sequence, reducing the time required for lead engagement and extraction while minimizing radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple loops that would traditionally require separate catheters or complex assembly are merged into a single integrated catheter system. This combination allows all loops to be deployed through one access point, streamlining the procedure and reducing procedural time and radiation exposure.
4Ease of operation
If traction is applied to lead using existing snares, then extraction can proceed, but the lead may be inadvertently released
Solution Approach 1:
The lead capture is segmented across multiple loops positioned at different locations. When traction is applied, the force is distributed across all engaged loops rather than concentrated at a single point, preventing the lead from slipping out of any individual loop and maintaining reliable retention during extraction.
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 system reliably traps and extracts elongated objects without dislodgment, reducing procedural time and radiation exposure, and allows for atraumatic decoupling to prevent cardiac tissue damage.
Implementation Method 1
the magnets are configured to couple together in a coaxial arrangement
Data Source
AI summary
A vascular snare system and method for extracting elongated objects such as pacemaker pacing leads or defibrillator leads from the vasculature of a patient are provided. The system utilizes a sheath having a lumen through which two wire elements are deployed to snare and extract a lead. Each wire element has a magnet disposed at its distal end. The wire elements may be manipulated to form a closed loop transversely around a midsection or central portion of the body of the lead by coupling the magnets to each other. The wire elements may then be utilized to extract the lead from the vasculature of the patient through the lumen.