Microprocessor-Controlled Cardiac Valve Delivery System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting expandable prosthetic cardiac valves lack precision and control, particularly in minimally invasive procedures, as they often rely on manual alignment and expansion, which can be cumbersome and may not ensure optimal positioning within the heart's anatomy.
Innovation Solution
A microprocessor-controlled delivery system that deploys expandable heart valve prostheses, utilizing a deployment mechanism with actuators and imaging integration to align and position the valve precisely within the heart, allowing for real-time image overlay on pre-operative 3D images for accurate placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual alignment and expansion methods are used for implanting expandable prosthetic cardiac valves, then the device complexity is reduced, but the manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with a microprocessor-controlled delivery system that uses imaging mechanisms (such as fluoroscopy or echocardiography) and computerized guidance to automatically position the prosthetic valve. The microprocessor receives real-time imaging data, compares it with pre-operative 3D images, and controls the deployment mechanism to achieve precise positioning without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the patient's heart anatomy using pre-operative imaging (CT or MRI scans) to generate 3D models. During implantation, real-time imaging data is overlaid on these pre-operative 3D images, allowing the operator to visualize the exact position of the prosthetic valve relative to anatomical landmarks and make precise adjustments before final deployment.
2Manufacturing precision
If microprocessor-controlled delivery systems with imaging integration are used, then the manufacturing precision and positioning accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is designed as a multi-functional integrated platform that combines several functions into a single device: the microprocessor controls both the deployment mechanism and processes imaging data, the imaging mechanism provides both navigation guidance and verification of valve positioning, and the control system manages both real-time imaging acquisition and comparison with pre-operative models. This universal system performs multiple critical functions that would otherwise require separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the imaging mechanism, microprocessor control system, and valve deployment mechanism into a single integrated delivery system. The imaging sensor, processing unit, and actuation components are combined in one device, allowing simultaneous acquisition of anatomical data, computation of optimal positioning, and controlled deployment of the prosthetic valve without requiring multiple separate instruments.
3Measurement precision
If real-time image overlay on pre-operative 3D images is used, then the measurement precision is improved, but the loss of time increases due to image processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by acquiring and processing imaging data before the actual valve implantation. Pre-operative CT or MRI scans are obtained and converted into 3D models in advance, allowing the surgical team to plan the optimal valve size, orientation, and positioning before entering the operating room. During surgery, only real-time verification imaging is needed, significantly reducing intraoperative processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback by comparing real-time imaging data during valve deployment with the pre-planned 3D model. The microprocessor monitors the position of deployment markers or radiopaque features on the prosthetic valve, automatically adjusts the deployment parameters if deviations are detected, and provides real-time feedback to the operator to ensure accurate positioning without requiring extensive post-deployment imaging analysis.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3E
AI summary
An instrument for deploying a cardiac valve prosthesis, including a plurality of radially expandable portions, at an implantation site, includes a plurality of deployment elements each independently operable to obtain the radial expansion of a radially expandable portion of the valve prosthesis. The instrument includes a microprocessor configured to processes signals from one or more sensors and to optimize deployment of the valve prosthesis.