3D Mitral Valve Quantification for Transcatheter Implant Sizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methodologies for quantifying the mitral valve are inadequate, posing challenges in selecting appropriately sized transcatheter mitral valves for catheter-based repair procedures, which require precise anatomical measurements to ensure proper fit and function.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the generation of a three-dimensional heart model, definition of the mitral valve annulus, fitting of a plane through the annulus, measurement of distances between papillary muscle heads, and calculation of average diameters to determine the appropriate size of a transcatheter mitral valve implant.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If catheter-based transcatheter mitral valve repair procedures are used to avoid open-heart surgery, then patient trauma is minimized and more patients can be treated, but precise anatomical measurements become more challenging and critical for selecting appropriately sized valves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional echocardiographic images to three-dimensional quantitative models of the mitral valve apparatus. By reconstructing 3D geometry from 2D imaging data and applying mathematical scaling factors, the system enables precise measurement of annular dimensions, area, and volume, thereby achieving the measurement precision required for catheter-based procedures while maintaining the non-invasive advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computer-based image processing and 3D reconstruction algorithms as intermediaries between the imaging data and the final measurement. This intermediary processing layer transforms raw echocardiographic images into quantified anatomical parameters, enabling accurate sizing of transcatheter valves without requiring direct visual access during the catheter procedure.
2Measurement precision
If open-heart surgery is used for mitral valve replacement or repair, then complete visual access to the surgical site is available, but physical trauma is significant and many patients cannot tolerate the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual 3D copy of the mitral valve apparatus that replicates the anatomical geometry with high fidelity. This digital replica provides the same visual survey capability as open surgery, allowing clinicians to examine anatomical relationships, plan the procedure, and select appropriate valve sizes without performing the invasive surgical opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical act of opening the heart for direct visual inspection with a computational imaging system. Instead of physically exposing the surgical site, the system uses image processing algorithms to reconstruct and display 3D anatomical models, substituting mechanical access with information processing.
3Manufacturing precision
If standardized measurement methodologies are implemented for mitral valve quantification, then appropriate valve sizing is improved, but the complexity of the quantification process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a universal quantification system that can measure multiple parameters (annular area, circumference, volume, scaling factors) from a single 3D reconstruction. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate measurement procedures into one integrated process, reducing overall complexity while providing comprehensive sizing data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs all complex 3D reconstruction and measurement calculations during the planning phase, before the actual catheter procedure. By completing the quantification work beforehand, the system eliminates the need for complex real-time measurements during the procedure, simplifying the intra-procedural workflow while maintaining high sizing accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of valve quantification are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of mitral valve quantification is provided. The method includes generating a 3-D heart model, defining a 3-D mitral valve annulus, fitting a plane through the 3-D mitral valve annulus, measuring the distance between at least two papillary muscle heads, defining an average diameter of at least one cross section around the micro valve annulus, and determining a size of an implant to be implanted.