Modular Ventricular Assist Device with Magnetic Levitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ventricular assist devices (VADs) require invasive implantation procedures and have limitations such as hemolysis, ventricular suction, thrombus formation, and pump stoppage, with larger sizes due to complex position sensing and control systems in third-generation devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular, minimally invasive VADs that can be implanted transvascularly, featuring a frame with an expanded and collapsed configuration, allowing components to be assembled within the patient, using a pump assembly with impeller-type pumps and non-contact bearing designs for reduced friction and heat generation, and delivered via a transcatheter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If third-generation VADs use magnetic levitation systems to eliminate mechanical contact and reduce friction, then reliability and durability are improved, but device size increases due to complex position sensing and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The VAD is divided into two separate components: a pump device implanted in the left ventricle and a control system implanted in the left pectoral region. This segmentation allows the pump to be small and simple while the control system handles the complex sensing and regulation functions externally
Solution Approach 2:
A magnetic coupling system acts as an intermediary between the pump in the ventricle and the control system outside the body. Magnetic fields transmit rotational force and positional information without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex wiring through the skin
2Reliability
If VADs are implanted using traditional methods with external pumps and tubing, then pump functionality is achieved, but implantation invasiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump device is nested within the left ventricle cavity, utilizing the existing cardiac anatomy. The inflow cannula engages the ventricular apex and the outflow cannula connects to the aorta, creating a compact integrated system that fits within the body's natural structures
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical connections and external tubing are replaced with a self-contained implantable pump system that uses magnetic coupling for power and control transmission, eliminating the need for external mechanical linkages and reducing implantation complexity
3Volume of moving object
If second-generation VADs use contact bearings to suspend the rotor, then pump size is reduced, but hemolysis, thrombus formation, and pump stoppage increase
Solution Approach 1:
Mechanical contact bearings are replaced with a magnetic levitation system that suspends the rotor without physical contact. Magnetic fields provide both suspension and rotational drive, eliminating friction, wear, and the associated harmful effects while maintaining compact pump dimensions
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
Enables minimally invasive implantation of VADs with reduced risk of complications, smaller profile components, and longer durability, allowing for efficient fluid pumping within the patient's cardiovascular system.
Implementation Method 1
centrifugal continuous-flow pumps with an impeller or rotor suspended in the blood flow path using a noncontact bearing design, which uses either magnetic or hydrodynamic levitation
Implementation Method 2
centrifugal continuous-flow pumps with an impeller or rotor suspended in the blood flow path using a noncontact bearing design, which uses either magnetic or hydrodynamic levitation
Implementation Method 3
Second generation VADs include implantable, continuous flow, rotary pumps with axial flow... The pumps have an internal rotor within the blood flow path that is suspended by contact bearings, which imparts tangential velocity and kinetic energy to the blood. The net action results in generation of a net pressure rise across the pump
Data Source
AI summary
The invention features modular implantable ventricular assist devices configured to be, at least in part, assembled within a patient. The devices generally include a pump assembly and an expandable frame. The frame is configured to engage tissue of a patient when implanted. The pump assembly is configured to be operably coupled to the frame when the frame is implanted and in the expanded configuration.