Magnetically Driven Catheter Tip Motor for MRI Thrombectomy Torque
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current thrombectomy devices are limited by their non-MRI compatibility, maneuverability, and ability to transmit torque effectively within blood vessels, leading to complications such as tissue reperfusion injury and incomplete clot removal during cardiovascular interventions.
Innovation Solution
An MRI-compatible thrombectomy device featuring a non-magnetic electric motor driven by an external magnetic field, integrated with a magnetohydrodynamic module, allowing for direct torque transmission and flexible steering through tortuous vessels, while maintaining MRI compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional catheter drillers are used to transmit torque down the shaft, then torque transmission is achieved, but the device loses flexibility and steerability in tortuous vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the drive system by placing multiple independent drive units at different locations along the catheter shaft, with each unit capable of independent rotation. This allows torque to be applied at multiple points simultaneously, maintaining flexibility while achieving effective torque transmission to the distal end without requiring a rigid continuous shaft
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical torque transmission system (rigid shaft) with magnetically coupled drive units that transfer rotational force through magnetic fields rather than mechanical connection. This substitution allows the catheter to remain flexible and steerable while still transmitting torque effectively to the treatment site
2Force
If ferromagnetic materials are used in catheter drillers for torque control, then torque control is achieved, but the device becomes incompatible with MRI imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the magnetic properties of the drive units by using materials with specific magnetic characteristics that allow control in magnetic fields while maintaining MRI compatibility. The drive units are designed to respond to external magnetic fields for torque control without containing ferromagnetic materials that would interfere with MRI imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic coupling as an intermediary mechanism that allows torque control through external magnetic fields without requiring ferromagnetic materials within the catheter. The magnetic coupling enables force transmission and control while the catheter materials remain MRI-compatible
3Productivity
If high-frequency drilling speeds are used in mechanical thrombectomy devices, then clot removal efficiency is improved, but heat and microcavitation damage to blood vessel walls occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic intermittent drilling action with controlled pause intervals, allowing heat dissipation between drilling cycles. The magnetic drive units can be activated and deactivated in a periodic manner, maintaining high-speed drilling efficiency while preventing excessive heat accumulation and microcavitation damage to surrounding tissues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates cooling mechanisms and heat management strategies before heat damage can occur. The system monitors and controls drilling parameters in advance to prevent excessive heat generation, and includes thermal management features that actively cool the drilling site during operation
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 device enables effective clot removal with reduced risk of tissue reperfusion injury and improved maneuverability within MRI environments, enhancing the safety and efficacy of cardiovascular interventions.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor configured to be integrated into a tip of a device configured to be inserted into a blood vessel... consisting of non-magnetic material and configured to be driven by an external, optionally static, magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
a magnetohydrodynamic module configured to be integrated into a tip of a device configured to be inserted into a blood vessel... comprising at least two electrodes arranged to propel an electrically conducting fluid by applying a voltage to the at least two electrodes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
Provided is an electric motor configured to be integrated into a tip of a device configured to be inserted into a blood vessel of a human being and/or an animal, wherein the electric motor consists of non-magnetic material and is configured to be driven by an external magnetic field.