Multi-Mode Catheter Valve for Fluid Infusion and Dilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical procedures for treating obstructive materials within body lumens, such as aorto-venous grafts and blood vessels, require multiple device exchanges and lack efficient methods for dilation, thrombus removal, and prosthesis delivery.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode apparatus with a shaft and expandable balloon that can selectively open or close an outlet for fluid infusion, dilation, and prosthesis delivery, featuring a valve mechanism and tensioning elements to facilitate various medical procedures within body lumens without the need for frequent device exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used for different procedures (dilation, thrombus removal, prosthesis delivery), then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of device exchanges increases and procedure efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate devices into a single integrated apparatus that can perform dilation, thrombus removal, and prosthesis delivery functions. The multi-mode catheter integrates a balloon for dilation, a thrombus aspiration mechanism, and a prosthesis delivery system into one unified device, eliminating the need to exchange multiple separate devices during procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can adapt to perform different procedural tasks. The single catheter system can be configured to dilate vessels, remove thrombus, and deliver prostheses, making it a versatile tool that replaces multiple specialized devices.
2Productivity
If a single multi-mode device is used for all procedures, then device exchanges are reduced and efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-mode catheter is segmented into distinct functional modules that can be independently activated. The device includes separate components for balloon inflation, thrombus aspiration, and prosthesis delivery, allowing the operator to engage only the necessary functions for each procedural step while maintaining a unified device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates dynamic elements including a movable valve mechanism and reconfigurable distal tip that can adapt between different operational modes. The valve can switch between open and closed positions to control fluid flow for different procedures, and the distal tip can be reconfigured to accommodate different treatment requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a valve mechanism is added to control fluid flow for multiple modes, then operational versatility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is designed to be self-regulating through pressure-driven operation. The valve automatically opens or closes based on the pressure differential created during different procedural modes, reducing the need for complex external control systems. The valve structure itself responds to the operational requirements through inherent pressure differentials.
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 efficient and versatile procedures within body lumens by allowing fluid infusion, dilation, and prosthesis delivery in a single device, reducing the number of device exchanges and enhancing treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
fluid introduced into the lumen may expand the balloon from a contracted condition to an expanded condition, e.g., to dilate an obstruction within a body lumen
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are provided for delivering fluid into a body lumen during a medical procedure. A distal end of an apparatus may be introduced into a body lumen, and a valve on the distal end may be opened to deliver fluid through a first lumen into the body lumen, e.g., contrast and/or other diagnostic or therapeutic agents. The valve may be closed, and a procedure may be performed within the body lumen, e.g., using a treatment element carried on the distal end. For example, the treatment element may include a balloon that may be inflated when fluid is delivered through the first lumen with the valve closed. Optionally, a prosthesis, energy source, drug platform, and the like may be carried by the balloon for treating the body lumen. In various embodiments, the valve may be located proximal or distal to the treatment element.