Non-Circular Endografts for Parallel Gutter Seal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endoluminal grafts used in parallel configurations, such as the 'snorkel' or 'chimney' technique, often result in imperfect seals due to the circular cross-sectional dimensions of main and ancillary grafts, leading to gutters and potential continued pressurization of treated blood vessel segments.
Innovation Solution
The use of snorkel endografts with non-circular cross-sectional dimensions, such as oblong, crescent, or elliptical shapes, that conform to the main endograft and blood vessel surfaces, facilitating better apposition and seal formation when deployed in parallel with conventional circular cross-sectional main endografts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional circular cross-sectional endografts are used in parallel configuration, then branch vessel flow can be preserved, but imperfect seals and gutters occur leading to continued pressurization of treated segments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by changing the cross-sectional shape of endografts from conventional circular to non-circular configurations (rectangular, D-shaped, crescent-shaped). This asymmetric geometry allows the endograft surfaces to conform more closely to the cylindrical blood vessel wall and to each other when deployed in parallel, eliminating the radial gaps or 'gutters' that form with circular cross-sections. The non-circular shapes enable better apposition and sealing between multiple endografts while preserving branch vessel flow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple endografts are placed side by side to preserve branch vessel flow, then branch vessel patency is maintained, but the occlusive seal is compromised due to interference with main endograft apposition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing the cross-sectional geometry of endografts specifically at the regions where they contact each other and the blood vessel wall. The non-circular cross-sections (such as rectangular or D-shaped) are designed to create flat or curved surfaces that conform to the cylindrical vessel wall and to adjacent endografts. This localized geometric optimization ensures that the seal zones maintain intimate apposition despite the presence of multiple endografts, thereby preserving both branch vessel flow and occlusive seal integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
An endograft is provided for a blood vessel having a branch extending from said blood vessel, including a body having a wall defining a lumen and an exterior surface. The endograft body includes a first portion defining or being made to define a non-circular cross-sectional dimension, and a second portion defining a circular cross-sectional dimension. Modular systems including the endograft and methods for creating endografts according to the disclosure are described also.