Occluding Device Conformability Aneurysm Neck Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embolization devices for aneurysm treatment, such as coils and stents, face limitations in conforming to tortuous vasculature, providing adequate aneurysm neck coverage, and promoting thrombogenicity, which can lead to incomplete occlusion and recurrence.
Innovation Solution
Development of an occlusive device with a flattened profile, made from polymers or metals, that can be heat-treated to form a two or three-dimensional shape, braided or woven with radiopaque filaments, allowing it to conform to vessel shapes and expand within an aneurysm to block blood flow effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional coils are used for aneurysm embolization, then the devices can be delivered through catheters, but they fail to provide adequate aneurysm neck coverage and conform to tortuous vasculature
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple segments or struts that can independently flex and conform to the vasculature, while collectively providing adequate neck coverage. The segmented structure allows the device to navigate tortuous vessels while maintaining its ability to occlude the aneurysm neck effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a two-dimensional flattened delivery profile to a three-dimensional expanded configuration within the aneurysm. This dimensional transformation enables the device to conform to complex 3D vasculature geometry while providing comprehensive neck coverage that 2D coils cannot achieve.
2Reliability
If multiple devices are used to achieve adequate aneurysm occlusion, then coverage can be improved, but the complexity of the procedure and device management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: it provides both the embolization function (occluding the aneurysm sac) and the framing function (providing neck coverage and structural support). This merging eliminates the need to deploy multiple separate devices, reducing procedural complexity while maintaining occlusion effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both an embolic agent and a framing structure, adapts to various aneurysm geometries, and provides both immediate occlusion and long-term structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the number of devices needed while achieving reliable occlusion.
3Ease of operation
If the device is delivered in a compressed state through a catheter, then access to distal anatomy is improved, but the device profile and pushing resistance are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The device is compressed in the axial dimension for delivery through the catheter, presenting a low-profile cylindrical form that easily navigates tortuous vasculature. Upon deployment, it expands in the radial dimension to provide the necessary structural framework and neck coverage, reducing pushing resistance during delivery while maintaining ease of access to distal anatomy.
4Shape
If heat treatment is applied to impart 3D shape, then the device can conform to aneurysm geometry, but the manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes controlled thermal parameter changes during manufacturing to transform the material from a flat or cylindrical state to a predetermined 3D configuration that matches typical aneurysm geometries. This heat treatment process, while adding a manufacturing step, enables the device to achieve complex 3D shapes that would be difficult to create through mechanical forming alone.
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 provides superior aneurysm surface contact, reduces the need for multiple devices, enhances thrombogenicity, and allows for easier manipulation within the aneurysm, promoting effective occlusion and healing by conforming to irregular shapes and maintaining expanded configurations for improved neck coverage.
Implementation Method 1
The device can be heat treated to impart a two or three-dimensional shape
Data Source
AI summary
An occlusive device for occluding a target area can include an elongate member having opposing first and second side edges extending longitudinally along the member and a member width. The member can have a collapsed configuration in which the first and second side edges are curled toward each other about a longitudinal axis of the member. Further the member can have an expanded configuration in which the member form a series of loops and the first and second side edges uncurl to be spaced apart from each other.