Leadless Pacemaker Retrieval Using Snare and Retention Feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for effective retrieval methods for leadless cardiac pacemakers implanted in the heart, as conventional retrieval systems are not well-suited for these self-contained devices.
Innovation Solution
A retrieval system comprising a retrieval catheter with a snare and a retention feature that engages the docking member of the pacemaker, allowing for secure capture and removal of the device from the heart, utilizing a snare to encircle and pull the pacemaker into the catheter and a retention feature to secure it within the catheter lumen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional pacemaker with electrical lead is used, then electrical stimulation can be provided to heart tissue, but the device complexity and difficulty of retrieval increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrical lead from the pacemaker system, creating a leadless pacemaker that is self-contained within a single implantable device. This eliminates the need for separate lead components and simplifies the retrieval process by removing the lead from the system entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The pacemaker is segmented into functional components (pacing electrodes, sensing electrodes, battery, control circuitry) that are integrated within a single housing, allowing the entire device to be retrieved as one unit rather than requiring separation of lead and generator components.
2Volume of moving object
If a leadless cardiac pacemaker is implanted, then the device size is reduced and self-contained, but effective retrieval methods are not well-suited for these devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a retrieval device as an intermediary tool that facilitates the retrieval of the leadless pacemaker. The retrieval device includes a retrieval catheter with a retrieval member that can engage with the pacemaker's retrieval feature, providing a mechanical connection for safe removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The pacemaker is designed with a retrieval feature (such as a magnet or engagement structure) built into the housing before implantation. This preliminary preparation enables the retrieval device to easily engage and secure the pacemaker during the retrieval process.
3Ease of operation
If a retrieval device with magnetic member is used, then the implantable device can be contacted and pulled into the retrieval catheter, but the retention and secure fixation during retrieval may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple retention mechanisms within the retrieval device, including a magnetic member for initial attraction and contact, and an additional retention feature (such as a mechanical engagement structure or clamping mechanism) that provides secure fixation. This merging of magnetic and mechanical retention methods ensures reliable device capture and prevention of dislodgement during retrieval.
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 safe and efficient retrieval of leadless cardiac pacemakers by securely engaging and retaining the device within the catheter, facilitating its removal from the heart without disengaging the fixation mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic member is extended out of the lumen, contacts the head portion of the implantable medical device, and by magnetic force is retained and pulled into the retrieval catheter.
Data Source
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Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
A retrieval device and an associated implantable cardiac pacing device. The retrieval device includes a retrieval catheter and a snare advanceable from the distal end of the retrieval catheter. The snare has a loop configured to be coupled to the docking member to draw the implantable cardiac pacing device into the lumen of the retrieval catheter. The retrieval catheter includes a retention feature in the lumen configured to engage the head portion of the docking member to facilitate retention of the implantable cardiac pacing device in the lumen after drawing the implantable cardiac pacing device into the lumen of the retrieval catheter with the snare.