Physiologic Simulator With Interchangeable Vasculature
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for physiologic simulator systems that can accurately replicate the conditions of percutaneous medical procedures, such as catheter-based implant procedures, to facilitate training and assessment without the risks associated with actual patient procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising simulated vasculature components that allow for the introduction and advancement of medical devices through a series of ports and components, simulating human anatomy and fluid flow conditions, including the use of fluid paths and adjustable pressures to mimic real-world procedures like aortic valve replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional open surgical techniques are used for medical device implantation, then the procedure can be performed with established methods, but the patient experiences higher surgical risk and longer recovery time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional open surgical mechanical access with percutaneous catheter-based delivery systems. The medical device is delivered through a catheter inserted percutaneously into the vasculature, advancing through the blood vessels to reach the target site, eliminating the need for open surgical incisions and direct mechanical access to the surgical site
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the patient's own vasculature as an intermediary pathway for device delivery. The catheter traverses through blood vessels (femoral artery, aorta, etc.) to reach the implantation site, using the natural circulatory system as a conduit rather than creating direct surgical access through tissue dissection
2Ease of operation
If percutaneous catheter-based procedures are used for medical device delivery, then patient recovery is faster and surgical risk is reduced, but accurate simulation and training become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the human circulatory system using transparent tubing that replicates the essential geometry and flow characteristics of real vasculature. The simulated vasculature includes components representing arteries, aorta, and target sites, allowing trainees to practice catheter-based procedures in a realistic yet controlled environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies physical parameters of the simulation system to enhance training value. The transparent tubing allows visualization of catheter position and fluid flow, while adjustable flow rates and pressures replicate various physiological conditions. The system can be configured to simulate different anatomical variations and pathological conditions by changing geometric and hemodynamic parameters
3Device complexity
If a fixed simulation system is used for training, then the system structure is simple and easy to maintain, but it cannot accommodate various anatomical conditions and procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the simulated vasculature into separate, interchangeable components representing different anatomical segments (access site, arterial tree, aorta, target organ). Each component can be independently selected and assembled to create different anatomical configurations, allowing the same basic system to simulate various patient anatomies and procedural scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the simulation system with universal components that can serve multiple functions. The transparent tubing and connection fittings can be configured to represent different vessels and anatomical pathways. The same basic components can be arranged to simulate various procedures including cardiac catheterization, vascular interventions, and device implantations across different anatomical scenarios
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 realistic simulation of percutaneous medical procedures, allowing for training and assessment of hemodynamic performance, implant positioning, and vascular interactions, while being portable and easily modifiable to accommodate various anatomical conditions and procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The system can include a pump configured to circulate the fluid through the simulated vasculature
Implementation Method 2
The system can include a heater configured to heat the fluid to a desired temperature
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for the simulation of percutaneous medical procedures are disclosed. The systems can include a simulated vasculature including a first component configured to allow for introduction of a medical device into the system through an introductory port, a second component connected to the first component and shaped to simulate a portion of a human vasculature, and a third component connected to the second component and shaped to simulate a delivery site for the medical procedure. The system can be configured to allow for a medical device to be delivered to the third component by passing through the introductory port of the first component and passing through the second component. The system can be configured to replicate simulated conditions of use for the medical procedure. Methods for simulating a percutaneous medical procedure using a simulated vasculature are also disclosed.