Prostatic Urethral Implant Delivery With Steerable Atraumatic Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of accurately and consistently delivering implants into the prostatic urethra in a minimally-invasive manner is complicated by the tortuous anatomical geometry and patient-to-patient variability, necessitating improved systems and methods for implant delivery.
Innovation Solution
A delivery system comprising an elongate delivery device with a proximal control device, featuring atraumatic distal end configuration, steerable components, and self-expanding implants, allowing precise deployment through tortuous anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid delivery system is used to ensure structural stability, then the delivery device can maintain its shape and provide precise control, but it cannot navigate the tortuous bends of the urethra in a minimally-invasive manner
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is divided into multiple tubular members (outer tubular member, inner tubular member, distal tubular member) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the system to maintain structural stability when needed while enabling navigation through tortuous anatomy by allowing individual segments to flex and conform to anatomical bends.
Solution Approach 2:
The delivery system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where tubular members can slide relative to each other. The system can shift between a constrained configuration (for precise control and stability) and an unconstrained configuration (for navigating tortuous anatomy), allowing it to adapt its properties based on operational requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the delivery device is made flexible to navigate tortuous anatomy, then it can be inserted minimally-invasively, but it loses the ability to maintain precise positioning and control
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its rigidity by allowing tubular members to slide relative to each other. When navigation is required, the members are positioned to allow flexibility; when positioning precision is required, the members are constrained relative to each other, providing stability and control.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the delivery system have different degrees of flexibility. The distal end with the grasper can be positioned and controlled independently, while proximal portions maintain stability. The system allows local adaptation to anatomical variations while maintaining overall control.
3Device complexity
If conventional delivery methods are used, then the procedure is simpler, but accurate and consistent implant placement into the prostatic urethra cannot be achieved due to anatomical variability
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates imaging capabilities that provide real-time feedback on the position of the delivery device and implant within the urethra. This feedback allows the operator to make adjustments to ensure accurate placement despite anatomical variability, achieving precise implant placement while maintaining relative procedural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for the delivery of an implant into the prostatic urethra. Embodiments of delivery systems can include a delivery device for insertion into the patient and a proximal control device for use in controlling release of the implant from the delivery device.