Radiopaque Elements in Embolic Protection Device Mesh
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current embolic protection devices face challenges in visualization during deployment and recovery, particularly due to gaps between the device and the lumenal wall, and excessive force requirements during retrieval, which can be attributed to inadequate radiopacity and mechanical properties.
Innovation Solution
An embolic protection device with a mesh structure incorporating radiopaque and non-radiopaque elements, where the radiopaque elements are strategically woven or affixed to provide visibility under X-ray imaging without compromising the device's mechanical performance or deployment/recovery processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radiopaque coatings are applied to embolic protection devices, then visibility under X-ray imaging is improved, but the coatings may become separated from the underlying substrate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by integrating radiopaque strands (such as metal wires or fibers) directly into the filter mesh structure. This creates a composite construction where the radiopaque elements are structurally integrated rather than applied as surface coatings, eliminating adhesion issues while maintaining X-ray visibility.
2Measurement precision
If radiopaque filler materials are employed in polymer film devices, then radiopacity is improved, but the fillers detract from the mechanical properties of the films
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials by combining radiopaque strands with the filter mesh structure. This approach provides radiopacity through the integrated strands rather than filler materials embedded in polymer films, thereby avoiding the degradation of mechanical properties that occurs with filler incorporation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by strategically positioning radiopaque strands at specific locations within the filter mesh where they provide necessary visibility without compromising the overall mechanical integrity of the device. The radiopaque elements are localized rather than distributed throughout the entire structure.
3Strength
If strands of drawn filled tubing are used, then good mechanical and radiopacity characteristics are achieved, but the material is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by using discrete radiopaque strands or wires integrated into the filter mesh rather than constructing the entire device from expensive drawn filled tubing. This segmented approach allows selective use of radiopaque materials only where needed for visibility, reducing overall material cost while maintaining mechanical performance.
4Measurement precision
If individual strands of radiopaque wire are used in a woven structure, then good radiopacity is achieved, but the strands alter the braid wire spacing due to differing mechanical properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by strategically positioning radiopaque strands at specific locations within the filter mesh where they provide necessary visibility without compromising the overall uniformity of the braid structure. The radiopaque elements are localized rather than distributed throughout the entire structure.
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 solution enhances visibility during procedures, allowing for proper deployment and retrieval of the device, reducing the risk of emboli bypass and excessive force issues, while maintaining the device's mechanical integrity and radiopacity.
Implementation Method 1
The radiopaque elements are selected to provide visibility under X-ray imaging
Data Source
AI summary
A device for filtering emboli from blood flowing through a lumen defined by the walls of a vessel in a patient's body, comprising: a filter element being expandable from a collapsed configuration when the filter element is restrained to an expanded configuration when the filter element is unrestrained, and an elongate support member, the filter being carried on a portion of the elongate support member, wherein the filter element has proximal and distal portions and a central portion, the filter element having a shape in the expanded configuration which defines a cavity having a proximal facing opening, and wherein the proximal portion of the filter element comprises a radiopaque element in the form of a discontinuous loop extending around a portion of a perimeter of the proximal facing opening, the discontinuous loop having a gap and the gap being proximate to the elongate support member.