Reversible Mechanical Lead Anchor for Electrical Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable electrical stimulation systems face challenges in securely anchoring leads to patient tissue, which can lead to instability and ineffective therapy delivery.
Innovation Solution
A lead anchor system featuring a flexible housing with a compressible retention ring that transitions between an elongate and circular shape, allowing secure retention and repositioning of the lead, combined with tabs and eyelets for anchoring to tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional lead anchor is used to secure the lead to patient tissue, then the lead stability is improved, but the ability to reposition the lead is lost and tissue damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The retention ring is designed to transition between a compressed state (during implantation) and an uncompressed state (during retention), enabling the lead anchor to adapt its mechanical properties dynamically. This allows the lead to be easily inserted when compressed and securely retained when uncompressed, while still permitting repositioning by temporarily compressing the ring again
2Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional lead anchor is used to secure the lead, then the lead placement is maintained, but the implantation process becomes more difficult and tissue damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention ring is pre-compressed during manufacturing or packaging, allowing it to be easily expanded during implantation to accommodate the lead. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex compression mechanisms during the actual implantation procedure, making the process simpler and faster while ensuring secure lead retention
3Strength
If a rigid retention structure is used to hold the lead securely, then the lead retention strength is improved, but the ability to compress for repositioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retention ring is constructed from a flexible material or thin-walled structure that can be compressed during implantation and repositioning, yet maintains sufficient structural integrity to securely retain the lead when in its uncompressed state. This flexibility allows the ring to deform under compression while still providing strong retention forces when expanded
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 lead anchor system provides stable anchoring and repositioning capabilities, enhancing the effectiveness and durability of implantable electrical stimulation systems by maintaining lead placement and facilitating easy repositioning without damaging the tissue.
Implementation Method 1
The retention ring defines an uncompressed position in which the retention ring has an elongate shape... The retention ring further defines a compressed position achieved by compressing opposite ends of the major axis of the retention ring to transition the retention ring to a more circular shape... Upon release of the compression, the retention ring returns to the uncompressed position
Data Source
AI summary
A lead anchor includes a flexible housing having a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, the flexible housing defining a lead lumen forming a continuous passageway through the flexible housing. The lead anchor also includes a compressible retention ring disposed within the flexible housing and around a portion of the lead lumen. The retention ring defines an uncompressed position in which the retention ring has an elongate shape, with a major axis and a minor axis, to hold a portion of a lead received within the lead lumen. The retention ring further defines a compressed position achieved by compressing opposite ends of the major axis of the retention ring to transition the retention ring to a more circular shape that allows the lead to slidingly pass through the retention ring. Upon release of the compression, the retention ring returns to the uncompressed position.