Segmented Anchor Delivery System for Mitral Valve Repair
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve repair methods, such as annuloplasty rings or bands, are prone to tearing or dislodging, leading to recurring leaks and the need for additional surgical procedures, as they do not effectively prevent mitral or tricuspid regurgitation due to annular dilation.
Innovation Solution
An anchor delivery system that includes a sheath for retaining an anchor in a collapsed form, which is deployed around the atrioventricular valve to connect multiple anchors via a pledget, promoting tissue growth and reducing annular diameter, thereby ensuring valve closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If annuloplasty rings or bands are used for valve repair, then valve function is improved, but the repair is prone to tearing or dislodging leading to recurring leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The annuloplasty ring is divided into multiple discrete anchors that can be independently deployed around the valve annulus. Each anchor functions as an independent reinforcement element, distributing the mechanical stress across multiple attachment points rather than relying on a single continuous ring structure, thereby reducing the likelihood of tearing or dislodging.
Solution Approach 2:
A pledget is introduced as an intermediary element between adjacent anchors to facilitate their connection. The pledget acts as a mediator that links the anchor series together, creating a cohesive structure that resists tearing and dislodging while maintaining the segmented architecture for improved reliability.
2Productivity
If existing valve repair methods are used, then initial valve function is improved, but additional surgical procedures are needed due to recurring leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor delivery system performs preliminary reinforcement of the valve annulus by deploying multiple anchors and connecting them with pledgets before the valve repair procedure is completed. This preliminary structural support prevents subsequent tearing or dislodging, eliminating the need for additional surgical procedures and reducing long-term time loss from repeat interventions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a continuous annuloplasty ring is used, then valve closure is promoted, but tissue growth is not effectively promoted
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous annuloplasty ring is segmented into discrete anchors with spaces between them. This segmentation allows tissue to grow through and around the anchor structures, integrating the repair device with the patient's tissue over time. The segmented design maintains valve closure stability while actively promoting tissue ingrowth and long-term durability.
Data Source
AI summary
Anchor delivery systems and methods for repairing a valve inside a body, such as an atrioventricular valve, may include an anchor delivery device including a sheath for at least partially retaining an anchor in a collapsed form. The anchor delivery device may be configured to deliver the anchor to the atrioventricular valve. The anchor and an adjacent anchor may be connectable to each other in an expanded form, to link a series of anchors implanted at least partially around the atrioventricular valve. In some embodiments, the anchors may be connectable by a connecting member, such as a pledget, or a material disposable on a bulb of the anchor. In other embodiments, a bulb of the anchor and a bulb of the adjacent anchor may be configured to be directly interlocked.