Segmented Bristle Embolization Device for Vessel Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing embolization devices are not effectively deployable in diverse blood vessel sizes and shapes, as they lack the necessary flexibility and control for precise positioning and detachment within the vasculature.
Innovation Solution
The embolization device comprises multiple linearly connected bristle sections with flexible bristles that can change configuration from a collapsed delivery state to an expanded deployed state, featuring connecting mechanisms that allow for controlled detachment and reattachment, including slidable elongate elements and electrolytic elements for precise deployment and detachment within the bodily lumen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard-shaped embolisation device is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot effectively occlude blood vessels of different shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The embolisation device is divided into multiple linearly connected sections, each comprising one or more bristle segments with flexible bristles. This segmentation allows each section to independently adapt to the vascular geometry while maintaining overall device functionality, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple linearly connected sections are used to adapt to diverse vessels, then adaptability improves, but the connecting mechanisms increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Connecting mechanisms serve as intermediaries between adjacent sections, featuring slidable elongate elements that can transition between attached and detached states. This intermediary design enables controlled section detachment and repositioning without requiring complex active control systems in each section, balancing adaptability with manageable complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the bristle sections are firmly attached during delivery, then delivery control is improved, but the ability to reposition and adjust positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting mechanisms are designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing transition from a stable attached state during delivery to a detachable state for repositioning. The slidable elongate elements enable controlled detachment after deployment, providing both delivery stability and post-deployment adjustability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the connecting mechanisms are made detachable for repositioning, then repositioning capability improves, but the risk of premature detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting mechanisms incorporate interlocking features with lips and lateral recesses that provide mechanical feedback and stability during delivery. The slidable elongate elements are designed to engage securely until intentionally actuated, providing tactile and visual feedback to confirm proper engagement and reduce the risk of accidental detachment.
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
This design enables highly controllable and customizable deployment of embolization devices in various vessel sizes and shapes, allowing for precise anchoring and repositioning within the vasculature, enhancing the ability to occlude blood vessels effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible bristles having a collapsed delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration in which the bristles extend at least radially outwardly from the core to anchor the bristle segment in a body lumen
Implementation Method 2
The connecting mechanisms may be formed by electrolytic elements which disintegrate to detach the connecting mechanisms between adjacent sections
Data Source
AI summary
An embolisation device (300, 500) for promoting clot formation in a body lumen comprising two or more linearly connected sections (305, 505), each section comprising one or more bristle segments (310, 510) comprising a core and a plurality of flexible bristles (330, 530) extending at least radially outwardly from the core, the flexible bristles having a collapsed delivery configuration and an expanded deployed configuration in which the bristles extend at least radially outwardly from the core to anchor the bristle segment in a bodily lumen, wherein: each pair of adjacent sections are connected via a respective connecting mechanism; and when the bristle segments are in the expanded deployed configuration, each respective connecting mechanism is selectively changeable from a first configuration attaching the pair of adjacent sections, to a second configuration detaching the pair of adjacent sections.