Shape-Memory Implant Contraction to Reduce Anchor Dislodgement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Percutaneous techniques for implanting devices in the heart, such as transcatheter cardiac interventions, face challenges where contracting components within the heart can exert significant forces on tissue anchors, potentially dislodging them from the tissue.

Innovation Solution

The use of a shape-memory band extending between anchors, which is contracted via electrical energy to draw the anchors closer together, with a stopper locking the tether to maintain the contracted state, allowing at least partial contraction force to be applied from within the heart, reducing the need for external pulling force on the tether.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the implant components are contracted by pulling the tether from outside the subject, then the implant can be contracted to improve heart function, but excessive force is applied to the tissue anchors which may pull them out of the tissue

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimplant contraction reliabilityVSAvoidanchor holding strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the purely mechanical external pulling system with a hybrid system that uses electrical energy to activate shape-memory bands. The shape-memory bands convert electrical energy into mechanical contraction force, substituting part of the external mechanical pulling with an internal electromechanical actuation system. This reduces the force burden on the tether and anchors while achieving the same contraction effect.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape-memory bands enable the implant to contract using its own internal components rather than relying entirely on external manipulation. The bands are anchored within the heart tissue and autonomously generate contraction force when electrical energy is applied, making the system self-sufficient for the contraction function and reducing stress on the external tether system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Force

If a shape-memory band is used to provide contraction force from within the heart, then less force is required on the tether, but the device complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetether force requirementVSAvoidimplant structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shape-memory band serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural connector between anchors, provides the contraction force through shape-memory effect, and eliminates the need for separate actuation mechanisms. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by consolidating several roles into a single component, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate actuators and connectors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The shape-memory band utilizes parameter changes in material properties (temperature-induced phase transformation) to achieve contraction. By changing the temperature parameter through electrical heating, the band transitions from a relaxed state to a contracted state, providing a simple yet effective mechanism that avoids complex mechanical actuation systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the shape-memory band is contracted via electrical energy, then controlled and reliable contraction is achieved, but energy consumption is required to activate the band

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontraction control reliabilityVSAvoidshape-memory band energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical energy activation is applied in a periodic or pulsed manner rather than continuously. The shape-memory band is heated to trigger contraction, then the energy is removed and the band maintains its contracted state through the shape-memory effect. This periodic activation reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining reliable contraction control, as energy is only supplied when state change is needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 method allows for controlled and reliable contraction of the implant with reduced force on the tether, enhancing the stability and effectiveness of the implantation process.

Implementation Method 1

a shape-memory band that extends alongside the tether, between the first anchor and the second anchor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 2

electrical energy is then applied to the shape-memory band (e.g., via a delivery tool that is electrically connectable to the band) to temporarily contract the implant

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS20250241755A1Systems and methods for contracting implants

Publication Date: 2025.07.31 EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES INNOVATION (ISRAEL) LTD

AI summary

An implant comprises (i) first and second anchors, (ii) a tether extending between the first anchor and the second anchor, and (iii) a shape-memory band that extends alongside the tether, between the first anchor and the second anchor. A delivery assembly is adapted to (a) contract the implant at the heart, by applying energy to the shape-memory band, such that the shape-memory band draws the first and second anchors closer together, and (b) secure the implant in its contracted state by locking a stopper to the tether. Other implementations are also described.