Implantable Shunt Conduit With Segmented Frames for Pressure Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing treatments for heart failure, such as heart diseases and hypertension, lack adaptable methods and devices that effectively manage blood pressure between heart chambers and facilitate customizable fluid flow.
Innovation Solution
An implantable medical device with discrete frame components and a conduit portion, featuring elongate elements and eyelets, that conforms to patient anatomy, allowing for adjustable fluid flow and pressure regulation between heart chambers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single integrated frame structure is used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different patient anatomies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple discrete components (first frame component, second frame component, and intermediate frame components) that can be independently positioned and configured. Each component can conform to specific anatomical regions while maintaining overall structural integrity through controlled connections, resolving the contradiction between structural strength and anatomical adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frame components are discrete and separate, then adaptability to anatomy is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The discrete frame components are nested within a membrane structure that provides continuous support. The membrane envelops the separate frame components, creating a unified stable structure while preserving the adaptability benefits of discrete components. This nesting approach maintains structural stability without sacrificing anatomical conformability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conduit portion is radially unsupported, then flexibility and conformability are improved, but ability to maintain lumen deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane acts as a flexible shell that provides radial support to the conduit portion while maintaining flexibility. The membrane's tensile strength prevents collapse of the lumen, while its flexibility allows the conduit to conform to anatomical structures. This resolves the contradiction between conduit flexibility and lumen maintenance capability.
4Strength
If frame components include multiple elongate elements, then structural support is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple elongate elements within each frame component are merged into a unified structure that provides comprehensive structural support. The elements work together as an integrated unit rather than separate components, reducing the overall complexity while maintaining strong structural support throughout the device.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable medical device comprising a first frame component. The first frame component including a first set of elongate elements configured to conform to an anatomy of a patient. The implantable medical device also comprising a second frame component including a second set of elongate elements configured to conform to an anatomy of a patient. The first frame component and the second frame component being discrete and separate from one another. The implantable medical device also comprising a conduit portion arranged between the first frame component and the second frame component. The conduit portion including a membrane connecting the first frame component and the second frame component.