Simulated Valve Device for Airway Sizing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing airway sizing methods are inadequate for accurately determining the size of non-cylindrical airways, which can lead to improper valve insertion, causing damage due to oversized or undersized valves.
Innovation Solution
A simulated airway valve device with a shaft, radial struts, and a membrane that approximates the size of an airway valve, allowing for proper sizing and testing of valve functionality within the airway, including atraumatic anchors and markers for dimension indication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional airway sizing methods are used, then the process is simple, but the measurement precision is inadequate for non-cylindrical airways
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simulated valve device that replicates the geometry and seating characteristics of the actual airway valve to be implanted. The simulated valve includes a body, occluding member, and anchoring members that mirror the design of the target valve, allowing clinicians to test sizing and fit before actual implantation. This copying approach enables accurate measurement of non-cylindrical airways without requiring complex measurement instruments.
2Measurement precision
If a simulated valve device is implemented, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated valve device serves multiple functions: it acts as a sizing tool, a fit-test prototype, and a functional simulator. The same device structure that would be implanted as the actual valve is used during the sizing process, eliminating the need for separate measurement devices. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulated valve is deployed in advance of the actual valve implantation to pre-test the fit, sizing, and anchoring characteristics. By performing the sizing and functional testing beforehand using an identical device structure, the patent eliminates the need for complex post-implantation adjustments and ensures accurate sizing without requiring overly complex measurement equipment.
3Reliability
If proper valve sizing is ensured, then the reliability of valve implantation improves, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring airway dimensions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated valve incorporates visual indicators such as colored markers or fluorescent elements on the anchoring members and occluding device. When these components contact the airway wall or achieve proper seating, the color changes or becomes visible through the bronchoscope, providing intuitive visual feedback. This eliminates the need for complex measurement detection systems while ensuring reliable valve sizing and placement.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a simulated valve device can be used to determine whether a valve device would fit within a particular airway. The simulated valve device can include a shaft having at least one strut extending radially therefrom. The strut and at least part of the shaft can be surrounded by a membrane for viewing through a bronchoscope. In some embodiments, the membrane can include markings for viewing by a user.