Steerable Introducer with Laser-Cut Aperture Pattern
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing introducer catheters face limitations such as ovaling of the cross-sectional shape upon deflection, inability to articulate in multiple planes, and directional bias when using pull wires for steering, which hinder precise placement of medical devices in the body.
Innovation Solution
A steerable introducer with a distal tip section featuring a laser-cut pattern of symmetrical elongated apertures and a tension pull wire system that allows for articulation in multiple planes while minimizing ovaling and directional bias, utilizing a retroflex pull wire and tension pull wires anchored at offset positions to control bending and deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pull wires are used for steering the introducer, then directional control is achieved, but ovaling of the cross-sectional shape occurs and directional bias is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning pull wire attachment points at specific asymmetric locations on the articulation support member. The first pull wire attaches at a first location and the second pull wire attaches at a second location, creating asymmetric force distribution that enables directional control while the symmetric aperture pattern maintains cross-sectional shape stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by creating a laser-cut aperture pattern with specific geometric properties at the distal tip section. The aperture shape defined by multiple radii (first radius greater than second radius, which is greater than third radius) provides localized structural reinforcement that resists ovaling while allowing controlled articulation at this specific region
2Adaptability or versatility
If the introducer shaft is made flexible to allow articulation, then navigation capability is improved, but the shaft becomes prone to ovaling and loss of structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible shells by using a laser-cut aperture pattern in the articulation support member that provides controlled flexibility. The aperture geometry (with varying radii) creates a structure that is flexible enough to allow articulation in multiple planes while maintaining sufficient structural integrity to resist ovaling and deformation during use
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pull wires are added to enable articulation in multiple planes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and directional bias increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by designing an articulation support member with a symmetric aperture pattern that enables articulation in multiple planes through a unified structure. The symmetric pattern of apertures with specific geometric properties allows the single support member to provide controlled articulation in multiple directions without requiring complex multi-wire systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility
Data Source
AI summary
An introducer with a steerable distal tip section is disclosed. The steerable distal tip section may comprise an articulation support member comprising a laser-cut pattern of symmetrical elongated apertures in which the shape of each aperture is defined by at least three radii, a central radii being the largest and two end radii being smaller. This pattern of apertures can minimize ovaling of the cross-sectional shape of introducer shaft over the length of the deflectable section. The introducer can articulate in multiple planes. A tension pull wire can allow the introducer to resist directional bias.