Stent-Graft Loading Device Suture Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading devices for stent-grafts with internally sewn stent rings are difficult to attach and detach, often causing damage to the stent-graft due to increased interaction and higher loading forces.
Innovation Solution
A loading device comprising an eye shaft with an eyelet, an adjustment shaft, and a rod, which uses a suture to radially converge the crowns of the stent-graft, allowing for secure loading into a graft cover without damaging the stent-graft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing loading devices are used with internally sewn stent rings, then the stent-graft can be loaded into the delivery device, but the increased interaction and higher loading forces can damage the stent-graft
Solution Approach 1:
A suture is introduced as an intermediary element to attach the loading device to the stent-graft. The suture is passed through the eyelet and engages the stent-graft at the crowns, distributing the loading forces along the suture length rather than concentrating them at a single attachment point. This mediator reduces direct mechanical stress on the stent-graft structure during loading.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading device incorporates an adjustable length mechanism that allows dynamic adaptation to different stent-graft sizes and configurations. The ability to adjust the distance between the eyelet and the stent-graft attachment point enables optimization of loading forces for each specific stent-graft, preventing excessive stress and potential damage.
2Productivity
If existing loading devices are used with internally sewn stent rings, then loading can be performed, but the devices are difficult to attach and detach
Solution Approach 1:
The suture acts as a removable intermediary that simplifies attachment and detachment. The suture can be easily threaded through the eyelet and tied to the stent-graft crowns, creating a secure but reversible connection. This mediator enables quick attachment before loading and easy detachment after loading without requiring complex mechanical fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading device is segmented into distinct functional components: the eyelet for suture attachment, the adjustable length mechanism for positioning, and the stent-graft engagement portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly of the entire loading system.
Data Source
AI summary
A loading device for loading a graft-stent into a graft cover includes an eye shaft, an adjustment shaft, a rod, and a collar. The eye shaft includes an eyelet disposed at a first end of the eye shaft. The adjustment shaft includes a first portion adjustably coupled to a second end of the eye shaft opposite the first end of the eye shaft such that an overall length of the loading device may be lengthened or shortened via the adjustment shaft. The rod is coupled to a second portion of the adjustment shaft opposite the first portion of the adjustment shaft. The collar is disposed over the rod and includes a collar lumen configured to receive a suture between an inner surface of the collar and an outer surface of the rod.