Stent-Graft Deployment System with Snap Connector
Solution Overview
Problem
Current stent-graft deployment systems lack control and flexibility, particularly in deploying branch grafts in regions with side branches, leading to potential misalignment and impaired blood flow, and existing systems are not suitable for treating aneurysms in the thoraco-abdominal aorta due to frictional forces and difficulty in re-deployment.
Innovation Solution
A main stent-graft and branch graft deployment system with a retractable primary sheath and cap mechanism that constrains the proximal end of the stent-graft, allowing for partial deployment and re-alignment, and a snap connector for secure branch graft attachment, reducing deployment forces and ensuring fluid-tight connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the proximal end of the stent-graft is deployed first using conventional delivery systems, then the stent-graft can be deployed in a straightforward manner, but accurate pre-deployment positioning becomes critical and re-positioning is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the stent-graft to transition from a fixed proximal deployment mode to a movable state. The distal deployment approach allows the proximal end to remain constrained during initial deployment, then become repositionable by manipulating the delivery catheter, transforming the system from static to dynamic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by deploying the distal end of the stent-graft first while the proximal end remains constrained. This preliminary deployment of the distal portion establishes a foundation that allows subsequent repositioning of the proximal end before final fixation, reversing the conventional sequence to gain positioning flexibility.
2Productivity
If existing systems are used to deploy branch grafts in regions with side branches, then the deployment process can be completed, but misalignment and impaired blood flow may occur due to lack of control and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the main stent-graft to be repositioned after initial deployment. The ability to manipulate the delivery catheter and reposition the proximal end enables precise alignment with branch vessels, transforming the deployment from a static one-time operation to a dynamic adjustable process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs segmentation by separating the deployment into distinct phases: distal end deployment first, then proximal end deployment. This segmentation allows independent control and positioning of each end, enabling precise alignment with branch vessels while maintaining overall deployment completion.
3Ease of operation
If the proximal end of the stent-graft is fixed during deployment, then deployment control is provided, but frictional forces cause the stent-graft to axially compress or bunch up
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional deployment sequence: instead of fixing and deploying the proximal end first, the distal end is deployed first while the proximal end remains constrained. This inversion allows the stent-graft to unfold in the opposite direction, reducing frictional forces and preventing bunching while maintaining deployment control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the stent-graft to transition from a constrained state to a deployed state in a controlled sequence. The ability to reposition the proximal end after distal deployment maintains control while preventing the friction-induced bunching that occurs with fixed proximal deployment.
4Productivity
If conventional delivery systems are used for thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms, then deployment can be performed, but re-deployment is difficult due to frictional forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the stent-graft to remain movable after initial deployment. The distal deployment approach allows the proximal end to be repositioned or re-deployed by manipulating the delivery catheter, transforming the system from a fixed post-deployment state to a dynamic repositionable state, facilitating repairs or adjustments.
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
Enables precise and controlled deployment of branch grafts with reduced frictional forces, allowing for accurate alignment and secure attachment, improving the treatment of thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysms and enhancing patient outcomes by minimizing complications.
Implementation Method 1
a cap coupled to a distal end of the inner tube and configured to retain at least a portion of a proximal area of the main stent-graft in a radially compressed configuration
Implementation Method 2
the snap connector member being configured to frictionally engage the port member as the proximal end of the branch graft is brought into approximation with the branch graft opening of the primary graft
Data Source
AI summary
A primary and branch graft deployment delivery system (70) comprises a primary graft (72) having a branch port opening or member (75), a retractable primary sheath containing the primary graft, an outer tube (60) within the retractable primary sheath and within the primary graft, an inner tube (61) within the outer tube, a cap (54 or 71) coupled to the inner tube and configured to retain at least a portion of a proximal area (73) of the primary graft in a radially compressed configuration. The system further comprises a branch graft (89) advanceable through the branch graft port member and further comprising a snap connector member (90) associated with the branch graft, the snap connector member being configured to frictionally engage the port member, the engagement of the snap connector to the port member forms a connection between the proximal end of the branch graft and the primary graft.