Stent Delivery Method With Sequential Flange Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stent delivery methods for pancreatic cyst drainage lack effective visualization and control, particularly in expanding the distal-side flange within the pancreatic cyst, leading to potential misalignment and instability during the procedure.
Innovation Solution
A stent delivery method utilizing a tubular stent with a first and second expandable part, where the first expandable part is expanded in the alimentary canal and then the second expandable part is expanded in the cyst, while the first expandable part presses the alimentary canal wall to ensure tight contact and secure positioning, allowing for reliable communication between the cyst and the canal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the distal-side flange is expanded in the pancreatic cyst by pulling the delivery device, then the stent is engaged with the cyst wall, but the operator cannot view the distal-side flange leading to potential misalignment and loss of control
Solution Approach 1:
The stent is divided into two separate expandable flanges (proximal and distal) that can be expanded independently at different times. The proximal flange is expanded first while visible to the operator, providing a stable anchor point before the distal flange is expanded in the cyst.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximal flange is expanded in advance while the stent is still accessible to the operator's view and control. This preliminary expansion creates a secure anchor in the stomach that maintains control over the stent position before the distal flange is deployed in the cyst.
2Productivity
If the stent is inserted through the stomach wall and pancreatic cyst wall simultaneously, then the procedure is efficient, but alignment between the two walls is difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The stent deployment process is segmented into two distinct phases: first inserting the compressed stent through both walls, then expanding the proximal flange in the stomach, and finally expanding the distal flange in the cyst. This segmentation allows for controlled alignment at each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximal flange is expanded in advance within the stomach to create a secure anchor point before the distal flange is expanded. This preliminary action establishes a reference point that facilitates proper alignment when the distal flange is subsequently deployed in the cyst.
3Productivity
If both flanges are expanded simultaneously, then the stent is quickly deployed, but the operator loses control over the expansion sequence and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion mechanism is segmented into two independent systems, one for the proximal flange and one for the distal flange. This allows the operator to control the expansion sequence manually, expanding the proximal flange first while visible, then the distal flange, maintaining full control over the deployment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The proximal flange expansion is performed as a preliminary action before the distal flange expansion. This sequential approach allows the operator to establish the stent's position and control the expansion process step-by-step rather than simultaneously, maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A stent delivery method includes: forming through-holes in an alimentary canal wall and a cyst wall so as to communicate with each other; passing a stent through the through-holes and placing a first expandable part in the alimentary canal and a second expandable part in the cyst; allowing the first expandable part to expand to an expanded state in the alimentary canal; and, after the expansion of the first expandable part, allowing the second expandable part to expand in the cyst while the alimentary canal wall is pressed by the first expandable part in the expanded state.