Thrombectomy Pump Pressure Cycling to Prevent Catheter Plugging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thrombotic extraction procedures face challenges such as catheter plugging due to static aspiration, limited control over pressure cycling, incompatibility with different catheters, and the need for dedicated tubing sets, which can lead to inefficiencies and adverse patient outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A thrombectomy pump system with a controller that selects an aspiration profile based on catheter parameters, allowing for cyclic pressure control between upper and lower limits, and compatibility with various catheters, while also enabling continuous aspiration without halting the procedure for clot retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If static aspiration at full vacuum is applied to remove thrombus, then the thrombus can be extracted, but the catheter becomes plugged and ineffective for continued use
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies periodic cycling between aspiration mode (negative pressure to extract thrombus) and infusion mode (positive pressure to push thrombus toward catheter tip). This periodic action prevents the catheter from becoming permanently plugged by alternately extracting and repositioning the thrombus, maintaining continuous catheter functionality throughout the procedure.
2Productivity
If high vacuum pressure is applied to aspirate large thrombus, then the thrombus can be removed, but the catheter wall collapses and aspiration ability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system cycles between aspiration and infusion modes, applying high vacuum pressure only during aspiration phases to remove thrombus, then switching to infusion mode to allow catheter wall recovery. This periodic application of stress prevents permanent catheter collapse while maintaining effective thrombus removal capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts pressure conditions by alternating between negative pressure (aspiration) and positive pressure (infusion). This dynamic pressure control allows the catheter to adapt its structural state, preventing permanent deformation while maintaining aspiration effectiveness throughout the procedure.
3Productivity
If cyclic pressure is applied to remove thrombus, then the thrombus can be extracted, but the thrombus is pushed further distal causing undesired outcomes
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pressure sensors to monitor catheter pressure in real-time and provides feedback to the control system. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently adjusts the cycling parameters and pressure levels to extract thrombus effectively while preventing it from being pushed too far distal, avoiding vessel perforation and other complications.
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
The system effectively removes thrombi with controlled energy, reducing the risk of catheter blockage, vessel damage, and blood loss, while allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustment of the aspiration process.
Implementation Method 1
actuating a thrombectomy pump system coupled to the catheter to apply a suction pressure to aspirate the thrombus from the body lumen via the catheter
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving at an aspiration module of a pump assembly an input associated with a catheter parameter of a catheter coupled to the pump assembly. An aspiration profile associated with the catheter parameter is selected via the aspiration module from a list of preset aspiration profiles associated with different catheters and include upper and lower pressure limits, an aspiration speed, and an infusion speed. A first signal is sent to actuate the pump based on the aspiration profile to operate the pump in a first mode. A pressure signal is received at the aspiration module and a second signal is sent to actuate the pump based on the aspiration profile to operate the pump in a second mode, in which the pump is cycled between the aspiration speed and the infusion speed such that the catheter pressure cycles between the upper pressure limit and the lower pressure limit.