Thrombus Maceration With Expandable Basket Capture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for removing thrombi from vasculature often result in large particulate debris that can cause embolisms by dislodging and flowing downstream, requiring cumbersome equipment and complex procedures.

Innovation Solution

A thrombus removal device with an expandable element and a movable element that segments and macerates thrombi into smaller pieces using a stationary and movable element, capturing them in a basket for retrieval, reducing the need for additional equipment and minimizing downstream debris.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If existing methods are used to remove thrombi, then thrombi can be removed from vasculature, but large particulate debris is generated that can cause embolisms

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverisk of embolismsVSAvoidlarge particulate debris

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the thrombus into smaller pieces using a stationary element with cutting edges that divide the thrombus as it passes through, preventing large particulate debris from dislodging and causing embolisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces chemical substances or aspiration methods with a mechanical segmentation and maceration system that actively breaks down thrombi into smaller particles that are less likely to cause embolisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If existing removal methods are used, then thrombi can be removed, but cumbersome equipment and complex procedures are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethrombus removal effectivenessVSAvoidequipment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device merges multiple functions (segmentation, maceration, and collection) into a single integrated catheter-based system, eliminating the need for separate equipment and simplifying the overall procedure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The device performs multiple functions simultaneously - segmenting the thrombus with cutting edges, macerating it with a movable element, and collecting debris in a basket - making it a universal thrombus removal solution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If existing methods are used, then thrombi can be removed, but multiple passes are required to effectively capture and remove thrombi

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethrombus removal efficiencyVSAvoidnumber of passes required

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device enables continuous thrombus removal in a single pass by combining segmentation, maceration, and collection functions that work continuously as the catheter moves through the vasculature, eliminating the need for multiple passes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS20250312052A1Thrombus removal device

Publication Date: 2025.10.09 COVIDIEN LP

AI summary

In some examples, a thrombus removal device includes a stationary element and a movable element configured to macerate a thrombus into smaller pieces as the thrombus moves into a basket defined by an expandable element. The stationary element defines a plurality of arms configured to segment the thrombus into smaller pieces. The movable element is configured to move relative to the stationary element, e.g., to rotate, plunge, vibrate, and/or oscillate, in order to macerate the thrombus.