Tipless Retrieval Device With Varying Leg Cross-Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current retrieval devices are inadequate for accessing tortuous anatomy and retrieving objects impacted against anatomical structures or positioned adjacent to them, often interfering with passage due to their design.
Innovation Solution
A medical retrieval device featuring a tipless basket with a longitudinally extending tubular member and legs of varying cross-sections, made from shape-memory material, which can be monolithically formed and configured to transition between extended and retracted states, allowing for enhanced maneuverability and object retrieval in complex body cavities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current retrieval devices include a distally extending tip portion, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the tip portion interferes with passage through tortuous anatomy and prevents retrieval of objects impacted against anatomical structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the distal tip portion from the retrieval device basket, creating a tipless design. This extraction of the problematic tip element allows the device to navigate tortuous anatomy and access impacted objects without interference, while the overall device structure remains relatively simple through the use of a catheter shaft and standard basket components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the retrieval device has a distally extending tip portion, then the device is easy to manufacture, but it cannot retrieve objects positioned adjacent to anatomical structures
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the distal tip portion, the device gains the ability to retrieve objects adjacent to anatomical structures without the tip causing interference. The manufacturing process remains straightforward using standard catheter and basket components, eliminating the need for complex tipless construction methods.
3Ease of operation
If the retrieval device includes a distally extending tip portion, then the structural design is simple, but it interferes with passage about and behind objects
Solution Approach 1:
The removal of the distal tip portion eliminates interference with passage about and behind objects, significantly improving maneuverability. The basket design remains relatively simple, utilizing standard wire construction and radial expansion mechanisms found in conventional retrieval devices.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the retrieval device has a tipless design with varied leg cross-sections, then it can access tortuous anatomy and retrieve impacted objects, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the cross-sectional shape of basket legs along their length. The legs transition from circular cross-sections at the proximal end to flattened or oval cross-sections at the distal end, providing enhanced flexibility for navigating tortuous anatomy while maintaining structural integrity. This localized variation in geometry allows the device to access difficult anatomical regions without requiring complete redesign of the entire manufacturing process.
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 device effectively accesses and retrieves objects in tortuous anatomy, including those impacted or adjacent to anatomical structures, by maintaining a flat distal end and varying leg cross-sections for improved flexibility and strength, enabling safe and efficient removal of obstructive materials.
Implementation Method 1
made from shape-memory material, which can be monolithically formed and configured to transition between extended and retracted states
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical retrieval device may include a longitudinally extending tubular member having a cut pattern. The pattern may include an x-shaped portion and a plurality of legs extending proximally of the x-shaped portion. At least one of the plurality of legs may have a varied cross-section along its length. The medical retrieval device may further include a longitudinally extending drive member operably coupled to the tubular member.