Catheter-Based Valve Coaptation Measurement Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing heart valve coaptation height during surgery are limited by the difficulty in measuring thinner pediatric valve leaflets and lack of quantitative assessment, often relying on qualitative approaches that do not provide accurate coaptation height data along the valve surface.
Innovation Solution
A coaptation measurement device with multiple sensors integrated into a catheter-based or flexible probe that measures the coaptation height across the valve surface by detecting contact points between valve leaflets, providing both numerical and graphical displays of coaptation height, which can be used during catheterization or open surgery to guide intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If echocardiogram is used to assess coaptation height, then the assessment can be performed non-invasively, but the measurement precision is insufficient especially for pediatric valves with thin leaflets
Solution Approach 1:
A catheter-based measurement device with sensors is introduced as an intermediary tool to directly measure coaptation height. The device includes a shaft with sensors positioned to contact the valve leaflets, providing direct mechanical measurement rather than relying on echocardiographic imaging alone. This intermediary device bridges the gap between non-invasive imaging limitations and the need for precise measurement in pediatric patients with thin leaflets.
2Loss of information
If multiple sensors are integrated into the distal aspect of the device, then coaptation height can be measured across multiple points on the valve surface, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement device is segmented into multiple discrete sensor elements arranged along the distal aspect of the shaft. Each sensor can independently detect contact with valve leaflets at different positions, allowing comprehensive mapping of coaptation height across the valve surface. This segmentation enables collection of complete spatial data while keeping each individual sensor element relatively simple in design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the distal aspect of the device is made flexible to accommodate valve movement, then the device can adapt to physiological conditions, but the structural stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The distal aspect of the measurement device incorporates flexible or compliant structural elements that can dynamically adapt to valve movement during the cardiac cycle. The shaft or distal portion is designed with flexible materials or jointed segments that allow the sensor array to maintain contact with the valve leaflets while accommodating physiological motion. This dynamic design maintains both adaptability and sufficient structural integrity for accurate measurement.
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 quantification of coaptation height along the valve surface, providing valuable information for decision-making during valve repair and predicting long-term valve function, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of valve interventions.
Implementation Method 1
each sensor of the plurality of sensors is configured to detect if a portion of a heart valve is in contact with the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and cooptation measurement devices as described herein include an elongate sensor body at the end of a proximal connecting member, and a plurality of sensors in an array across a face of the sensor body, wherein each sensor of the plurality of sensors is configured to detect if a portion of a heart valve is in contact with the sensor.