Prosthetic Valve Delivery Indicator for Expansion Locking Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved transcatheter heart valves and delivery devices that provide accurate monitoring and control of prosthetic valve expansion during minimally-invasive implantation procedures, as existing technologies lack effective feedback mechanisms for radial expansion and locking of prosthetic valves.
Innovation Solution
A delivery apparatus with radiopaque markers and an indicator arm that provides visual feedback on prosthetic valve expansion, allowing real-time monitoring of diameter changes and locking the valve in a desired size, using a mechanism with actuator screws and locking nuts to control radial expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual confirmation of valve expansion is provided during the delivery procedure, then operator awareness and control are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator arm employs color changes to signal valve expansion status. The arm remains in a first configuration (one color) when the valve diameter is below a threshold, and changes to a second configuration (different color) when expansion reaches the predetermined size, providing clear visual feedback without complex electronics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic or optical sensing systems with a simple mechanical indicator arm that passively responds to valve expansion through mechanical coupling. This mechanical substitution achieves reliable visual indication while minimizing device complexity
2Ease of operation
If the delivery apparatus is made compact for ease of delivery, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to provide visual indication of valve expansion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The indicator arm utilizes angular displacement in a rotational dimension to indicate valve expansion. As the valve expands, the indicator arm rotates from a first angular position to a second angular position, providing visual indication without increasing the linear dimensions of the delivery apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator arm is integrated within the confined space of the delivery apparatus, nesting the indication mechanism inside the existing structure. The arm rotates within the available angular space without requiring additional external volume, maintaining compactness while enabling visual feedback
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of a prosthetic valve delivery apparatus are disclosed. The delivery apparatus can include an indicator arm changeable between a first configuration and a second configuration. The second configuration is different from the first configuration in location or shape of the indicator arm. The indicator arm can be configured to remain in the first configuration when a diameter of the prosthetic valve is smaller than a first predetermined size, and change to the second configuration when the diameter of the prosthetic valve is expanded to the first predetermined size.