Variable Profile Clot Removal Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clot removal devices often fail to capture clots entirely, promote clot fragmentation, and cause endothelial denudation due to high friction with the vessel wall, leading to continued risk of stroke and vascular complications.
Innovation Solution
A variable shape profile obstruction removal device with alternating smaller and larger profile regions, designed to minimize friction and maximize clot engagement and retention, featuring a structure of open cells and thin struts that reduce contact with the vessel wall, allowing for better tracking and reduced endothelial denudation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional clot removal device is used, then the device can be delivered to the target area, but it fails to capture the clot in its entirety and promotes clot fragmentation
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple segments or sections along its length, with each segment capable of independent expansion to form cells of varying sizes. This segmentation allows different regions of the device to perform specialized functions - some regions capture larger clot portions while others handle smaller fragments, preventing overall clot fragmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device have locally optimized properties with varying cell sizes, strut thicknesses, and profile characteristics. The device transitions from a uniform structure to one where specific segments have tailored geometries optimized for their local function - some areas for maximum clot engagement, others for gentle blood flow maintenance.
2Reliability
If a traditional clot removal device is used, then the device can engage the clot, but it promotes endothelial denudation due to high friction with the vessel wall
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic profile that can change during deployment and retrieval. The variable shape allows the device to adapt its contact characteristics with the vessel wall - maintaining engagement with the clot while minimizing frictional contact with the endothelium through controlled expansion and contraction of different device regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes a variable cross-sectional profile along its length, creating a three-dimensional structure where the distance from the vessel wall varies at different points. This dimensional variation allows regions of high clot engagement to be spatially separated from regions that might contact the vessel wall, reducing overall friction and endothelial damage.
3Reliability
If a device with variable shape profile is used, then clot capture and retention is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device achieves its variable shape profile by controlling geometric parameters during manufacturing - specifically, by varying the cell dimensions, strut configurations, and profile characteristics along the device length according to a predetermined pattern. This parametric design approach allows complex functionality to be achieved through systematic variation of basic structural parameters rather than through truly complex mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
An obstruction removal device is described having a variable external profile shape comprising one or more smaller profile regions and one or more larger profile regions.