Vascular Access Device with Tissue Anchors and Needle Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vascular access devices for hemodialysis, such as arteriovenous fistulae, grafts, and catheters, face issues with poor maturation, thrombosis, and high infection rates, leading to frequent interventions and significant patient burden and cost.
Innovation Solution
A novel vascular access device featuring a center channel, needle guide, and tissue anchors with opposingly located side wings to prevent movement, a funnel-shaped needle guide for secure needle placement, and a two-piece design made of biocompatible titanium for easy installation and minimal invasiveness, allowing for self-cannulation and use with existing access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If arteriovenous fistulae are used for vascular access, then long-term patency is achieved, but maturation rate is poor and frequent interventions are required
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by pre-forming a stable access tract through the vessel wall before dialysis treatment begins. The implantable access device is positioned and secured in advance, creating a ready-to-use pathway that eliminates the need for repeated needle insertions and allows immediate dialysis access without waiting for fistula maturation.
2Productivity
If arteriovenous grafts are used for vascular access, then quicker maturation is achieved, but thrombosis rate increases and frequent interventions are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts the problematic graft material from the system and replaces it with a direct vessel wall access approach. By eliminating the graft segment that is prone to thrombosis, the device maintains quick access capability while removing the source of thrombotic complications and associated interventions.
3Loss of time
If tunneled dialysis catheters are used for vascular access, then immediate access is provided, but infection rate is unacceptably high
Solution Approach 1:
The device introduces an intermediary structure - the implantable access device with needle guide - that mediates between the external dialysis needle and the internal vessel lumen. This intermediary provides a protected, controlled entry pathway that reduces direct exposure to infection risks while maintaining immediate access capability.
4Productivity
If repeated cannulation is performed on vascular access devices, then dialysis treatment is maintained, but damage to the target vessel accumulates and device life is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by pre-forming a stable access tract through the vessel wall before dialysis treatment begins. The implantable access device is positioned and secured in advance, creating a ready-to-use pathway that eliminates the need for repeated needle insertions and allows immediate dialysis access without waiting for fistula maturation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of using a vascular access device that prevents needle infiltration, provides a repeatable same-site access, and simplifies cannulation all while being minimally invasive and allows patients to self-cannulate.