Implantable Vascular Access Port With Compression Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vascular access devices for hemodialysis and drug delivery face issues such as infection, thrombosis, vessel damage, and inefficiency due to recirculation and admixture of treated and untreated blood, along with complexity in operation and patient use, leading to increased hospitalizations and costs.

Innovation Solution

A vascular access port with a plug casing and port frame that prevents vessel compression, features self-sealing plugs, and a locking mechanism to secure cannulas, allowing for angled insertion and easy operation, and can be configured with agents like antibiotics and anti-thrombogenics to reduce complications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional vascular access devices are used, then vascular access is provided, but vessel compression and damage occur during needle insertion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevessel integrityVSAvoidvessel compression
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a compression member as an intermediary element between the needle insertion force and the vessel. This compression member absorbs and distributes the compressive forces during needle insertion, preventing direct compression of the vessel while still allowing secure needle access to the vascular access site.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If single-needle dual lumen configuration is used, then vascular access is simplified, but treated and untreated blood commingle causing recirculation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess configurationVSAvoiddialysis efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the vascular access into separate arterial and venous access sites using multiple needles positioned at different locations. This segmentation prevents mixing of treated and untreated blood by maintaining separate flow paths, thereby eliminating recirculation while preserving dialysis efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Duration of action of stationary object

If frequent needle insertion is performed, then vascular access is maintained, but vessel wall damage increases rendering access site unsuitable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess site usabilityVSAvoidvessel wall damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The compression member serves as a protective intermediary that distributes insertion forces across a larger area during repeated needle procedures. This force distribution mechanism prevents concentrated trauma to the vessel wall, maintaining access site usability over time despite frequent interventions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Volume of moving object

If access ports are placed in close proximity, then device compactness is improved, but admixture and recirculation occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice footprintVSAvoidblood flow efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs different local configurations for arterial and venous access sites, with each site optimized for its specific function. The compression members and needle arrangements are locally adapted to prevent admixture while maintaining compact overall device placement, allowing efficient blood flow separation in a space-constrained configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 solution provides long-term vascular access with reduced risk of infection and thrombosis, improved patient comfort, and ease of use by both medical personnel and patients, minimizing vessel damage and recirculation while maintaining efficient blood flow.

Implementation Method 1

A compression member embedded within the plug casing may be useful to absorb and/or distribute insertion forces applied to the plug casing during insertion of a needle, trocar or cannula

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce distribution:

Implementation Method 2

A locking mechanism may be useful to secure the needle, trocar or cannula in place after insertion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical locking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 3

The plugs may be constructed of a self-sealing material such that the plugs automatically seal around the needle, trocar or cannula during insertion and removal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSelf-sealing:

Implementation Method 4

The port frame can be constructed of a material that releases agents such as antibiotics, anti-thrombogenics and/or anti-proliferatives

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAntibiotic release:

Data Source

PatentUS8529525B2Implantable vascular access system
Publication Date: 2013.09.10 MOZARC MEDICAL US LLC
  • US8529525B2 patent drawing
  • US8529525B2 patent drawing
  • US8529525B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to implantable vascular access ports that can release agents such as antibiotics, anti-thrombogenics and anti-proliferatives. The invention also relates to ports having locking mechanisms that prevent accidental disengagement, and structures that facilitate surgical implantation and provide for long-term stability and use of the port.