Vessel Filter Removal Device with Proximity Detector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vessel filter removal and repositioning methods are invasive and require complex visualization procedures, making it difficult to non-invasively engage and remove filters due to the challenge of determining proximity to the filter.

Innovation Solution

A vessel filter repositioning or removal device equipped with a detector and gripper system that includes a collapsible cone gripper and various detection methods (electrical, mechanical, magnetic, optical) to accurately detect and securely grasp the filter, allowing for minimally invasive removal or repositioning without the need for extensive imaging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If complex visualization procedures (MRI, X-Ray) are used to locate the vessel filter, then the filter can be accurately located, but the procedure becomes invasive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter location accuracyVSAvoidprocedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary detection system (acoustic, optical, or electromagnetic sensors) that mediates between the vessel filter and the external monitoring equipment. This intermediary allows real-time detection of the filter's position and engagement status without requiring complex imaging procedures, thus resolving the contradiction between accurate location and procedure complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical visualization systems (MRI, X-Ray) with non-mechanical detection methods such as acoustic sensors that detect vibrations from filter engagement, optical sensors that detect light changes, or electromagnetic sensors that detect field changes. This substitution eliminates the need for complex imaging equipment while maintaining detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If traditional removal methods are used without proximity detection, then the procedure is simpler, but the ability to non-invasively engage and remove filters is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenon-invasive engagement capabilityVSAvoidproximity detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor the proximity between the removal device and the vessel filter, providing real-time information to the operator. This feedback loop enables non-invasive engagement by allowing the operator to precisely control the approach and contact points, thus making the procedure easier while solving the proximity detection difficulty

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The vessel filter incorporates self-detecting features such as acoustic emissions during engagement, optical markers, or electromagnetic signatures that automatically signal its position and engagement status. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external detection systems, enabling non-invasive engagement while simplifying the detection process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 and minimally invasive removal or repositioning of vessel filters, reducing trauma and the need for complex visualization techniques by using a detector-linked gripper system to securely engage and retrieve the filter.

Implementation Method 1

various detection methods (electrical, mechanical, magnetic, optical) to accurately detect and securely grasp the filter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical detection: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

various detection methods (electrical, mechanical, magnetic, optical) to accurately detect and securely grasp the filter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic detection: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

various detection methods (electrical, mechanical, magnetic, optical) to accurately detect and securely grasp the filter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical detection: Light

Implementation Method 4

The device may be retrieved from the deployed site by compressing the radially expanded legs and the associated baskets into a compacted size for retrieval

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical compression: Compression

Implementation Method 5

The body of such a filter is usually formed from biocompatible materials, including compressible spring metals and shape memory materials, to allow easy expansion and compression of the filter within the vessel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectShape memory effect: Shape Memory Alloy

Implementation Method 6

The hooks on the radially expandable legs may further comprise materials more elastic than the legs to permit the hooks to straighten in response to withdrawal forces and to facilitate withdrawal from the endothelium layer without risk of significant injury to the vessel wall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP1874400B1Medical device removal system
Publication Date: 2019.12.11 CR BARD INC
  • EP1874400B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2D
  • EP1874400B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4B
  • EP1874400B1 patent drawingFigure 5A~5E

AI summary

A medical device removal system includes a vessel filter repositioning or removal device to remove and/or reposition a medical device, such as a vessel filter. The system includes a gripper to grip a medical device that is located within a body vessel, and a detector, linked to the gripper, to detect the proximity of the medical device to the gripper. The system may also include an output to indicate a signal from the detector.