Enhanced Vascular Closure Device with Improved Closure Stability and Tissue Integration
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An enhanced vascular closure device with a reinforced patch, textured surface, and bioabsorbable retaining element, providing improved closure stability, tissue integration, and reduced long-term complications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original vascular closure device patent (PCT/EP2020/080396) addresses the need for a reliable and efficient vascular closure device. However, the existing design may have limitations in terms of closure stability, tissue integration, and long-term complications. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a reinforced patch, textured surface, and bioabsorbable retaining element, resulting in a more effective and safer vascular closure device.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced vascular closure device comprises a self-expanding tubular vascular closure element with a reinforced patch formed by a mesh structure embedded within the patch. This design improvement provides increased closure stability and reduced risk of patch dislodgement. Additionally, the vascular closure element features a textured surface created using a laser ablation process, enhancing tissue ingrowth and promoting a more secure closure. The device also incorporates a bioabsorbable retaining element that degrades over time, minimizing the risk of long-term complications. The deployment process is facilitated by a modified pusher cone with a tapered distal end, allowing for easier navigation through the vascular access hole. Furthermore, a system for deploying the vascular closure device includes a catheter with an integrated imaging system, providing real-time visualization of the deployment process.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce several novel features that distinguish the enhanced vascular closure device from the original patent. Specifically, the reinforced patch, textured surface, bioabsorbable retaining element, and modified pusher cone with integrated imaging system represent a significant improvement over the existing design, providing a more effective, safer, and more efficient vascular closure device.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the enhanced vascular closure device could include varying mesh structures, surface textures, and bioabsorbable materials. Additionally, the device could be adapted for use in different vascular access procedures or integrated with other medical devices, such as guidewires or introducers.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced vascular closure device has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of interventional cardiology and vascular surgery. The device's improved performance, safety, and efficiency could lead to increased adoption and market share, with potential applications in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient settings.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/0057 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00004 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/00623 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically vascular closure devices and minimally invasive surgical intervention technologies, requiring expertise in biomaterials, medical device design, and interventional cardiology/radiology techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 3-5 years experience in vascular intervention technologies, familiar with material science, surgical device optimization, and regulatory design requirements
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's vascular closure device design. The proposed modifications leverage known techniques in medical device engineering to enhance performance, tissue integration, and deployment characteristics. These incremental improvements would be considered routine optimization within the technological capabilities of a skilled practitioner in the field.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,172 |
|---|---|
| Title | Vascular closure device and method of closing a vascular access hole using such a device |
| Assignee(s) | Angiomed GmbH & Co. Medizintechnik KG |