Enhanced Systems and Methods for Aspirating from a Body Lumen
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept discloses advanced systems and methods for aspirating from a body lumen, addressing the limitations of existing devices by integrating real-time vacuum sensors, automatic locking mechanisms, detachable catheter adapters with filters, pressure relief valves, and ergonomic designs to enhance user control, efficiency, and safety.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described a device for aspirating fluid from a body lumen, but it had limitations in terms of user control, efficiency, and safety. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing innovative features that improve the overall aspiration process, reducing the risk of vessel damage and complications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new systems and methods comprise a syringe device with an integrated vacuum sensor to provide real-time feedback on aspiration force, enabling users to adjust the force accordingly. The locking mechanism automatically adjusts to maintain optimal vacuum force based on the detected blockage size and type, improving aspiration efficiency and reducing procedure time. A detachable catheter adapter with an integrated filter captures and removes debris, reducing the risk of re-occlusion and improving overall procedure safety. The system also includes a built-in pressure relief valve to prevent over-aspiration and minimize vessel trauma, enhancing patient safety and reducing complications. The ergonomic design of the syringe device distributes the aspiration force evenly across the user's hand, reducing user fatigue and improving overall procedure efficiency.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces a series of novel features that distinguish it from the original patent, including the integration of real-time vacuum sensors, automatic locking mechanisms, detachable catheter adapters with filters, pressure relief valves, and ergonomic designs. These features provide a non-obvious solution to the limitations of existing devices, enhancing user control, efficiency, and safety.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the design of the vacuum sensor, locking mechanism, or pressure relief valve to optimize performance in different clinical settings. Additionally, the ergonomic design of the syringe device could be adapted for use with different hand sizes or user preferences.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced systems and methods for aspirating from a body lumen have significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of neurology, cardiology, and vascular surgery. The target market includes hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions seeking to improve patient outcomes and reduce procedure complications.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/22 |
| A | A61 | A61M5/3129 |
| A | A61 | A61M5/3137 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/22079 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically interventional medical devices for fluid aspiration and thrombectomy procedures, focusing on catheter and syringe technologies for vascular interventions
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in interventional medical technologies, familiar with catheter design, fluid dynamics, vacuum aspiration techniques, and clinical procedural requirements
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's disclosed variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's fundamental aspiration device design. The proposed modifications address known limitations in existing medical aspiration technologies by integrating sensor feedback, adaptive mechanisms, and safety features using standard engineering approaches. These variations represent incremental enhancements that would be apparent to a skilled practitioner seeking to optimize medical device performance and patient safety.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,208 |
|---|---|
| Title | Systems and methods for aspirating from a body lumen |
| Assignee(s) | Silk Road Medical, Inc. |