Specialized Embolic Capture Devices for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept adapts embolic capture devices for specific, narrow markets or unique operational environments, such as high-altitude, high-security, disaster relief, or extreme weather conditions, to improve treatment outcomes and address previously unmet needs.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent relates to minimally invasive catheter and methods of minimally invasive catheter delivered embolic capture devices for use in the vasculature. However, these devices may not be suitable for specific environments or patient populations. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by providing specialized embolic capture devices tailored to unique operational environments and patient needs.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a range of specialized embolic capture devices, each adapted for a specific niche environment or patient population. For instance, the device for high-altitude environments features a catheter-based emboli removal device adapted to operate at low oxygen levels, with a controller configured to adjust the device's expansion and movement rates based on altitude-specific blood viscosity. The device for patients with severe hypertension includes a reinforced mesh basket and a proximal end of the device to apply a counterforce to the embolus while removing it from the vessel.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features and adaptations that are non-obvious and unanticipated by the original patent. These include the incorporation of altitude-specific blood viscosity adjustments, reinforced mesh baskets for high-pressure environments, and thermally-insulated, heated mesh baskets for extreme cold environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include devices with adjustable mesh sizes, devices with integrated sensors for real-time monitoring, or devices with modular components for easy customization. Variations may include devices for other niche environments, such as high-security facilities or remote, resource-limited areas.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The specialized embolic capture devices have significant commercial potential in various industries, including medical device manufacturing, emergency response, and specialized healthcare services. The target markets include hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions, as well as government agencies, disaster relief organizations, and private companies operating in high-altitude or extreme environments.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B17/22012 |
| A | A61 | A61B17/221 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/22038 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/22084 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Interventional medical devices for minimally invasive vascular procedures, specifically embolic capture and removal systems, requiring advanced knowledge of medical device engineering, catheter design, and vascular intervention techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in catheter-based interventional technologies, familiar with vascular anatomy, material science, and device optimization for specific clinical environments
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the disclosed variations represent predictable adaptations of the source patent's core embolic capture device technology, applying known engineering principles to address specific clinical scenarios. The fundamental structural and functional elements of the original device remain consistent, with modifications representing routine design iterations to suit niche medical environments. These adaptations would be considered straightforward extensions of existing medical device design methodologies.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,209 |
|---|---|
| Title | Devices and methods for treating blocked blood vessels |
| Assignee(s) | SHANGHAI WALLABY MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES CO., INC. |