Modular, Self-Expanding Prosthetic Valve System with Advanced Suture Guard Technology
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation prosthetic valve system featuring modular, self-expanding valve frames, interconnected shape-memory alloy (SMA) leaflet structures, and nanocoated, biocompatible suture guards for improved implantation and reduced tissue trauma.
Background and Problem Solved
Current prosthetic heart valve designs, such as those described in the original patent, often require complex surgical procedures and may cause tissue damage during implantation. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing advanced materials, modular designs, and real-time feedback mechanisms to facilitate optimal implantation and minimize tissue trauma.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The modular, self-expanding valve frame allows for easier implantation and reduced risk of complications. The interconnected SMA leaflet structures provide improved durability and flexibility. The nanocoated, biocompatible suture guard ensures smooth, trauma-free implantation and minimizes tissue damage. Additionally, the system may include integrated MEMS sensors, real-time haptic feedback, and cloud-based AI platforms for remote monitoring and optimization of valve performance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in prosthetic valve design by incorporating advanced materials, modular architectures, and real-time feedback mechanisms, which are not present in the original patent. The combination of these features enables a more efficient, effective, and minimally invasive implantation process.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include the use of different biocompatible materials, varying geometries for the valve frame and leaflet structures, or the integration of additional sensors and feedback mechanisms. Variations may also include the development of specialized implantation tools or the creation of hybrid prosthetic valve systems combining different material and design approaches.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
This inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of cardiovascular disease treatment and regenerative medicine. The advanced features and improved performance of this prosthetic valve system could lead to increased market share and revenue growth for companies operating in this space.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/2409 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2427 |
| A | A61 | A61B2017/0496 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2412 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2454 |
| A | A61 | A61F2220/0075 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Cardiovascular medical devices, specifically prosthetic heart valve systems with advanced implantation and structural technologies, requiring expertise in biomedical engineering, materials science, and surgical device design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees, experience in cardiovascular implant technologies, knowledge of shape-memory alloys, nanomaterials, and prosthetic valve design principles
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable technological extensions of the source patent's fundamental suture guard and prosthetic valve concepts. The disclosed improvements in materials, sensor integration, and modular design are logical progressions using known techniques in medical device engineering. The core functional elements of suture attachment, valve structure, and implantation guidance remain consistent with the original patent's core teachings.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,410 |
|---|---|
| Title | Suture guard for a prosthetic valve |
| Assignee(s) | EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION |