Intelligent Catheter Assembly for Enhanced Prosthetic Heart Valve Implantation
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present disclosure concerns a synergistic combination of a catheter assembly with advanced technologies, such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and novel materials, to create a more powerful and effective system for implanting prosthetic heart valves.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described a catheter assembly for delivering prosthetic heart valves. However, the limitations of the original design included the lack of real-time monitoring, secure data storage, and optimal placement prediction. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating distinct technologies to enhance the catheter assembly's capabilities.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new system comprises a catheter assembly with an AI-powered navigation module for guiding the catheter through a patient's vasculature, a blockchain-enabled secure data storage system for tracking and verifying the implantation process, an integrated IoT sensor for real-time monitoring of vital signs and procedural metrics, and a novel material coating for improved biocompatibility and reduced risk of thrombosis. The system can also utilize machine learning algorithms to analyze data from the catheter assembly and predict optimal prosthetic heart valve placement.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a synergistic combination of advanced technologies with the catheter assembly, providing a more powerful and effective system for implanting prosthetic heart valves. The integration of AI, IoT, blockchain, and novel materials creates a novel and non-obvious solution that addresses the limitations of the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include integrating additional sensors or imaging modalities, using different AI algorithms for navigation and prediction, or incorporating other novel materials for improved biocompatibility. Variations may include adapting the system for use in other medical procedures or incorporating additional security measures for data storage and transmission.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the field of cardiovascular medicine. The system's enhanced capabilities and improved outcomes can increase adoption rates, reduce costs, and improve patient care. Target industries include medical device manufacturers, hospitals, and healthcare providers.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/2436 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2433 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2439 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical device engineering, specifically endovascular catheter systems for prosthetic heart valve delivery, requiring advanced knowledge of mechanical design, medical instrumentation, and interventional cardiology techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or interventional cardiologist with expertise in catheter design, medical device integration, sensor technologies, and minimally invasive surgical techniques, holding advanced degrees and professional experience in medical device development
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating advanced digital technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain into existing catheter assembly designs represents a predictable extension of current medical device innovation trends. The core mechanical principles of the source patent's catheter assembly provide a natural foundation for incorporating intelligent monitoring and navigation technologies. These technological enhancements represent incremental improvements that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner seeking to enhance medical device performance and procedural outcomes.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,416 |
|---|---|
| Title | Catheter assembly |
| Assignee(s) | EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION |