Adaptive Leaflet Support System for Optimal Heart Valve Function
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation leaflet support system that dynamically adjusts to optimize heart valve function, addressing limitations of existing fixed-support designs
Background and Problem Solved
Current leaflet support designs, as described in the original patent, have limitations in providing optimal coaptation of valve leaflets due to their fixed shape and size. The new inventive concept addresses this problem by introducing adaptive and dynamic adjustment capabilities to ensure optimal valve function
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a shape-memory alloy frame, micro-actuators, and sensors to detect valve leaflet coaptation. The system dynamically adjusts the frame's shape in response to changes in coaptation, ensuring optimal valve function. Additionally, the system can be integrated with a controller to monitor and control the leaflet support. The inventive concept also encompasses biodegradable and customizable designs, enabling personalized treatment for patients
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in leaflet support design by incorporating adaptive and dynamic adjustment capabilities, which are not present in the original patent. This inventive step enables optimal valve function and addresses the limitations of fixed-support designs
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different materials for the frame, such as polymers or ceramics, or incorporating additional sensors to monitor valve function. Variations could also include integrating the system with other cardiac implants or developing miniaturized versions for pediatric applications
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive leaflet support system has significant commercial potential in the cardiac implant market, particularly in the areas of heart valve repair and replacement. The system's ability to optimize valve function could lead to improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61F2/2448 |
| A | A61 | A61F2/2466 |
| A | A61 | A61F2230/0006 |
| A | A61 | A61F2230/0008 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Cardiac medical devices, specifically heart valve implant technologies, requiring advanced biomedical engineering and medical device design expertise with knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy, materials science, and minimally invasive surgical techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degree, 5-10 years experience in cardiovascular implant design, familiar with shape-memory alloys, sensor integration, and adaptive medical device technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental leaflet support framework naturally invites dynamic adaptation given known challenges in heart valve function. The PTD's proposed modifications represent predictable engineering solutions using well-established techniques in adaptive medical device design. The core technical problem of optimizing valve leaflet coaptation remains consistent between the source patent and PTD, suggesting incremental rather than radical innovation.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,417 |
|---|---|
| Title | Leaflet support |
| Assignee(s) | TRILIO MEDICAL LTD. |