Fenestrated endovascular grafts are the next generation of stent grafts used to repair aortic aneurysms. The addition of fenestrations, or holes, in the graft is a novel design that allows for stent branches into critical branches to the kidney and other viscera. These holes are prefabricated and customized for the patient based off of detailed CT scan measurements. Difficulty arises when clinicians attempt to use 2-D imaging to move a wire in 3-D space in order to place the “branch” stent into each of the branch vessels.Not only is this the single most time-consuming part of the procedure, keeping the patient in surgery longer and the surgeon from seeing other patients, it also significantly increases radiation exposure for both the patient and interventionalist and exposes the patient to increased risk of renal failure due to greater use of contrast agents. Fenestrated grafts are revolutionizing aortic aneurysm repair, but to fully realize their potential, an urgent need for a better placement system must be met.
Description
The E-mag approach developed by Pitt innovators incorporates an electromagnetic coil onto the fenestrations. These coils can be selectively activated and magnetized, attracting a metal tipped wire/catheter to the fenestration. The interventionalist is able to turn the magnetism on and off, allowing them to target specific fenestrations. E-mag, available as a cuff inserted around the fenestration, will enable easier, quicker cannulation of fenestrated endovascular grafts and reduce the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to radiation or contrast agents.
Applications
· Quicker and simpler cannulation of fenestrated stents
Advantages
· Easier wire placement
· Quicker wire placement means less time spent in surgery for the patient and ability to care for more patients for the surgeon
· Reduces risk of cancer associated with prolonged exposure to radiation for both patient and interventionalist
· Reduces risk of renal failure associated with prolonged exposure to contrast agents
Invention Readiness
Prototype
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240285391A1
