Apparatus and methods for programming a shape-memory medical device implant
US8323272B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 17, 2010 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 4, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/753
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A medical device implant made with a shape-memory material is originally produced in a “permanent” configuration. The implant is then “programmed” into a temporary (typically smaller sized) configuration to facilitate implantation, after which, an external stimulus activates the implant to return to its permanent configuration. Apparatus and methods include inserting a first portion of the implant into an aperture of a compression fixture base, heating the implant, and then driving and compressing the remaining portion of the implant, which has a different, typically larger profile than that of the first portion, into the aperture with a compression fixture cover to “program” the remaining portion. The resulting programmed implant has first and remaining portions that have identical, or substantially identical, profiles.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.