University of Pittsburgh

Innovative Arterial Pulsation System for Superior Hemocompatibility in Endovascular Devices

University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed an innovative in-situ surface treatment system that utilizes arterial pulsation to enhance the hemocompatibility of endovascular devices. This technology addresses the critical issue of thrombogenic complications in indwelling endovascular devices, particularly those used in treating small artery diseases. By leveraging arterial pulsation, this system provides active and continuous surface treatment, potentially revolutionizing the field of endovascular device technology.

Description

The novel platform technology, known as the Piezoelectric Dielectrophoresis System (PDS), uses arterial pulsation to create an anti-thrombogenic surface on endovascular devices. This system employs a dual piezoelectric design to manipulate platelet motion and alter the electric field's polarity between the electrode and the device surface. The PDS is designed based on structural computational modeling and numerical analysis and fabricated using advanced nano/micro fabrication technologies.

Applications

- Endovascular device surface treatment
- Small artery disease treatment
- Coronary, cerebral, and peripheral artery disease management
- Biomedical research

Advantages

This technology provides active and continuous surface treatment, significantly reducing thrombosis in indwelling endovascular devices and enhancing hemocompatibility. It is applicable to various endovascular devices without the need for bulky batteries or complex electronics. The system has the potential to significantly reduce the disease burden of small artery diseases, offering a groundbreaking solution in the field of endovascular device technology.

Invention Readiness

A prototype of the PDS has been developed and tested. The device was designed based on structural computational modeling and numerical analysis. It was fabricated using advanced nano/micro fabrication technologies, including a multi-layer thin film deposition process and a two-photon polymerization process. Various in vitro tests have been conducted to evaluate the functionality of the PDS with the stent, demonstrating its potential for clinical application.

IP Status

Patent Pending