Design of a catheter with variable shape and properties

Abstract

In medical applications such as medical endovascular catheters, adaptable and morphing devices capable of changing shape and properties become important. These devices allow for safer therapeutic and diagnostic procedures by reducing time to reach target vessels and organs, trauma to the vessel wall and physical stress on the body while increasing the accuracy, benefits and positive outcomes. A catheter with these properties will also reduce X-ray exposure during procedures, recovery time and could save lives in the acute setting.

In the field of emerging materials, several materials demonstrate variable properties when exposed to a stimulus. This, when combined with the field of minimally invasive surgery, holds significant potential for the development of a catheter with variable shape and properties.

This thesis investigates the latest developments in endovascular catheter design through a materials lense. It begins with a thorough examination of material-based advancements in catheters with variable properties, and puts a particular focus on shape memory materials. Using a combination of literature review, field work examination and expert consultations, the design of a catheter with variable properties is comprehensively analyzed and evaluated.
Prototyping was done to evaluate the potential of two material systems to achieve variable behaviour in the design of a catheter.

The study presents a conceptual shape memory material-based design for a catheter with variable shape and properties and demonstrates this with a visual prototype. Additionally, potential directions for further refinement of this conceptual design are explored. This thesis serves as an initial reference and guiding framework for designers working with emerging materials in the field of medical devices and in particular the development of endovascular catheters with variable properties.