18256720. THERAPEUTIC AGENT DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS simplified abstract (THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA)

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THERAPEUTIC AGENT DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS

Organization Name

THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

Inventor(s)

Tony L. Yaksh of San Diego CA (US)

Matthew Hunt of Oak Park CA (US)

Kelly Eddinger of La Jolla CA (US)

THERAPEUTIC AGENT DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18256720 titled 'THERAPEUTIC AGENT DELIVERY CATHETER SYSTEMS

Simplified Explanation

The therapeutic agent delivery catheter system described in the patent application includes an elongate tube with microvalves that open in response to pressure pulses to emit therapeutic agent microjets.

  • The catheter system is made from biocompatible material and is sized to insert in a patient.
  • The elongate tube reaches the treatment region of the patient.
  • A pattern of slits forming microvalves penetrates the outer wall of the tube.
  • The slits remain closed to contain a solution of therapeutic agent and open in response to pressure pulses to emit microjets of therapeutic agent.

Potential Applications

The technology could be used in targeted drug delivery systems for various medical treatments, such as cancer therapy or pain management.

Problems Solved

This technology allows for precise and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents to specific regions within a patient's body, reducing the risk of systemic side effects.

Benefits

- Enhanced efficacy of treatment - Minimized side effects - Improved patient outcomes

Potential Commercial Applications

- Pharmaceutical companies for developing novel drug delivery systems - Medical device manufacturers for producing advanced catheter systems

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be the use of microvalves in catheter systems for drug delivery, but the specific design and functionality described in this patent application may be novel.

Unanswered Questions

How does this technology compare to existing drug delivery methods?

This technology offers a more precise and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents compared to traditional methods, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects.

What are the potential limitations or challenges in implementing this technology in clinical practice?

Some potential challenges could include ensuring the reliability and durability of the microvalves over time, as well as optimizing the pressure pulses for consistent and effective drug delivery.


Original Abstract Submitted

A therapeutic agent delivery catheter system includes an elongate tube defining a lumen therein formed from biocompatible material and sized to insert in a patient. The elongate tube has a length that extends to reach a treatment region of the patient. A pattern of slits forming microvalves penetrates an outer wall of the tube. The slits are small enough to remain closed to contain a solution of therapeutic agent, and are configured to open in response to a pressure pulse in the lumen and emit a microjet of therapeutic agent from each slit in the pattern of slits distributed along the rostro caudal extent of the implanted catheter.