Novel, On Demand, RF-Triggered, Degradable Implants (IVC Filters)

Application

• Implant devices are extensively used, but have a few limitations:
• Most implants remain in the body even after they finish their mission
• Removal of implants is costly and requires an invasive procedure; only 20-30% are actually removed
• Biodegraded implant have a pre-determined life span which may not correlate with the healing process and the medical need
• FDA safety alert in Feb. 2011: ” Filters should be removed if possible”

Our Innovation

A novel concept in implant design which will be first applied to construct IVC filters - an “on demand” degradable implant which can be rapidly dissolved in vivo in response to external stimuli like an electro-magnetic field and after verifying by imaging that there are no trapped clots in the IVC filter.

Advantages

• Flexibility - custom made fibers with predesigned strength, elasticity, heat capacity, and diameter
• Novelty – a new concept of RF-triggered fiber
• Platform technology - can be used for different implants
• Safety - biocompatible materials, no special regulatory issues are expected, non-invasive removal
• Manufacturing - using existing methods of fabrication: coaxial extrusion and Texturing
• Cost - inexpensive product and fewer procedures

Technology

The researchers aim to address two of the most critical problems in biomedicine: one is the precise device life span and the other is simple and immediate destruction of mal- positioned devices and implants in-vivo with minimal adverse side-effects and maximal clinical benefit to patients.   

The new procedure has two steps: filter implantation and develop a non-invasive Radio Frequency (RF) induction.

Once radio frequencies are on, iron oxide nanoparticles produce heat

Once hot, PCL/PLA will melt down for a quick core dissolution

The filter shape disintegrates within seconds

All products are biodegradable and safe.

Opportunity

• IVC Filters are a unique example of a much needed degradable "on demand" Device
• IVC filter is a medical device that is implanted into the Inferior Vena Cava to prevent life-threatening pulmonary emboli
• One filter costs 1000$ + 10,000$ Procedure
• Estimated annual use of 250,000 filters in the USA alone (2012) (250,000 more world-wide), half for prophylactic indications.
• FDA approved retrievable filters in 2003