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Transcatheter radiofrequency-based energy repair of Patent Foramen Ovale

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This technology is a transcatheter repair strategy for closure of Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) membranes to limit embolic complications.

Unmet Need: Non-device transcatheter closure for reduced risk Patent Foramen Ovale defect repair

Current Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) repair strategies use implantable devices to seal the cardiac defect between the right and left atria. Cardiac implantable devices remain permanently encapsulated by atrial endothelial tissue, preventing left atrial access, which may be required for future interventional procedures. Device-based solutions are intrinsically associated with procedural-based complications such as thrombosis, infection, device failure, and embolization. Treatment strategies for PFO repair without implantable devices may be required to address these clinical concerns.

The Technology: Bipolar radiofrequency energy application for device-free transcatheter septal defect repair

This technology is a repair strategy that targets PFO, a major mechanism of embolic events, using a device-free, localized application of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy to the cardiac septal defect. Two RF delivery plates are loaded into a transcatheter system for safe and non-invasive access to the defect site. These plates hold the PFO membrane together during energy application and are subsequently removed to allow the tissue to heal, reducing the risk associated with standard device-based repair.

Applications:

  • Intervention for chronic migraine and ischemic stroke patients
  • Surgical strategy for cardiac septum closure
  • Cardiac defect repair without implantable device
  • Transcatheter application of radiofrequency energy for cardiac tissue healing
  • Research tool for analysis of cardiac healing mechanisms overtime

Advantages:

  • Compatible with standard transcatheter wire and sheath systems intended for superior vena cava passage
  • Applies bipolar radiofrequency for more efficient energy application to cardiac septum
  • Allows closure of atrial communication without the need for an implantable device
  • Substantially reduces risk associated with PFO closure procedures
  • Enables access to left side of the heart for future interventional procedures

Lead Inventor:

Robert J. Sommer, M.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Status

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