Out-licensing

Device and Method for Treating Hydrocephalus: Active Catheter Shunt System and Methods for Pumping Fluid

Introduction/Background

Passive shunting systems are often subject to functional failures such as over drainage, under drainage or blockage. These can prevent effective treatment and may cause the symptoms of disease to recur. Such shunting systems operate based on physiological pressure gradients and therefore must rely on increasing the shunt diameter to decrease the flow resistance, in order to provide increased flow. Increases in inner diameter however make shunting systems quite bulky. This can make the device less convenient and can lead to patient discomfort.

Aims/Hypothesis

Issues for an active catheter shunt system may include the method by which fluid is pumped, and miniaturization of the pumping device.

Research

A shunt system for use in a human body that is formed from a length of tube that is configured as a pump. The length of tube may be configured as a hydroimpedance pomp, whose surfaces are pressed to pump fluid in the specified direction and way. The length of tube that forms the pump may be connected to shunt inlet and outlet parts, and may also include a valve that is adjustable to prevent back draining of fluid.

Conclusion

This application describes an active catheter shunt system and methods for pumping fluid. More particularly, the application relates to a catheter shunt having a valveless hydroimpedance pumping system for draining excess cerebrospinal fluid and relieving symptoms of hydrocephalus.

Relevance/Opportunity

Please enquire quoting reference no. 4115 regarding licensing or codevelopment partnerships.

Registered

Patent Number: 7,524,298