Devices and methods for alleviating lymphatic system congestion
Inventors
Assignees
Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia CHOP • University of Pennsylvania Penn
Publication Number
US-12383713-B2
Publication Date
2025-08-12
Expiration Date
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Abstract
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to methods and devices for decompressing the lymphatic system. In particular, the present disclosure provides devices for actively or passively decompressing the lymphatic system and methods of their use and deployment within a subject. In certain non-limiting embodiments, a device of the present disclosure can include a pump for actively transferring lymph fluid from the lymphatic fluid into the venous system.
Core Innovation
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to methods and devices for decompressing the lymphatic system and provides devices for actively or passively decompressing the lymphatic system and methods of their use and deployment within a subject. In certain embodiments, a device of the present disclosure can include a pump for actively transferring lymph fluid from the lymphatic fluid into the venous system.
Abnormalities in lymphatic production and drainage are responsible for many symptoms in diseases such as congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis, where increased central venous pressure and increased lymphatic production can lead to decreased lymphatic drainage, tissue edema and ascites. The thoracic duct can be significantly distended in these patients and passive decompression into the venous system can be impeded by elevated central venous pressure.
The disclosure includes devices that reduce lymphatic congestion by active components such as a pump, controller, sensors, pressure controlled chambers, access chambers and isolation valves, and passive components such as stents and valves to provide structural support to the thoracic duct and to prevent reflux. The subject matter further relates to methods for deploying such devices, including delivery to the thoracic duct, thoracic duct outlet or the junction between the thoracic duct and the venous system.
Claims Coverage
The independent claim recites five main inventive features.
Inlet tubular member
An inlet tubular member.
Pump coupled to the inlet tubular member
A pump coupled to the inlet tubular member.
Outlet tubular member coupled to the pump
An outlet tubular member coupled to the pump.
Covered stent directly connected to the outlet tubular member
A covered stent directly connected to the outlet tubular member.
Valve coupled to the covered stent
A valve coupled to the covered stent.
The independent claim is directed to a device that includes an inlet tubular member, a pump coupled to the inlet tubular member, an outlet tubular member coupled to the pump, a covered stent directly connected to the outlet tubular member, and a valve coupled to the covered stent.
Stated Advantages
Decompressing the lymphatic system to alleviate symptoms associated with central lymphatic failure.
Reducing lymphatic congestion by alleviating unfavorable pressure gradients and limited flow capacity of the thoracic duct outlet.
Internal drainage can overcome limitations of external drainage.
Minimally invasive implantation techniques to avoid complications associated with open surgery.
Documented Applications
Use in conditions where drainage of the lymphatic system is needed including congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis.
Alleviation of symptoms such as tissue edema, liver enlargement and ascites.
Use in diseases and conditions including congenital heart disease, right-sided heart failure, Noonan syndrome, Turner syndrome, Gorham's disease, Lymphangioleiomyomatosis, lymphangiectasia, multiple sclerosis, Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), autoimmune diseases, rheumatologic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, infectious diseases other than HIV, Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), lung disease, immune deficiencies, cancer and during cancer therapy.
Passive structural support of the thoracic duct, for example via stents, to increase flow capacity of the thoracic duct.
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