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Description
The technology is for the non-surgical repair of diseased coronary arteries by interventional cardiologists during coronary catheterization. It is potentially safer than balloon angioplasty and other prior art. The device delivers millimeter / microwave energy by way of a catheter to precise locations of the coronary arteries and selectively targets and heats atherosclerotic lesions. Controlled customized temperature profiles treat lesions in the intima and media layers of the artery walls while preserving the most superficial endothelial cell layer and outer adventitial layer. Most energy is deposited with in the atherosclerotic lesion and little energy will pass into and beyond the adventitia because of rapid decay of the electromagnetic wave. Thermal conduction also maintains an acceptable temperature in the surrounding cell layers. Preservation of the endothelial cell layer is crucially important for preventing thrombotic, inflammatory, and proliferative processes that underlie the major complication of angioplastic procedures-restenosis. Major components of the device include:
1. the millimeter / microwave power source,
2. the catheter transmission line in the form of a waveguide or coaxial cable, and
3. the antenna / radiator located at the distal end of the catheter.
Benefits
1. This technology provides an improved method for dilating a congested artery without harming the endothelial layer or healthy tissues.
2. Unlike angioplasty, this process does not scar or damage the blood vessel walls therefore, preserving the healthy endothelial lining in arteries.
3. Once the catheter is in place, less time is required to heat atherosclerotic lesions (in some cases, less than one-half second).
4. The catheter is also designed to operate while blood continues to flow in the artery.
Potential Application(s)
This technology can be used as a non-invasive treatment for atherosclerosis. The commercial potential is a multi-billion dollar market worldwide.
Technology Commercialization Status
Development Status:
The technology is in the conceptual phase, and a prototype is now being developed. Computer simulations have successfully demonstrated the concept.
Patent Status:
The invention, "Endothelium Preserving Microwave Treatment for Atherosclerosis," is protected under the following U.S. patents: number 6,047,216 issued on April 4, 2000; number 6,226,553 issued on May 1, 2001; number 6,223086 issued on April 24, 2001; and number 6,496,736 issued on December 17, 2002. These patents are owned by the United States of America and were developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Contact for Technical Information:
NASA Technology Transfer & Commercialization Office
NASA Johnson Space Center
2101 NASA Road 1
Mail Code HA
Houston, Texas 77058
Phone: (281) 483-1749
Fax: (281) 244-8452
Email: commercialization@jsc.nasa.gov
Related Technologies
Contact
If your company is interested in this technology please contact:
Brent Cameron
Texas A&M University
Public Release Date: 5/8/2000
Reference Number: TOP9-117
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