Overview:
Dr F.Paget Milsom is a leading New Zealand heart surgeon who developed a novel system to reduce the number of emboli (air bubbles and particles) released into the bloodstream after restarting the heart, following left heart valve operations.
Understand the opportunity
The principles were tested and proved in surgery by Dr Milsom. Adept was then commissioned to develop the principles into a commercially viable and safe product. We took time to understand the sterile environment that the product would be used in and the demanding role of the surgeon.
Create the possibility
We created some early sketches to explore how the end result could be. The shapes of the valve body were derived from blood flow and turbulence considerations, minimal obstruction in surgery, and secure locking and sealing of the parts.
Develop the solution
Creating a reliable seal using a flexible membrane was achieved by incorporating a torpedo with identical peripheral length to the collapsed membrane tube. We designed the body to snap together for ease of assembly and Polycarbonate was used for visual clarity.
Produce the reality
Initial orders have been made by Auckland Hospital for surgical trials that will continue for a period of two years and some 1000 patients. Trials will also be carried out at John Hopkins Hospital- Baltimore, and LDS Hospital – Salt Lake City.