Team 14

Endovascular Cerebrospinal Ventricular Shunt System

Team Members:

Cesar Diaz

Dary Deserne

Jesus Zazueta

Luis Campos

Team Mentors:

Dr. Todd A. Abruzzo - Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Dr. Stephen Helms Tillery - Arizona State University

YouTube Link:
View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link:
https://asu.zoom.us/my/cd0802

Abstract

Hydrocephalus, the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) in the brain, is a life-threatening condition that affects approximately 1 million Americans. Hydrocephalus can affect anyone of any age, but is primarily common in infants and older adults. There are two main types of Hydrocephalus, communicating and non-communicating. The main focus of this project is the treatment of communicating Hydrocephalus. The current treatment for Hydrocephalus involves the implantation of a shunt system to drain excess CSF. State of the art shunt systems are effective, but are prone to infection, blockage, and excessive draining. Currently, the team has completed a House of Quality detailing the needs and metrics the end product will need to entail to cover the needs of the customer. Of the numerous ways to treat Hydrocephalus, the team concluded a minimally-invasive approach is ideal along with the placement of the shunt system in close proximity to the lateral ventricles through an alternative entrance point than common shunts. Moreover, the team is considering an approach to the issue by creating a shunt that may be removed in case of infection, blockage, or mechanical failure. The aim of the endovascular cerebral ventricular shunt system is to treat hydrocephalus by creating a safe drainage path for excess accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain into the transverse sinus, thus improving quality of life. In addition, the team has successfully generated a list of product concepts of which are still being discussed to produce a dominant product concept. The team was able to conclude that the designs are feasible with the resources available. Additionally, the existing technology and techniques available with shunting provide validation for feasibility of the final product.