Visualizing ablation needle
By integrating acoustic and optical imaging devices onto the ablation needle, real-time visualization of the ablation process is achieved, solving the problem of the inability to monitor the ablation process in real time in existing technologies. This improves imaging quality and ease of operation, and reduces patient discomfort.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- THE FIRST AFFILIATED HOSPITAL OF ANHUI MEDICAL UNIV
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-03
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing ablation needles cannot monitor the ablation process in real time, leading to prolonged operation time, increased patient suffering, and insufficient imaging quality.
A visual ablation needle is used, combined with an acoustic imaging device and an optical imaging device. The acoustic imaging device is integrated on the needle sleeve, and the optical imaging device extends out of the needle sleeve through a telescopic mechanism to acquire images, thereby realizing real-time visualization of the ablation process.
It enables real-time visual monitoring of the ablation process, improves imaging quality, reduces operation time, reduces patient pain, and enhances the ease of operation for medical staff and patient satisfaction.
Smart Images
Figure CN224331017U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of medical device technology, specifically to a visual ablation needle. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, cancer has become one of the most serious public health challenges worldwide. According to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the number of new cancer cases globally is projected to reach 29 million by 2025, with approximately 16 million deaths. Lung cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer are the top three most common cancers. As a populous country, China faces a particularly heavy cancer burden: in 2022, there were approximately 4.825 million new cancer cases and 2.574 million deaths, ranking first globally in both incidence and mortality rates. Highly lethal cancers such as lung cancer, liver cancer, and stomach cancer are especially prevalent in China, accounting for 67.5% of all cancer deaths.
[0003] With continuous advancements in cancer treatment technologies, ablation techniques, due to their precision and minimal invasiveness, have become an important supplement to the treatment of early-stage solid tumors—especially suitable for smaller lesions or high-risk patients who cannot tolerate traditional surgery. Ablation techniques can be categorized based on the radiofrequency energy used, including radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, chemical ablation, and cryoablation; they can also be used to treat heart diseases and lumbar disc herniation.
[0004] In existing technologies, ablation needles rely on imaging techniques such as CT / MRI / ultrasound for guidance during ablation treatment. CT / MRI cannot monitor the ablation process in real time, while ultrasound-guided ablation devices use external probes that cannot penetrate deep into body cavities for ultrasound transmission and imaging, resulting in image quality that requires further optimization and low real-time visualization. If the ablation process cannot be observed and controlled in real time, it can easily prolong the procedure, leading to increased patient discomfort and decreased patient satisfaction. Utility Model Content
[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a visual ablation needle, which solves the problem that existing technologies cannot monitor the ablation treatment process in real time.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution:
[0007] This utility model discloses a visual ablation needle, including a needle sleeve, an ablation needle, and an imaging device;
[0008] The imaging device includes an acoustic imaging device, which is integrated on the needle sleeve and close to the ablation end.
[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the acoustic imaging device includes an ultrasonic probe, which is a phased array ultrasonic probe. The phased array transducer of the ultrasonic probe is uniformly surrounded around the axis of the needle sleeve and disposed inside the ablation end of the needle sleeve. The other end of the ultrasonic probe is electrically connected to the acoustic imaging host.
[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the ablation end of the needle sleeve has a frustum structure, which is used to tilt part of the transducer in the ultrasonic probe so that the ultrasonic waves emitted and received are directed in the direction of the ablation needle.
[0011] In a more preferred embodiment, the ablation of the ablation needle and the ultrasound imaging of the ultrasound probe can be performed alternately at certain intervals.
[0012] In one embodiment, the imaging device further includes an optical imaging device for extending the ablation end of the needle sleeve to acquire images.
[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the optical imaging device includes a camera and a telescopic mechanism. One end of the camera extends out of the ablation end of the needle sleeve, and the other end is electrically connected to the optical imaging host. The telescopic mechanism is used to advance or retract the camera.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, one end of the telescopic mechanism is fixedly connected to the fixing mechanism, and the telescopic mechanism is fixedly connected to the extension tube of the camera through the fixing mechanism.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment, a convex lens is provided outside the camera lens.
[0016] In one embodiment, the device further includes a developing element, which is provided on one side of the tip of the ablation needle.
[0017] In a preferred embodiment, a drainage groove is formed on the outer side of the needle sleeve.
[0018] This invention provides a visualized ablation needle. Compared with the prior art, it has the following advantages:
[0019] By using the needle sleeve, ablation needle, and imaging device in combination, including an optical imaging device and an acoustic imaging device, the ablation process can be visualized in real time by the acoustic imaging device set at one end of the needle sleeve when the ablation needle ablates the lesion. When it is necessary to judge the ablation effect, the ablation needle is withdrawn, and the camera of the optical imaging device is pushed into the lesion through the instrument channel inside the needle sleeve for observation, thereby obtaining an optical image of the lesion. This allows medical staff to further judge the ablation effect by combining relevant images, with a high degree of real-time visualization. Attached Figure Description
[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0021] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a visual ablation needle assembly provided by this utility model;
[0022] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the ultrasonic transducer arrangement at one end of the needle sleeve provided by this utility model.
[0023] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the camera's working state provided by this utility model;
[0024] Figure 4 Exploded view of part of the optical imaging device provided by this utility model;
[0025] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the fixing mechanism provided by this utility model;
[0026] Figure 6 This is a detailed schematic diagram of the tip of the ablation needle provided by this utility model;
[0027] In the diagram: 1. Needle sleeve; 2. Ablation needle; 3. Acoustic imaging device; 4. Optical imaging device;
[0028] 31. Ultrasonic probe; 41. Camera; 42. Telescopic mechanism; 43. Fixing mechanism; 44. Buckling mechanism. Detailed Implementation
[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model are described clearly and completely. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.
[0030] This application provides a visual ablation needle, which solves the problem in the prior art that the ablation of lesions cannot be monitored in real time, and realizes real-time visual monitoring of lesions during ablation treatment.
[0031] To better understand the above technical solutions, the following will provide a detailed explanation of the technical solutions in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.
[0032] Example 1:
[0033] See Figure 1 As shown, this application proposes a visualization ablation needle, comprising a needle sleeve 1, an ablation needle 2, and an imaging device; the imaging device includes an acoustic imaging device 3, which is integrated on the needle sleeve 1 and close to the ablation end. It should be noted that during ablation treatment, the needle sleeve 1, along with the ablation needle 1, is inserted into the lesion in the patient's body for ablation. The acoustic imaging device 3 provides real-time imaging of the ablation process, facilitating immediate assessment of the ablation status by medical personnel and improving the quality of acoustic imaging.
[0034] See Figure 2 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the acoustic imaging device 3 includes an ultrasonic probe 31. Preferably, the ultrasonic probe 31 is a phased array ultrasonic probe, the phased array transducer of the ultrasonic probe 31 is uniformly surrounded around the axis of the needle sleeve 1 and disposed inside the ablation end of the needle sleeve 1, and the other end of the ultrasonic probe 31 is electrically connected to the acoustic imaging host. It should be noted that: the ultrasound probe 31 is a phased array ultrasound probe, such as the ultrasound probe used in the ACUSON AcuNav phased array ultrasound catheter, and the ultrasound probe used in the ViewFlex Xtra ICE phased array ultrasound catheter. These probes are commonly used in intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) technology. This type of probe is small in size, with a diameter of 6-10 Fr (flange, a commonly used medical unit, which is approximately 2-3.3 mm after conversion). It can be integrated into the needle sleeve 1, so that the diameter of the needle sleeve 1 entering the patient's body is not too large. The integrated circuit system controls the operation of the ultrasound transducers in the phased array in turn, thereby achieving a similar effect to rotational scanning and realizing real-time monitoring of the ablation status around the lesion. The circuit of the ultrasound probe 31 connecting to the imaging host is set inside the needle sleeve 1, which can further reduce the size of the device entering the patient's body, reduce the damage to the patient when the ablation needle is inserted, and reduce the patient's pain.
[0035] For example Figure 2 As shown, in a more preferred embodiment, the ablation end of the needle sleeve 1 has a frustum structure, which is used to tilt a portion of the transducer in the ultrasound probe 31 so that the emitted and received ultrasound waves are directed towards the direction of the ablation needle 2. It should be noted that: the fact that the ultrasound waves emitted and received by the transducer are directed towards the direction of the ablation needle 2 enables imaging processing of the lesion after ablation by the ablation needle 2, making it easier for doctors to judge the ablation effect.
[0036] In a more preferred embodiment, the ablation operation of the ablation needle 2 and the ultrasound imaging of the ultrasound probe 31 can be performed alternately at certain intervals. It should be noted that alternating operation can prevent the device from overheating and affecting the imaging effect, as well as from harming the patient.
[0037] Example 2:
[0038] This application proposes a visual ablation needle, including the apparatus described in Embodiment 1 and the preferred embodiment above, and further including an optical imaging device 4. The optical imaging device extends from the ablation end of the needle sleeve 1 to acquire images. It should be noted that the apparatus of this embodiment, on the one hand, utilizes the acoustic imaging device 3 to perform real-time imaging of the ablation process in the pathological area; on the other hand, it utilizes the optical imaging device 4 to probe into the pathological area during ablation pauses for observation, facilitating medical personnel to judge the ablation effect by combining acoustic and optical images.
[0039] See Figure 3 As shown, in a more preferred embodiment, the optical imaging device 4 includes a camera 41 and a telescopic mechanism 42. In use, one end of the camera 41 extends out of the ablation end of the needle sleeve 1, and the other end is electrically connected to the optical imaging host. The telescopic mechanism 42 is used to advance or retract the camera 41. It should be noted that: Camera 41 is a miniature camera, such as the OVM6948 camera structure, commonly used in medical endoscopes. Its size is 0.65 mm × 0.65 mm, and its height is only 1.158 mm, which is generally smaller than the inner diameter of the ablation needle 1. This allows it to be inserted into the internal instrument channel of the needle sleeve 1 and transmit optical images to the optical imaging host through the catheter, making it convenient for doctors to observe the ablation process. The telescopic mechanism 42 is a push-to-retract mechanism similar to that in a push-button ballpoint pen. One end is fixedly connected to the camera 41. The camera 41 can be pushed forward or pulled back by pressing a button. By setting the length of the camera 41 and the catheter to be consistent with the internal instrument channel of the needle sleeve 1, the camera 41 can be inserted into the instrument channel without protruding the ablation end. When further imaging assistance is needed through the camera 41, medical staff can insert the telescopic mechanism 42 into the camera 41 to acquire images. It should be noted that by using the telescopic mechanism 42 to extend into the camera 41, the entry of the camera 41 can be controlled more smoothly and gently, thereby avoiding potential damage to the patient and the camera 41 caused by manually inserting the camera 41, and facilitating the operation of medical staff.
[0040] See Figure 4As shown, in a preferred embodiment, one end of the telescopic mechanism 42 is fixed in the connecting and fixing mechanism 43, and the telescopic mechanism 42 is fixedly connected to the extension catheter of the camera 41 through the fixing mechanism 43. It should be noted that: the telescopic mechanism 42 has an instrument channel in the center that allows the camera 41 and the extension catheter to pass through, at which time the telescopic mechanism 42 is slidably connected to the camera 41 and the extension catheter; the fixing mechanism 43 is a device similar to a Robert clamp, which can adjust the position of the telescopic mechanism 42, the fixed camera 41 and the catheter, thereby controlling the length of the camera 41 and the extension catheter inserted into the needle sleeve 1, and thus adapting to combinations of needle sleeves 1 and ablation needles 2 of different lengths.
[0041] See Figure 4-5 As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the end of the needle sleeve 1 furthest from the ablation end is provided with a locking mechanism 44, which is used to connect the telescopic mechanism 32. It should be noted that medical personnel can use the locking mechanism 44 to quickly and conveniently assemble and disassemble the optical imaging device 4, improving work efficiency.
[0042] In a preferred embodiment, a convex lens is provided outside the lens of the camera 41. It should be noted that the convex lens structure can improve the field of view of the camera 41, thereby facilitating the doctor's observation of the ablation area.
[0043] Example 3:
[0044] See Figure 6 As shown, this application proposes a visualization ablation needle, including the device described in Embodiment 1 or 2 and its preferred embodiments, and further including a contrast agent. The contrast agent is provided on one side of the tip of the ablation needle 2. It should be noted that the contrast agent is a cavity structure fixed to one side of the tip of the ablation needle 2. This structure can amplify and reflect the sound waves emitted by the ultrasound imaging device, thereby making the position of the tip of the ablation needle 2 more clearly displayed on the ultrasound imaging host, thus facilitating the ablation work by medical personnel.
[0045] In a preferred embodiment, a drainage groove is formed on the outer side of the needle sleeve 1. It should be noted that the drainage groove can drain some of the vaporized tissue during the ablation process out of the body, thereby improving the quality of ultrasound imaging.
[0046] In summary, compared with existing technologies, it has the following beneficial effects:
[0047] 1. The visualization ablation needle proposed in this application embodiment, through the combined use of a needle sleeve, an ablation needle, and an imaging device (the imaging device includes an optical imaging device and an acoustic imaging device), enables real-time visual imaging of the ablation process during lesion ablation by using an acoustic imaging device located at one end of the needle sleeve. When it is necessary to judge the ablation effect, the ablation needle is withdrawn, and the camera of the optical imaging device is pushed into the lesion through the instrument channel inside the needle sleeve for observation, thereby obtaining an optical image of the lesion. This allows medical staff to further judge the ablation effect by combining relevant images, resulting in a high degree of visualization.
[0048] 2. The visualization ablation needle proposed in this application improves the convenience for medical staff to replace the ablation needle with an optical imaging device during the ablation process by using a telescopic mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism and a fixing mechanism in combination. It also avoids potential harm to patients and improves the satisfaction of both doctors and patients.
[0049] 3. The visualization ablation needle proposed in this application improves the quality of ultrasound imaging through the setting of structures such as imaging elements and drainage channels, thereby facilitating ablation treatment and subsequent treatment judgment by medical staff.
[0050] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
[0051] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this utility model, and are not intended to limit it. Although this utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model.
Claims
1. A visual ablation needle, characterized in that, It includes a needle sleeve (1), an ablation needle (2), and an imaging device; The imaging device includes an acoustic imaging device (3), which is integrated on the needle sleeve (1) and close to the ablation end.
2. The visual ablation needle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The acoustic imaging device (3) includes an ultrasonic probe (31), which is a phased array ultrasonic probe. The phased array transducer of the ultrasonic probe (31) is uniformly surrounded around the axis of the needle sleeve (1) and is located inside the ablation end of the needle sleeve (1). The other end of the ultrasonic probe (31) is electrically connected to the acoustic imaging host.
3. The visual ablation needle according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ablation end of the needle sleeve (1) is a frustum structure, which is used to tilt part of the transducer in the ultrasonic probe (31) so that the ultrasonic waves emitted and received are directed toward the direction of the ablation needle (2).
4. The visual ablation needle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The imaging device also includes an optical imaging device (4) for extending the ablation end of the needle sleeve (1) to acquire images.
5. A visual ablation needle according to claim 4, characterized in that, The optical imaging device (4) includes a camera (41) and a telescopic mechanism (42). One end of the camera (41) extends out of the ablation end of the needle sleeve (1), and the other end is electrically connected to the optical imaging host. The telescopic mechanism (42) is used to advance or retract the camera (41).
6. The visual ablation needle according to claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the telescopic mechanism (42) is fixedly connected to the fixing mechanism (43), and the telescopic mechanism (42) is fixedly connected to the extension tube of the camera (41) through the fixing mechanism (43).
7. A visual ablation needle according to claim 5, characterized in that, The needle sleeve (1) has a locking mechanism (44) at the end away from the ablation end, which is used to connect the telescopic mechanism (42).
8. A visual ablation needle according to claim 5, characterized in that, The camera (41) has a convex lens on its outer surface.
9. A visual ablation needle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ablation needle (2) has a developing element on one side of its tip.
10. A visual ablation needle according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, A drainage groove is provided on the outside of the needle sleeve (1).