Devices, systems, and methods for reducing signal noise in endoscopic rotational imaging

Abstract

The present disclosure includes devices, systems, and methods for reducing signal noise in endoscopic rotational imaging. Many embodiments include an elongate member including an impedance matching network disposed between a proximal imaging core and a distal imaging core. In many such embodiments, the elongate member may connect to a controller at a proximal end and include a rotational transducer at a distal end. In various embodiments, the proximal and distal imaging cores may include multiple insulated conductors disposed within a shield (e.g., shielded twisted pair (STP)). In various such embodiments, the insulated conductors may be utilized to communicate differential signals between the controller and the rotational imaging transducer. In some embodiments, the insulated conductors in the proximal imaging core may have a larger diameter than the insulated conductors in the distal imaging core.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of endoscopic rotational imaging, and more particularly to devices, systems, and methods for reducing signal noise in endoscopic rotational imaging. [Background technology]

[0002] Various medical devices are placed within body lumens for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. For example, endoscopy is a procedure that uses an endoscope to view the interior of the body. Endoscopy procedures typically utilize an elongated member (e.g., an endoscope) to access, inspect, or interact with the interior of hollow organs or cavities of the body for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Endoscopes typically have direct visualization capabilities and / or may be equipped with ultrasound capabilities. Such endoscopes have an exterior diameter that allows them to be inserted into larger body lumens (e.g., the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or trachea). For example, a bronchoscope, one type of endoscope, can be used to visualize the inside of airways for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, down to the airways with a diameter that can accommodate the bronchoscope's diameter. The bronchoscope is inserted into the airways through the mouth, nose, or tracheotomy. This allows physicians to examine a patient's airways for abnormalities such as foreign bodies, bleeding, tumors, or inflammation. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed from the inside of the lungs. In certain higher generation airways, the diameter of the airway is too narrow to accommodate conventional endoscopes, presenting a challenge for improved devices with the means to precisely navigate, locate, and biopsy tissue within these smaller airways or other lumens of smallest diameter. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to necessarily identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a medical device including a hub, a proximal imaging core, a distal imaging core, and an impedance matching network. The hub may include a connector and a rotary transformer having first and second ends, the first end may be coupled to the connector, and the connector may be configured to couple to a controller. The proximal imaging core may have first and second ends, the first end of the proximal imaging core may be coupled to the second end of the rotary transformer. The distal imaging core may have first and second ends, the second end of the distal imaging core may be coupled to a rotary imaging transducer. The impedance matching network may be coupled between the second end of the proximal imaging core and the first end of the distal imaging core.

[0005] In some embodiments, the rotating imaging transducer comprises a rotating ultrasound transducer. In various embodiments, the proximal imaging core may comprise a proximal drive cable and a first shielded twisted pair (STP) of a first diameter, and the distal imaging core may comprise a distal drive cable and a second STP of a second diameter. In various such embodiments, the first STP is disposed within the proximal drive cable, and the second STP is disposed within the distal drive cable. In some such embodiments, the proximal imaging core is disposed within the proximal catheter section, and the distal imaging core is disposed within the distal catheter section. In further such embodiments, the proximal catheter section is coupled to the distal catheter section via a telescoping joint. In many such embodiments, the first diameter corresponds to 42-50 American wire gauge (AWG), and the second diameter corresponds to 46-52 AWG. In some embodiments, the proximal imaging core, the distal imaging core, and the impedance matching network are disposed within the retractable sheath. In some embodiments, the impedance matching network comprises an inductor and a capacitor. In various such embodiments, the inductor and the capacitor are electrically connected in parallel. In some such embodiments, the inductor is 170 to 210 nanohenries and the capacitor is 40 to 60 picofarads. In many embodiments, the impedance matching network has a characteristic impedance of 55 to 75 ohms. In various embodiments, the distal imaging core includes a plurality of signal conductors. In various such embodiments, the impedance matching network includes an inductor-capacitor matching circuit for each of the plurality of signal conductors.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a system that may include a hub, a controller, a proximal imaging core, a distal imaging core, and an impedance matching network. The hub may include a connector and a rotary transformer having first and second ends, the first end may be coupled to the connector, and the connector may be configured to couple to the controller. The proximal imaging core may have first and second ends, and the first end of the proximal imaging core may be coupled to the second end of the rotary transformer. The distal imaging core may have first and second ends, and the second end of the distal imaging core may be coupled to a rotary imaging transducer. The impedance matching network may be coupled between the second end of the proximal imaging core and the first end of the distal imaging core.

[0007] In some embodiments, the impedance matching network comprises a 170-210 nanohenry inductor and a 40-60 picofarad capacitor. In various embodiments, the impedance matching network has a characteristic impedance of 55-75 ohms. In some embodiments, the distal imaging core includes a plurality of signal conductors. In some such embodiments, the impedance matching network includes an inductor-capacitor matching circuit for each of the plurality of signal conductors.

[0008] In yet another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method that may include inserting a distal imaging core into a body lumen. The distal imaging core may have first and second ends, the second end of the distal imaging core may be coupled to a rotating imaging transducer, the first end of the distal imaging core may be coupled to an impedance matching network, and the impedance matching network may be coupled to the proximal imaging core. The method may further include generating a radial image using the rotating imaging transducer.

[0009] In some embodiments, the impedance matching network comprises a 170-210 nanohenry inductor and a 40-60 picofarad capacitor. In many embodiments, the impedance matching network has a characteristic impedance of 55-75 ohms. In various embodiments, the distal imaging core includes a plurality of signal conductors. In various such embodiments, the impedance matching network includes an inductor-capacitor matching circuit for each of the plurality of signal conductors. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic and not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each of the identical or nearly identical components shown is typically represented by a single numeral. It will be understood that the various figures included in this disclosure may omit some components, show portions of some components, and / or present some components as transparent to facilitate illustration and description of components that may otherwise appear hidden. For purposes of clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure, and not every component of each embodiment is shown unless illustration is necessary to enable those skilled in the art to understand the disclosure. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary medical imaging device according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary medical imaging device in combination with an exemplary medical device according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary hub according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary imaging core according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 2C]1A-1C illustrate an exemplary distal end of an elongate member according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary retractable sheath according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary medical imaging device according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary circuit according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary wiring circuit diagram according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 7A] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an exemplary impedance matching network according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 7B] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an exemplary impedance matching network according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 8A] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an imaging signal according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 8B] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an imaging signal according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 8C] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an imaging signal according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 8D] 1A-1C illustrate various aspects of an imaging signal according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present disclosure relates generally to devices, systems, and methods for endoscopic rotational imaging, such as rotational ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM). Some embodiments relate specifically to reducing signal noise in endoscopic rotational imaging. Many embodiments include an elongate member including an impedance matching network disposed between a proximal imaging core and a distal imaging core. In many such embodiments, the elongate member may connect to a controller at a proximal end and include a rotational transducer at a distal end. In various embodiments, the proximal and distal imaging cores may include multiple insulated conductors disposed within a shield (e.g., a shielded twisted pair (STP)). In various such embodiments, the insulated conductors may be utilized to communicate differential signals between the controller and the rotational imaging transducer. In some embodiments, the insulated conductors in the proximal imaging core may have a larger diameter than the insulated conductors in the distal imaging core. In some such embodiments, the impedance matching network may match impedance between the proximal and distal imaging cores. These and other embodiments are described and claimed.

[0012] Endoscopic rotational imaging faces challenges such as excessive noise (e.g., electromagnetic (EM) interference). Excessive noise can degrade or prevent the ability to produce clear images. For example, rotational UBM devices are susceptible to coupled noise in the 20-60 megahertz (MHz) spectrum. This coupled noise may be due, at least in part, to the length of the imaging core and strong shield coupling to the signal. In some embodiments, a single-ended coaxial cable may be used within the imaging core. However, due to size constraints and the like, the outer conductor of the coaxial cable may be utilized to function as both a signal carrier and a shield, making it highly susceptible to signal noise from hospital bed electronics and other ambient sources. Adding further complexity, utilizing STP can be difficult, at least in part, due to space constraints and the trade-off between increased cable characteristic impedance and smaller diameter signal conductors. Such limitations reduce the usefulness and applicability of endoscopic rotational imaging devices, contributing to inefficient devices with suboptimal capabilities. Taking these considerations into account, the devices, systems, and methods of the present disclosure may achieve a variety of advantageous medical outcomes.

[0013] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings illustrating exemplary embodiments. The present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described, as such embodiments may vary. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. Finally, while embodiments of the present disclosure may be described with specific reference to medical devices and systems and procedures for treating the gastrointestinal system, it should be understood that such medical devices and methods may be used to treat tissues in the abdominal cavity, digestive system, urinary tract, reproductive tract, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, circulatory system, and the like. Structures and configurations, as well as methods of deployment, to stabilize, maintain, and / or assist fluid flow paths may find utility beyond the treatments discussed herein.

[0014] As used herein, "proximal end" refers to the end of the device closest to the user (such as a medical professional or clinician or technician or operator or physician, such terms are used interchangeably herein without limitation, and include automated controller systems, etc.) when introducing the device into a patient, and "distal end" refers to the end of the device or object furthest from the user along the device during implantation, placement, or delivery.

[0015] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0016] As used herein, the conjunction "and" includes each of the structures, components, features, etc. so connected, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, and the conjunction "or" includes one or the other of the structures, components, features, etc. so connected, alone and in any combination and number, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0017] All numerical values ​​herein are assumed to be modified by the term "about," whether explicitly stated or not. The term "about" in the context of numerical values ​​generally refers to a range of numbers that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider equivalent to the stated value (e.g., having the same function or result). In many cases, the term "about" can include numbers rounded to the nearest significant figure. Other uses of the term "about" (e.g., in contexts other than numerical values) can be assumed to have their ordinary and customary definition as understood from and consistent with the context of this specification, unless otherwise specified. The recitation of numerical ranges or values ​​by endpoints includes all numbers within that range, including the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5), and fractions thereof.

[0018] It should be noted that references herein to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "other embodiments," etc., indicate that the described embodiment may include one or more particular features, structures, and / or characteristics. However, such a description does not necessarily mean that all embodiments include the particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic. In addition, if a particular feature, structure, and / or characteristic is described in connection with one embodiment, it should be understood that such feature, structure, and / or characteristic may also be used in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, unless expressly stated to the contrary.

[0019] It should be understood that the disclosure contained herein is exemplary and explanatory only, and not limiting. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements does not include only those elements, but may also include other elements not expressly listed or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. The term “exemplary” is used to mean “example” rather than “ideal.” While endoscopes and endoscopic systems are referred to herein, reference to endoscopes, endoscopic systems, or endoscopy should not be construed as limiting the possible applications of the disclosed embodiments. For example, the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with duodenoscopes, bronchoscopes, ureteroscopes, colonoscopes, catheters, diagnostic or therapeutic tools or devices, or other types of medical devices or systems.

[0020] Reference is now made to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It will be apparent, however, that the novel embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate description. The intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope of the claims.

[0021] 1A illustrates a medical imaging device 100 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The medical imaging device 100 includes an elongate member 102 and a controller 114. The elongate member 102 may include a proximal end 116 and a distal end 118. Transitioning from the proximal end 116 to the distal end 118, the elongate member 102 includes a hub 104, a proximal imaging core 106, an impedance matching network 108, a distal imaging core 110, and a rotary transducer 112. In various embodiments, the distal end 118 of the elongate member 102 may be inserted into a patient, and the rotary transducer 112 may be operated by the controller 114 to generate radial images within the patient. For example, the rotary transducer 112 may be utilized to generate radial ultrasound images within the peripheral airways of the lungs. In various embodiments, the outer diameter of the elongate member 102 may be less than 1.5 mm, such as 0.8 mm or 1.2 mm, to enable access to peripheral body lumens. For example, the outer diameter of the elongate member 102 may be 1.1 mm to enable access to peripheral airways. In some embodiments, FIG. 1A may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of FIG. 1A may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, an embodiment of the medical imaging device 100 may exclude the controller 114 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 1A without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0022] FIG. 1B illustrates a medical imaging device 100 in combination with a medical device 124 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The medical device 124 has a proximal end 120 and a distal end 122 and includes the medical imaging device 100, a medical tool 130, a handle 126, and a dual-lumen catheter 128. The depicted portion of the medical imaging device 100 includes a portion of the elongate member 102 and the hub 104. In some embodiments, FIG. 1B may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of FIG. 1B may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, an embodiment of the medical imaging device 100 may exclude the controller 114 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 1B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiment is not limited to this content.

[0023] The various medical imaging devices or components thereof described herein may be used in combination with a medical device 124 comprising a dual-lumen catheter 128. For example, the elongate member 102 may be disposed within a first lumen, and a medical tool 130 (e.g., a biopsy needle) may be disposed within a second lumen. In such an example, images captured by the rotational transducer 112 may be utilized to guide sample acquisition by the biopsy needle. In some embodiments, application of therapy by an ablation probe may be guided using images captured by the rotational transducer 112. In various embodiments, the outer diameter of the dual-lumen catheter may be less than 2 mm, such as 1.5 mm or 1.9 mm.

[0024] 1B , the impedance matching network 108 may be disposed within the handle 126. Thus, the proximal imaging core 106 may comprise a portion of the elongate member 102 proximal to the handle 126, and the distal imaging core 110 may comprise a portion of the elongate member 102 distal to the handle 126. Additionally, the distal imaging core 110 may be disposed within a dual-lumen catheter 128. In other embodiments, the medical imaging device 100 may be used as a standalone device or in combination with additional or alternative devices other than the medical device 100. For example, the medical imaging device 100 may be inserted through one or more working channels of an endoscope, bronchoscope, duodenoscope, gastroscope, colonoscope, ureteroscope, etc. In some such examples, the dual-lumen catheter 128 of the medical device 124 having the medical imaging device 100 disposed therein may be inserted through the working channel.

[0025] In many embodiments, the dual-lumen catheter 128 can be sized to access small or peripheral body lumens (e.g., small airways of the lungs). In many such embodiments, the elongate members disclosed herein can enable real-time radial ultrasound imaging to be utilized within peripheral body lumens (e.g., less than 2 mm) in combination with diagnostic and / or therapeutic tools. Accordingly, one or more embodiments described herein can be utilized to improve the quality of images acquired within peripheral body lumens by reducing, eliminating, or blocking signal noise. Additional exemplary medical devices comprising dual-lumen catheters that can be utilized herein are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 875,395, entitled "Medical Imaging Devices, Systems, and Methods," filed May 15, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0026] FIG. 2A illustrates a hub 204 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The hub 204 may include a connector 206 and a rotary transformer 202. In various embodiments, the connector 206 may be utilized to communicatively and conductively couple to a controller (e.g., controller 114). In many embodiments, the rotary transformer 202 may enable a communicative and conductive coupling between a rotary transducer (e.g., rotary transducer 112) and a controller (e.g., controller 114) while the transducer is rotating. In some embodiments, FIG. 2A may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, the hub 204 may be identical to or similar to the hub 104. Additionally, one or more components of FIG. 2A, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the connector 206 may be external to the hub 204 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, one or more components or aspects of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of Figure 2A without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0027] 2B illustrates an imaging core 212 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The imaging core 212 may include a drive cable 210 and a shielded twisted pair (STP) 216. The STP 216 may include a shield 208, an insulated conductor 218, and an insulated conductor 220. Generally, the imaging core 212 may be used to transmit torque and electrical signals from a proximal end to a distal end. More specifically, the drive cable 210 may transmit torque, and the STP 216 may transmit electrical signals. In various embodiments, the imaging core 212 may represent a proximal imaging core or a distal imaging core. In various such embodiments, the insulated conductors 218, 220 in the proximal imaging core may have a larger diameter than the insulated conductors 218, 220 in the distal imaging core. For example, the proximal imaging core may include an STP with a diameter of 34-54 American Wire Gauge (AWG) (0.16 mm-0.0157 mm), and the distal imaging core may include an STP with a diameter of 40-60 AWG (0.081 mm-0.00785 mm). In another example, the proximal imaging core may include an STP with a diameter of 42-50 American Wire Gauge (AWG) (0.06325 mm-0.025 mm), and the distal imaging core may include an STP with a diameter of 46-52 AWG (0.041 mm-0.0198 mm). In some such examples, the proximal imaging core may provide a 50 ohm impedance to the rotary transformer, and the distal imaging core may provide a 75-120 ohm impedance to the rotary transformer. In one embodiment, for example, the proximal imaging core may include a 50 AWG (0.025 mm diameter) STP, and the distal imaging core may include a 48 AWG (0.0315 mm diameter) STP. In various embodiments, FIG. 2B may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, imaging core 212 may be identical to or similar to proximal imaging core 106 and / or distal imaging core 110. Additionally, one or more components of FIG. 2B, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.For example, STP 216 may be incorporated into proximal imaging core 106 and / or distal imaging core 110 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 2B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0028] FIG. 2C illustrates a distal end 224 of an elongate member 222 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The distal end 224 of the elongate member 222 includes a drive cable 210, a rotational transducer 214, and an STP 216 having a shield 208, an insulated conductor 218, and an insulated conductor 220. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the insulated conductors 218, 220 may be coupled to the rotational transducer 214. In some embodiments, the insulated conductors 218, 220 may be utilized to carry differential signals between the rotational transducer 214 and a controller (e.g., controller 114). In some embodiments, FIG. 2C may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, the rotational transducer 214 may be identical to or similar to the rotational transducer 112. Additionally, one or more components of FIG. 2C, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, one or more components or aspects thereof of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 2C without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, impedance matching network 108 may be incorporated into elongate member 222 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a telescoping sheath 304 in combination with a telescoping sheath elongate member 302. The telescoping sheath 304 (or telescoping catheter) may include a distal sheath section 306, a telescoping joint 308, and a proximal sheath section 310. In various embodiments, the telescoping joint 308 may be integral with the distal sheath section 306 and / or the proximal sheath section 310. In some embodiments, the telescoping sheath 304 may allow for selective exposure of one or more portions of the elongate member 302. For example, the telescoping joint 308 may allow the distal end of the elongate member 302 to extend from the telescoping sheath 304 and into a body lumen. As described in more detail below, in various embodiments, one or more portions of the elongate member (e.g., the elongate member 302) may be disposed within the telescoping sheath 304. In some embodiments, FIG. 3 may include one or more components that are the same as or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, elongate member 302 can be the same as or similar to elongate member 102. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of FIG. 3 may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, retractable sheath 304 may be incorporated into medical imaging device 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 3 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, sheaths and catheters may be used interchangeably. The embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0030] 4 illustrates a medical imaging device 400 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. The medical imaging device 400 includes an elongate member 402 having a proximal end 432 and a distal end 434 and disposed within a telescoping sheath 430. In the illustrated embodiment, the elongate member 402 includes a rotational transducer 412, a distal imaging core 410, an impedance matching network 408, a proximal imaging core 406, and a hub 404. The hub 404 includes a connector 414, an identification code board 416, a bearing / seal 418, and a rotational transformer 422. The telescoping sheath 430 includes a distal sheath section 426, an extension joint 428, and a proximal sheath section 424 with a flush port 420. In various embodiments, the telescoping sheath 430 may be integrally formed with the elongate member 402. In some embodiments, FIG. 4 may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, medical imaging device 400 may be identical to or similar to medical imaging device 100. Furthermore, one or more components of FIG. 4, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, retractable sheath 430 may be incorporated into medical imaging device 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components of other embodiments of the present disclosure, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 4 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, controller 114 may be incorporated into medical imaging device 400 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0031] In various embodiments, the bearing / seal 418 may allow rotation of the elongate member 402 while preventing fluid from flowing back into the rotary transformer 422 or the connector 414. For example, fluid for improving ultrasonic coupling between the rotary transducer 412 and the body lumen may be introduced through the flush port 420. In such an example, the bearing / seal 418 may prevent fluid from migrating proximally beyond the bearing / seal 418. In one or more embodiments, the identification code board 416 may include a unique identifier including one or more characteristics of the medical imaging device 400 or its components, such as the type of rotary transducer, the type of impedance matching network 408, the conductor diameter, the characteristic impedance, etc. In one or more such embodiments, 416 may include computer-readable memory. In some embodiments, a controller (e.g., controller 114) may connect to the identification code board 416 in addition to the connector 414. In some such embodiments, the controller may read the contents of the identification code board 416.

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates a circuit 502 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. In various embodiments, the circuit 502 may be included within one or more medical devices and / or elongate members described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit 502 has a proximal end 518, a distal end 520, and includes a rotary transformer 504, an insulated conductor 510, an insulated conductor 512, a shield 514, a transmission driver 516, a low-noise amplifier 506, and a protection circuit 508. In various embodiments, the insulated conductors 510, 512 and the shield 514 may comprise or be connected to an STP (e.g., STP 216). In many embodiments, the insulated conductors 510, 512 may carry a differential signal to a rotary transducer (e.g., rotary transducer 112). In some embodiments, the transmission driver 516 may generate a signal for the insulated conductors 510, 512 based on a high-voltage input and a logic input. In one or more embodiments, protection circuitry 508 may monitor signals in circuitry 502 and implement one or more protective actions (e.g., shutting off power and / or directing signals to ground) in response to detecting a potentially dangerous signal. In one or more such embodiments, low-noise amplifier 506 may operate in conjunction with protection circuitry 508 to generate a signal in response to protection circuitry 508 detecting a potentially dangerous signal. For example, protection circuitry 508 may detect a short between insulated conductors 510, 512 and, in response, prevent further damage to components (e.g., rotary transformer 504, transmission driver 516, controller 114).

[0033] In some embodiments, FIG. 5 may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, rotary transformer 504 may be identical to or similar to rotary transformer 202. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of FIG. 5 may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, circuit 502 may be incorporated into elongate member 102 and / or controller 114 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of FIG. 5 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, rotary transducer 412, distal imaging core 410, impedance matching network 408, and proximal imaging core 406 may be incorporated into circuit 502 (e.g., by connecting proximal imaging core 406 to distal end 520) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0034] FIG. 6 shows a wiring schematic 602 in combination with one or more electromagnetic noise source(s) 620 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. In various embodiments, wiring schematic 602 may be included within one or more medical devices, elongate members, and / or controllers described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, wiring schematic 602 includes impedance matching network 604, rotational transducer 606, insulated conductors 608a, 608b, connector 610, insulated conductors 612a, 612b, capacitor 614, capacitor 616, and shield 618. In some embodiments, FIG. 6 may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, connector 610 may be identical to or similar to connector 414. Additionally, one or more components of FIG. 6, or aspects thereof, may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, electromagnetic noise source(s) 620 may be omitted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of Figure 6 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, circuit 502 may be incorporated into wiring schematic 602 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Embodiments are not limited in this respect.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, connector 610 includes eight pins. Pin 1 is connected to shield 618. Pins 2 and 3 are connected to insulated conductor 612a via capacitor 616. In some embodiments, capacitor 616 may include a 200 picofarad (pF) capacitor. In various embodiments, capacitor 616 is rated for 500 volts. Pins 4 and 5 are connected to insulated conductor 608a via capacitor 614. In some embodiments, capacitor 614 may include a 200 pF capacitor. In various embodiments, capacitor 614 is rated for 500 volts. Additionally, pin 2 may conduct transmit and receive signals for the positive leg of the differential signal, and pin 4 may conduct transmit and receive signals for the negative leg of the differential signal. Pins 6 and 7 are connected to insulated conductor 612a. Pins 8 and 9 are connected to insulated conductor 608a. Additionally, the seventh pin may conduct a positive bias signal and the eighth pin may conduct a negative bias signal. In some embodiments, the insulated conductors 612a, 612b may carry the positive leg of a differential signal and the insulated conductors 608a, 608b may carry the negative leg of the differential signal.

[0036] The shield 618 may function to block interference coming from one or more electromagnetic noise source(s) 620. In many embodiments, the shield 618 is connected to a reference voltage (e.g., ground). The electromagnetic noise source(s) 620 may include any source of electromagnetic interference. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic noise source(s) 620 includes one or more of hospital bed electronics, wireless communication signals, monitoring devices, pump electronics, infusion devices, imaging devices, etc.

[0037] 7A and 7B illustrate various aspects of an impedance matching network 700 and an inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. In one or more embodiments, a proximal portion of a signal conductor may be coupled to a first end of an inductor, and a distal portion of the signal conductor may be coupled to a second end of the inductor. In many embodiments, the inductor and capacitor are electrically connected in parallel. In some embodiments, FIGS. 7A and / or 7B may include one or more components that are identical to or similar to one or more other components of the present disclosure. For example, the impedance matching network 700 may be identical to or similar to the impedance matching network 108. Furthermore, one or more components, or aspects thereof, of FIGS. 7A and / or 7B may be incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure or excluded from the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 may be incorporated into the impedance matching network 408 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, one or more components or aspects of other embodiments of the present disclosure may be incorporated into one or more components of Figures 7A and / or 7B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] In electronics, impedance matching is the process of adjusting the input impedance (Z) of an electrical load to maximize power transfer or minimize signal reflections from the load. in ) to the conductor's characteristic impedance (Z). This may be achieved by using impedance matching network 700 to match the input impedance to the conductor's characteristic impedance (Z). In various embodiments described herein, impedance matching network 700 may be utilized to transition from the characteristic impedance of the proximal imaging core to the characteristic impedance of the distal imaging core. For example, the STP of the proximal imaging core may have a characteristic impedance of 50 ohms, and the STP of the distal imaging core may have a characteristic impedance of 75 ohms (the impedance of the distal imaging core is RL (represented by). In many embodiments, the higher impedance of the distal imaging core may be due to the smaller diameter of the distal STP relative to the STP of the proximal imaging core. Therefore, impedance matching network 700 may be disposed between the proximal and distal imaging cores. More specifically, impedance matching network 700 may be disposed between the insulated conductors of the proximal and distal imaging cores.

[0039] In various embodiments, the impedance matching network 700 may provide an intermediate impedance that allows for a better transition from the proximal imaging core to the distal imaging core. In some embodiments, a separate impedance matching network may be utilized for each signal conductor within the STP. The intermediate impedance may be determined by multiplying the characteristic impedance of the proximal imaging core by the characteristic impedance of the distal imaging core and then taking the square root. Thus, continuing with the previous example, multiplying 50 ohms for the proximal imaging core by 75 ohms for the distal imaging core and taking the square root results in an intermediate impedance of approximately 62 ohms. Thus, the impedance matching network 700 may be designed with a characteristic impedance of 62 ohms. In many embodiments, the impedance matching network 700 may be designed with a characteristic impedance between 40 and 100 ohms, or any subset range thereof (e.g., 50 and 70 ohms).

[0040] In various embodiments, the fundamental frequency of the rotary transducer may be in the 30 MHz range (e.g., for an ultrasound imaging transducer). In some embodiments, a balun designed with a ¼ matched impedance trace may be utilized. However, in other embodiments, a balun designed with a ¼ matched impedance trace may be impractical due to size constraints. In such other embodiments, an inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 may be utilized on each leg of the STP (e.g., insulated conductor 218 and insulated conductor 220). Additionally, the shield may be common to ground. In some embodiments, a pi-network or tee-network may be utilized. However, in many embodiments, the inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 may be preferred because it requires only two components, as opposed to the three components required by a pi-network or tee-network. At a characteristic impedance of 30 MHz, the inductor (L) in the inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 may be 190 nanohenries (nH), and the capacitor (C) may be 50 pF. In some embodiments, the inductor in inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 may be 150-230 nH (or any range therebetween), and / or the capacitor in 702 may be 25-75 pF (or any range therebetween). In some embodiments, each signal conductor may include a separate impedance matching network. Thus, embodiments may include an inductor-capacitor matching circuit 702 for each signal conductor in the proximal and distal imaging cores. In other words, the inductor-capacitor matching circuit may connect the proximal portion of each signal conductor in the imaging core to the distal portion. For example, embodiments may include an impedance matching network comprising a first inductor and a first capacitor for a first signal conductor and a second inductor and a second capacitor for a second signal conductor. In some such examples, the first signal conductor may correspond to a positive leg of a differential signal, and the second signal conductor may correspond to a negative leg of the differential signal.

[0041] 8A-8D illustrate various aspects of an imaging signal according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein. FIG. 8A illustrates a signal having a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and FIG. 8C illustrates a signal having a high SNR. Additionally, FIG. 8B illustrates a radial image generated from a signal having a low SNR, and FIG. 8D illustrates a radial image generated from a signal having a high SNR. The embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0042] The foregoing description has broad applicability and is presented for purposes of illustration and explanation, and is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. It will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, and with other elements, materials, and components without departing from the concept, spirit, or scope or characteristics thereof. For example, various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of a particular aspect, embodiment, or configuration of the present disclosure may be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. While the present disclosure is presented in terms of embodiments, it should be understood that various individual features of the present subject matter need not all be present to achieve at least some of the desired properties and / or advantages of the present subject matter or such individual features. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure can be used with many modifications, or modifications of the structure, arrangement, proportions, materials, components, and the like used in implementing the disclosure, that are particularly adapted to particular environments and operating requirements, without departing from the principles or spirit or scope of the disclosure. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be comprised of multiple pieces, or elements shown as multiple pieces may be integrally formed, operations of elements may be reversed or changed, and sizes or dimensions of elements may be changed. Similarly, although operations or actions or steps are described in a particular order, this should not be construed as requiring such a specific order to achieve desirable results, or that all operations or actions or steps should be performed. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the operations recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results.The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the claimed subject matter is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description or to the specific embodiments or configurations described or illustrated herein. In view of the above, individual features of any embodiment may be used and claimed separately or in combination with features of that embodiment or any other embodiment, and the scope of the subject matter is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

[0043] In the foregoing description and in the claims that follow, it will be understood that: As used herein, the terms "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. Terms such as "a," "an," "the," "first," and "second" do not exclude a plurality. For example, the term "a" or "an" entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, rear, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of this disclosure and / or serve to distinguish regions of related elements from one another and do not limit the related elements, particularly with respect to the location, orientation, or use of this disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between and relative movement between a collection of elements unless otherwise indicated. Thus, connection references do not necessarily suggest that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to one another. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another.

[0044] The following claims are incorporated by reference into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure. In the claims, the term "comprises / comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. In addition, although individual features may be included in different claims, they may be advantageously combined, and their inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and / or advantageous. In addition, a reference to the singular does not exclude a plurality. Reference signs in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.

[0045] All of the devices and / or methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the devices and methods of the present disclosure have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications can be made to the devices and / or methods, and to the steps or sequence of steps of the methods, disclosed herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A medical imaging device comprising: a hub comprising a connector and a rotary transformer having first and second ends, the first end coupled to the connector, the connector configured to couple to a controller; a proximal imaging core comprising a proximal drive cable and a first shielded twisted pair (hereinafter STP) of a first diameter, the proximal imaging core having first and second ends, the first end of the proximal imaging core coupled to the second end of the rotary transformer; a distal imaging core comprising a distal drive cable and a second STP of a second diameter, the distal imaging core having first and second ends, the second end of the distal imaging core coupled to a rotating imaging transducer; an impedance matching network coupled between the second end of the proximal imaging core and the first end of the distal imaging core; the proximal imaging core is disposed within the proximal catheter section and the distal imaging core is disposed within the distal catheter section; A medical imaging device, wherein the proximal catheter section is coupled to the distal catheter section via an expansion joint.

2. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the rotating imaging transducer comprises a rotating ultrasound transducer.

3. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the first STP is disposed within the proximal drive cable and the second STP is disposed within the distal drive cable.

4. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the proximal catheter section is coupled to the distal catheter section via an expansion joint.

5. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the first diameter corresponds to a 42-50 US wire gauge.

6. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the second diameter corresponds to a 46-53 US wire gauge.

7. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the proximal imaging core, the distal imaging core, and the impedance matching network are disposed within a retractable sheath.

8. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the impedance matching network comprises an inductor and a capacitor.

9. The medical imaging device of claim 8, wherein the inductor is between 170 and 210 nanohenries.

10. 9. The medical imaging device of claim 8, wherein the capacitor is between 40 and 60 picofarads.

11. The medical imaging device of any preceding claim, wherein the impedance matching network has a characteristic impedance of 55 to 75 ohms.

12. The medical imaging device of claim 8 , wherein the inductor and the capacitor are electrically connected in parallel.

13. The medical imaging device of claim 1 , wherein the distal imaging core includes a plurality of signal conductors, and the impedance matching network includes an inductor-capacitor matching circuit for each of the plurality of signal conductors.

Images