Device for the combined delivery of high-gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency for contact

Abstract

The invention concerns a medical device that combines the simultaneous use of high- gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency fields for the treatment of patients. The device presents an innovative conductive electrode equipped with specific notches designed to reduce the formation of Eddy currents, which can cause unwanted heating and energy loss. Thanks to these notches, the device allows for more efficient transmission of the magnetic field without compromising radiofrequency intensity, improving both safety and therapeutic efficacy. This innovative design also increases the reliability and longevity of the device, reducing patient risks and maintenance costs.

Description

[0001] Invention Title

[0002] Device for the combined delivery of high-gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency for contact.

[0003] Field of Application of the Invention:

[0004] The invention applies to the field of medical equipment, in particular to devices that combine the simultaneous use of high-gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency fields for the treatment of patients, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of both forms of energy.

[0005] Preliminary Description:

[0006] In medical equipment, the simultaneous use of high-gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency fields is often required. Magnetic fields are used to stimulate deep tissues or induce specific therapeutic effects, while radiofrequency is used to heat tissues for therapeutic purposes. However, the use of traditional conductive electrodes, such as aluminium ones, presents significant problems due to Lenz's law.

[0007] Technical Problem Solved by the Invention:

[0008] According to Lenz's law, a variable magnetic field generates induced currents in conductive materials, such as metal electrodes. These induced currents, known as Eddy currents, create a magnetic field opposite to the applied one, thus reducing the intensity of the magnetic field actually transmitted and causing energy loss. Furthermore, these induced currents lead to heating of the electrode, an undesirable effect that can compromise patient safety and treatment effectiveness.

[0009] Invention Description:

[0010] The invention presents an innovative conductive electrode equipped with specific notches designed to limit the formation of Eddy currents. These notches interrupt the path of the induced currents, reducing the heating of the electrode and allowing for more efficient transmission of the magnetic field. This design allows for high magnetic field intensity to be maintained while reducing the need to lower the radiofrequency intensity, which can also contribute to heating.

[0011] Illustrative Drawing:

[0012] The attached drawing (FIG 1 ) shows a schematic representation of the device. The pulse generator (1 ) supplies pulses to the magnetic coil (2) to create high-gradient magnetic fields, while the radiofrequency generator (5) powers a conductive electrode (3) designed with notches (4) to limit Eddy currents.

[0013] Components Description:

[0014] • Pulse Generator (1): Emits pulses to activate the magnetic coil (2), generating high-gradient magnetic fields.

[0015] • Coil (2): Responsible for creating high-gradient magnetic fields for patient treatment.

[0016] • Conductive Electrode (3): Component made of conductive material, used to transfer radiofrequency fields by contact with the patient.

[0017] • Notches (4): Interruptions designed on the electrode (3) to reduce the effect of Eddy currents and limit the heating of the electrode.

[0018] • Radiofrequency Generator (5): Supplies radiofrequency energy to the conductive electrode (3).

[0019] Problems Associated with Electrode Heating:

[0020] When an electrode overheats due to Eddy currents and radiofrequency application, several problems can occur.:

[0021] • Risk to the patient: Direct contact with overheated electrodes can cause burns or damage to the patient's skin.

[0022] • Reduced therapeutic effectiveness: An overheated electrode can compromise treatment, as it may require a reduction in the intensity of the radiofrequency field to prevent overheating, thereby reducing the desired therapeutic effectiveness.

[0023] • Device reliability: Overheating can damage device components, reducing operational life and increasing maintenance costs.

[0024] • Description of the Advantages of the Invention:

[0025] The invention allows the combined and efficient use of magnetic and electric fields for the simultaneous treatment of the patient, reducing interference between the fields and limiting energy losses and electrode heating. This improves the safety and effectiveness of medical equipment, enabling safe and comfortable treatment for the patient and reducing the risk of tissue damage. The slotted design also allows for greater reliability and longevity of the device.

Claims

Claims:• Independent Claim 1 : A device for the simultaneous delivery of high-gradient magnetic fields and radiofrequency by contact, comprising: o a pulse generator (1 ) connected to a magnetic coil (2) for generating high- gradient magnetic fields; o a radiofrequency generator (5) connected to a conductive electrode (3) configured to transfer radiofrequency to the patient; o characterised in that the conductive electrode (3) has a series of notches (4) designed to limit Eddy currents induced by high-gradient magnetic fields.• Dependent Claim 2: The device according to claim 1 , wherein the notches (4) are oriented so as to minimise heating of the conductive electrode (3) during operation, allowing the magnetic field and radio frequency intensity to be maintained at a high level.• Dependent Claim 3: The device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the conductive electrode (3) is made of aluminium and the notches (4) are sized to optimise the distribution of induced currents, reducing heating below a critical threshold.

Images