Microwave Ablation Device Cycling for Predictable Lesion Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microwave ablation devices face challenges in creating predictably sized and shaped ablation volumes, and operating multiple devices can lead to interference and increased power consumption, complicating surgical procedures and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A tissue ablation system with a controller that cycles through activation of ablation states for subsets of ablation devices, using duty cycles to ensure that not all devices receive power simultaneously, thereby reducing interference and optimizing ablation volume creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If multiple ablation devices are operated simultaneously, then the ablation volume increases, but interference between devices occurs and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by cycling through different ablation states where devices are activated in sequences rather than simultaneously. The controller alternates between different subsets of devices, with each device receiving power during specific time intervals. This periodic activation pattern allows multiple devices to contribute to the overall ablation volume while preventing continuous interference between simultaneously operating devices.
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple ablation devices are operated simultaneously, then the ablation volume increases, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action to reduce power consumption by activating devices in alternating sequences rather than maintaining continuous simultaneous operation. The controller cycles through ablation states where different subsets of devices are powered during different time intervals, allowing the system to achieve cumulative ablation effects while reducing the instantaneous and average power requirements compared to continuous simultaneous operation of all devices.
3Manufacturing precision
If ablation devices are activated to create predictable ablation volumes, then surgical procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by using imaging or monitoring to detect the actual ablation volume created, then using this information to adjust subsequent ablation states. The controller receives information about the ablation outcome and modifies the activation patterns, power levels, or timing of device cycles to achieve the desired predictable ablation volume. This closed-loop feedback approach simplifies the surgical procedure by allowing the system to automatically optimize ablation precision rather than requiring complex manual planning and coordination.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves predictable, shaped ablation volumes with reduced interference and power consumption, simplifying surgical procedures and minimizing medical complications.
Implementation Method 1
Microwave ablation is one of such treatments utilizing electromagnetic radiation to heat tissue
Implementation Method 2
certain types of tissues have been found to denature at elevated temperatures
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects of the present invention are directed towards apparatuses, systems, and methods that may include a tissue ablation system. The tissue ablation system may include a plurality of ablation devices, each ablation device being configured to provide ablation energy, at least one ablation generator configured to provide ablation power to at least one of the plurality of ablation devices, and a controller configured to cause each of the plurality of ablation devices to selectively receive ablation power and configured to cycle through activation of a plurality of ablation states.