Microwave Ablation Probe with Embedded Thermocouples for Precise Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microwave ablation probes face challenges in maintaining a small size while incorporating multiple temperature sensors or thermocouples, which is essential for precise thermal ablation treatments without damaging surrounding tissues.
Innovation Solution
The integration of multiple thermocouples into the outer wall or layers of the microwave ablation probe needle, using metallic ink printing or fiberglass construction with embedded metallic fibers, allows for precise temperature measurement and control during ablation procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors or thermocouples are included in the ablation probe, then temperature measurement precision is improved, but the outer diameter and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple thermocouples and temperature sensors into a single integrated assembly that fits within a compact outer diameter range of 1-7mm. The sensors are merged with the probe structure through embedding and integration methods, allowing multiple measurement points without proportionally increasing the overall device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermocouples and temperature sensors are nested within the probe structure itself. The sensors are embedded in the probe material or positioned within the inner cavity, allowing the sensing elements to be contained within the probe's own volume rather than requiring additional external space.
2Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors or thermocouples are included in the ablation probe, then temperature measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sensing functions into a unified sensor assembly that can be manufactured as an integrated component. This reduces the number of separate parts and assembly steps, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining multiple temperature measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe structure serves multiple functions: it provides the ablation pathway, houses the temperature sensors, and provides structural support. The integrated sensor assembly performs both measurement and structural roles, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall device architecture.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the microwave ablation antenna size is reduced, then damage to surrounding tissues is minimized, but manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe employs composite material construction combining conductive materials for the antenna with insulating and structural materials for the probe body. This allows precise control of the antenna dimensions and properties while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized composite material fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes specific parameters of the antenna structure such as length, diameter, and geometric configuration to achieve the desired ablation performance with minimal tissue damage. These parameter optimizations are designed to align with manufacturable dimensions and tolerances, balancing clinical performance with manufacturing ease.
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
Enables the creation of small-diameter ablation probes with integrated temperature sensors, ensuring accurate ablation zone control and minimizing tissue damage by providing real-time temperature feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of thermocouples integrated into the shell
Implementation Method 2
A microwave ablation antenna can be included in the probe and be used to deliver Radio Frequency (RF) energy such as microwave energy to a target tissue to heat the target tissue and destroy the target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A microwave ablation probe needle includes a shell extending in an axial direction and defining an inner cavity, a tip positioned on a distal end of the shell, and a plurality of thermocouples integrated into the shell.