Access Needle with Direct Visualization for Epicardial Procedures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for accessing the heart's outer wall for epicardial ablation procedures are associated with high risks of perforation and inefficiency, leading to unacceptable complication rates, such as ventricular perforation and pericardial effusion.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a precision fiber-optic pressure sensor and signal analysis algorithm to infer the location of an access needle by detecting pressure-frequency characteristics, allowing for continuous measurement and differentiation between pericardial and non-pericardial regions, thereby reducing the risk of perforation and improving the reliability of epicardial treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional access methods are used for epicardial ablation, then the procedure can be performed, but the risk of ventricular perforation and pericardial effusion is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time pressure-frequency monitoring during needle advancement, providing continuous feedback to guide the operator. The system monitors pressure waveforms and frequency characteristics to detect when the needle enters the pericardial space versus ventricular tissue, allowing immediate adjustment to avoid perforation and achieve safe epicardial access
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical guidance methods (fluoroscopy, anatomical landmarks) with a sensor-based detection system. Pressure sensors and frequency analysis substitute for visual and tactile cues, enabling non-invasive detection of needle location and pericardial penetration without relying on ionizing radiation or subjective operator judgment
2Productivity
If conventional access methods are used for epicardial ablation, then the procedure can be performed, but the efficiency and precision of needle placement is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time pressure and frequency feedback during needle advancement, enabling operators to precisely determine pericardial penetration and needle tip location. This continuous monitoring accelerates the access process by eliminating trial-and-error maneuvers and reduces the time required to achieve safe epicardial positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in pressure and frequency parameters to detect needle location and pericardial penetration. By monitoring these physical parameters in real-time, the system provides objective criteria for determining optimal needle placement, significantly improving measurement precision compared to conventional anatomical landmark methods
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 effectively reduces the risk of ventricular perforation and improves the safety and efficacy of epicardial treatment by accurately determining the needle's location within the thoracic cavity, enhancing the precision of minimally invasive subxiphoid access procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A system and method utilizing a precision fiber-optic pressure sensor and signal analysis algorithm to infer the location of an access needle by detecting pressure-frequency characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for epicardial electrophysiology and other procedures are provided in which the location of an access needle may be inferred according to the detection of different pressure frequencies in separate organs, or different locations, in the body of a subject. Methods may include inserting a needle including a first sensor into a body of a subject, and receiving pressure frequency information from the first sensor. A second sensor may be included with the access needle to provide image data and/or cardiac waveform information of the subject.