Brain Aneurysm Tool Wire Deflection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for treating brain aneurysms using minimally invasive probes require intensive fluoroscopic imaging, leading to high X-ray radiation exposure due to a trial-and-error insertion process.
Innovation Solution
A medical device comprising a hollow shaft with a wire-insertion channel, an exit port, a deflection element, and a position sensor, which allows for precise positioning of a wire within the aneurysm using magnetic tracking, reducing the need for extensive fluoroscopic imaging by guiding the wire insertion with real-time position and orientation feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluoroscopic imaging is used for wire insertion guidance, then positioning accuracy is improved, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fluoroscopic imaging (mechanical/radiological system) with a magnetic field-based tracking system. A position sensor at the distal end of the shaft detects magnetic field signals to determine the location and orientation of the exit port, eliminating the need for continuous fluoroscopic imaging while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the positioning system and the wire insertion process. Magnetic field signals serve as the mediator to track the position sensor and guide wire placement, replacing the harmful X-ray radiation intermediary with a safe alternative.
2Adaptability or versatility
If trial-and-error insertion method is used, then device versatility is maintained, but procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback through a position sensor at the distal end of the shaft that continuously monitors the location and orientation of the exit port. This feedback is transmitted to a processing system that guides the insertion process, replacing the trial-and-error method with a directed, feedback-controlled approach that reduces procedure time while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning actions by using the position sensor to identify the optimal insertion path before actual wire deployment. The system pre-determines the correct orientation and location of the exit port relative to the aneurysm, allowing subsequent wire insertion to proceed efficiently without repeated adjustments.
3Manufacturing precision
If deflection element is added to guide wire, then wire placement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a deflection element with a curved or angled geometry at the distal end of the shaft to redirect the wire from the longitudinal axis of the shaft into the aneurysm sac. This curved structure naturally guides the wire along the desired path without requiring complex active deflection mechanisms, achieving precision while limiting complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the deflection element only at the local region where wire exit is required, rather than making the entire shaft complex. The deflection element is a localized structural feature at the distal end that provides precise wire direction control without adding complexity to the proximal portions of the device.
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 simplifies the clinical procedure, reduces patient exposure to X-ray radiation, and enhances the safety of treating brain aneurysms by providing precise wire placement without the need for extensive fluoroscopic guidance.
Implementation Method 1
A position sensor, which is coupled to the distal end of the shaft, is configured to produce signals indicative of a position and orientation of the exit port in the blood vessel
Implementation Method 2
The deflection element is located adjacent to the exit port and configured to deflect the wire from the wire-insertion channel to the exit port
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device for treating an aneurysm in a blood vessel includes a hollow shaft for insertion into the blood vessel, an exit port at a distal end of the shaft, a deflection element, and a position sensor. The hollow shaft encompasses a wire-insertion channel for leading a wire to be inserted into the aneurysm. The exit port is configured for exiting the wire from the wire-insertion channel and into the aneurysm. The deflection element is located adjacent to the exit port and configured to deflect the wire from the wire-insertion channel to the exit port. The position sensor, which is coupled to the distal end of the shaft, is configured to produce signals indicative of a position and orientation of the exit port in the blood vessel.