Balloon Catheter with Integral Camera for Single-Operator Sinus Dilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dilation procedures for anatomical passageways, such as the Eustachian tube, often require separate endoscopes for visualization, which can be cumbersome and limited by patient anatomy, and lack easy control over balloon inflation/deflation, especially for single-operator procedures.
Innovation Solution
A dilation catheter system with an integral camera and alignment feature, allowing for visualization and guidance without a separate endoscope, and an actuator for controlled balloon inflation/deflation, facilitating single-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate endoscope is used for visualization during dilation procedures, then visualization capability is provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring multiple devices and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the endoscope and dilation catheter into a single integrated device. The endoscope is positioned within the dilation catheter, allowing both visualization and dilation functions to be performed through one device rather than requiring separate endoscope and catheter devices to be coordinated during the procedure
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions: the endoscope provides visualization while the dilation catheter performs the dilation function. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate visualization and treatment devices, simplifying the overall procedure
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a separate endoscope is used for visualization, then visualization is provided, but ease of operation worsens due to requiring two-handed coordination
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the endoscope and dilation catheter into one integrated device, the procedure can be controlled with a single hand. The operator manipulates one device that simultaneously provides visualization through the endoscope and performs dilation through the catheter, eliminating the need for two-handed coordination
3Ease of operation
If balloon inflation control is simplified for single-operator procedures, then ease of operation improves, but reliability may worsen without dual-operator verification
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated endoscope provides real-time visual feedback to the operator during balloon inflation. The operator can directly observe the balloon expanding and its interaction with the tissue through the endoscope's visualization system, allowing for precise control and verification of the inflation process without requiring a second operator
Solution Approach 2:
The single operator performs all functions independently using the integrated device. The operator controls both the endoscope visualization and the balloon inflation through one device, eliminating the need for dual-operator coordination while maintaining full control over the procedure
Data Source
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AI summary
A dilation catheter system comprises a guide member, a dilation catheter, and an image sensor. The guide member includes a shaft comprising a distal end and a proximal end. The shaft defines a longitudinal axis. The dilation catheter comprises an expandable dilator and is movable relative to the guide member. The expandable dilator is sized to fit within one or both of a Eustachian tube or a passageway associated with a paranasal sinus. The image sensor is configured to provide visualization within anatomy of a patient. The image sensor is integral with the dilation catheter.