Biopsy Tissue Handling Device with Segmented Wells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring tissue specimens from biopsy needles to pathology labs often result in specimen fragmentation and failure to separate blood clots, leading to suboptimal evaluation and impressions of needle inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A biopsy tissue handling device with a network of wells and channels that facilitates the separation of tissue cores from clots using a cutting tool and sponges for secure transfer to pathology cassettes, minimizing handling and maintaining specimen integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual transfer methods are used to move tissue specimens from biopsy needle to pathology lab, then the process is simple and quick, but the tissue specimens become fragmented and contaminated with blood clots
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the handling process into distinct functional zones: a first well for receiving the specimen from the needle, a second well for clot separation, and a third well for final specimen placement. The channel network segments the flow path to guide specimens through each processing stage, ensuring integrity at each step while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces intermediary structures including sponges positioned in the wells to gently hold and transfer specimens, and a cutting tool as an intermediary mechanism to separate clots from tissue cores. These intermediaries protect the fragile specimens during transfer, preventing direct contact damage between the needle and pathology cassette.
2Reliability
If current transfer techniques are used, then the process is fast, but blood clots cannot be separated from the tissue specimens
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary clot separation in the second well before final specimen transfer to the pathology lab. The cutting tool is positioned to automatically separate clots from tissue cores as specimens pass through the channel network, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual separation later while ensuring specimen purity is achieved during the transfer process itself.
3Reliability
If careful manual handling is used to prevent specimen fragmentation, then specimen integrity is maintained, but the process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service handling where specimens automatically follow the fluid flow through the channel network from the first well through the second well to the third well. The integrated cutting tool automatically separates clots as specimens pass through, eliminating the need for tedious manual manipulation while maintaining specimen integrity throughout the transfer process.
Data Source
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AI summary
A biopsy tissue handling device having a system of interconnected wells and channels allows processing of biopsy samples, such as from a biopsy needle, while avoiding damage to delicate tissue specimens. Tissue cores may be obtained from biopsy samples and transferred to a pathology lab with minimal physical manipulation.