Bipolar Irrigated RF Ablation Probe with Inter-Electrode Cooling Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Radiofrequency ablation treatments face limitations due to charred tissue forming an insulating barrier, which increases impedance and prevents deeper penetration of radiofrequency energy, thereby limiting the size of the lesion created.
Innovation Solution
A bipolar irrigated radiofrequency ablation system is developed, featuring an elongate inner electrode assembly with a movable electrode array and an elongate outer electrode assembly with a cannula and shaft electrode. The system includes an irrigation path between the electrode assemblies to cool the electrodes and surrounding tissue, reducing charring and impedance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If radiofrequency ablation is performed without irrigation, then the procedure is simpler, but charred tissue forms an insulating barrier that increases impedance and limits lesion size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an irrigation system as an intermediary mechanism to deliver coolant through the tissue, preventing charred tissue formation and maintaining lower impedance pathways for deeper RF energy penetration, thereby enabling larger lesions without excessive system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the tissue by introducing liquid coolant through irrigation, transforming the thermal and electrical parameters of the treatment zone to prevent charring and maintain conductivity, allowing deeper and larger lesion formation
2Productivity
If radiofrequency energy is delivered to create larger lesions, then treatment effectiveness improves, but charred tissue barrier formation increases impedance and limits further penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous irrigation during RF delivery to maintain consistent cooling and impedance levels throughout the treatment process, ensuring reliable and consistent energy delivery for sustained lesion growth without interruption
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates impedance monitoring that provides feedback to control RF power delivery and irrigation flow, adjusting parameters in real-time to maintain optimal conditions for consistent energy penetration and lesion formation
3Length of stationary object
If bipolar irrigated RF ablation is used, then deeper penetration and larger lesions are achieved, but the system becomes more complex with multiple electrode assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrode system into separate inner and outer electrode assemblies that can be independently positioned and controlled, allowing flexible configuration for deep penetration while managing complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the inner electrode assembly is positioned within the outer electrode assembly, creating a concentric bipolar structure that enables deep tissue penetration while consolidating components to reduce overall system complexity
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 enhances lesion formation by allowing deeper and more efficient delivery of radiofrequency energy, resulting in larger lesions in a shorter application time, comparable to microwave ablation methods.
Implementation Method 1
an irrigation path between the electrode assemblies to cool the electrodes and surrounding tissue
Implementation Method 2
Radiofrequency ablation heats and dehydrates tissue, causing necrosis and tissue charring
Implementation Method 3
Radiofrequency energy cannot penetrate tissue with a high impedance
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~3A
AI summary
The disclosure relates to systems and methods for irrigated bipolar radiofrequency ablation. Some examples of the system include an elongate inner electrode assembly and an elongate outer electrode assembly. An irrigation path for irrigation fluid flow is defined between the outer surface of the inner electrode assembly and the outer surface of the outer electrode assembly.