Swallowable Capsule Cauterization via External Induction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional endoscopes face challenges in precisely cauterizing lesions within the gastrointestinal tract due to limited length and maneuverability, and capsule endoscopes struggle with precise control and adequate power for effective cauterization.
Innovation Solution
A swallowable capsule device equipped with a cauterization element, an imager, and external induction coils for controlled navigation and energy activation, allowing for precise targeting and activation of the cauterization element within the body lumen.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional endoscopes are used for cauterization, then the device structure is simple and easy to operate, but the device cannot reach desired locations in the GI tract and cannot achieve precise cauterization
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the endoscope into two separate components: a capsule endoscope that can reach distant locations in the GI tract and an external control system that provides cauterization capability. The capsule contains a cauterization element that can be extended and activated externally, allowing precise cauterization at remote locations without requiring a long, maneuverable endoscope shaft.
2Length of moving object
If capsule endoscopes are used for cauterization, then the device can reach distant locations in the GI tract, but the internal power source is inadequate to activate the cauterization element with sufficient heat
Solution Approach 1:
An external induction coil system acts as an intermediary to transfer energy to the capsule's cauterization element. The external coil generates an electromagnetic field that induces current in the capsule's cauterization element, heating it to the required temperature for effective cauterization without requiring a large internal power source in the capsule.
3Length of moving object
If capsule endoscopes are used for cauterization, then the device can reach distant locations, but the device is difficult to control and aim at specific locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time imaging feedback from the capsule endoscope to guide control of the cauterization element. The imager provides visual feedback of the tissue landscape, allowing the operator to accurately aim and control the cauterization element at specific target locations within the GI tract despite the capsule's remote position.
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
Enables precise and controlled cauterization of tissues in the gastrointestinal tract, overcoming limitations of traditional endoscopes and capsule endoscopes by providing enhanced maneuverability and power for effective tissue ablation.
Implementation Method 1
The cauterization element is manufactured from an alloy having a high resistance to electrical conductivity... The system may include external induction coils for externally activating the cauterization element in-vivo
Implementation Method 2
external induction coils for externally activating the cauterization element in-vivo... The external transfer of energy may be carried out in an efficient way by having the cauterization element as part of the resonance circuit
Implementation Method 3
The external transfer of energy may be carried out in an efficient way by having the cauterization element as part of the resonance circuit
Data Source
AI summary
An in vivo capsule has a cauterization element that may be deployed by physician while in vivo for cauterizing a lesion, such as bleeding. Energy is transferred from outside of the patient's body to the capsule and specifically to the ablating element, such as via a resonance circuit. Accordingly, it is the object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for precisely cauterizing or ablating tissue in-vivo. Embodiments of the invention may provide an in-vivo device having a cauterization or ablation element incorporated therein and a system and method for controlled navigation of the in-vivo cauterization device through a body lumen.