Cardiac Shunt Characterization via Bubble Size Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing and characterizing cardiac shunts, such as patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD), are inadequate in accurately assessing the size of shunts to determine the risk of embolic material entering arterial circulation, which is crucial for deciding between surgical treatment and leaving the shunt untreated.
Innovation Solution
A method involving intravenous administration of bubbles of progressively larger sizes into the venous circulatory system, monitored using ultrasound imaging, to detect the presence of bubbles on the left side of the heart, allowing for characterization of cardiac shunts and informing treatment decisions, including the use of blood thinners or surgical closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional single-size bubble methods are used to diagnose cardiac shunts, then the diagnostic process is simple and quick, but the ability to accurately assess shunt size and characterize the shunt is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic procedure is segmented into multiple sequential steps, each using bubbles of a specific size range (first range: 8-15 μm, second range: 15-25 μm, third range: 25-35 μm). This segmentation allows systematic characterization of shunt size by progressively testing with larger bubbles, resolving the contradiction between simple diagnosis and precise measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The method changes the parameter of bubble size across multiple tests. By systematically varying the bubble diameter range in sequential tests, the system can accurately characterize shunt size. This parameter change enables precise shunt assessment while maintaining a structured, manageable diagnostic流程.
2Loss of information
If multiple bubble sizes are used to characterize shunts, then shunt size and stroke risk can be accurately assessed, but the diagnostic time and procedure length increase
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs preliminary actions by first testing with smaller bubbles (first range: 8-15 μm) to establish baseline shunt detection. Only if needed does it proceed to larger bubble tests (second range: 15-25 μm, third range: 25-35 μm). This staged approach ensures comprehensive shunt characterization while minimizing unnecessary testing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic procedure is dynamic rather than static—it adapts the number and size of bubble tests based on initial findings. The system can stop after the first bubble size range if sufficient characterization is achieved, or proceed to larger bubbles if needed. This dynamic adjustment optimizes diagnostic time while maintaining information completeness.
3Reliability
If larger bubbles are used to detect shunts, then the ability to assess embolic risk improves, but the risk of causing pulmonary emboli increases
Solution Approach 1:
The method applies local quality by using different bubble size ranges for different diagnostic purposes. Smaller bubbles (8-15 μm) are used for initial shunt detection with lower embolic risk, while larger bubbles (15-35 μm) are reserved for assessing embolic risk only when necessary. This localized application of different bubble sizes optimizes both safety and diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The method uses partial action by introducing only the necessary bubble sizes required for diagnosis. Not all three bubble size ranges are used in every patient—only the minimum needed to characterize the shunt and assess risk. This partial approach minimizes the total bubble load and associated pulmonary emboli risk while maintaining sufficient diagnostic information.
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 detailed characterization of cardiac shunts by controlling bubble sizes and measuring blood flow, facilitating informed decisions on whether to surgically close or leave untreated, thereby minimizing the risk of stroke.
Implementation Method 1
monitoring the patient's heart, with ultrasound imaging, to detect presence of the first bubbles on a left side of the patient's heart
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include intravenously directing first bubbles into a patient's venous circulatory system and to a right side of the patient's heart. The first bubbles may have sizes that fall within a first range. The method may further include monitoring the patient's heart, with ultrasound imaging, to detect presence of the first bubbles on a left side of the patient's heart. Upon detecting the first bubbles on the left side of the patient's heart, the method may further include intravenously directing second bubbles into the patient's venous circulatory system and to the right side of the patient's heart. The second bubbles may have sizes that fall within a second range that is different than the first range. Upon detecting the second bubbles on the left side of the patient's heart, the method may further include initiating treatment to minimize risk of stroke in the patient.