Catheter Handle Deflection Feedback for Fluoroscopy-Free Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheters lack accurate feedback on the degree of deflection of their deflectable shaft sections during medical procedures, necessitating the use of fluoroscopy for visualization, which is undesirable due to added time and complexity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a deflection feedback assembly within the handle of the catheter, utilizing a variable resistor to convert the motion of the deflection control into a signal indicative of the deflectable shaft's degree of deflection, allowing for visual representation and reducing reliance on fluoroscopy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluoroscopy is used to visualize the deflectable shaft section, then the degree of deflection can be observed, but the procedure time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where a deflection feedback assembly converts the mechanical deflection of the shaft section into an electrical signal that is displayed in real-time. This allows the operator to see the deflection degree without requiring fluoroscopy, thereby reducing procedure time while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the fluoroscopy system (radiological imaging system) with an electrical sensing and display system. The deflection feedback assembly uses a variable resistor or similar sensor to convert mechanical deflection into electrical signals, eliminating the need for fluoroscopy and reducing both time and complexity.
2Measurement precision
If fluoroscopy is used to visualize the deflectable shaft section, then the degree of deflection can be observed, but the procedure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback assembly provides direct real-time information about the deflection state through electrical signals, eliminating the need for complex fluoroscopy imaging systems and reducing procedural complexity while maintaining visualization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex fluoroscopy system with a simpler electrical sensing system that directly measures deflection through the variable resistor mechanism, thereby reducing device and procedure complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a deflection feedback assembly is added to provide real-time feedback, then positioning precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deflection feedback assembly uses existing components (variable resistor, wiring) already present in the handle for other functions, allowing it to serve multiple purposes without adding proportional complexity. The same electrical infrastructure supports both the feedback function and other catheter operations.
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 positioning of the catheter tip by providing real-time deflection feedback, potentially eliminating the need for fluoroscopy and reducing procedure duration and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a variable resistor to convert the motion of the deflection control into a signal indicative of the deflectable shaft's degree of deflection
Data Source
AI summary
A deflectable catheter assembly including a handle, a catheter system, a method for determine deflection of a deflectable shaft section of the catheter. The catheter includes a handle coupled for deflecting the deflectable shaft section, and one or more pull wires to effect a deflection. The handle includes a housing, a deflection control coupled to the housing and operable to deflect the deflectable shaft section, and a deflection feedback assembly (e.g., a variable resistor) disposed within the housing. The deflection feedback assembly is coupled to the deflection control and configured to convert motion of the deflection control into a signal indicative of a degree of deflection of the deflectable shaft section. The deflection feedback assembly provides an active feedback regarding deflection of the deflectable shaft section to facilitate accurate positioning of the deflectable shaft section within a patient.