Catheterized Light-Scattering Probe for Deep Cardiac Tissue Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for characterizing cardiac tissue microstructure are limited by depth penetration and anisotropy, leading to inadequate diagnosis and treatment of conditions like fibrosis and arrhythmia, with high recurrence rates and invasive procedures being costly and risky.
Innovation Solution
A tissue characterization probe with a multi-arm arrangement of illumination and detection fibers, configured to penetrate deeper than 100 μm and characterize anisotropic tissues, using light scattering spectroscopy and machine learning to resolve spectroscopic data for accurate cardiac tissue mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods (MRI, FCM) are used to characterize cardiac tissue, then tissue visualization is achieved, but depth penetration is limited and microstructural details are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (MRI, FCM) with optical spectroscopy methods. Light scattering spectroscopy enables non-invasive penetration through tissue depths exceeding 100 μm, achieving both deep tissue characterization and microstructural detail without the depth limitations of conventional mechanical imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes wavelength-dependent light scattering properties of tissue. By measuring scattering characteristics at multiple wavelengths and analyzing spectral patterns, the system resolves microstructural parameters (cell density, nuclear density, fibrosis) at depths beyond the capability of single-wavelength optical methods.
2Measurement precision
If endomyocardial biopsy is performed to characterize cardiac tissue microstructure, then tissue sampling is achieved, but the procedure is invasive and carries high complication rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes invasive mechanical biopsy procedures with non-invasive optical spectroscopy. Light scattering spectroscopy characterizes tissue microstructure through non-contact optical measurement, eliminating the risks associated with endomyocardial biopsy while maintaining the ability to detect fibrosis, cell density, and nuclear density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses light as an intermediary to non-invasively probe tissue microstructure. Photons penetrate tissue and scatter according to microstructural properties, serving as a safe intermediary that conveys structural information without requiring physical tissue extraction or contact.
3Reliability
If catheter ablation is performed to treat AF, then rhythm control is achieved, but recurrence rate remains high and multiple procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback through real-time optical characterization of tissue properties during and after ablation. By continuously monitoring light scattering changes, the system provides feedback on treatment effectiveness and tissue response, enabling optimization of ablation parameters and identification of residual problematic areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary optical characterization to identify optimal ablation targets before treatment begins. By pre-mapping tissue microstructure and identifying areas with abnormal scattering patterns, the system enables more precise and effective ablation, reducing the need for multiple procedures.
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 effective characterization of cardiac tissue microstructure up to 30 mm deep, improving diagnosis and treatment accuracy, reducing the need for invasive procedures and enhancing disease monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
catheterized light scattering spectroscopy
Implementation Method 2
illumination fibers extend at least partially through the elongate member, each extending to a respective probe tip
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are devices, systems, and methods for characterizing tissue using light scattering spectroscopy. A tissue characterization probe includes an elongate member having a proximal end and a plurality of distal probe tips at a distal end. A plurality of illumination fibers extend through the elongate member to the distal probe tips such that each distal probe tip includes at least one illumination fiber. A plurality of detection fibers also extend through the elongate member such that each probe tip includes at least one detection fiber. The disclosed devices and systems beneficially enable characterization of tissues within depths greater than 100 μm. The disclosed devices and systems also enable effective characterization of anisotropic tissues, such as cardiac myocardium.