Colonoscopy Probe In Situ Polyp Classification via Bioelectrical Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional colonoscopy procedures require excised polyps to be analyzed in a laboratory, leading to high costs due to unnecessary surgical removals and biopsies, as they rely solely on visual identification which is inaccurate.
Innovation Solution
A colonoscopy probe with embedded electrodes that measure bioelectrical properties of polyps in situ, allowing for immediate classification as hyperplastic or adenomatous, reducing the need for surgical extraction and subsequent laboratory analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual identification alone is used for polyp classification, then the procedure is simple and quick, but the accuracy of classification is insufficient leading to unnecessary biopsies
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical measurement device is nested within the existing colonoscopy probe structure. The electrodes are integrated into the biopsy channel or instrument channel of the conventional colonoscopy probe, allowing the measurement function to be embedded within the existing diagnostic tool without requiring a completely new system.
Solution Approach 2:
The colonoscopy probe is enhanced to perform multiple functions: visual identification of polyps, electrical resistance measurement for classification, and biopsy extraction. By integrating electrodes and measurement circuits into the existing probe, the system achieves multi-functionality while leveraging the already-present visual identification capabilities.
2Measurement precision
If all polyps are removed and analyzed in the laboratory, then classification accuracy is ensured, but the cost and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical resistance measurement is performed in situ during the colonoscopy procedure before the polyp is removed. This preliminary classification allows the physician to identify which polyps require removal and which can be left in place, avoiding unnecessary biopsies and reducing the time required for laboratory analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical measurement capability is extracted as an additional function and integrated into the colonoscopy probe. The electrodes and measurement circuit are added to the existing system, enabling electrical characterization without requiring separate measurement procedures or additional patient visits.
3Measurement precision
If electrical measurement components are added to the colonoscopy probe, then polyp classification accuracy improves, but the device complexity and initial cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical measurement device is nested within the existing colonoscopy probe structure. The electrodes are integrated into the biopsy channel or instrument channel of the conventional colonoscopy probe, allowing the measurement function to be embedded within the existing diagnostic tool without requiring a completely new system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrodes are positioned at specific locations within the probe to make local contact with the polyp tissue. The measurement function is localized to the distal end of the probe where the electrodes are positioned, allowing targeted measurement without requiring complex system-wide modifications.
4Measurement precision
If electrical resistance measurement is performed on polyps, then unnecessary biopsies can be avoided, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical biopsy procedure is supplemented with electrical measurement capability. Instead of relying solely on mechanical removal and visual examination, the system uses electrical resistance measurement to classify polyps, reducing the need for mechanical biopsy in cases where electrical characteristics provide 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 accurate in situ classification of polyps, potentially eliminating unnecessary biopsies and surgeries by providing a more precise method than visual determination alone, thereby reducing costs and improving diagnostic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The electrical resistance of polyps decreases as a function of neoplastic progression. The tool assists colonoscopy practitioners with polyp identification by measuring bioelectrical properties of the polyp's tissue in situ.
Data Source
AI summary
A colonoscopy screening device includes an elongated flexible probe having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end adapted for rectal insertion, and an electrode at the distal end and adapted for contact with a suspect tissue growth. A measurement circuit connected to the electrode for measuring an electrical characteristic of the suspect tissue growth based on delivery of an electrical signal from the electrode. A pair of electrodes in an opposed orientation allows an actuator to drawing at least one of the electrodes towards the other electrode for engaging the suspect tissue growth for passing the electrical signal through the suspect tissue growth. Measurement of the resulting signal determines bioelectrical properties of the growth for determination of possible malignancy.