Continuous Compound Curve Catheter Tip for Bile Duct Cannulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopic devices face challenges in reliably and controllably accessing the bile duct during ERCP procedures while avoiding the pancreatic duct, leading to increased risks of pancreatitis due to repeated attempts at cannulation.
Innovation Solution
A catheter with a distal end portion featuring a continuous compound curve, where the second curve has a more acute angle to facilitate proper alignment of the wire guide towards the bile duct and away from the pancreatic duct, allowing for improved cannulation angles and reduced procedure time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional straight or simple curved cannula is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to reliably access the bile duct while avoiding the pancreatic duct is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula incorporates a continuous compound curve with two distinct curved portions having different radii of curvature. The first curved portion has a larger radius while the second has a smaller, more acute radius, creating a specific three-dimensional geometry that enables the wire guide to exit at an optimized angle for selective bile duct access while avoiding the pancreatic duct.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the cannula are given different curvature characteristics. The proximal first curved portion has a larger radius of curvature for gradual navigation, while the distal second curved portion has a smaller radius to achieve the precise exit angle needed for accurate ductal targeting. This local differentiation of geometric properties optimizes both navigation and cannulation performance.
2Reliability
If multiple attempts at cannulation are made, then the chance of successful access increases, but the risk of pancreatitis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cannula is pre-formed with a continuous compound curve geometry before use. This preliminary configuration of the distal tip ensures that when the wire guide is advanced through the cannula, it automatically exits at the optimal angle for bile duct access. This pre-engineered geometry eliminates the need for multiple adjustment attempts during the procedure, thereby reducing pancreatitis risk.
3Ease of operation
If the wire guide exits at a non-optimal angle, then the cannula structure is simple, but the ability to direct the wire into the appropriate duct is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous compound curve comprises two curved portions with different radii of curvature arranged in sequence. The first curved portion transitions smoothly into the second curved portion, which has a more acute angle. This specific curvature configuration mechanically guides the wire guide to exit at the precise angle needed for accurate ductal entry, providing inherent directional control without requiring additional active steering mechanisms.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A catheter is described for use in cannulating a bile duct in ERCP or sphincterotomy procedures. The catheter has a continuous compound curve that has first and second curves. The first and second curves have radii of curvature and lengths that orient the tip of the catheter selectively toward a bile duct.