Cooled RF Probes With Heat Transfer Without Peristaltic Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrosurgical devices face challenges with probe movement during procedures due to cooling mechanisms that require peristaltic pumps and tubing, leading to unnecessary radiation exposure and disruption of the tissue-probe interface.
Innovation Solution
An electrosurgical device with a cooling mechanism that utilizes heat transfer materials and heat sinks within or on the probe, eliminating the need for peristaltic pumps and tubing, while maintaining tissue temperature below 90°C to prevent carbonization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a peristaltic pump and tubing are used to distribute coolant water through the probe, then cooling effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and probe stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the peristaltic pump and external tubing from the cooling system, extracting the problematic components while retaining the essential cooling function through a simplified internal mechanism where coolant flows directly through the probe without requiring external pumping equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the coolant delivery function directly into the probe structure itself, combining the cooling channel and probe into a single integrated component, thereby eliminating the need for separate tubing and pump systems
2Temperature
If tubing is filled with water for cooling, then cooling capacity is improved, but probe weight and stability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a lightweight coolant reservoir that can be easily replaced or refilled, using a disposable or easily replaceable cooling medium container that minimizes permanent weight addition to the probe system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the coolant volume and flow parameters to achieve effective cooling with minimal water quantity, changing the parameters of coolant amount and flow rate to reduce weight while maintaining cooling performance
3Stability of the object's composition
If probe repositioning is performed to correct movement, then tissue-probe interface stability is improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a cooling mechanism that stabilizes the probe in place before any potential movement issues arise, using the cooling system's weight distribution and structural integration to prevent probe displacement from occurring in the first place
Solution Approach 2:
The probe's cooling mechanism serves a dual function: it cools the tissue while simultaneously anchoring the probe in position through its integrated design, allowing the probe to self-stabilize without requiring external repositioning interventions
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
The solution provides stable tissue cooling, allowing for larger lesions and reduced radiation exposure, enhancing procedural efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling or heat transfer system in thermal contact with the area of tissue, the cooling or heat transfer system capable of removing from about 0.1 Watts to about 50 Watts
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An electrosurgical device is provided that includes a probe extending in a longitudinal direction and having a proximal region and a distal region. An inner diameter of the probe defines a lumen. The probe has an electrically insulated portion extending from the proximal region to the distal region and an electrically exposed conductive portion located at the distal region. The electrically exposed conductive portion delivers radiofrequency energy to an area of tissue adjacent the distal region. The device also includes a heat transfer system for removing thermal energy from the area of tissue that is in thermal contact with the area of tissue. The heat transfer system removes from about 0.1 Watts to about 50 Watts of energy from the tissue. In addition, the heat transfer system can sufficiently draw heat away from the tissue without the use of a peristaltic pump for circulating a liquid inside the lumen.