Debulking Catheter Linear-Force Feedback for Controlled Tissue Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing debulking catheters lack effective feedback mechanisms to prevent excessive force application during tissue removal, which can lead to tissue damage and motor damage.
Innovation Solution
A debulking catheter with a linear-force indicator system, including an articulating or slide coupler and an electrical threshold force detector, provides feedback to the user when excessive force is applied, preventing further transmission to the motor and burr.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no force feedback mechanism is provided, then the device structure remains simple, but excessive force can be applied causing tissue and motor damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a force feedback mechanism using a spring-loaded articulating coupler that provides mechanical feedback to the operator. When excessive force is applied to the advancer, the coupler articulates or disengages, providing tactile feedback to indicate the force threshold has been reached. This prevents tissue and motor damage while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating coupler acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the advancer and the drive shaft. It mediates the force transmission by providing a mechanical threshold - when force exceeds the spring preload, the coupler articulates to prevent further force transmission, thereby protecting the motor and tissue without requiring complex electronic sensing systems.
2Ease of operation
If a linear-force indicator system is added, then excessive force application is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force indicator system is designed to be self-regulating through the spring-loaded articulating coupler. The spring is preloaded to a specific force threshold, and when that threshold is reached, the coupler automatically articulates to provide feedback and prevent further force application. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex electronic force sensors and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simple mechanical spring and coupler mechanism rather than expensive electronic force sensors. The spring-loaded articulating coupler provides a disposable, maintenance-free force indication system that relies on mechanical principles rather than complex electronics, reducing overall device complexity and cost.
Data Source
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AI summary
A debulking catheter includes an advancer for advancing a tissue-removing element, and a linear-force indicator. The linear-force indicator provides feedback to the user based on an amount of linear force being applied to the advancer.