Disposable Tissue Visualization Probe with Segmented Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional surgical procedures cause significant trauma to tissues due to extensive incisions and prolonged recovery times, and existing visualization methods for internal tissues are often expensive and potentially damaging, leading to poor diagnosis and extended recovery.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive tissue visualization device with a sterilizable, disposable design featuring a handle, elongated body, and integrated optical elements for precise visualization and tissue modification, allowing for accurate positioning and delivery of therapeutic agents without extensive surgical trauma.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surgical procedures are used to access internal tissues, then complete visualization and treatment are achieved, but significant tissue trauma and prolonged recovery time occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the surgical system into separate functional components: a reusable handle containing controls and electronics, and a disposable sterile probe containing the visualization sensor and treatment elements. This segmentation allows minimally invasive access while maintaining complete visualization and treatment capabilities through the small incision.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element acts as an intermediary, transmitting light from illumination sources at the distal end through the elongated body to illuminate internal tissues, enabling visualization without requiring large incisions or direct line-of-sight access that would cause tissue trauma.
2Loss of information
If MRI or other imaging modes are used for visualization of internal tissues, then diagnostic information is obtained, but cost and time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs visualization directly at the treatment site during the surgical procedure itself, eliminating the need for separate pre-scheduling of MRI or other imaging studies. The real-time optical visualization provides immediate diagnostic information without additional time loss.
3Measurement precision
If imaging procedures are performed before surgery, then tissue site is visualized, but potential tissue damage and extended recovery occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides self-service visualization by incorporating the optical sensor and illumination system directly into the minimally invasive probe, allowing real-time visualization of the tissue site during the procedure without requiring separate imaging studies that could cause additional tissue damage.
4Ease of manufacture
If reusable visualization devices are used, then cost is reduced, but sterilization complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe portion containing the optical sensor and treatment elements is designed as a disposable sterile single-use component. This eliminates complex sterilization processes and assembly steps while maintaining low overall device cost, as the disposable probe is replaced after each use rather than requiring re-sterilization.
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 device enables accurate visualization and modification of internal tissues with reduced trauma and recovery time, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods by minimizing tissue damage and allowing for precise diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in a clinical setting.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate optical element extending through the probe, the optical element having a proximal end in optical communication with the sensor, and having a distal end
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fully integrated sterilizable one time use disposable tissue visualization device and methods for using such devices. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate the visualization of an internal tissue site while causing a minimum of damage to the surrounding tissue. Further preferred embodiments may allow for the delivery of fluids and other treatment to an internal tissue site.