Disposable Tissue Visualization Device Minimizing Trauma
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
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 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 with a sharpened tip, integrated articulation mechanism, and optical elements for precise visualization and therapeutic delivery, allowing for accurate positioning and minimally invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional surgical procedures are used to access internal tissues, then complete visualization and treatment capability is achieved, but significant tissue trauma and prolonged recovery time occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical surgical instruments with a visualization device that uses optical fields (light) to illuminate and capture images of internal tissues. The device incorporates illumination sources and image sensors that transmit visual information back to the operator, substituting direct mechanical visualization with optical-based imaging through minimal access pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes optical illumination to illuminate target tissues, enabling visualization through color and light reflection properties of the tissue. The illumination system allows the operator to see internal structures by detecting reflected or emitted light, transforming invisible internal structures into visible images through optical properties.
2Measurement precision
If MRI or other expensive imaging technologies are used for visualization, then accurate internal tissue visualization is achieved, but high cost and scheduling complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential visualization function from complex external imaging systems and integrates it into a simple, self-contained probe that can be inserted directly through the skin. The device contains all necessary components (illumination, sensing, image processing) within the probe itself, eliminating the need for expensive external imaging equipment and complex scheduling arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The visualization device is self-contained and self-sufficient, with all visualization components integrated into the probe. The device performs its own illumination, image capture, and signal processing functions without requiring connection to external imaging systems, making it independently operable and eliminating dependency on complex external infrastructure.
3Loss of time
If minimally invasive percutaneous procedures are used, then recovery time is reduced, but visualization capability and treatment precision are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed to perform multiple functions through a single minimal access point: visualization of internal tissues, delivery of therapeutic agents, and potentially other treatment modalities. The device combines diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities in one integrated system, allowing complete treatment through a single percutaneous insertion without requiring multiple procedures or larger incisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes a nested structure where the image sensor and illumination elements are positioned within the probe body, with the sensor located at the distal end to capture images of internal tissues. The compact nested arrangement allows all functional components to be contained within a small profile that can pass through minimal access pathways while maintaining full functionality.
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 and minimally invasive visualization and treatment of internal tissues, reducing trauma and recovery time, while providing effective diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities without the need for expensive imaging technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate optical element extending through the probe, the optical element having a proximal end in optical communication with the sensor
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.