Dual-Energy Tissue Ablation Device with RF and Thermal Jaws
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tissue ablation technologies face limitations in effectively applying both radiofrequency (RF) and thermal ablation energies simultaneously to target tissue, particularly in cardiac applications, where precise and efficient ablation is required to treat arrhythmias and other heart conditions.
Innovation Solution
The development of tissue ablation devices featuring elongated members with first and second jaws that integrate surface proximal RF ablation energy components and surface distal thermal ablation energy components, allowing for simultaneous application of RF and thermal energies to tissue, with the RF energy component comprising elongated electrodes and the thermal component utilizing positive temperature coefficient (PTC) resistors, and a flexible separator to separate the energy components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If single-energy ablation devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but ablation precision and efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines RF ablation energy component and thermal ablation energy component into a single integrated ablation device with both energy types delivered through the same catheter tip, enabling simultaneous dual-energy ablation treatment of cardiac tissue
Solution Approach 2:
The ablation device is designed with multi-functionality to deliver both RF energy and thermal energy through a single device platform, allowing the same device to perform different ablation modalities depending on treatment requirements
2Reliability
If sequential ablation procedures are performed, then complete tissue ablation is achieved, but procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables continuous simultaneous delivery of RF ablation energy and thermal ablation energy to the target tissue through both components operating concurrently, eliminating the need for sequential treatment steps and reducing overall procedure time
3Productivity
If higher energy levels are applied, then ablation efficiency improves, but tissue damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes different energy types (RF and thermal) with distinct parameter characteristics to achieve effective ablation at controlled temperature settings, where thermal component provides temperature-controlled ablation to minimize collateral tissue damage while RF component ensures complete tissue destruction
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
This dual-energy approach enables more precise and efficient tissue ablation, reducing procedure time and minimizing tissue damage, as demonstrated by the ability to apply ablative energy for specific durations and with controlled temperature settings, enhancing the treatment of cardiac conditions such as atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias.
Implementation Method 1
surface proximal radiofrequency (RF) ablation energy component
Implementation Method 2
surface distal thermal ablation energy component... utilizing positive temperature coefficient (PTC) resistors
Data Source
AI summary
Tissue ablation devices are provided. Aspects of the tissue ablation devices include an elongated member having a proximal and distal end. At the distal end are first and second jaws that are configured to apply ablation energy to tissue disposed between the jaws during use. Each jaw includes a surface proximal radiofrequency (RF) ablation energy component and a surface distal thermal ablation energy component. Also provided are systems that include a tissue ablation device operatively coupled to an energy source, as well as kits that include the devices and methods of using the devices in tissue ablation applications, including cardiac tissue ablation applications.