Dual-Lumen Bronchoscopy Catheter for Continuous Nodule Visualization

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complex anatomy of the pulmonary system makes it difficult to maintain direct visualization of target pulmonary nodules during biopsy sampling and repositioning or instrument exchange through a bronchoscope working channel.

Innovation Solution

A modular assembly with a dual-lumen catheter and ergonomic handle, allowing simultaneous use of a radial ultrasound probe and biopsy needle through separate lumens, with a snap-lock mechanism for tool exchange and support structures to prevent bending, enabling real-time visualization and biopsy sampling without instrument exchange.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single working channel of a bronchoscope is used for instrument exchange and repositioning, then the bronchoscope can access peripheral lung regions, but direct visualization of target pulmonary nodules cannot be maintained during biopsy sampling and instrument exchange

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to access peripheral lung regionsVSAvoidmaintenance of direct visualization

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The catheter is divided into two separate lumens (first lumen and second lumen) that allow independent passage of different instruments. The first lumen accommodates the ultrasound probe for visualization, while the second lumen accommodates the biopsy needle for sampling, enabling both functions to occur simultaneously without interfering with each other

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines the visualization function (ultrasound probe) and biopsy sampling function (biopsy needle) into a single integrated catheter structure with multiple lumens. This merging allows both instruments to be advanced through the same bronchoscope working channel while maintaining their independent functionality and preserving direct visualization throughout the procedure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple instruments are passed through separate channels, then direct visualization can be maintained, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemaintenance of direct visualizationVSAvoidcatheter structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The catheter is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously provides visualization capability (through the first lumen with ultrasound probe) and biopsy sampling capability (through the second lumen with biopsy needle). This universal design allows a single catheter structure to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining visualization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The catheter structure nests multiple lumens within a single outer catheter body, allowing the first lumen and second lumen to be contained within the same catheter assembly. This nested configuration enables multiple instruments to pass through a single bronchoscope working channel while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS20260041457A1Device to access peripheral regions of lung for direct visualisation with tool attachment

Publication Date: 2026.02.12 BOSTON SCIENTIFIC SCIMED INC

AI summary

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to modular assemblies, systems and methods for direct visualization and biopsy of peripheral pulmonary nodules. In one example, a modular assembly of the present disclosure may include a dual-lumen catheter attached to a distal end of a main body, a first lumen may extend through the main body, the first lumen contiguous with a first lumen of the dual-lumen catheter, a second lumen may extend through the main body, the second lumen contiguous with a second lumen of the dual-lumen catheter and an attachment member formed within the main body at a proximal end of the second lumen.