Dual-Lumen Suction Lithotripsy Device for Salivary Duct Stone Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lithotripsy devices face challenges in using suction during procedures in small body vessels like the salivary ducts due to the risk of duct collapse, lacking an adequate device that can safely apply suction for stone fragment removal.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a pass-through fitting and sheaths that create a branched fluid flow path, allowing controlled suction by introducing a wash fluid and air from the environment to assist in fragment removal without collapsing the duct.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If suction force is applied during lithotripsy procedure, then stone fragment removal is improved, but duct collapse occurs due to the small size of the duct
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the suction function into two separate lumens: a first lumen for introducing wash fluid and a second lumen for applying suction. This segmentation allows the suction force to be applied locally at the distal end without requiring the entire duct to withstand the pressure, thereby preventing duct collapse while maintaining effective stone fragment removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The wash fluid introduced through the first lumen acts as an intermediary substance that fills the duct and provides a cushioning effect. This intermediary fluid prevents direct contact between the suction force and the duct wall, thereby preventing duct collapse while still enabling effective stone fragment removal through the second lumen.
2Ease of operation
If a single lumen device is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but controlled suction and fluid flow cannot be achieved simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a two-lumen structure where the first lumen is dedicated to wash fluid introduction and the second lumen is dedicated to suction. This functional segmentation enables simultaneous and independent control of fluid flow and suction forces, achieving ease of operation with a relatively simple structural division rather than complex integrated control systems.
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 safe and effective removal of stone fragments from small body vessels by maintaining duct integrity during lithotripsy procedures through controlled suction and fluid flow, preventing vessel collapse.
Implementation Method 1
applying a suction force to the second lumen such that air from the environment external to the body vessel is pulled into the first lumen and through the second lumen
Implementation Method 2
continuing the step of introducing the wash fluid through the cannula until the wash fluid rises within the first lumen to a level sufficient for the suction force to pull the wash fluid into the second lumen
Data Source
AI summary
Medical devices, methods and kits useful in the disruption and removal of unwanted materials, such as calculi and other formations, from within body lumens are described. The disclosure describes particular embodiments and methods useful in the lithotriptic removal of stones from the salivary glands.