Electrode Array Probe for Real-Time Tissue Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting abnormal tissue, such as X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI, are limited by low sensitivity for small tissue sizes, interference from surrounding tissues, and inability to provide real-time, precise in vivo diagnosis, often requiring multiple surgeries and lengthy pathology analysis.
Innovation Solution
A handheld apparatus with a probe head featuring a multiplexer-controlled electrode array that measures near-field and far-field dielectric properties of biological samples, allowing for real-time, precise characterization of tissue abnormalities using local electrical signals, enabling in vivo and in situ diagnosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current imaging methods (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) are used to detect abnormal tissue, then detection capability is provided, but sensitivity for small tissue sizes is low and interference from surrounding tissues occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a probe as an intermediary device that can be positioned inside or close to the target tissue, acting as a mediator between the detection system and the abnormal tissue. This probe-based approach enables local measurements that are not susceptible to interference from distant surrounding tissues, thereby improving detection sensitivity while eliminating the harmful interference effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by enabling measurements to be performed locally at or near the target tissue using a probe, rather than using global imaging methods. This localized measurement approach improves sensitivity for small abnormal tissues by focusing the detection field precisely where needed, avoiding interference from surrounding healthy tissues.
2Measurement precision
If external detection devices are used, then non-invasive detection is achieved, but the signal to noise ratio is poor and small volumes of abnormal tissue cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial parameter of measurement by transitioning from external global imaging to internal or near-field local measurement. This parameter change enables the system to achieve high signal-to-noise ratio measurements by positioning the probe inside or close to the target tissue, allowing detection of small abnormal tissue volumes that would be undetectable by external methods.
3Measurement precision
If pathology lab analysis is performed on tissue samples, then detailed characterization is achieved, but the time frame for diagnosis is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical and chemical processes of traditional pathology lab analysis with an electrical measurement system. By using electrical impedance measurements through the probe, the system can provide real-time or near-real-time diagnosis without requiring physical transport to a pathology lab, complex sample preparation, or lengthy analysis procedures, thereby maintaining high diagnostic accuracy while dramatically reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary diagnostic measurements directly at the surgical site using the probe, before the tissue sample would normally be sent to the pathology lab. This preliminary action provides immediate diagnostic information that can guide surgical decisions in real-time, eliminating the need to wait for post-surgical pathology analysis.
4Reliability
If multiple surgical procedures are performed to ensure complete removal of abnormal tissue, then complete removal is achieved, but the total treatment time and patient burden is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback during the surgical procedure by continuously monitoring electrical impedance measurements through the probe. This feedback mechanism allows the surgeon to immediately assess whether abnormal tissue has been completely removed, enabling informed decisions about whether to continue or conclude the surgery in real-time, thereby ensuring complete removal while avoiding unnecessary additional procedures.
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 real-time detection and characterization of abnormal tissues with high sensitivity and precision, reducing the need for multiple surgeries and accelerating diagnosis, while minimizing human error and tissue sampling delays.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the electrical response of the cells/tissue
Implementation Method 2
measures differences or variations in the dielectric properties of the cells in response to a stimulus
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2D
AI summary
An apparatus for the diagnosis of a biological sample is disclosed. An embodiments of the apparatus includes a probe, a probe head distally connectable to the probe, the probe head further comprising a plurality of electrode elements thereby forming an electrode array where each electrode element is variably actuatable to apply an electrical signal to the biological sample; an RF signal source for applying the electrical signal to the electrode array; an electrode selector adapted and configured to switch the electrical signal from the RF signal source between the plurality of electrode elements; and a detection circuit for analyzing a dielectric property received from the biological sample. Methods and kits for diagnosing a biological sample are also disclosed.