Medical Electrode End Cap With Blind-Angle Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices face challenges in delivering electrical energy to tissue while maintaining clear visualization of the electrode, particularly in small target sites, due to the electrode extending from the distal end impairing the user's view.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a shaft, end cap, and electrode, where the end cap includes a visualization feature forming a blind angle of 30 degrees or less, allowing the electrode to extend through, enabling clear visualization and maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electrode extends from the distal end of the insertion device, then the electrode can be positioned at the target site for treatment, but the insertion device impairs the user's ability to visualize the electrode
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is nested within the insertion device shaft, allowing it to be delivered to the target site while minimizing obstruction of the visualization path. The electrode can extend from the distal end when needed but remains contained within the device structure, reducing the blind angle for visualization.
Solution Approach 2:
A visualization feature (such as a transparent or translucent window) is introduced as an intermediary element between the electrode and the user's view. This allows the electrode to be visualized through the end cap without compromising its positioning capability at the target site.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the user maneuvers the visualization device closer to the electrode to improve visualization, then the electrode becomes more visible, but this is difficult in a small target site or poses other difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The visualization feature is built into the distal end of the insertion device before the procedure begins. This preliminary design feature eliminates the need to maneuver the visualization device closer to the electrode during the procedure, providing clear visualization from a distance and maintaining ease of operation in confined spaces.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the end cap is made transparent to improve visualization, then the electrode can be seen through it, but the end cap must still provide electrical insulation
Solution Approach 1:
The end cap is constructed from composite materials that combine transparency with electrical insulation properties. This allows the end cap to be visually transparent for electrode observation while simultaneously providing the necessary electrical insulation to prevent unintended current pathways and ensure safe operation.
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
Facilitates the application of electrical energy to tissue with improved visualization, reducing the risk of tissue damage and enhancing maneuverability of the electrode, suitable for procedures like endoscopy and laparoscopy.
Implementation Method 1
The electrode may be energized for purposes of cutting, dissecting, ablating, marking, coagulating, cauterizing, or otherwise treating and/or manipulating tissue
Implementation Method 2
The visualization feature may form a blind angle of approximately 30 degrees or less when the distal tip of the electrode is extended approximately 1 mm to approximately 3 mm, such as approximately 1.5 mm, from a distal end face of the end cap
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device includes a shaft, an end cap, and an electrode. The shaft includes a conductive element. The end cap is coupled to a distal end of the shaft. The electrode is coupled to the distal end of the shaft and passes through the end cap. The electrode includes an electrode shaft and a distal tip, and the electrode is electrically connected to the conductive element. The end cap includes a visualization feature.