Elongated Probe for Transversal Tissue Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for characterizing biological tissue using optical imaging techniques face challenges such as excessive fluid usage, non-targeted fluid delivery, and difficulty in directing fluids to specific regions of interest, leading to imaging artifacts and inefficient data collection.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that involves inserting an elongated probe into the region of interest, directing a fluid through a fixed fluid opening, and transmitting electromagnetic radiation transversally to the probe, allowing for precise fluid delivery and data collection, enabling characterization of tissue properties using various imaging techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluid is introduced into biological tissue to reduce imaging artifacts and increase image penetration depth, then image quality is improved, but excessive fluid is required and regions other than the region of interest are exposed to the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The probe divides the tissue into a region of interest and surrounding regions by directing fluid only through a localized opening at the probe tip, ensuring fluid is applied segmentally only where needed for imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The probe applies fluid locally to the region of interest through a focused opening, creating a localized fluid-tissue interface that improves image quality without exposing large volumes of surrounding tissue to the fluid
2Length of stationary object
If fluid is introduced into biological tissue to facilitate optical imaging, then image penetration depth is increased, but direction of the fluid to the region of interest and subsequent removal is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The probe establishes a controlled fluid delivery path through its opening before imaging begins, allowing precise direction of fluid to the region of interest and facilitating easier removal by simply stopping the flow
Solution Approach 2:
The probe extracts the fluid delivery function from bulk tissue infiltration and concentrates it into a controlled flow through a specific opening, making fluid direction and removal straightforward operations
3Loss of information
If electromagnetic radiation is directed transversal to the elongated probe body, then data corresponding to multiple dimensions is obtained, but the probe structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated probe body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines the fluid delivery opening, and acts as a mounting structure for the electromagnetic radiation source and detector, reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The probe merges the fluid delivery system and electromagnetic radiation detection system into a single integrated structure, where the elongated body houses both functions and positions them in fixed spatial relationships
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 approach allows for targeted fluid application and efficient data collection, reducing imaging artifacts and improving the accuracy of tissue characterization by minimizing fluid usage and enhancing image penetration depth and mechanical property analysis.
Implementation Method 1
directing electromagnetic radiation to the region of interest from the probe and receiving electromagnetic radiation from the region of interest by the probe
Implementation Method 2
directing a fluid to the region of interest through a fluid opening of the elongated probe body
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method for characterizing a region of interest within or between biological tissue. The method comprises inserting at least a portion of a probe into the region of interest and directing electromagnetic radiation to the region of interest and receiving electromagnetic radiation from the region of interest using the probe in a direction that is transversal to a length of the probe. Further, the method comprises directing a fluid to the region of interest through a portion of the probe and analyzing received electromagnetic radiation.