Flexible Diaphragm Needle Stabilizer for CT Biopsy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current needle positioning devices for CT-guided biopsies are mechanically complex, difficult to use, and often ineffective in stabilizing the needle position, leading to iterative and painful procedures with increased radiation exposure for patients and medical personnel.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, low-cost, disposable needle stabilizing apparatus featuring a flexible diaphragm supported by a frame structure that allows pivoting of the needle, providing high visibility and ease of readjustment, and can be adhered to the skin using adhesives or suction for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional needle positioning devices are used, then needle stabilization is attempted, but the devices are mechanically complex and difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible diaphragm instead of complex mechanical structures. The diaphragm is a thin, flexible membrane that can be easily adhered to the skin and provides sufficient stabilization without requiring complex mechanical components. This flexible film approach replaces the need for heavy mechanical arms, protractors, and adjustment mechanisms while maintaining needle stabilization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a disposable diaphragm that can be easily discarded after use, eliminating the need for complex, reusable mechanical devices. The simple, low-cost diaphragm structure reduces manufacturing complexity and allows for single-use application, avoiding the need for sterilization and maintenance of complex mechanical components.
2Measurement precision
If iterative needle repositioning is performed, then positioning accuracy is improved, but procedure time and radiation exposure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm is pre-positioned and adhered to the skin before needle insertion, establishing a stable reference framework in advance. This preliminary stabilization allows the needle to be inserted and positioned accurately in a single attempt, eliminating the need for iterative repositioning and subsequent CT scanning, thereby reducing procedure time and radiation exposure.
3Ease of operation
If conventional positioning devices are used, then needle placement is attempted, but visibility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm is designed as a modular, segmented structure that can be cut or configured to fit different body areas and patient sizes. This segmentation allows the same basic diaphragm design to be adapted to various anatomical locations such as the chest, abdomen, or limbs, providing versatility without requiring different devices for each body area.
Solution Approach 2:
The diaphragm can be adjusted by changing parameters such as size, shape, and adhesion strength to suit different body areas and patient requirements. The flexible nature of the diaphragm allows it to conform to different anatomical contours, providing adaptability while maintaining ease of needle placement through its simple, intuitive design.
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
The apparatus simplifies the needle positioning process, reducing procedure time and radiation exposure, while allowing for precise and comfortable needle placement with improved visibility and adaptability for different body areas.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible diaphragm is configured to releasably grip the shaft of the needle
Implementation Method 2
A needle stabilizing apparatus includes a base for adhering to a patient's skin
Implementation Method 3
can be adhered to the skin using adhesives or suction for stability
Data Source
AI summary
A stabilizing apparatus for stabilizing the position of a needle when penetrating the skin of a patient, the apparatus has a frame structure with a base for placement against the skin in the vicinity of an intended needle entry point. A flexible diaphragm is supported by the frame structure and is spaced apart from the base of the frame structure to be disposed at a position away from the skin. The flexible diaphragm is configured to releasably grip the shaft of the needle at a distance from the needle entry point.