Flexible Epidural Electrode with Integrated Temperature Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing epidural catheter systems lack integrated temperature monitoring, simultaneous fluid injection and electrical signal delivery capabilities, and are not designed for flexible placement in the epidural space, leading to increased complexity and reduced effectiveness in pain management procedures.
Innovation Solution
A unitized epidural electrode system with a flexible shaft constructed using a spring coil, integrated temperature sensor, and a moveable stylet, allowing for simultaneous delivery of radiofrequency signals and fluid injection while providing flexible placement and temperature monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate temperature sensor probe and cannula are used, then temperature monitoring capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temperature sensor and cannula into a single integrated unit. The temperature sensor is positioned within the cannula structure, allowing simultaneous temperature monitoring and fluid injection through one device rather than requiring separate components. This integration directly reduces device complexity while maintaining temperature monitoring capability.
2Strength
If a stiff shaft constructed from stainless steel hypotube is used, then structural strength is achieved, but flexibility for epidural placement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid stainless steel hypotube with a flexible shaft constructed from a coil structure. The coil provides inherent flexibility allowing the cannula to navigate the curved pathways of epidural placement, while maintaining sufficient structural strength through the coil's mechanical properties. This flexible coil design enables easier insertion and positioning in the epidural space compared to rigid hypotube constructions.
3Measurement precision
If a TC electrode is placed in the cannula, then temperature monitoring is achieved, but fluid injection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the temperature sensor within the cannula structure itself, allowing the cannula to perform dual functions: temperature monitoring and fluid injection simultaneously. The sensor is positioned such that it does not obstruct the fluid pathway, enabling both therapeutic fluid delivery and temperature measurement through the same device without requiring separate components.
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 efficient and flexible delivery of radiofrequency therapy and fluid injection during epidural procedures, improving pain management by allowing for precise temperature control and reduced procedural complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The shaft of the epidural electrode is constructed using a spring coil
Implementation Method 2
heating of the target tissue by RF power dissipation of the RF signal output in the target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method involving an electrode system can include a flexible shaft.