Flexible PCB Ablation Catheter for Microelectrode Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ablation catheters lack effective mechanisms for securing the tip electrode during procedures, and there is a need for improved heat exchange and force regulation during tissue ablation, while also facilitating efficient fluid flow and signal acquisition from the tissue.
Innovation Solution
The catheter incorporates microelectrodes fitted within apertures in the tip electrode, coupled to a PCB for signal acquisition, and a slotted tube with strain gauges for force regulation, along with a narrow space for efficient heat exchange through fluid flow between the PCB and tip electrode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a catheter uses separate dedicated irrigation tubings for each electrode, then fluid delivery flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple irrigation functions into a single integrated catheter structure with a unified fluid delivery system. The catheter integrates the ablation electrode, irrigation apertures, and fluid pathways into one component, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tubings for each electrode while maintaining the ability to deliver fluid to different zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter is designed as a multi-functional device that performs ablation, irrigation, and fluid delivery through a single integrated structure. The universal fluid delivery system can serve multiple electrodes and zones within the catheter, providing versatility without requiring separate dedicated pathways for each function.
2Ease of operation
If the catheter includes multiple pump heads operating independently, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple pump functions into a single pump head with multiple outlets or a unified pumping mechanism. This consolidation maintains the ability to control fluid flow to different zones independently while reducing the overall number of pump components and simplifying the mechanical structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the catheter uses an integrated ablation system with multiple components, then ablation capability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ablation electrode, irrigation system, and fluid delivery mechanisms into a single integrated catheter assembly. This integration allows the operator to control all functions through one device interface rather than coordinating multiple separate components, improving ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive ablation capability.
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 solution provides secure anchoring of the tip electrode, accurate force measurement, enhanced heat exchange, and efficient fluid flow, improving the safety and efficacy of ablation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The catheter includes a plurality of strain gauges coupled to the slotted tube and in fluid communication with the distal end of the catheter. The strain gauges are configured to detect a force applied to the catheter.
Implementation Method 2
The catheter includes a plurality of microelectrodes, which are coupled to at least one printed circuit board disposed within a lumen of the catheter. The microelectrodes are fittingly situated within microelectrode apertures in the tip electrode. During the ablation procedure, the microelectrodes may be used to acquire signals from the tissue.
Implementation Method 3
The PCB is positioned within a lumen of the tip electrode such as to define a space, between the PCB and an inner surface of the tip electrode, for passage of the fluid to the fluid apertures.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described embodiments include apparatus that includes a catheter and a tip electrode, at a distal end of the catheter, shaped to define a plurality of microelectrode apertures. The apparatus further includes at least one printed circuit board (PCB) disposed within a lumen of the catheter, and a plurality of microelectrodes coupled to the PCB and at least partly situated within the microelectrode apertures, the PCB being configured to carry signals from the microelectrodes. Other embodiments are also described.