Fluoroscopic Urethrogram Instrument with Ruler-Guided Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current retrograde urethrogram (RUG) procedures face limitations such as underestimation of urethral stricture length, misdiagnosis due to improper positioning, increased radiation exposure, and operator dependency, which affect the accuracy and safety of the diagnostic test.
Innovation Solution
A fluoroscopic retrograde urethrogram instrument with a penile clamp assembly and a revolving slide support equipped with radiological ruler markings, allowing precise penis positioning and measurement during RUG procedures, reducing radiation exposure through a remotely controlled injection device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional RUG positioning methods are used, then the procedure is simple to perform, but the measurement accuracy of urethral stricture length is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning device is divided into multiple functional components: a positioning member with clamp for securing the penis, a measurement member with ruler markings for length measurement, and a support member for stability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability and measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional 2D fluoroscopic imaging to a 3D positioning system with multiple degrees of freedom. The positioning member can adjust in multiple dimensions (vertical, horizontal, angular), and the measurement member extends in multiple directions, enabling accurate 3D localization and measurement of urethral strictures regardless of their spatial orientation.
2Measurement precision
If oblique positioning is used during RUG, then the procedure can be performed, but the urethral stricture length is underestimated
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member is designed with dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing real-time modification of position and angle during the procedure. The clamp can be moved vertically and horizontally, and the measurement member can be rotated and extended, enabling the operator to dynamically achieve the optimal viewing angle that eliminates oblique projection errors and ensures accurate length measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement member with ruler markings provides visual feedback on the fluoroscopic image, allowing the operator to continuously monitor and adjust the positioning to ensure accurate measurement. The radiopaque markings serve as a reference that confirms correct alignment and eliminates oblique positioning errors.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If trial and error positioning is used, then the procedure can be attempted, but radiation exposure to patient and technician increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member and measurement member are pre-configured with radiopaque markings and standardized dimensions that can be directly positioned using the measured anatomical landmarks. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for repeated trial-and-error adjustments, reducing radiation exposure while maintaining procedural efficiency.
4Measurement precision
If urethral catheter is used without proper positioning, then the procedure can be performed, but distal urethral strictures are misdiagnosed
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member serves multiple functions: it secures the penis, positions the urethral catheter, and provides measurement reference. The measurement member with ruler markings serves both as a positioning guide and as a measurement tool. This multi-functionality ensures accurate localization of distal urethral strictures without requiring separate complex positioning systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Medical manipulation of a patient's penis for examination and treatment of a urethral stricture is performed using a penile clamp assembly with support members for the patient's penis and a slider block, a revolving slide support and a base. The support members include a proximal penile clamp and a distal penile injection support, which support the patient's penis. The slider block has a configuration to allow the penile clamp assembly to slide along a length of the revolving slide support. The revolving slide support uses a hinged mounting arrangement for mounting the revolving slide support on the base.