Foamed Echogenic Composition for Fallopian Tube Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging techniques for fallopian tube patency evaluation using echography or sonohysterography face challenges with particle-free, embryotoxic-free, and cost-effective solutions that provide high-quality images without compromising patient health, particularly in the use of hydrophilic compositions which are not suitable for ultrasound imaging.
Innovation Solution
The development of a foamed, echogenic image-enhancing composition using a hydrophobic, water-immiscible matrix with air bubbles, optionally mixed with small quantities of water, which maintains stability and echogenic properties for extended periods, allowing for easier filling and imaging of fallopian tubes with ultrasound, and potentially offering fertility benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If hydrophilic water-based compositions are used for distension and contrast imaging with ultrasound, then the fluid is echolucent and transparent for ultrasound waves, but the image quality and contrast are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines hydrophobic oil-based fluid with air bubbles to create a composite composition that is highly echogenic for ultrasound imaging. The oil provides a stable matrix that maintains bubble distribution, while the air bubbles provide strong echogenic contrast, resolving the contradiction between image quality and echogenicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the contrast medium by using oil-based fluid with specific viscosity ranges (20-500 cP) and controlling air bubble size distribution (0.1-5 mm). These parameter changes enable the composition to be both echogenic and stable during imaging procedures
2Reliability
If air bubbles are introduced into water-based compositions to increase echogenicity, then contrast is enhanced, but the bubbles are not stable and escape quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite oil-based system where the hydrophobic oil matrix stabilizes air bubbles through interfacial tension effects. The oil's specific physical properties (viscosity 20-500 cP, density 0.8-1.2 g/cm³) prevent bubble coalescence and escape, maintaining stability throughout the imaging procedure
Solution Approach 2:
By controlling oil viscosity within 20-500 cP and air bubble size within 0.1-5 mm, the patent optimizes the physical parameters to achieve both high echogenicity and prolonged bubble stability. These parameter ranges prevent premature bubble dissolution while maintaining ease of injection
3Reliability
If radiopaque contrast agents are used in radiology, then dense contrast is achieved, but the agents can be harmful if spilled into the body
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radiological X-ray detection system with an ultrasound-based detection system. This substitution eliminates the need for harmful radiopaque agents containing heavy metals or iodide, using instead harmless oil-based fluid with air bubbles that provide adequate contrast through acoustic impedance differences
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses biocompatible, biodegradable oil-based fluid that can be safely absorbed or eliminated by the body. The composition is designed to be harmless even if spilled into body cavities, eliminating the safety concerns associated with persistent radiopaque contrast agents
4Reliability
If X-rays are used for radiological diagnostics, then dense contrast images are obtained, but the radiation can damage living tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes ionizing radiation (X-rays) with non-ionizing ultrasound waves for image acquisition. The ultrasound system detects echoes from air bubbles in the oil-based fluid, providing sufficient contrast without the tissue-damaging effects of ionizing radiation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces air bubbles as an intermediary contrast agent that strongly reflects ultrasound waves. These bubbles act as acoustic mirrors, providing high-contrast images of fallopian tubes and body cavities without requiring harmful ionizing radiation
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 solution enables painless and safer imaging of fallopian tubes with excellent ultrasound image quality, reducing rest fluid and pressure, while maintaining stability and echogenicity, thus improving the assessment of tubal patency and potentially enhancing fertility outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a foamed, echogenic image enhancing composition, suitable for (medical) imaging of the fallopian tubes, said composition comprising a continuous hydrophobic, water-immiscible matrix, wherein air bubbles are retained
Implementation Method 2
echography or sonohysterography is a different technique to obtain medical diagnostic images, making use of ultrasound waves
Data Source
AI summary
The invention pertains to an echolucent image enhancing hydrophobic, water-immiscible composition, wherein the composition turns echogenic when foamed with air or gas bubbles formed from mechanically inserting (i) air or gas; or (ii) aqueous solution with air or gas into the hydrophobic, water-immiscible composition. The invention also pertains to a foamed echogenic image enhancing hydrophobic, water-immiscible composition and optionally comprising aqueous solution forming a single-phase, said composition comprising air or gas bubbles retained in the composition, and wherein the volume ratio of aqueous solution:hydrophobic, water-immiscible composition is preferably in the range of between 0:100 (i.e. no aqueous solution) and 75:25, preferably between 0:100 and 60:40.