Force Sensor Nested in Sinuplasty Guide Catheter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ENT procedures, such as balloon sinuplasty, face challenges in accurately measuring and controlling the forces applied during anatomical passageway dilation, which can lead to overloading and potential damage to instruments or anatomical structures.
Innovation Solution
A dilation instrument system equipped with a force measurement system that includes multi-directional sensors to detect longitudinal, transverse, and torque forces, providing real-time feedback to prevent overloading, integrated with a guide catheter and guidewire assembly for precise anatomical access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If force measurement sensors are integrated into the guide catheter and dilation catheter, then measurement precision and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force measurement sensors are nested within the lumen of the guide catheter and dilation catheter. The sensor is positioned inside the catheter structure, allowing the catheter to guide the sensor to the target location while protecting the sensor during insertion and deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The force measurement system combines multiple components including the sensor, data acquisition module, and display into an integrated system. The sensor detects force, the data acquisition module processes the signal, and the display presents the information to the operator as a unified force measurement system
2Reliability
If real-time force monitoring is implemented during dilation, then reliability and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring force applied during dilation through the sensor and data acquisition module, and displaying the force information to the operator. This allows immediate adjustment of dilation forces to prevent tissue damage
Solution Approach 2:
The guide catheter is inserted and positioned in the target sinus ostium before the dilation catheter is deployed. This preliminary positioning establishes the correct anatomical pathway and ensures subsequent force measurements are taken at the appropriate location
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
Enhances the safety and precision of anatomical passageway dilation by monitoring and controlling forces applied during procedures, reducing the risk of instrument damage and anatomical injury.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor configured to detect forces exerted on the guide tube
Data Source
AI summary
A dilation instrument includes a body, a dilation catheter, a guide member, and a force sensor. The dilation catheter has an expandable dilator. The guide member extends distally from the body and is configured to guide movement of the expandable dilator. The force sensor is operatively connected to the guide member and is configured to sense a force imparted against the guide member for monitoring engagement with an anatomy of a patient.