Fractional RF Electrode Assembly for Wet Tissue Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fractional RF devices are ineffective for delivering RF energy in wet environments, such as natural openings like the vagina, due to significant RF leakage through liquids, limiting their application for tissue remodeling inside these areas.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a mechanism to insert an array of sharp electrodes into natural openings, delivering RF energy through conductive elements while minimizing leakage, using a design that includes a non-disposable part with a motor or solenoid to push the electrodes and a mechanism to retract them, and controlling RF parameters for effective treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-insertable electrodes are used for RF treatment, then the device structure is simple and easy to operate, but RF energy delivery is ineffective in wet environments due to significant RF leakage through liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is divided into multiple individual conductive elements (needles) that can be independently controlled. Each needle can be inserted to a specific depth and angle, allowing precise delivery of RF energy to targeted tissue regions while minimizing RF leakage through surrounding liquids. The segmented design enables selective activation of individual needles based on treatment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an insertable applicator as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between non-contact RF electrodes and the tissue surface in wet environments. The applicator houses the electrode array and provides a mechanical interface for insertion, enabling RF energy delivery through the liquid barrier while the control system acts as an intermediary to manage energy distribution and minimize leakage.
2Measurement precision
If electrodes are inserted into tissue to deliver RF energy at different depths, then treatment precision is improved, but the risk of trauma and infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is designed with dynamic insertion and retraction capabilities, allowing needles to be inserted only when needed for treatment and retracted afterward to minimize trauma. The depth of insertion can be dynamically adjusted based on real-time treatment requirements, and the system can transition between different insertion states (fully inserted, partially inserted, retracted) to optimize both precision and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates visual indicators (color changes or lighting) to indicate the insertion depth and status of each needle, allowing operators to precisely monitor and control insertion depth without excessive force. This visual feedback mechanism prevents over-insertion and reduces trauma while maintaining treatment precision through accurate depth control.
3Productivity
If multiple electrodes are used for faster treatment, then productivity is improved, but the force required for insertion into tissue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented into multiple independent needles that can be inserted sequentially or in groups, allowing the total insertion force to be distributed across multiple smaller actions rather than one large force application. This segmentation enables faster treatment with multiple electrodes while reducing the force required for each individual insertion event.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion mechanism employs periodic or pulsing action to deliver electrodes into tissue, using repeated small-force insertion cycles rather than a single high-force application. This periodic insertion approach allows multiple electrodes to be placed with controlled, manageable forces while maintaining treatment speed through efficient sequencing of insertion events.
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 effective RF energy delivery and fractional thermal damage in wet environments, such as vaginal tissue, minimizing leakage and promoting faster healing with controlled thermal zones.
Implementation Method 1
An RF generator is configured for delivering RF energy to the array of electrode
Implementation Method 2
delivering RF energy in fractional manner at different depths in tissues... delivering RF energy through conductive elements while minimizing leakage... creating fractional thermal damage
Implementation Method 3
a non-disposable part with a motor or solenoid to push the electrodes and a mechanism to retract them
Data Source
AI summary
A method of applying RF energy includes using an RF energy applicator assembly to apply RF energy to a tissue. The RF energy applicator assembly includes a housing, and RF electrodes coupled to an RF energy source and movably mounted in the housing. The RF electrodes have a retracted position, in which the RF electrodes are retracted inside the housing, and deployed positions in which the RF electrodes protrude out of the housing at different protrusion lengths. An actuator is coupled to the RF electrodes and configured to move the RF electrodes from the retracted position to any one of the deployed positions.