Helical Electrode Catheter Irrigation via Segmented Tube
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for irrigating tissue during RF ablation procedures, such as cardiac ablation, require time-consuming and costly perforation of electrodes, which can weaken the electrode structure and are inefficient in distributing irrigation fluid.
Innovation Solution
A medical probe with a distal portion containing multiple perforations for fluid communication, paired with a conductive helical electrode fitted over the insertion tube, allowing for efficient irrigation without weakening the electrode structure, and enabling effective cooling of the tissue during ablation procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If the electrode is perforated to enable irrigation, then irrigation fluid can be delivered to the tissue, but the electrode structure is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the irrigation function from the electrode structure by using a distinct insertion tube with perforations, while the helical electrode remains intact. This segmentation allows irrigation fluid delivery without compromising electrode structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tube acts as an intermediary component that carries the irrigation function. The tube with its perforations serves as the medium through which cooling fluid is delivered to the tissue, while the electrode itself remains unperforated and structurally sound.
2Temperature
If traditional perforated electrodes are used for irrigation, then tissue can be cooled during ablation, but the manufacturing process is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the cooling function into a separate component (the perforated insertion tube) from the electrode. This allows the electrode to be manufactured using standard processes without complex perforation steps, reducing manufacturing time and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tube with perforations serves as a disposable or replaceable component that enables irrigation functionality without requiring expensive modifications to the electrode itself. The simpler construction of the tube makes it more cost-effective to manufacture.
3Quantity of substance
If the electrode is perforated for irrigation, then fluid communication is achieved, but the perforation process is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation function is segmented into a dedicated tube component with pre-formed perforations, separate from the electrode manufacturing process. This allows parallel production of both components, improving overall manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion tube with perforations serves as a separate copy or duplicate structure that provides the irrigation function without requiring the electrode to be modified. This copying approach allows standard electrode manufacturing processes to be used.
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 provides efficient and cost-effective irrigation, reducing tissue charring and thrombus formation while maintaining the structural integrity of the electrode, and can be easily manufactured and adapted for various medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
energy is imparted to body tissue locally, in a concentrated dose... heating tissue with radio-frequency (RF) electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
the solution flows out through the holes during the procedure in order to cool the catheter tip and the tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An invasive probe includes an insertion tube containing a lumen for providing an irrigation fluid and comprising a distal portion having a plurality of perforations therethrough providing fluid communication between the lumen and an outer surface of the insertion tube. At least one helical electrode is fitted over the distal portion of the insertion tube.