Impedance-Guided Ablation Voltage for Epicardial Fat Thickness
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring epicardial fat thickness are time-consuming and inefficient, leading to potential inaccuracies in determining the appropriate ablation voltage for cardiac tissue, which can result in ineffective or harmful treatments due to variations in fat thickness and electrical impedance.
Innovation Solution
A device with spaced electrodes that measure electrical current and impedance to determine a suitable voltage for ablation by comparing impedance values, allowing for real-time adjustment to ensure effective penetration of adipose tissue without damaging underlying muscle tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If imaging methods (ultrasound or X-rays) are used to measure epicardial fat thickness before surgery, then the fat thickness can be quantified, but the process is time-consuming and requires days before surgery to allow for interpretation by highly trained medical staff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (ultrasound/X-ray equipment requiring trained operators) with an electrical impedance measurement system. The impedance catheter directly measures tissue properties through electrical signals, eliminating the need for complex imaging interpretation by highly trained medical staff and enabling immediate results during the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electrical model of tissue properties through impedance measurements that replicates the information obtained from imaging methods. By measuring electrical impedance at different frequencies and positions, the system generates data that corresponds to fat thickness and tissue composition without requiring physical imaging, thus providing immediate results.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed voltage is applied for ablation without real-time impedance measurement, then the procedure is simpler, but the effectiveness is compromised because the voltage may be too high or too low depending on varying fat thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously measuring electrical impedance during the ablation procedure. The system uses these impedance measurements to dynamically adjust the ablation voltage, ensuring that the applied voltage is always appropriate for the current tissue conditions. This closed-loop control maintains both simplicity and reliability by automatically adapting to tissue variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static fixed-voltage approach into a dynamic system where the ablation voltage continuously adapts to changing tissue conditions. The impedance measurements provide real-time information about fat thickness and tissue properties, allowing the system to adjust voltage parameters on-the-fly rather than relying on pre-determined fixed values.
3Measurement precision
If impedance measurements are taken at multiple locations around the heart, then the fat assessment becomes more accurate, but the measurement process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the impedance catheter multi-functional by integrating both measurement and ablation capabilities in a single device. The same catheter that delivers ablation energy also performs impedance measurements at multiple locations, eliminating the need for separate measurement equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the impedance measurement function with the ablation function into a single integrated system. By merging these functions, the patent eliminates the need for separate measurement devices and procedures, reducing complexity while enabling comprehensive multi-location impedance assessment during the ablation procedure itself.
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 precise determination of ablation voltage for adipose tissue layers, reducing the risk of damaging non-target tissues and ensuring effective treatment of target cells like epicardial ganglionated plexi cells.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor configured to, or for, measuring an electrical current, from the emitted pulse of electrical energy emitted from the said electrode and which said pulse extends through a portion of an adjacent tissue when in use
Implementation Method 2
a processor configured to or for; calculating an impedance value, from the known voltage of the pulse of emitted electrical energy and the electrical current
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for determining a voltage of electrical energy for subjecting to an adipose tissue, by comparing the calculated impedance value of the adjacent tissue with one or more previous calculated impedance values.