Impedance-Sensing Needle Tip for 3D Tissue Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insertion devices lack the capability to rapidly and accurately detect different tissue types during procedures such as injection or aspiration, while also facilitating substance delivery or tissue ablation, and they often require external imaging that exposes both the clinician and patient to radiation or provide limited three-dimensional location information.
Innovation Solution
Integration of electrically conductive layers with insulating layers in insertion devices like needles or catheters, which allow for real-time tissue type detection using electrical impedance spectroscopy, RF signal application for tissue heating, and three-dimensional tip positioning, combined with optical radiation for imaging and ablation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If external imaging systems (ultrasound, optical visualization) are used to identify tissue structures, then visualization capability is improved, but device complexity and procedure time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (tissue detection via electrical impedance spectroscopy, substance injection, and aspiration) into a single integrated insertion device. The electrodes are incorporated directly into the needle structure, eliminating the need for separate external imaging systems and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining tissue identification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion device is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it can detect tissue types using electrical impedance spectroscopy, inject substances through the lumen, and aspirate fluids. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate imaging and intervention devices, reducing procedural steps and system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If stylet removal and syringe connection are required after tissue detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The electrodes are pre-integrated into the needle structure during manufacturing, eliminating the need for separate stylet removal and syringe connection steps. The tissue detection capability is built into the insertion device itself, allowing continuous operation without manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection electrodes and injection/aspiration lumen are combined into a single integrated device structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate stylet and syringe components, allowing the practitioner to perform tissue detection and substance delivery through one continuous device without manual reconfiguration.
3Measurement precision
If ionizing radiation imaging is used for three-dimensional positioning, then location determination accuracy is improved, but harmful factors (radiation exposure) increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ionizing radiation-based imaging systems with electrical impedance spectroscopy for tissue detection and localization. This substitution uses non-ionizing electrical fields to achieve three-dimensional positioning and tissue identification, eliminating radiation exposure to both patient and clinician while maintaining measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If multiple separate devices are used for detection, injection, and aspiration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and productivity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges tissue detection electrodes, substance injection lumen, and fluid aspiration capability into a single integrated insertion device. This allows the practitioner to perform all functions through one device without changing instruments or reconnecting components, significantly improving procedural efficiency while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion device is designed with universal functionality to detect tissue types using electrical impedance spectroscopy, inject substances through the central lumen, and aspirate fluids simultaneously or sequentially. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple separate devices and manual reconfiguration, improving workflow efficiency.
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, real-time tissue type identification and three-dimensional positioning, allowing for accurate substance delivery or aspiration, and minimizes radiation exposure by using non-ionizing optical methods for imaging and ablation.
Implementation Method 1
detection of a tissue type by determination of an electrical impedance between the first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer
Implementation Method 2
application of radio frequency signals to the tissue to heat the target tissue
Implementation Method 3
an optically transmissive layer circumferentially surrounding a base structure... transmit an imaging signal to a target tissue
Implementation Method 4
optical (e.g., including but not limited to light) radiation... application of radio frequency signals to the tissue to heat the target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary tissue detection and location identification apparatus can include, for example, a first electrically conductive layer at least partially (e.g., circumferentially) surrounding a lumen, an insulating layer at least partially (e.g., circumferentially) surrounding the first electrically conductive layer, and a second electrically conductive layer circumferentially surrounding the insulating layer, where the insulating layer can electrically isolate the first electrically conductive layer from the second electrically conductive layer. A further insulating layer can be included which can at least partially surrounding the second electrically conductive layer. The first electrically conductive layer, the insulating layer, and the second electrically conductive layer can form a structure which has a first side and a second side disposed opposite to the first side with respect to the lumen, where the first side can be longer than the second side thereby forming a sharp pointed end via the first side at a distal-most portion. The exemplary configuration can be used for (a) determination/detection of a tissue type using impendence of the electrically conductive layers, and/or (ii) determination of a location of at least one portion of the insertion device/apparatus. Based on such determination, it is possible to effectuate ablation or heating of tissue by applying RF energy across the electrically conductive layers.