Inflatable Anchor Member for Radiofrequency Ablation Electrode Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiofrequency ablation techniques face challenges in effectively targeting and controlling the treatment area, often resulting in either unwanted necrosis of adjacent tissue or inadequate coverage of affected areas, particularly in treating intervertebral disc abnormalities such as hernias, tears, or bulges, due to difficulties in positioning the electrode for optimal results.
Innovation Solution
The development of radiofrequency ablation devices and methods that include a cannula with a retractable and extendable electrode, an inflatable anchor member, and a computer system for real-time monitoring and control, allowing for precise temperature and pressure management, enabling more controlled and extensive tissue ablation with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the electrode is positioned using current RF ablation techniques, then the treatment can be performed, but the positioning difficulty results in unwanted necrosis of adjacent tissue or inadequate coverage of affected areas
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable anchor member is deployed before electrode positioning to secure the cannula at the target site. This preliminary anchoring action enables precise and stable electrode placement, preventing both inadequate coverage and unwanted necrosis of adjacent tissues by establishing the correct position before ablation begins
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable anchor member acts as an intermediary between the cannula and the target tissue site. By inflating the anchor member within the cannula, it provides a stable platform that facilitates precise electrode positioning and maintains optimal placement during the ablation procedure, thereby improving positioning precision and preventing harmful effects
2Area of stationary object
If the electrode is positioned to cover a larger treatment area, then wider coverage is achieved, but the control over the ablation range becomes difficult leading to unwanted necrosis
Solution Approach 1:
The computer system provides real-time feedback by monitoring temperature, pressure, and electrode position during the ablation procedure. This feedback mechanism allows the practitioner to control the ablation range precisely even when treating larger areas, preventing unwanted necrosis by continuously adjusting parameters based on measured values
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control of the ablation process with computer-based monitoring and control systems. The computer system automatically tracks temperature, pressure, and position data, substituting manual control mechanisms with automated systems that provide superior precision and control over the ablation range while covering wider treatment areas
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple cannula structure is used, then the device is easier to manufacture, but it lacks the anchoring capability to maintain precise position at the target site
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable anchor member is nested within the cannula structure, allowing the cannula to maintain its simple, easy-to-manufacture design while incorporating the anchoring functionality. The anchor member can be inflated inside the cannula to secure positioning at the target site without complicating the overall cannula structure or manufacturing process
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
These advancements enable safer and more effective radiofrequency ablation treatments by allowing for precise targeting and wider coverage of affected areas, reducing tissue damage and improving clinical outcomes in treating spinal disc pathologies.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable anchor member disposed around a portion of the longitudinal axis of the cannula and when inflated having a larger diameter than the diameter of the cannula and being configured to anchor the cannula tip at a desired position
Implementation Method 2
During radiofrequency (RF) ablation, current passing through tissue from an active electrode leads to ion agitation, which is converted by means of friction into heat
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3E
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
Various embodiments are described herein for an extendable electrode configured to receive and conduct radiofrequency discharges for heating a target tissue site, a device for deploying the extendable electrode, and an apparatus for deploying the extendable electrode. Methods for use of the device and apparatus in radiofrequency ablation are described. In various embodiments, the extendable electrode is a coil electrode. Embodiments are described wherein the electrode, device, apparatus, and methods provide radiofrequency ablation treatment of intervertebral discs.