Inflator Plunger Mechanism for Sinus Dilation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dilation procedures for anatomical passageways lack easy control over balloon inflation and deflation, particularly for single-operator procedures, and there is a need for improved visualization techniques to confirm proper balloon positioning.
Innovation Solution
A dilation catheter system incorporating an inflator with a plunger and flexible tube for controlled fluid transfer to inflate and deflate a balloon within the anatomical passageway, combined with an illuminating guidewire for external visualization of the balloon's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional dilation system is used, then the balloon can be inflated to dilate the anatomical passageway, but the operator lacks easy control over inflation and deflation, especially for single-operator procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The inflator device merges the balloon, fluid reservoir, and actuation mechanism into a single integrated unit that can be easily manipulated by one operator. The balloon is positioned within a fluid-filled reservoir that can be compressed to inflate the balloon, and the entire assembly can be deflated by simply releasing the compression, providing simple yet effective control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the operator to independently control both inflation and deflation of the balloon using a single hand-operated mechanism. The reservoir can be compressed to inflate the balloon, and when released, the balloon automatically deflates without requiring separate deflation mechanisms or additional operators.
2Measurement precision
If visual confirmation of balloon positioning is provided using traditional methods, then the operator can see the balloon position, but additional complex equipment and multiple operators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end of the balloon is colored or marked with a visible indicator that can be seen through the patient's skin or mucosa. This allows the operator to visually confirm the balloon's position and ensure proper positioning without requiring additional imaging equipment or multiple operators.
Solution Approach 2:
A radiopaque marker or contrast agent is incorporated into the balloon or its immediate environment, allowing visualization under fluoroscopy or other imaging modalities. This intermediary element enables precise positioning confirmation using existing imaging infrastructure rather than requiring specialized additional equipment.
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 and controlled dilation of anatomical passageways with improved visualization, allowing for efficient and accurate single-operator procedures without the need for complex equipment or multiple operators.
Implementation Method 1
an inflator with a plunger and flexible tube for controlled fluid transfer to inflate and deflate a balloon
Implementation Method 2
an illuminating guidewire for external visualization of the balloon's position
Data Source
AI summary
A dilation catheter system is provided to dilate the ostium of a paranasal sinus or some other anatomical passageway (e.g., within the ear, nose, or throat, etc.). The system may include a dilation catheter, a dilator, a guide catheter, and an inflator. The dilation catheter may be positioned between the dilator and the inflator. The guide catheter is configured to guide the dilator into the affected passageway. The inflator may then be actuated to transfer fluid from the inflator, through the dilation catheter, and into the dilator. The transfer of fluid may inflate the dilator to an expanded state to open or dilate the affected passageway. The inflator may include a body, a plunger assembly, and locking features that selectively secure the position of the plunger assembly relative to the body by moving along a path that is transverse to a longitudinal axis defined by the plunger assembly.