Integrated RF Electrode with Built-in Temperature Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF electrode systems for pain relief and tissue modification lack integrated temperature sensors for accurate temperature monitoring, are complex with multiple separate components, and require additional guidance needles, leading to increased procedural complexity and risk of electrode movement during placement.
Innovation Solution
A unitized high-frequency electrode system with a rigid, insulated shaft and a built-in temperature sensor at the uninsulated electrode tip for close thermal contact, allowing for accurate temperature monitoring and self-supported penetration of skin and tissue near the spine, eliminating the need for separate guidance needles and reducing component complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate components (cannula, Tconnector, TC electrode) are used for RF electrode system, then each component can be optimized independently, but the device complexity increases and procedural time increases due to multiple connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cannula, Tconnector, and TC electrode into a single integrated unitized electrode system. The temperature sensor is built into the electrode tip, and the injection port is integrated into the cannula structure, eliminating the need for separate components and multiple connections during the procedure.
2Ease of operation
If separate components are connected during the procedure, then each component can be independently positioned, but the procedural time increases and the risk of electrode movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated design allows the entire electrode assembly to be positioned as a single unit, eliminating the time-consuming step of connecting multiple separate components after insertion. The unitized structure prevents movement that could occur during repeated connections and disconnections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used, then assembly flexibility is maintained, but the number of manipulations increases which can cause electrode movement and loss of accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated electrode system eliminates multiple manipulation steps during assembly, reducing the risk of accidental electrode movement. The built-in temperature sensor ensures accurate placement by providing immediate temperature feedback once the electrode is positioned, without requiring additional connection steps that could displace the electrode.
4Measurement precision
If built-in temperature sensor is integrated into the electrode tip, then temperature monitoring accuracy improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor is integrated directly into the electrode tip structure, allowing for close thermal contact with the tissue. This integration is achieved through manufacturing processes that embed the temperature sensor elements during electrode fabrication, balancing manufacturing complexity with the benefit of improved temperature monitoring accuracy.
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
The system enables fast and accurate temperature monitoring, simplifies the procedure by reducing component complexity, and enhances the stability and accuracy of electrode placement, thereby improving the effectiveness of RF treatments for spinal nerves and ganglia.
Implementation Method 1
a built-in temperature sensor at the uninsulated electrode tip for close thermal contact, allowing for accurate temperature monitoring
Implementation Method 2
heating of the target tissue by RF power dissipation of the RF signal output in the target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for the application of an electrical signal to neural tissue and other target tissue in the living body.