Internal Secondary Fragmentation for Calculi Evacuation Patency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clogging of evacuation pathways in calculi fracture devices during lithotripsy procedures impedes the continuous operation of the device, requiring manual intervention or device replacement, which disrupts the treatment process.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a secondary fragmentation mechanism along the evacuation pathway to further break down calculi fragments, using mechanisms such as rotating blades, grinders, or laser fibers to prevent clogging and ensure continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a primary fragmentation mechanism is used to break down calculi mass, then calculi fragments are produced for removal, but the evacuation pathway becomes clogged with fragments impeding continuous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by introducing a secondary fragmentation mechanism that divides the evacuation pathway function into two stages: primary fragmentation at the distal tip and secondary fragmentation at a proximal location. This multi-stage segmentation ensures fragments are progressively reduced in size to prevent clogging while maintaining high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary fragmentation mechanism performs preliminary action by pre-processing calculi fragments before they reach potential clog points in the evacuation pathway. By fragmenting pieces proximally before they can cause blockages, the system maintains continuous operation without manual intervention
2Reliability
If manual clearing of clogs is performed to maintain evacuation pathway patency, then clogging is removed, but the procedure is interrupted requiring additional time and personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary fragmentation mechanism implements self-service by automatically preventing and clearing clogs within the evacuation pathway without external intervention. The system monitors and responds to fragment accumulation autonomously, eliminating the need for manual clearing and procedure interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining uninterrupted fragment evacuation through the secondary fragmentation mechanism. This allows the lithotripsy procedure to proceed without pauses for manual clog clearing, saving time and maintaining procedural efficiency
3Reliability
If device replacement is performed to address severe clogging, then evacuation capability is restored, but procedural efficiency is reduced and additional resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary fragmentation mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by preventing severe clogging conditions from developing in the first place. Through continuous proximal fragmentation, the system cushions against the harmful effect of complete pathway blockage, eliminating the need for device replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the primary and secondary fragmentation mechanisms into a single integrated device, combining distal and proximal fragmentation capabilities. This unified approach maintains evacuation functionality without requiring backup devices or replacements, improving procedural 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
Prevents clogging in the evacuation pathway, allowing uninterrupted lithotripsy procedures by continuously or intermittently fragmenting calculi fragments, reducing the need for manual clearing and device replacement.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic transducer for transferring acoustic energy via a probe to fracture a calculi mass into calculi fragments
Implementation Method 2
The secondary fragmentation device can include one or more of an impeller or grinder or other mechanical fragmentation device, or an optical fragmentation device such as a laser
Implementation Method 3
an optical fragmentation device such as a laser
Implementation Method 4
an evacuation tube connected to the device along which suction is applied for removal of fragments
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure includes a calculi fracture device having an acoustic transducer for transferring acoustic energy via a primary fragmentation probe to fracture a calculi mass into calculi fragments, an evacuation tube connecting the probe to a pressure source, and a secondary fragmentation device located in an evacuation pathway extending along the fragmentation probe and the evacuation tube to further break up the calculi fragments to inhibit clogging at a more proximal location in the evacuation pathway. A method of inhibiting clogging of a calculi fracture device can include receiving, from a primary fragmentation device, fragments of a calculi mass along a passage of a evacuation pathway of the calculi fracture device and further breaking up the calculi fragments along the passage of the evacuation pathway at a location that is more proximal to a primary fragmentation location.