Laser Catheter Orientation Indicators and Coordinated Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Previous laser catheters for excimer laser angioplasty lack coordination between the transmission of laser energy and the actuation of components that augment the ablation process, leading to inefficiencies in treating arterial blockages.
Innovation Solution
A laser energy delivery device with a controller that energizes visual indicators based on the rotational position of a prime mover, a sensor to detect laser energy transmission, and an ancillary device that augments treatment, such as a drive wire for eccentric rotation of the distal end of the sheath, allowing for coordinated actuation of ancillary devices based on laser energy detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If laser energy transmission and ancillary device actuation are operated independently in previous laser catheters, then device simplicity is maintained, but treatment coordination and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser energy transmission control and ancillary device actuation into a single coordinated system. The controller receives a single command signal and simultaneously activates both the laser energy delivery through transport members and the ancillary devices (such as aspiration or irrigation components), ensuring they operate in unison to improve treatment efficiency while managing system complexity through integrated control logic.
2Measurement precision
If visual indicators are added to show rotational position of the prime mover, then operational precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators that change color or illuminate based on the rotational position of the prime mover. These indicators provide real-time feedback to the operator about the orientation of the distal tip, enabling precise alignment and positioning during the procedure. The use of optical indicators rather than complex mechanical measurement systems maintains relative simplicity while achieving high measurement precision for operational control.
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
Enhances the efficiency and precision of tissue ablation by ensuring synchronized operation of laser energy delivery and ancillary devices, improving the effectiveness of treating arterial blockages.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of transport members carried by the sheath, the plurality of transport members adapted to receive laser energy at the coupling, transmit laser energy through the sheath, and deliver laser energy to the subject
Implementation Method 2
a sensor adapted to detect transmission of laser energy through at least one of the plurality of transport members
Implementation Method 3
a drive wire carried by the sheath and eccentrically coupled to the distal end of the sheath, the drive wire adapted to be rotatably driven by the prime mover and rotating to eccentrically rotate the distal end of the sheath
Data Source
AI summary
A laser ablation catheter includes a distal tip, and the distal tip includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis. A first orientation indicator is formed on the body, and the first orientation indicator has an alphanumeric shape. A second orientation indicator is formed on the body. The second orientation indicator is disposed relative to the first orientation indicator such that when the distal tip is viewed in a first side view, the second orientation indicator and the first orientation indicator overlap, appear as the alphanumeric shape, and visually contrast with the body. The second orientation indicator is configured such that when the distal tip is viewed in a second side view, the second orientation indicator appears as the alphanumeric shape and visually contrasts with the body, the second side view and the first side view being substantially 90 degrees apart about the longitudinal axis.