Coordinated Laser and Imaging Signal Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intravascular imaging technologies, such as ultrasound and optical coherence tomography, experience interference with laser energy during laser-based ablation procedures due to overlapping signal pulses, affecting the accuracy and effectiveness of both the laser ablation and imaging processes.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that coordinate the output of laser and imaging signals by ensuring each pulse of the laser signal and imaging signal are emitted in non-overlapping time windows, using a controller to synchronize the pulsed signals and reduce interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If laser energy is delivered during intravascular imaging procedures, then ablation effectiveness is improved, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic pulsed action by delivering laser energy in discrete pulses rather than continuous wave, with pulse durations of 1-10 milliseconds separated by intervals. This periodic delivery allows imaging signals to be acquired between laser pulses, reducing signal interference while maintaining ablation effectiveness through cumulative thermal effects.
Solution Approach 2:
A timing coordinator acts as an intermediary between the laser delivery system and imaging system, synchronizing their operations. The coordinator manages the timing sequences to ensure imaging occurs during intervals when laser energy is not being delivered, thereby mediating the conflict between ablation and imaging functions.
2Productivity
If pulsed laser signals and imaging signals are delivered simultaneously, then procedural efficiency is improved, but signal interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Both laser and imaging operations are structured as periodic pulses with coordinated timing. The laser delivers energy in pulses followed by imaging acquisition pulses, creating a periodic cycle that maintains high procedural throughput while eliminating simultaneous signal overlap that causes interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The timing coordinator performs preliminary scheduling of laser and imaging pulses before actual delivery. By pre-planning the pulse sequence and ensuring imaging pulses are scheduled in advance during laser-off intervals, the system prevents interference before it occurs while maintaining efficient procedural flow.
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
This coordination significantly reduces signal interference, enhancing the accuracy of laser ablation and imaging by maintaining clear visualization and effective tissue removal during vascular procedures.
Implementation Method 1
laser based catheter devices are often used to ablate the occlusions in the vessels (that is, perform atherectomy or removal of the stenosis)
Implementation Method 2
optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system and method for coordinated laser delivery and imaging during an interventional procedure. A method may include activating an imaging source to provide a pulsed imaging signal and activating a laser source to provide a pulsed laser signal while the imaging source remains activated. The method may include coordinating the pulsed laser signal and the pulsed imaging signal to output each pulse of the pulsed laser signal and each pulse of the pulsed imaging signal in non-overlapping time windows. A system may include a controller in communication with the laser source and the imaging source for coordinating the output of the laser signal and the imaging signal.