Combined Laser and RF Vaginal Treatment Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for treating vaginal and other orifices with laser radiation lack the ability to provide comprehensive and uniform treatment without invasive procedures and efficient RF current application.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a retractor with a laser directing system and RF electrodes, utilizing scanning mirrors and a control unit to deliver pulsed laser radiation and RF current simultaneously, allowing for precise and non-invasive treatment of vaginal canal tissues without rotation, and enabling effective RF treatment of adjacent areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If laser radiation is used for treating vaginal canal tissues, then cutting and necrotizing capabilities are improved, but treatment uniformity and comprehensiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines laser radiation system and RF current system into a single integrated device with a common retractor structure. The laser source, RF current source, scanning mirrors, and electrodes are merged into one device that can treat the vaginal canal simultaneously or sequentially with both modalities, improving treatment comprehensiveness while maintaining uniformity through coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both laser treatment capabilities (for cutting and necrotizing) and RF current treatment capabilities (for uniform heating and collagen remodeling). The retractor structure serves multiple purposes: holding the device in position, supporting the laser directing system, and providing mounting for RF electrodes, thereby achieving comprehensive treatment with a single universal device.
2Manufacturing precision
If RF current is applied to vaginal canal tissues, then uniform heating and collagen remodeling are improved, but invasiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RF electrodes are designed as thin, flexible elements that can be positioned against the vaginal canal wall without causing significant trauma. The electrodes are integrated into the retractor structure, allowing them to conform to the tissue surface and deliver uniform RF energy with minimal invasiveness compared to traditional probe-based RF systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor structure serves as an intermediary between the RF current source and the vaginal canal tissues. It provides a stable platform for electrode positioning, ensures consistent contact with the tissue surface, and distributes the RF energy uniformly across the treatment area, thereby achieving uniform heating while minimizing direct invasive contact.
3Measurement precision
If a retractor and laser directing system are used, then treatment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as a positioning device for the laser system, a support structure for RF electrodes, and a device for holding the treatment probe in place. This integration reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture while maintaining precise laser beam positioning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser directing system, RF current delivery system, and retractor structure are merged into a single integrated device. The scanning mirrors, laser source, and RF electrodes are all mounted on or within the retractor assembly, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and reducing operational complexity despite the advanced functionalities provided.
4Productivity
If pulsed laser radiation is delivered with scanning mirrors, then treatment coverage and efficiency are improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives signals from the pulsed laser source and scanning mirrors and coordinates their operation to achieve precise treatment patterns. The system likely incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the position of the scanning mirrors and the timing of laser pulses, allowing for accurate control of the treatment area and depth while maintaining high treatment efficiency through automated coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser is operated in pulsed mode with periodic action, where pulses are delivered in sequences controlled by the scanning mirrors. This periodic delivery allows for efficient treatment of large areas by moving the laser beam systematically across the target tissue, improving productivity while the control unit manages the timing and positioning to maintain precision without excessive complexity.
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 device provides uniform and efficient laser and RF treatment of vaginal canal tissues, reducing invasiveness and improving treatment efficacy by allowing controlled, pulsed delivery of laser and RF currents without overlapping tissue exposure.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source... The laser radiation may have a wavelength comprised between 1,000 nm and 12,000 nm, and preferably equal to 10,600 nm
Implementation Method 2
two electrodes for applying a RF current to the tissues of said walls
Data Source
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AI summary
The device for treating the vaginal canal or other orifices, both natural or surgically obtained orifices, by means of a laser beam, comprises a retractor (19) for the wall of the vaginal canal or orifice, associated with a system for directing the laser beam towards said wall, and with at least one electrode for applying a RF current.