Low-Coherence Interferometry Needle Probe for Tissue Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging needle probes for tissue identification during biopsies are costly, complex, and require extensive training due to their high technical requirements, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, particularly in procedures like head and neck surgeries where differentiating tissue types by gross inspection is challenging.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, portable imaging system using a single-mode optical fiber integrated into a standard needle probe that employs one-dimensional interferometric ranging, reducing the need for complex components and allowing for real-time tissue type identification with simplified light sources, detectors, and feedback mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional OCT or confocal microscopy needle probes are used for tissue imaging, then tissue type identification capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential function of tissue identification from complex imaging systems. Instead of implementing full OCT or confocal microscopy with scanning mechanisms and multiple lenses, the invention uses a simplified low-coherence interferometry approach with a single optical fiber to obtain depth-resolved backscattering information sufficient for tissue characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive, disposable optical fibers and simple interferometric components that can be discarded after use, replacing expensive, complex, and reusable imaging systems. This makes the technology economically viable for routine clinical procedures.
2Measurement precision
If conventional OCT systems with high-speed scanning are used, then imaging quality is improved, but cost and system complexity increase dramatically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems with a stationary optical fiber probe. Instead of physically scanning beams across the tissue using motors and mirrors, the invention uses low-coherence interferometry to obtain depth information optically, eliminating complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters from high-speed scanning (1000 scans/second) to low-speed or static measurement. The simplified system accepts lower scanning rates because it only needs to capture depth-resolved backscattering profiles for tissue identification, not high-resolution cross-sectional images.
3Measurement precision
If high power broad bandwidth light sources are used in conventional LCI systems, then imaging performance is improved, but cost and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses partial action by employing lower power light sources (reducing from 5 mW to lower levels) that provide sufficient backscattering signal for tissue identification without the excessive power needed for high-resolution OCT imaging. The system accepts reduced imaging performance in exchange for lower power consumption and cost.
4Measurement precision
If complex scanning mechanisms and lenses are included in needle probes, then imaging capability is enhanced, but probe complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the optical fiber probe universal by eliminating application-specific optical components. A single mode optical fiber can be used for various tissue imaging applications without requiring custom-lens assemblies or scanning mechanisms for each specific use case, simplifying manufacturing and deployment.
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 significantly decreases the cost and size of the imaging system, enabling its use in common procedures and providing accurate, real-time feedback for precise tissue differentiation, reducing unnecessary operative time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
These refractive index interfaces may give rise to scattering which is the signal detected by LCI and OCT
Implementation Method 2
low-coherence interferometry imaging for tissue diagnosis
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for needle biopsy with real time tissue differentiation using one dimensional interferometric ranging imaging, comprising a biopsy device having a barrel and a needle, an optical fiber inserted in the needle, and a fiber optic imaging system connected to the optical fiber. The imaging system obtains images and compares the optical properties and patterns to a database of normalized tissue sample images to determine different tissue types. The physician performing the biopsy obtains feedback via a feedback unit associated with the biopsy device and which is connected to the imaging system. The feedback unit can provide visual, audible or vibratory feedback as to tissue type encountered when the needle is inserted toward the target tissue. The feedback unit can be programmed for different biopsy procedures so that the user can actuate a button to select a display or other feedback mechanism for the desired procedure and anticipated tissue to be encountered.