Magnetic Probe for Sentinel Lymph Node Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating sentinel lymph nodes during surgery are error-prone, expensive, and logistically burdensome, and lack the ability to accurately delineate 3D regions of interest, particularly in cases involving metallic fragments.
Innovation Solution
A magnetism-based detection system using injectable magnetic nanoparticles and a sensitive magnetic probe, combined with a computer module to control current supply and signal processing, allowing for precise localization of magnetic materials within the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radioactive dye is used to locate sentinel nodes, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and logistical burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radioactive detection system with a magnetic detection system. Instead of using radioisotopes and radiation detectors, the invention uses magnetic nanoparticles injected into the lymphatic system and detects them using a magnetic probe, thereby eliminating the need for nuclear medicine resources while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from radiation emission to magnetic field interaction. By using magnetic nanoparticles that respond to magnetic fields rather than radioactive isotopes that emit radiation, the system achieves equivalent detection accuracy without the logistical complexity of radioisotope management
2Ease of operation
If surface tattooing is used to mark regions of interest, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to show 3D location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic nanoparticles as an intermediary substance that can be injected into the tissue to mark regions of interest. These particles serve as a mediator between the surgeon's marking need and the 3D localization requirement, allowing precise spatial identification without complex surface tattooing procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical surface tattooing process with a minimally invasive injection procedure followed by magnetic detection. Instead of applying dye or staples to the skin surface, the system injects magnetic particles that can be precisely located in three dimensions using a magnetic probe
3Ease of operation
If conventional detection methods are used for metallic fragments, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection system using magnetic nanoparticles that can detect both sentinel nodes and metallic fragments. The same magnetic probe and nanoparticle injection methodology serves multiple diagnostic functions, improving precision across different detection scenarios while maintaining ease of operation
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 system provides a more accurate and cost-effective method for locating sentinel lymph nodes and detecting other magnetic materials, reducing errors and logistical burdens, while enabling 3D tattooing for surgical navigation.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic probe; a power module in electrical communication with the magnetic probe to supply current to the magnetic probe; a sense module in electrical communication with the magnetic probe to receive signals from the magnetic probe
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for locating magnetic material. In one embodiment the system includes a magnetic probe; a power module in electrical communication with the magnetic probe to supply current to the magnetic probe; a sense module in electrical communication with the magnetic probe to receive signals from the magnetic probe; and a processing module in electrical communication with the power module and the sense module. The processing module generates a waveform that controls the supply of current from the power module and receives a signal from the sense module that indicates the presence of magnetic material. The magnetic probe is constructed from a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion of substantially 10−6/° C. or less and a Young's modulus of substantially 50 GPa or greater. In one embodiment magnetic nanoparticles collect in the lymph nodes. In one embodiment the particles have a mean hydrodynamic diameter of between 5-200 nm.