Microdialysis Probe Attachment Sheet for Moving Organ Sampling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current microdialysis systems face challenges in reliably sampling interstitial fluid concentrations of small molecules from moving organs like the beating heart, due to potential probe dislodgment and tissue damage, leading to prolonged equilibration times and inaccurate readings.
Innovation Solution
A microdialysis device with a distal part configured for temporary attachment on an organ surface, featuring a semi-permeable material for substance exchange and an attachment sheet for secure placement, allowing continuous sampling of metabolic substances without the need for probe insertion within the organ tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a microdialysis probe is inserted into the substance of a beating heart, then metabolic monitoring capability is improved, but tissue damage and probe dislodgment risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into distinct functional segments: a flexible distal portion with the dialysis membrane for tissue interaction, and a more rigid proximal portion for connection and stability. This segmentation allows the distal end to conform to organ surfaces while the proximal end maintains structural integrity for reliable fluid delivery and sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from intratissue probe insertion to surface placement. The distal portion is designed to be placed on the surface of moving organs rather than inserted into the substance, fundamentally changing the dimensional approach from internal to external monitoring while achieving the same metabolic monitoring capability.
2Reliability
If a microdialysis probe is inserted into organ tissue, then sampling capability is improved, but equilibration time increases due to tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
The probe incorporates pre-formed channels and a structured membrane support system that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. This preliminary structuring ensures immediate functional capability upon placement, eliminating the need for post-insertion equilibration periods as the probe begins sampling immediately without requiring tissue adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation of the membrane support structure from the membrane itself allows the support to provide immediate structural stability while the membrane performs its sampling function, eliminating the equilibration time required when the membrane and support are integrated or when tissue damage occurs.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid mounting is used to support the dialysis membrane, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to moving organs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The probe structure is segmented into a flexible distal portion that contacts the organ surface and a more stable proximal portion. This segmentation allows each segment to perform its optimized function: the distal end adapts to organ movement while the proximal end provides structural stability for fluid delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal portion of the probe is designed with flexible materials and a compliant structure that can dynamically adapt to the movement and deformation of living organs. This dynamic flexibility allows the probe to maintain stable contact and sampling capability during organ contraction and movement without requiring rigid fixation.
4Strength
If the distal end of the center tube is fixedly joined to the distal fitting part, then probe reinforcement is improved, but complete withdrawal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed as an integrated unit where the distal end, including the membrane and support structure, forms a self-contained sampling element. This segmentation allows the distal sampling portion to be selectively removed or left in place while the proximal portion is withdrawn, providing both structural reinforcement during use and flexibility for complete or partial withdrawal based on clinical needs.
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 solution enables more reliable and efficient sampling of metabolic changes in organs, reducing tissue damage and equilibration time, while providing stable measurements during procedures like cardiac surgery.
Implementation Method 1
Sample collection is based on passive diffusion through a semi-permeable material placed at the end of a catheter or a probe.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a dialysis device (1), more particularly a microdialysis device for the sampling of substances from the surface of a body organ. The device is particularly useful in the context of the monitoring of a moving organ, such as a beating heart, as the device comprises attachment means (2) allowing for a flexible and reliable attachment thereto. Furthermore, the microdialysis device provides for an efficient exchange of substances, such as metabolic substances, between the organ and the dialysis fluid through a semi-permeable material forming part of the device. There is also provided a method encompassing the device of the disclosure.