Microwave Ablation Power Splitter for Tissue Energy Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microwave ablation systems face challenges in accurately determining the extent of microwave energy penetration into tissue, making it difficult to assess the area or volume of tissue to be ablated, which can lead to inconsistent treatment outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A microwave ablation system that includes a power splitting device capable of selectively dividing microwave energy between multiple energy delivery devices, allowing for controlled and tailored energy distribution to achieve precise ablation geometries and desired tissue effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microwave energy is applied via antenna assemblies to ablate tissue, then tissue destruction is achieved, but it is difficult to assess the extent of microwave energy penetration and determine the area or volume of tissue to be ablated
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by using multiple antenna assemblies that can detect and provide information about the extent of microwave energy penetration into tissue. This feedback allows the control system to assess the ablation zone and adjust energy distribution accordingly, resolving the measurement difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary detection mechanisms (additional antenna assemblies) that act as mediators between the microwave energy source and the tissue. These intermediaries detect energy penetration depth and provide measurable data about the ablation zone, making the invisible energy distribution visible and controllable.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple antenna assemblies are used to deliver microwave energy, then more uniform energy distribution can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the microwave energy delivery function into multiple separate antenna assemblies, each responsible for a specific region or direction. This segmentation allows independent control and optimization of each antenna, achieving more uniform overall energy distribution while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple antenna assemblies serve multiple functions: they can independently deliver microwave energy for ablation, detect energy penetration depth, and provide feedback for control system adjustments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall device 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
Enables precise control over the ablation process, allowing for tailored energy distribution to specific areas, improving the consistency and effectiveness of tissue ablation procedures while minimizing energy loss.
Implementation Method 1
A microwave ablation system includes a microwave energy source and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the microwave energy source and a plurality of outputs
Implementation Method 2
Electromagnetic radiation can be used to heat and destroy tumor cells. Once the probes are positioned, electromagnetic energy is passed through the probes into surrounding tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A microwave ablation system includes an energy source adapted to generate microwave energy and a power splitting device having an input adapted to connect to the energy source and a plurality of outputs. The plurality of outputs are configured to be coupled to a corresponding plurality of energy delivery devices. The power splitting device is configured to selectively divide energy provided from the energy source between the plurality of energy devices.