MRI Detectable Obturator with Sealed Distal End
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current obturators used in MRI-guided biopsies are homogeneous, making it difficult to accurately locate the tip during imaging due to inconsistent image signatures, and they allow backflow of blood, which can lead to clotting.
Innovation Solution
An obturator with an elongated shaft containing an MRI-detectable agent in the distal portion to provide a clear image signature and a sealed distal end to prevent fluid backflow, allowing for precise placement and delivery of markers or treatments without interfering with tissue imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If homogeneous material is used for obturator construction, then manufacturing is simplified, but image signature consistency deteriorates making tip location difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The obturator incorporates an MRI detectable agent specifically in the distal shaft portion near the tip, while other portions may use different materials. This localized modification provides consistent image signature where needed (at the tip) without requiring the entire obturator to be made of specialized material, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity while improving measurement precision.
2Ease of operation
If obturator allows blood backflow into lumen, then delivery function is maintained, but clotting risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end of the obturator is configured with a sealed or valve mechanism that prevents blood from flowing back into the lumen before marker delivery. This preliminary protective action eliminates the clotting risk that would otherwise occur during the procedure, while still allowing controlled delivery of markers when needed.
3Reliability
If distal end is sealed to prevent backflow, then clotting risk is reduced, but marker delivery capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The distal end incorporates a valve mechanism that can dynamically transition between sealed and open states. The valve remains closed during insertion to prevent blood backflow and clotting, then opens to allow marker delivery when required. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by providing both protective sealing and delivery capability at different stages of the procedure.
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 MRI-detectable obturator enables accurate placement and minimizes blood backflow, enhancing the precision of biopsy procedures and reducing the risk of clotting, while allowing for clear imaging of adjacent tissue.
Implementation Method 1
an MRI-detectable agent in the distal shaft portion so as to provide a T1 magnetic resonance image within an outline of the distal shaft portion of the obturator
Data Source
AI summary
An obturator with an elongated shaft, a proximal end, a substantially closed distal end and a MRI detectable distal shaft portion, which does not interfere with magnetic resonance imaging of tissue proximate thereto. Preferably, the distal shaft portion has an effective MRI detectable mass so as to provide a clear, T1-weighted image within an outline of the distal shaft portion upon magnetic resonance imaging.