Multi-lead Radiofrequency Probe for Irregular Tumor Ablation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices for tissue ablation using radiofrequency energy lack versatility and precision in treating irregularly shaped tumors, often resulting in incomplete ablation and undesired tissue scarring due to limited control over the ablation zone.
Innovation Solution
A multiple lead ablation system with helically wound electrodes and radially extending probes, each independently controlled, allows for customized treatment by varying the distance and configuration of electrodes and probes to achieve uniform temperature distribution and homogeneous ablation zones, enabling precise ablation of non-spherical tumor shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single electrode probe is used for tissue ablation, then the device structure is simple, but the control over ablation zone shape and uniformity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The ablation probe is divided into multiple independent electrode leads (first lead, second lead, third lead, fourth lead) arranged in a multi-lead configuration. Each lead can be independently controlled to deliver radiofrequency energy, allowing segmented treatment of different tumor regions and improved control over ablation zone geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Different electrode leads are positioned at specific orientations and distances from the central axis to create localized heating zones. The first and second leads are positioned at first and second distances from the central axis respectively, enabling differentiated energy distribution to match irregular tumor shapes and achieve uniform temperature distribution across the target volume.
2Device complexity
If electrodes are positioned at fixed distances from the central axis, then the device structure is simplified, but the ability to treat irregularly shaped tumors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode leads are designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing dynamic modification of their radial distances from the central axis. This enables the ablation system to adapt to various tumor geometries by adjusting electrode configurations to match the specific shape and size of the target lesion.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-lead configuration employs asymmetric positioning of electrodes at different radial distances and angular orientations around the central axis. This asymmetric arrangement allows the creation of non-spherical ablation zones that conform to irregular tumor shapes, overcoming the limitations of symmetric single-needle designs.
3Device complexity
If radiofrequency energy is delivered through a single probe, then the energy delivery system is simple, but the temperature distribution uniformity is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The radiofrequency energy delivery is segmented across multiple independent electrode leads, each capable of delivering controlled energy to specific regions. This segmentation allows for distributed heating that achieves more uniform temperature distribution throughout the tumor volume compared to single-probe delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple electrode leads are combined in a coordinated multi-lead configuration where each lead contributes to the overall heating pattern. By merging the thermal fields from multiple sources positioned at different locations, the system achieves homogeneous temperature distribution and complete tumor necrosis.
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 provides better control over the ablation zone, reducing the risk of incomplete ablation and tissue scarring, allowing for efficient and uniform tissue necrosis in complex tumor geometries.
Implementation Method 1
The delivery of radiofrequency energy to treatment regions within solid tissue is known for a variety of purposes. Radiofrequency energy may be delivered to diseased regions in target tissue for the purpose of causing tissue necrosis.
Implementation Method 2
Electrosurgical probes have been designed for the treatment and necrosis of tumors in the liver and other solid tissues.
Data Source
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AI summary
Tissue regions are treated using a multiple lead electrode probe. A plurality of electrodes may be disposed about an elongate shaft. The elongate shaft may be slidably disposed within a lumen of a delivery sheath. One or more probes including one or more electrically active regions may also be slidably disposed within the delivery sheath. The one or more probes may be configured to extend radially about the elongate shaft. The plurality of electrodes and the electrically active regions may be individually connected to a control and power unit through individual channels.