Multielectrode RF Ablation Probe for Conformal Lesion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiofrequency ablation techniques face challenges in precisely controlling the size and shape of lesions, often resulting in unpredictable tissue destruction and potential harm to adjacent structures due to irregularly shaped target areas and imperfections in the lesion-making process.
Innovation Solution
The use of multielectrode radiofrequency ablation probes with bipolar electrode sets and independent RF switch or signal phase and amplitude control systems allows for incremental and sequential energy application to multiple electrode groups, enabling precise control of temperature and ablation volume, matching the shape and size of the target area while minimizing tissue damage to adjacent structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple repeated ablations are performed to expand lesion size and shape to match irregular target areas, then the overall ablation volume increases, but the lesion becomes unpredictable in size and shape, potentially causing unnecessary tissue destruction or harm to adjacent structures
Solution Approach 1:
The ablation process is segmented into multiple sequential steps, with each electrode in the array contributing to a specific portion of the target volume. The system divides the target area into multiple zones that can be ablated independently and simultaneously, allowing precise control over the final lesion geometry while achieving complete coverage of irregular target shapes
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic pulsed RF energy delivery to each electrode in a sequential manner. By controlling the timing and duration of energy application to each electrode individually, the system builds up the ablation volume in a controlled, predictable sequence rather than through repeated unpredictable ablations
2Volume of moving object
If electrode size and number are increased to generate larger lesions, then the ablation volume increases, but the device complexity and procedural difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from traditional single-point or linear electrode arrangements to a three-dimensional array of electrodes distributed throughout the probe tip. This spatial distribution in multiple dimensions allows the system to generate large, complex ablation volumes without requiring excessively large individual electrodes or overly complex mechanical configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The multielectrode array is designed to be universally applicable to various target geometries and sizes. By controlling which electrodes are activated and at what power levels, the same device can adapt to different clinical scenarios without requiring multiple specialized probes, reducing overall system complexity
3Volume of moving object
If probe repositioning is performed to achieve complete target coverage, then the ablation volume increases, but the procedure time and potential for unpredictable lesions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The target volume is segmented into multiple zones corresponding to individual electrodes or electrode groups. All zones are treated simultaneously in a single probe position through parallel energy delivery to multiple electrodes, eliminating the need for sequential repositioning and significantly reducing procedure time while maintaining complete coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous ablation of the entire target volume in a single continuous energy delivery process rather than requiring intermittent probe repositioning. Multiple electrodes deliver energy simultaneously, creating a continuous ablation front that completes the procedure faster and more predictably
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 approach enables the creation of predictable, controlled, and conformal ablation volumes, reducing unnecessary tissue destruction and improving the accuracy of radiofrequency ablation by allowing for gradual, incremental development of ablation volumes and precise temperature control at each electrode.
Implementation Method 1
RF current produces tissue destruction by causing rapid oscillation of ions in the region of the probe tip. This results in frictional heating which, when it reaches about 47° C. and above, causes electrocoagulation, i.e. tissue destruction or ablation.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of multielectrode radiofrequency (RF) ablation probes are described herein that disclose methods and apparatus for improved control and predictability of the size and shape of RF thermal electrocoagulations. The features of the invention include the ability to make irregularly shaped ablations in order to conform to irregularly shaped target tissue volumes, and to make very large ablations without the requirement for electrode cooling.