Multimodal Probe Rotary Joint for Combined IVUS-OCT Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing intravascular imaging technologies, such as IVUS and OCT, have limitations in penetration depth and resolution, necessitating a system that integrates both modalities to combine their advantages without disadvantages.

Innovation Solution

A patient interface unit (PIU) that includes a combination rotary joint, catheter body, and electromagnetic interference reduction components, allowing for synchronized rotation and data transmission of both optical and ultrasound signals, enabling a single probe to collect and transmit both IVUS and OCT data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If OCT is used for imaging, then image resolution is improved, but penetration depth deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidpenetration depth

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines OCT and IVUS imaging modalities into a single integrated catheter system. The OCT module provides high-resolution imaging (10-20 micrometer resolution) for detailed visualization of plaque morphology and stent struts, while the IVUS module provides deeper penetration (4-8 mm) for imaging the full vessel wall. By merging these two modalities, the system achieves both high resolution and adequate penetration depth that neither modality can achieve alone.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Length of moving object

If IVUS is used for imaging, then penetration depth is improved, but image resolution deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepenetration depthVSAvoidimage resolution

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated system merges IVUS and OCT modalities where IVUS provides deep penetration (4-8 mm) for imaging the full vessel wall thickness, while OCT provides high-resolution supplementary imaging (10-20 micrometer resolution) for detailed plaque and stent visualization. The combination allows the system to achieve both deep penetration and high resolution that IVUS alone cannot provide.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a single probe collects both IVUS and OCT data, then device versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveimaging modality integrationVSAvoidprobe structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nested structure where the OCT imaging module is positioned within the IVUS catheter. The OCT module includes an optical fiber that can rotate independently within the catheter body, while the IVUS transducer forms the outer structure. This nesting allows both modalities to share the same catheter pathway and collection system, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate probes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The single catheter probe is designed to perform multiple functions: it collects both optical data (OCT) and ultrasound data (IVUS) from the same vascular location. The probe includes both an OCT module with optical fiber and beam director, and an IVUS module with acoustic wave generator, enabling dual-modality imaging through a single device that can be inserted through one catheter.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 high-resolution imaging with improved penetration depth by integrating IVUS and OCT data collection, facilitating better diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery diseases.

Implementation Method 1

a stationary section of a sample arm of an interferometer disposed within the cover and comprising a stationary optical fiber section having an endface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical fiber transmission: Optical Fibre

Implementation Method 2

The probe tip includes a beam director and an acoustic wave generator such as a transducer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic wave generation: Ultrasound

Data Source

PatentUS12569222B2Interface devices, systems and methods for multimodal probes

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 LIGHTLAB IMAGING LLC

AI summary

In one aspect, the invention relates to one or more rotatable elements and one or more stationary element such that the elements are arranged along a common axis of rotation co-linear with or substantially parallel to an optical path. The optical path is a portion of a sample arm of an interferometer. Further, the rotatable and stationary elements are configured to couple electrical signals and optical signals between a data collection probe and an interface unit or other component of an imaging system. In one embodiment, the data collection probe is a combination ultrasound and OCT probe. In one aspect, the invention relates to a rotary joint in which the optical fiber and a fiber optic rotary joint lie in the center of one or more conductive elements of an electrical rotary joint which are annularly disposed around one or both of the optical fiber and optical rotary joint.