Myocardial Sensor Array for Infarct Scar Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing myocardial tissue viability, such as echocardiography and delayed enhancement MRI, are limited by high costs, variability, and lack of precision in infarct scar localization, which affects the accuracy of ablation and cardiac resynchronization therapy lead implantation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of sensors positioned on the myocardial substrate to track relative displacement and apply forces to determine infarct presence, utilizing processors to measure and analyze sensor data for accurate characterization and localization of infarct scars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If echocardiography is used to assess infarcted tissue, then the assessment can be performed non-invasively, but the measurement has intra-observer and inter-observer variability and is indirect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect mechanical imaging methods (echocardiography, DE-MRI) with direct mechanical sensing. Sensors are implanted in the myocardium to directly measure mechanical properties (stiffness, elasticity) of the tissue, providing precise localization of infarct scars without the variability of image-based methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensor implants as intermediaries between the myocardial tissue and the assessment system. These sensors directly contact the tissue and provide real-time mechanical property measurements, serving as a bridge that eliminates the need for indirect imaging and reduces observer variability.
2Measurement precision
If DE-MRI is used to characterize myocardial tissue, then detailed imaging is obtained, but the cost is high and device compatibility remains an issue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs small, inexpensive sensor implants that can be easily integrated into the myocardium during procedures. These simple mechanical sensors replace complex, expensive DE-MRI equipment, making the technology more accessible and compatible with various clinical settings without requiring specialized imaging devices.
3Loss of information
If EGMs are used to provide information about cardiac tissue, then electrical activity is measured, but the information is inferential and limited by the number of sites covered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the myocardial substrate into multiple measurement sites using an array of sensors. Each sensor measures local mechanical properties, and the collective data provides comprehensive characterization of the entire substrate, eliminating the limitations of single-site EGM measurements.
4Ease of operation
If left ventricular lead implantation is performed near infarct zones, then pacing benefit may be achieved, but the electrical inactivity of non-viable tissue reduces efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary mechanical characterization of the myocardial substrate before lead implantation. By measuring stiffness and elasticity at multiple sites, the system identifies viable tissue regions in advance, allowing clinicians to place leads in optimal locations that guarantee electrical activity and pacing efficacy.
5Manufacturing precision
If ablation is performed for scar-related ventricular tachycardia, then precision in lesion location is required, but traditional electro-anatomical mapping does not account for mechanical properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges electrical mapping with mechanical sensing by integrating sensors that measure both electrical activity and mechanical properties (stiffness, elasticity) at the same locations. This combined approach provides comprehensive substrate characterization, enabling precise localization of infarct scars and optimal ablation site selection.
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 enhances the accuracy of substrate characterization and localization, reducing dependency on costly imaging and improving decision-making during cardiac procedures, allowing for more precise ablation and lead implantation.
Implementation Method 1
applying a plurality of successive forces through a tool to the myocardial tissue in a region of interest (ROI), and holding each of the plurality of successive force for a duration of time, wherein the tool includes a tip and a sensor positioned on the tip; measuring a plurality of deflections of the tip of the tool, wherein each of the plurality of deflections corresponds to each of the plurality of successive forces applied to the myocardial tissue in the ROI
Implementation Method 2
tracking a relative displacement between the first sensor and the second sensor; and determining whether the myocardial substrate site includes an infarct based on the tracked relative displacement
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for quantifying myocardial kinetics by positioning two sensors on a myocardial substrate site so that one sensor is directly opposing the other along a ventricular wall; tracking a relative displacement between the two sensors; and determining whether there is an infarct based on the tracked relative displacement.