Needle With Calibrated Aperture For Portal Pressure Gradient Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring portal pressure gradient require time for the static column of blood to stabilize and involve priming the needle, which can be inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A medical device with a needle featuring a varying diameter channel and a flow-rate sensor, such as a Doppler sensor, to measure blood flow rate and calculate pressure gradient, allowing for quicker and more accurate measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pressure transducer is used to evaluate a static column of blood, then pressure measurement can be obtained, but it takes time for the static column to stabilize and the needle must be primed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressure transducer system with an acoustic Doppler system. Instead of using a pressure transducer to evaluate a static column of blood, the invention uses a Doppler sensor to detect acoustic signals from blood flow through the needle, eliminating the need for static column stabilization and needle priming while providing accurate pressure gradient measurements
2Measurement precision
If a pressure transducer is used to evaluate a static column of blood, then pressure measurement can be obtained, but the needle must be primed to remove air
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical pressure transducer requiring needle priming with an acoustic Doppler detection system. The Doppler sensor detects acoustic signals generated by blood flow through the needle, eliminating the requirement for needle priming to remove air, thereby simplifying the operational procedure while maintaining measurement accuracy
3Productivity
If a flow-rate sensor is used to measure blood flow rate, then rapid measurement is achieved, but a varying diameter channel must be manufactured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the diameter of the needle channel along its length. The channel transitions from a larger diameter at the distal end to a smaller diameter at the proximal end, creating a flow restriction that generates measurable pressure gradients. This geometric parameter variation enables the use of flow-rate sensors for rapid measurements while the varying diameter channel can be manufactured using standard needle fabrication techniques
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 rapid and precise measurement of portal pressure gradient by minimizing stabilization time and eliminating the need for needle priming, improving clinical efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor coupled to the flow sensor may then collect a reading. The sensor may include a Doppler sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved device and method of use include a needle for measuring blood pressure, and particularly blood pressure gradient of the portal vein (or other vessels) relative to atmospheric pressure. The embodiments disclosed utilize a flow rate sensor (e.g., a Doppler sensor), which has certain features and advantages over prior devices. A channel for controlling a flow rate of the blood through a needle cannula has a diameter that is less than an inner diameter of the cannula and the flow sensor is placed and configured to measure a flow rate of the blood as the blood flows through the cannula.