Occlusion Detection via Electrical Impedance Perturbation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical procedures for monitoring the placement and effectiveness of occlusive devices in body lumens, such as those used in cardiology, face challenges in accurately determining the state of occlusion and potential leaks, relying on invasive imaging methods like fluoroscopy and ultrasound.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing electrical signal measurements to determine the state of occlusion by measuring changes in electrical impedance induced by perturbations, such as temperature changes or dielectric contrast agent injection, and classifying these changes to estimate the occlusion state and detect leaks between compartments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluoroscopy and ultrasound imaging methods are used to monitor occlusive device deployment, then the state of occlusion can be visualized, but the procedure becomes more invasive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical imaging systems (fluoroscopy, ultrasound) with an electrical measurement system. Electrical impedance measurements are taken across the lumenal space to detect fluid changes indicating occlusion state, eliminating the need for complex imaging equipment while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electrical impedance as an intermediary parameter to indirectly detect occlusion state. Instead of directly visualizing the occlusive device or fluid flow, the system measures electrical impedance changes caused by fluid dielectric property changes, providing a simpler measurement pathway
2Reliability
If invasive imaging methods are used to detect occlusion and leaks, then accurate monitoring is achieved, but patient invasiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes invasive mechanical imaging probes with non-invasive electrical impedance measurements. The electrical measurement system can detect occlusion state and leaks through impedance changes without requiring physical insertion of imaging equipment into the patient's body
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the body's own electrical properties to serve as the detection mechanism. By measuring electrical impedance through the skin and analyzing changes in the lumenal space, the system uses the patient's inherent electrical characteristics rather than requiring external imaging equipment to be inserted into the body
3Productivity
If traditional imaging methods are used for real-time monitoring, then occlusion state can be assessed, but the procedure time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming imaging acquisition and processing with rapid electrical impedance measurements. The electrical measurement system provides immediate feedback on occlusion state without the setup, acquisition, and processing time required by imaging modalities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic electrical impedance measurements to continuously monitor occlusion state in real-time. By taking repeated impedance measurements at regular intervals, the system achieves continuous monitoring capability with minimal procedure time addition
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 allows for non-invasive, real-time monitoring of occlusion states and leak detection, providing a more efficient and less invasive means to assess the effectiveness of occlusive devices in body lumens, improving procedural accuracy and patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
measuring changes in an electrical signal measured from the body of the patient, wherein the electrical signal changes are indicative of changes in a fluid within the lumenal space
Implementation Method 2
measuring changes in an electrical signal measured from the body of the patient, wherein the electrical signal changes are indicative of changes in a fluid within the lumenal space elicited by a perturbation of the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Degree of occlusion is monitored for an occlusive device configured to occlude passage of fluid between two compartments in a lumenal space of a body of a patient. In some embodiments, changes in an electrical signal measured from the body of the patient are induced by perturbing the fluid; for example, by “tagging” a portion of fluid with a perturbation of temperature and/or composition. The degree of occlusion is estimated based on the measured changes. The electrical signal changes may be indicative of fluid movements redistributing the perturbed fluid among the two compartments; for example, by diffusion, mixing, and/or jetting of fluid.