Off-Center Irrigation Passageway for Accurate Thermal Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional irrigated ablation catheters with distal irrigation passageways on the center axis compromise temperature monitoring accuracy due to off-center positioning of thermal sensors, leading to inconsistent readings, especially in parallel contact orientations.
Innovation Solution
The catheter design moves the distal irrigation passageway off-center, allowing a thermal sensor to be placed near the center axis, enhancing temperature monitoring while maintaining effective irrigation capabilities through offset irrigation passageways and a thermally insulated manifold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the distal irrigation passageway is located on the center axis of the electrode assembly, then the irrigation function is optimized, but the thermal sensor must be positioned off-center which compromises temperature measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by deliberately positioning the irrigation passageway off-center relative to the electrode assembly's longitudinal axis. This asymmetric configuration allows the thermal sensor to be placed at the optimal central location for accurate temperature measurement, while the irrigation opening is offset to a specific radial distance and angular position that ensures effective cooling without interfering with sensor performance.
2Device complexity
If the thermal sensor is positioned off-center to accommodate the center-axis irrigation passageway, then the irrigation structure is simplified, but the temperature reading becomes inconsistent depending on electrode orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by creating an asymmetric layout where the irrigation passageway is offset from the center axis. This allows the thermal sensor to be positioned centrally at the optimal measurement location, ensuring consistent temperature readings regardless of electrode orientation. The asymmetric positioning of the irrigation opening does not complicate the overall structure but rather enables the sensor to be placed where it is most effective.
3Measurement precision
If the distal irrigation passageway is moved off-center, then the thermal sensor can be positioned near the center axis for improved temperature monitoring, but the irrigation flow distribution may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the irrigation opening at a specific localized position that is offset from the center axis. The opening is placed at a radial distance of 0.5-2.0 mm and a specific angular position relative to the electrode surface. This localized positioning ensures that the irrigation flow is directed precisely where it is needed for effective cooling, while simultaneously allowing the thermal sensor to be positioned centrally for accurate temperature monitoring.
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 configuration provides improved and consistent temperature monitoring across various operating orientations without impairing distal tip irrigation, enhancing the accuracy and control of ablative procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal sensor, such as a thermocouple, thermistor or the like, may be disposed within a sensor cavity in the electrode at or near the center axis
Implementation Method 2
The distal irrigation passageway is thermally insulated
Data Source
AI summary
An irrigated ablation catheter includes a shaft and an electrode assembly affixed to a distal end of the shaft. The distal electrode assembly includes a manifold and an ablation electrode affixed together and extending along a center axis. The electrode has a distal irrigation passageway extending therethrough to an opening at a distal tip of the electrode. The opening of the irrigation passageway is offset in distance from the center axis, and allows a thermal sensor such as a thermocouple to be located in a sensor cavity in the electrode on or near the center axis. One variation involves providing a pair of distal irrigation passageways through the electrode where both of the openings of the passageways are offset from the center axis. The thermal sensor in this variation is located in the sensor cavity substantially on the center axis.