Optic Probe for Chest Tube Thoracostomy Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current chest tube thoracostomy procedures have high complication rates due to sub-optimal placement, with existing methods lacking definitive and objective confirmation of proper tube positioning within the thoracic space, leading to potential trauma and unknown clinical effects.
Innovation Solution
A chest tube thoracostomy system incorporating an optic probe with a shaft and tip end, configured for releasable engagement with the chest tube, and a viewing device for direct visualization, which can include a light source, fiber optics, camera, and wireless image transmission, facilitating objective confirmation of proper placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional chest tube insertion methods are used, then the procedure can be performed, but proper tube placement cannot be definitively confirmed, leading to sub-optimal placement and complications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical assessment methods (blunt dissection, digital exploration, water-seal inspection) with optical visualization technology. An optic probe with camera captures real-time images of the thoracic cavity and tube position, allowing direct visual confirmation of proper placement, thereby improving both measurement precision and procedure safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical system between the surgeon and the thoracic cavity. The optic probe acts as a mediator that transmits visual information from the internal thoracic space to the surgeon's viewing device, enabling indirect but definitive observation of tube placement without direct visual access
2Loss of information
If two-dimensional radiographs are used for placement verification, then imaging is obtained, but definitive confirmation of proper tube positioning is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional radiographic imaging to three-dimensional optical visualization. The camera on the optic probe captures spatial information from multiple angles and depths within the thoracic cavity, providing comprehensive visual data that reveals tube position, orientation, and surrounding structures with far greater detail and accuracy than planar radiographs
3Reliability
If direct visual confirmation is implemented, then proper tube placement can be verified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the optic probe is inserted through the chest tube itself. The camera and optical components are housed within the protective shaft of the probe, which is then passed through the tube during insertion. This nested design allows the complex optical system to be delivered through a simple, familiar medical device pathway, minimizing additional complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the verification function from the tube itself by extracting the optical confirmation capability into a distinct, removable probe. This allows the chest tube to remain a simple, reliable drainage device while the complex optical system serves only the verification function, enabling the two functions to be optimized independently
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
The system provides definitive and objective confirmation of chest tube placement, reducing the risk of trauma and complications by enabling direct visual confirmation of the tube's position within the thoracic space, surpassing the limitations of two-dimensional radiographs and subjective water-seal inspections.
Implementation Method 1
The optic probe may comprise fiber optics
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods that can improve the safety and efficacy of chest tube thoracostomy are described. For example, this document provides systems and methods that facilitate direct visual confirmation of the proper placement of a chest tube within the thoracic space.