Rotatable Optical Imaging Probe for Flexible Intravascular Reach
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging probes are limited in their ability to reach certain anatomical locations due to their size and rigidity, and their insertion over a guidewire compromises placement and limits the use of delivery catheters.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with an imaging probe featuring an elongate shaft, a rotatable optical core, and an optical assembly that directs and collects light, along with an imaging assembly to produce images, and includes features like multiple reference paths and algorithms to reduce non-uniform rotational distortion and enhance image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If imaging probes are made smaller and more flexible to reach certain anatomical locations, then flexibility and reach are improved, but structural integrity and stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging probe is divided into multiple segments including an elongate shaft, a rotatable optical core, and an optical assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the shaft provides flexibility for navigation, while the optical core and assembly maintain structural integrity for stable imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable optical core is positioned within the lumen of the elongate shaft, and the optical assembly is positioned proximate the distal end of the optical core. This nested configuration allows the flexible shaft to bend and navigate while the optical components remain protected and structurally stable
2Ease of operation
If imaging probes are inserted over a guidewire, then delivery is facilitated, but placement accuracy and imaging quality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging probe incorporates an optical intermediary system with a light source, optical assembly, and imaging assembly that couples to the probe. This optical intermediary enables precise imaging and placement verification without relying on guidewire insertion, thereby maintaining delivery ease while improving placement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical guidewire-based placement system with an optical imaging system. The imaging assembly captures reflected light to produce images that guide precise placement, substituting mechanical guidance with optical feedback for improved accuracy
3Area of stationary object
If the imaging probe uses a rotatable optical core, then imaging coverage is improved, but non-uniform rotational distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the imaging assembly captures reflected light from the rotating optical core and processes the signals to correct for non-uniform rotational distortion. This feedback loop maintains wide imaging coverage while compensating for rotation-induced distortion
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes optical parameters by using multiple reference paths with different optical dispersions in the imaging assembly. By selecting and adjusting these parameters, the system achieves comprehensive imaging coverage while correcting rotational distortion through parameter optimization
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 enables improved flexibility and reach, allowing for high-quality imaging in challenging anatomical locations while maintaining compatibility with delivery devices.
Implementation Method 1
an optical assembly positioned proximate the distal end of the rotatable optical core, the optical assembly configured to direct light to tissue to be imaged and to collect reflected light from the tissue
Implementation Method 2
a rotatable optical core comprising a proximal end and a distal end, wherein at least a portion of the rotatable optical core is positioned within the lumen of the elongate shaft
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are imaging systems for a patient including an imaging probe and an imaging assembly. The imaging probe includes: an elongate shaft with a proximal end, a distal portion, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal portion; a rotatable optical core with a proximal end and a distal end, and at least a portion of the rotatable optical core is positioned within the lumen of the elongate shaft; and an optical assembly positioned proximate the distal end of the rotatable optical core, the optical assembly configured to direct light to tissue to be imaged and collect reflected light from the tissue to be imaged. The imaging assembly is constructed and arranged to optically couple to the imaging probe. The imaging assembly is configured to emit light into the imaging probe and receive the reflected light collected by the optical assembly.