Pelvic Floor Probe with Multi-Position Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current probes for intra-vaginal and intra-anal electro-stimulation and bio-feedback training are not optimally designed to target specific structures in the pelvic floor, leading to inefficient stimulation and registration of muscle activity, and are often uncomfortable and painful for patients due to improper electrode placement and size.
Innovation Solution
A probe system with electrodes positioned along the length and circumference of a rod-shaped body, coupled with a control unit for receiving and processing EMG signals to map muscle activity, allowing for precise stimulation and training of the pelvic floor muscles and nerves, adaptable to individual anatomy and comfortable for use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If probes are designed with standard electrode placement for empirical use, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and targeting accuracy of specific muscle structures deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The probe applies local quality by positioning specific electrodes at distinct locations along the probe length and around its circumference to target different pelvic floor structures. The first electrode targets the puborectal muscle while the second electrode targets the external anal sphincter, allowing differentiated measurement and stimulation of specific muscle groups rather than uniform treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe segments the pelvic floor measurement and stimulation function into distinct electrode zones. By dividing the probe surface into multiple electrode locations (first electrode for puborectal muscle, second electrode for external anal sphincter), the system can independently measure and stimulate each target structure, improving both precision and operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If probe diameter is increased to ensure proper fitting, then reliability of insertion is improved, but comfort and pain reduction deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The probe incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the diameter to be modified during insertion. The expandable or adjustable diameter feature enables the probe to start with a smaller, more comfortable profile for insertion, then expand to the required size for reliable contact with pelvic floor structures, thereby resolving the contradiction between insertion comfort and structural reliability.
3Measurement precision
If electrodes are positioned to target specific muscle structures, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe achieves multi-functionality by integrating both measurement and stimulation capabilities into a single device with strategically positioned electrodes. The same electrode configuration that enables precise measurement of puborectal and external anal sphincter activity also facilitates targeted electro-stimulation, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing overall system complexity.
4Ease of operation
If probe is designed for intravaginal use, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different anatomical structures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed with universal applicability by incorporating a adjustable or reconfigurable electrode system that can adapt to both intravaginal and intra-anal anatomical structures. The electrodes can be positioned or repositioned to target different pelvic floor muscles depending on the insertion site, allowing a single probe design to serve multiple therapeutic purposes across different anatomical configurations.
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 precise targeting and stimulation of specific muscle groups, reducing discomfort and improving treatment efficacy for incontinence and other pelvic floor dysfunctions by providing a 3D map of muscle activity and allowing for individualized treatment protocols.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of electrodes which are positioned at several locations along the length and around the circumference on the outer surface of the probe, said probe system further comprises a control unit, operationally coupled to said probe, adapted for receiving EMG signals from each of said electrodes
Implementation Method 2
processing each of said signals for mapping the response of the muscles in the pelvic floor region
Implementation Method 3
Intravaginal and intra-anal electro stimulation and bio feedback training are used for treatment of urinary urge- and stress incontinence, anal dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction
Data Source
AI summary
A probe system for electro-stimulation and bio-feedback training of muscles in the pelvic floor region, in particular for pelvic floor physiotherapy and diagnosis, includes a probe having a probe body which is insertable into a vagina or a rectum, and a plurality of electrodes which are positioned at several locations along the length and around the circumference on the outer surface of the probe, the probe system further includes a control unit, operationally coupled to the probe, adapted for receiving EMG signals from each of the electrodes and for processing each of the signals for mapping the response of the muscles in the pelvic floor region.