Piezoelectric Probe for Cricothyroid Membrane Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting the cricothyroid membrane during emergency cricothyrotomy are inaccurate, particularly in obese patients and children, and existing devices are cumbersome, expensive, and not readily available in field settings, leading to potential delays that can result in serious complications or death.
Innovation Solution
A portable, cost-effective device that uses a piezoelectric force transducer to detect the cricothyroid membrane by differentiating tissue stiffness, providing a fast and accurate method for locating the membrane without relying on anatomical landmarks or radiation, and is designed for use by paramedics and emergency medical technicians.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasound is used to detect the cricothyroid membrane, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex ultrasound imaging systems with a simple mechanical probe system that uses tactile feedback and pressure sensors to detect the cricothyroid membrane. The device uses a mechanical force application mechanism with sensors that detect tissue impedance changes, eliminating the need for bulky ultrasound equipment while maintaining detection accuracy in field conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a portable, inexpensive device that can be easily deployed in emergency field conditions. The device uses simple electronic components and a disposable or sterilizable probe, making it cost-effective compared to expensive ultrasound equipment while sufficient for the critical detection task in time-sensitive emergency scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasound is used to detect the cricothyroid membrane, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with sensors and processing algorithms that enable immediate detection upon contact with the patient's neck. The system requires no setup, calibration, or image interpretation training, allowing paramedics to perform detection instantly during emergency situations, eliminating the time loss associated with ultrasound preparation and interpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing ultrasound imaging with a direct mechanical sensing system, the device eliminates the time-consuming steps of probe placement, image acquisition, and interpretation. The mechanical sensor provides real-time feedback through tactile or electronic signals, enabling immediate identification of the cricothyroid membrane location.
3Ease of operation
If palpation is used to detect the cricothyroid membrane, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device introduces an intermediary sensing mechanism between the operator's hand and the patient's tissue. The probe incorporates force sensors and impedance detectors that objectively measure tissue properties, translating subjective tactile sensations into quantifiable data. This intermediary system eliminates operator bias and variability while maintaining the simplicity of manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides real-time feedback to the operator through electronic signals, visual indicators, or tactile cues when the cricothyroid membrane is detected. This feedback mechanism enhances the operator's ability to identify the correct location by providing objective confirmation, thereby improving detection accuracy while keeping the operation simple and intuitive.
4Loss of time
If a rapid detection device is used, then loss of time is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a mechanical sensing system with direct tissue contact and real-time signal processing that provides immediate detection results. The device measures tissue impedance and mechanical properties instantaneously upon contact, eliminating the time delay of imaging modalities while maintaining high precision through objective sensor data rather than subjective interpretation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-calibrated and pre-configured to detect specific tissue characteristics of the cricothyroid membrane. The sensors and processing algorithms are optimized in advance to recognize the target tissue's unique mechanical signature, enabling rapid and accurate detection without requiring setup or interpretation time during the emergency procedure.
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 device achieves an accuracy of 80% with an average detection time of 15 seconds, allowing for timely and precise identification of the cricothyroid membrane, even in challenging anatomical conditions, and can withstand extreme environments, enhancing survival rates and reducing post-procedure complications.
Implementation Method 1
uses a piezoelectric force transducer to detect the cricothyroid membrane by differentiating tissue stiffness
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a device for the mechanical detection of a specific underlying tissue in a subject, comprising a container, wherein the container comprises a probe, spring, sensor, and signal indicator, wherein when a mechanical force is applied to the probe, it is transmitted to the sensor, whereby the sensor provides the signal indicator with a signal and the signal indicator indicates to the user an indication of detection of the specific underlying tissue in the subject. The sensor of the invention can be an electrical sensor such as a piezoelectric force transducer or a balloon. The invention also provides a method of performing a cricothyrotomy using the device.