Prostate Cancer Tissue Analysis Using Microwave Dielectric Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current prostate cancer diagnosis methods are costly, time-consuming, and prone to human error, with commercial open-ended coaxial probes experiencing high error rates and limited repeatability, making them unsuitable for clinical use.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing classification algorithms and S parameter measurements to characterize malignant and benign prostate tissues with high precision, reducing measurement errors and eliminating calibration degradation and SMA connection issues by integrating a novel automated decision-making mechanism and planar microstrip resonators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If commercial open-ended coaxial probes are used for tissue dielectric property measurement, then broadband measurement capabilities and limited sample preparation requirements are achieved, but measurement accuracy and repeatability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A calibration phantom is introduced as an intermediary component between the coaxial probe and the tissue sample. The phantom contains calibration markers that enable the system to compensate for measurement errors caused by probe-tissue interface variations, fluid accumulation, and contact pressure differences. This intermediary calibration mechanism restores measurement accuracy while preserving the broadband capabilities and ease of use of the original probe system.
2Ease of manufacture
If commercial open-ended coaxial probes are used for tissue dielectric property measurement, then limited sample preparation requirements are achieved, but measurement repeatability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration phantom is prepared in advance with predetermined calibration markers and geometric features. Before measuring the actual tissue sample, the system performs calibration measurements using the phantom to establish baseline reference values. This preliminary calibration action compensates for variations in probe positioning, contact pressure, and fluid presence, thereby improving measurement repeatability while maintaining the ease of use of the probe system.
3Reliability
If human-controlled diagnosis protocol is used for prostate cancer diagnosis, then specialized equipment and trained staff requirements are met, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human-controlled mechanical diagnosis process with an automated electromagnetic measurement and classification system. The system uses coaxial probes to measure dielectric properties of tissue samples, processes the data through automated algorithms, and provides diagnostic results without requiring pathologists. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming manual analysis while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through objective, repeatable measurements.
4Measurement precision
If automated classification algorithms are implemented for tissue characterization, then measurement error reduction is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simplified geometric models and standardized calibration phantoms that replicate the essential electrical characteristics of tissue samples. Instead of requiring complex 3D imaging and reconstruction algorithms, the system uses simplified coaxial probe measurements combined with pre-computed classification algorithms. This copying approach maintains measurement precision while avoiding the computational complexity of full electromagnetic simulation and inverse problem solving.
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 accurate, real-time diagnostics with reduced error rates and increased usability in clinical settings, potentially replacing human-assisted pathology with automated tissue characterization.
Implementation Method 1
The working principle of these technologies depends on the inherent dielectric property (relative permittivity and conductivity) discrepancies between the malign and benign tissues at microwave frequencies
Implementation Method 2
electromagnetic based detection systems for determining anomalies (for example tumours and calcifications) in tissues
Data Source
AI summary
A device has been developed for diagnosing malignant prostate tissue to be utilized in the healthcare sector as a diagnostics equipment. The tissue identification device of the present invention includes a probe or resonator, a measurement tool including narrow band antennas, a classification unit, an inverse problem calculation unit, an S parameter measurement unit, and calculation unit (computer). The present device enables accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer by means of the above-mentioned elements it includes.