Radiolucent ECG Connector for Clear MRI Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ECG connectors and lead wires interfere with imaging systems during procedures like CT-scans and MRI, potentially obstructing visual images and posing hazards due to ferrous and magnetic components.
Innovation Solution
A radiolucent ECG lead system comprising radiolucent conductors and connectors designed to minimize interference with imaging equipment, featuring a housing with a radiolucent conductor and a pivotable engagement member for secure coupling with ECG electrodes, and a lead wire configuration that includes conductive carbon or carbon fibers to ensure safe and clear imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ECG connectors and lead wires are used, then ECG monitoring function is achieved, but interference with imaging systems occurs and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes ferrous and magnetic components from the ECG connector assembly, extracting only the necessary non-magnetic, non-ferrous elements (such as plastic housing, non-magnetic springs, and non-ferrous connectors) to eliminate interference with imaging systems while maintaining ECG monitoring functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameters of the connector components by specifying non-magnetic, non-ferrous materials with specific magnetic susceptibility thresholds (e.g., magnetic susceptibility less than 0.0003 SI units), thereby transforming the connector from magnetic/ferrous to non-magnetic/non-ferrous to be compatible with imaging systems
2Ease of operation
If conventional ECG connectors with ferrous and magnetic components are used, then mechanical coupling and electrical connection are achieved, but safety hazards in magnetic fields occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes ferrous and magnetic components from the connector assembly, extracting only non-magnetic, non-ferrous elements to eliminate safety hazards in magnetic fields while maintaining mechanical coupling and electrical connection functions through alternative material selections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction combining non-magnetic metals (such as stainless steel or titanium), non-ferrous metals (such as aluminum or copper), and plastic materials to create a connector that maintains mechanical strength and electrical conductivity without magnetic properties, ensuring safety in magnetic fields
3Loss of information
If radiolucent materials are used for ECG lead system, then imaging clarity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of radiolucency by selecting materials with specific radiographic properties (such as carbon fiber, radiolucent plastics, or materials with low atomic number) that allow imaging systems to capture clear images without obstruction from the lead system components
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an ECG electrode lead system suitable for use during imaging procedures such as, without limitation, CT scans or MRI and methods of use. In embodiments, the system includes an ECG electrode connector formed from radiolucent materials to enhance performance during imaging procedures by reducing or eliminating shadows on imaging media. In some embodiments, the disclosed connector includes a housing having an opening configured to operably receive an electrode post of an ECG electrode pad, an electrode member having a generally semicircular contact face disposed along at least a part of the perimeter of the opening, and an engagement member having an actuation surface and an engaging face pivotable about a pivot to enable engaging face to move from a first position whereby the engaging face is closer to the contact face and a second position whereby the engaging face is further from the contact face.