Raman Spectroscopy System for Laryngeal Margin Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing laryngeal carcinoma are hindered by the need for multiple biopsies due to the heterogeneous appearance of premalignant and malignant lesions, and the challenge of accurately detecting surgical margins during endoscopic resection, leading to high incidence of positive margins and delayed diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A Raman spectroscopy system integrated into a thin sheath that fits flexible or rigid laryngoscopes, enabling real-time optical biopsy with a fiberoptic probe for precise tissue classification and margin detection, utilizing a 785 nm diode laser and signal collection system for spectral analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple biopsies are performed due to heterogeneous appearance of lesions, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but patient trauma and procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical biopsy procedures with Raman spectroscopy-based optical diagnosis. The system uses laser excitation and spectral analysis to obtain tissue diagnostic information without physical sampling, eliminating the need for multiple biopsy interventions while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the diagnostic parameter from visual appearance assessment to Raman spectral analysis. By measuring molecular vibrations and chemical bonds through spectral fingerprints, the system can differentiate tissue types based on biochemical composition rather than heterogeneous visual appearance, enabling single-procedure accurate diagnosis.
2Productivity
If endoscopic resection is performed without real-time margin detection, then surgical efficiency is improved, but margin accuracy deteriorates leading to positive margins
Solution Approach 1:
The Raman spectroscopy system enables continuous real-time monitoring of tissue margins during endoscopic resection. The laser continuously illuminates the tissue and the spectrometer continuously collects spectral data, providing ongoing feedback throughout the surgical procedure without interrupting the workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback on margin status through real-time spectral analysis. The computer analyzes Raman spectra and provides feedback to the surgeon about tissue classification, enabling intraoperative margin assessment and immediate adjustment of resection boundaries to achieve negative margins.
3Ease of operation
If a thin sheath is used to accommodate the Raman probe and endoscope, then patient comfort and accessibility are improved, but device integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the Raman probe and endoscope are both housed within a single thin sheath. The sheath contains separate channels or compartments for the laser delivery fiber, collection fiber, and endoscope, allowing multiple functional components to be integrated in a compact, minimally invasive configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The thin sheath design serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for both the Raman probe and endoscope, maintains sterile barrier, enables minimally invasive access, and facilitates coordinated operation of diagnostic and therapeutic components through a single access point.
4Loss of time
If real-time spectral analysis is performed during endoscopy, then diagnostic speed is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by acquiring Raman spectra in real-time during the endoscopic procedure itself, rather than requiring separate diagnostic steps. The laser excitation and spectral collection occur concurrently with visual endoscopic examination, eliminating sequential delays.
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 classification of laryngeal lesions and precise margin control during endoscopic surgery, potentially reducing the incidence of positive margins and improving early detection and survival rates.
Implementation Method 1
The Raman probe system can comprise a probe, a laser source, an excitation signal filter, a collection filter, a charge couple device detector, a signal collection system, a housing unit, a computer, a display, or a combination thereof.
Implementation Method 2
The excitation signal filter comprises a high-optical density (OD) band-pass filter. The collection filter can comprise a high-optical density long-pass filter.
Implementation Method 3
The charge couple device detector is configured to detect Raman scattered light and convert it into electrical signals for spectral analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the invention are drawn to a Raman spectroscopy system that incorporates a tissue probe into a thin sheath that is adapted to fit any flexible or rigid laryngoscope. The Raman probe system can comprise a probe, a laser source, an excitation signal filter, a collection filter, a charge couple device detector, a signal collection system, a housing unit, a computer, a display, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the signal collection system comprises a spectrum collection range of about 200 cm-1 to about 4000 cm.