Real-Time Tissue Composition Analysis During Ultrasonic Ablation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques require time-consuming delays for analyzing the composition of biological samples, such as stones, outside the ablation system, which can hinder efficient therapy during procedures like ultrasonic lithotripsy.
Innovation Solution
A system with in situ composition analysis capabilities, using a probe with integrated optical paths and a spectrometer to analyze the composition of biological samples in real-time during the ablation procedure, allowing for immediate adjustments to the therapy based on the sample's composition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional techniques are used to analyze the composition of biological samples outside the ablation system, then the analysis can be performed with standard equipment, but the procedure experiences time-consuming delays that hinder efficient therapy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the composition analysis system with the ablation system by integrating the probe, illumination source, and spectrometer into a single unified device that can perform both ablation and real-time composition analysis in situ, eliminating the need to transport samples outside the system and thereby eliminating time delays while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical path as an intermediary medium that allows light to travel between the illumination source, the biological sample, and the spectrometer through transparent portions of the evacuation path or probe walls, enabling non-contact real-time analysis without requiring physical sample removal or complex direct coupling
2Productivity
If a probe with integrated optical paths and spectrometer is used for real-time analysis, then immediate feedback on sample composition is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs ablation therapy and composition analysis through integrated optical paths, allowing a single device to execute multiple functions (mechanical ablation, optical illumination, spectral detection) that would traditionally require separate equipment, thereby improving productivity while consolidating complexity into one universal tool
Solution Approach 2:
The probe structure is segmented into distinct functional modules including the ablation tip, illumination source, optical paths with transparent portions, and spectrometer, allowing each component to be optimized independently and assembled into a cohesive system that manages complexity through modular design while enabling real-time analysis
3Loss of information
If the probe includes transparent portions for optical access, then real-time composition analysis is enabled, but the structural integrity and ablation effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The probe structure implements local quality by incorporating transparent portions only in specific localized areas where optical access is required for illumination and detection, while maintaining opaque, structurally robust materials in other regions needed for mechanical strength and ablation functionality, thereby achieving composition information access without compromising overall structural reliability
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 efficient and timely ablation therapy by providing real-time feedback on the sample's composition, enhancing the procedure's efficiency and effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The spectrometer can analyze the response illumination and provide an estimate of the composition of the portion of tissue
Implementation Method 2
the probe can extend through a working channel of a viewing scope and can convey mechanical, acoustical, or ultrasonic energy to tissue of a patient to ablate the tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A composition of a biological sample, such as tissue of a patient, can be estimated during an ablation procedure. A composition detector system can include a probe, an illumination source, and a spectrometer. A distal end of a probe can convey mechanical, acoustical, or ultrasonic energy to the tissue to ablate the tissue. The probe can extend through a working channel of a viewing scope. An illumination source can illuminate a portion of the tissue at the distal end of the probe or as the portion is being evacuated and collected for disposal. The illumination can generate response illumination from the portion of the tissue. The spectrometer can receive the response illumination, analyze the response illumination, and provide an estimate of the composition of the portion of tissue.