Removable Visualization Access Channels for Narrow Anatomical Tracts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive medical procedures face challenges in introducing working devices through narrow insertion tracts without visualization, risking improper placement and perforation, especially in anatomical regions like the uterus, due to the limitations of existing visualization devices and the need for small surgical openings.
Innovation Solution
Creating a flexible access channel using a visualization modality that is later removed, allowing introduction of working devices through a stable pathway without additional trauma, enabling procedures in small insertion tracts and reducing pain and medical risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the insertion tract is kept small to reduce invasiveness, then pain and scarring are reduced, but the ability to introduce visualization and working devices together is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The procedure is divided into two separate steps: first introducing a visualization device to create an access channel, then removing the visualization device and introducing working devices through the pre-created channel. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized independently for its specific function while working through the same small insertion tract.
Solution Approach 2:
The access channel is created in advance using the visualization device before introducing the working devices. This preliminary action establishes a stable pathway that facilitates subsequent device introductions without requiring simultaneous passage of multiple large devices through the narrow tract.
2Ease of operation
If working devices are introduced without visualization to simplify the procedure, then device introduction is easier, but placement accuracy and safety are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Visualization is performed in advance to map the anatomical pathway and identify the target location before introducing working devices. This preliminary visualization step ensures accurate placement while maintaining ease of device introduction through the pre-established access channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The access channel created by the visualization device serves as an intermediary structure that guides working devices to their target location. This intermediate pathway provides directional accuracy without requiring simultaneous visualization during device introduction.
3Productivity
If multiple devices are introduced simultaneously through the insertion tract, then the procedure is more efficient, but the tract size requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The procedure is segmented into sequential phases where devices are introduced one after another through the same access channel rather than simultaneously. This temporal segmentation allows multiple devices to be used efficiently while maintaining a small insertion tract size.
Solution Approach 2:
The access channel is preliminarily created and stabilized before introducing subsequent devices. This preliminary preparation enables efficient sequential device introduction through a single small tract without requiring multiple simultaneous openings.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses access devices and methods to create an access channel for introduction of one or more working devices into an anatomical region. The access channel is created using a visualization modality that is later removed before inserting one or more working devices through the access channel. This allows the methods and devices of the present invention to be used even in small sized natural or surgically created insertion tracts leading to the anatomical region. The access channel can be made of a device such as a sheath, a guidewire, and an elongate device comprising a lumen. Examples of visualization modalities are endoscopes and body insertable ultrasound imaging devices. The working devices can be used to perform a variety of diagnostic, therapeutic, or preventive procedures. Endometrial ablation devices and procedures have been used as an example to describe various aspects of the present invention.