Replaceable Ultrasound Transducer for Deep Tissue Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging technologies face challenges in obtaining clear images of deep structures within the body, particularly in obese patients and those with bone or gas-filled regions, and require skilled operators, while also being limited by the need for multiple imaging modalities and equipment.
Innovation Solution
A minimally invasive image-guided catheter system with a reusable and replaceable ultrasound transducer assembly and a removable needle/sheath assembly, allowing for real-time frequency adjustments and combined use with optical coherence tomography, enabling high-resolution imaging and facilitating precise medical procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasound imaging is used, then imaging capability is provided, but image quality for deep structures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter system divides the imaging function into separate modular components: a reusable transducer assembly that can be detached and replaced with different frequency transducers. High-frequency transducers (10-20 MHz) provide high-resolution imaging for superficial structures, while low-frequency transducers (2-5 MHz) enable deep structure imaging, allowing optimization for different depth requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the operating frequency parameter by replacing transducer assemblies. High-frequency transducers (10-20 MHz) are used for high-resolution imaging of superficial structures, while low-frequency transducers (2-5 MHz) are used for deep structure imaging, thereby adapting the imaging parameters to the specific depth and resolution requirements of different clinical scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging modalities are used, then comprehensive imaging capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines ultrasound imaging capability with optical coherence tomography (OCT) within a single catheter assembly. The ultrasound transducer assembly includes piezoelectric elements for ultrasound imaging, while the same catheter can accommodate OCT fibers for optical imaging, providing multiple imaging modalities in one integrated device.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple imaging functions. The reusable transducer assembly can be replaced with different frequency ultrasound transducers, and the catheter can also accommodate OCT imaging components, allowing a single device to provide both ultrasound and optical imaging capabilities across various clinical applications.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed-frequency transducers are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different procedures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static, fixed-frequency transducers to a dynamic configuration where transducer assemblies can be replaced during procedures. The reusable transducer assembly design allows clinicians to switch between different frequency transducers (high-frequency for superficial imaging, low-frequency for deep imaging) based on the specific procedural requirements, making the system adaptable to varying clinical needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes by allowing replacement of transducer assemblies with different frequency characteristics. The reusable design accommodates both high-frequency (10-20 MHz) and low-frequency (2-5 MHz) transducers, permitting optimization of imaging parameters according to the depth and type of structure being imaged during different procedures.
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
The system provides clear, high-resolution imaging capabilities within the body, improving procedural accuracy and reducing the need for multiple imaging modalities, while being user-friendly and adaptable to various medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The probe typically contains one or a plurality of piezoelectric elements that vibrates and generates a sound wave when a current is applied
Implementation Method 2
The sound wave is reflected (echoes) from tissues and structures and returns an echo, which vibrates the transducer elements
Implementation Method 3
combined use with optical coherence tomography, enabling high-resolution imaging
Data Source
AI summary
An interventional medical device is provided that incorporates a forward-directed ultrasound or optical coherence tomography imaging system that is replaceable depending on how close the device is to the target site for a given medical procedure, the device and system integrated into a single minimally invasive device comprising a first probe housing, needle guide assembly and sheath, a sleeve lock for closing a normally open needle channel of a needle guide of the first distal assembly and a second probe and cable housing assembly locked to the first distal probe housing, needle guide assembly and sheath by a locking tab. The probe and cable housing assembly may comprise a linear phased ultrasound array and an accelerometer for orienting an image produced by the device with the gravitational field of the earth. The medical device can be in the form of an image guided catheter or probe, used in a body orifice, externally on skin tissue or subcutaneously. The device comprises a replaceable and reusable ultrasound imaging assembly (and or OCT assembly) and replaceable interventional devices such as a removable introducer needle, hollow biopsy needle, syringe or other medical instrument. The imaging system may comprise one or more small ultrasound or OCT imaging systems that can be replaceably integrated into the device by replacing the reusable second probe and cable housing assembly.