Retractable Multi-Tined RF Probe for Conformal Tissue Ablation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing RF ablation technologies face challenges in reliably and predictably conforming ablation size, shape, and orientation to tissue targets, leading to potential collateral damage or suboptimal outcomes in neural destructive procedures and tumor ablation.
Innovation Solution
The development of retractable, multi-tined RF probes with adjustable curvature and direction, featuring tines made of electrically conductive materials like nickel/titanium alloy, which can be selectively deployed through distal or side openings to conform to the shape and orientation of the tissue target, allowing for precise control of ablation size and shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional RF ablation probes are used, then the procedure is simple to perform, but the ablation size, shape, and orientation cannot be reliably conformed to the tissue target
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into multiple segmented tines (typically 3-6 tines) that can be independently positioned and oriented. Each tine can be deployed at different angles and depths, allowing the ablation pattern to be precisely conformed to the target tissue geometry while maintaining a relatively simple overall probe structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tines are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities through mechanisms such as shape memory alloy materials or mechanical articulation joints. This allows the tines to be adjusted during the procedure to achieve optimal ablation conformity without requiring a completely complex rigid structure, balancing precision with operational simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple tined electrodes are deployed to conform to tissue target shape, then ablation precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tines utilize shape memory alloy materials that change their physical parameters (shape, length, orientation) in response to temperature changes or electrical activation. This allows precise control of tine positioning and ablation geometry through material property changes rather than complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high precision.
3Ease of operation
If the probe structure is simplified for ease of use, then the procedure is easier to perform, but the ability to adapt curvature and direction to tissue target is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tines are designed with self-adjusting capabilities through shape memory materials that automatically assume pre-programmed configurations when activated. This eliminates the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms during the procedure, maintaining ease of operation while achieving adaptive positioning conformal to the tissue target geometry.
4Area of stationary object
If extruded length of tines is increased to cover larger targets, then treatment coverage is improved, but the risk of collateral damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each tine can be independently controlled in terms of deployment length, orientation, and activation timing. This allows the ablation to be concentrated precisely on the target tissue with different tines reaching different depths and angles, achieving comprehensive coverage of irregularly shaped targets while limiting the thermal spread to adjacent healthy neural structures through localized energy delivery.
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
These probes enhance therapeutic efficacy by allowing for more precise and controlled RF energy application, reducing the risk of collateral damage and improving treatment outcomes in both pain management and tumor ablation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
Radiofrequency (RF) energy can be applied for therapeutic pain management... by insertion of insulated cannulae with a bare metal tip into a target area of tissue... RF energy can also be used for tumor ablation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1E
Figure 2A~2G
Figure 3A~3G
AI summary
A retractable, multi-tined radio frequency (RF) probe operable for applying RF energy to tissue for therapeutic purposes, the probe having a tubular elongate member defining an interior and having a proximal end and an opposite distal end; a handle element at the proximal end of the elongate member; and an electrode element at the distal end of the elongate member, the electrode element comprising a tip portion and a plurality of tines, each of the plurality of tines being positionable in a retracted configuration within the interior of the top portion and/or the elongate member and in a deployed configuration that extends outward of the top portion.