RF Catheter Multi-Mode Heating for Simultaneous Vein Ablation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF catheters are inadequate for simultaneous RF closure of superficial and perforating veins in the lower limb, requiring multiple instruments and increasing operation time and economic burden, with inefficiencies in ablation due to varying vein lengths.
Innovation Solution
An RF catheter design featuring multiple heating units and electrodes that can operate in different modes, allowing for simultaneous treatment of superficial and perforating veins with independent energy control, enabling efficient ablation of both long and short vein segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single RF catheter is used for RF closure, then the number of instruments is reduced and operation time is shortened, but it is impossible to complete RF closure for both superficial vein and perforating vein simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The RF catheter is designed with multi-functional capability by integrating both heating units for superficial veins and electrodes for perforating veins within a single catheter body, enabling one instrument to perform multiple functions that previously required separate instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate treatment mechanisms (heating units and electrodes) into a single integrated catheter system, merging the functionality of multiple instruments into one unified device that can treat both superficial and perforating veins simultaneously
2Productivity
If the heating coil is made long to increase ablation efficiency, then ablation efficiency is improved, but it becomes impossible to treat short veins, small saphenous veins, and branch/perforating veins
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is divided into multiple independent heating units with different lengths, allowing selective activation of appropriate segments based on the specific vein being treated, thus adapting to various vein sizes while maintaining high ablation efficiency where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter system dynamically adapts its configuration by selectively activating different heating units or electrodes based on the treatment requirements, transforming from a fixed single-coil design to a dynamic multi-mode system that adjusts to different vein characteristics
3Adaptability or versatility
If the heating coil is made short to treat short veins, then adaptability to short veins is improved, but ablation efficiency decreases and operation time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is divided into multiple independent heating units with different lengths, allowing selective activation of appropriate segments based on the specific vein being treated, thus adapting to various vein sizes while maintaining high ablation efficiency where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by selecting different heating units or electrodes based on treatment requirements, adjusting the effective length and power distribution to optimize both adaptability and ablation efficiency for different vein configurations
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 simultaneous RF closure of both superficial and perforating veins using a single catheter, reducing operation time and economic burden while maintaining high ablation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one heating unit is configured to perform ablation on a target tissue in a superficial vein
Implementation Method 2
the at least one electrode is configured to perform ablation on a target issue in a perforating vein
Implementation Method 3
a first thermocouple is arranged in and insulated from the first heating unit, and configured to measure a temperature of the first heating unit
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an RF catheter, including: a catheter body; and at least one heating unit and at least one electrode fixedly coupled to the catheter body. The at least one heating unit is configured to perform ablation on a target tissue in a superficial vein, the at least one electrode is configured to perform ablation on a target issue in a perforating vein, each of the heating unit and the electrode is in a corresponding target operating mode in accordance with an operating mode command for the RF catheter, and the target operating modes include a first operating mode where the electrode operates, a second operating mode where at least two heating units operate, and a third operating mode where merely one heating unit operates.