Rotatable Optical Core Probe for Neurology Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging probes are limited by their size and rigidity, making it difficult to reach certain anatomical locations without a guidewire, and they often compromise placement and limit the use of delivery catheters.
Innovation Solution
The imaging system includes an imaging probe with an elongate shaft and a rotatable optical core, configured to produce images without a guidewire. The probe features a shear-thinning fluid to reduce rotational variances and space reducing elements to stabilize the optical core, allowing for advanced positioning and imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current imaging probes are made smaller and more flexible to reach anatomical locations without a guidewire, then the ability to access difficult-to-reach areas is improved, but the mechanical strength and stability of the probe deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The probe shaft is constructed as a composite structure combining a flexible polymer outer layer with an inner reinforcement element (such as a metal wire or braided structure). This composite design provides both the flexibility needed to navigate tortuous vascular paths without a guidewire and the mechanical strength required to maintain structural integrity during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is divided into multiple segments or sections with varying degrees of flexibility and stiffness. The proximal portion may be more rigid for handling and insertion, while the distal imaging portion is more flexible for navigating anatomical curves. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific functional requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the probe diameter is reduced to enable insertion without a guidewire, then the ease of insertion and adaptability are improved, but the ability to maintain position and deliver devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The probe incorporates a shear-thinning fluid that changes its viscosity based on the applied shear stress. During insertion, the fluid has lower viscosity to reduce friction and enable smooth passage through small vessels without a guidewire. During positioning, the fluid thickens to provide damping that stabilizes the probe and prevents unwanted movement, enabling accurate device delivery.
3Measurement precision
If the optical core is made rotatable to enable imaging, then the imaging capability is improved, but the complexity of the probe structure and control systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex mechanical motors or gears to rotate the optical core, the system uses a fluid-driven approach. A small pump or pressure differential system rotates the optical core by applying controlled fluid flow through channels in the probe shaft, creating torque on the core. This hydraulic/pneumatic mechanism is simpler and more reliable than mechanical alternatives.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical rotation system is replaced with an optical or electromagnetic coupling system. The optical core is rotated indirectly through optical coupling mechanisms or electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for direct mechanical contact and complex gear trains, thereby reducing structural complexity.
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 enables the creation of three-dimensional images and provides quantitative and qualitative information for precise placement and sizing of medical devices, such as flow diverters and stent retrievers, without compromising placement or limiting the use of delivery catheters.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging probe comprises a shear-thinning fluid located within the distal portion of the elongate shaft, such as a shear-thinning fluid configured to reduce undesired rotational variances of the rotatable optical core
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system for a patient comprises an imaging probe. The imaging probe comprises: an elongate shaft for insertion into the patient and comprising a proximal end, a distal portion, and a lumen extending between the proximal end and the distal portion; a rotatable optical core comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the rotatable optical core configured to optically and mechanically connect with an interface unit; a probe connector positioned on the elongate shaft proximal end and surrounding at least a portion of the rotatable optical core and an optical assembly positioned in the elongate shaft distal portion and proximate the rotatable optical core distal end, the optical assembly configured to direct light to tissue and collect reflected light from the tissue. A shear-thinning fluid can be provided between the elongate shaft and the rotatable optical core, such as to reduce undesired rotational variations of the rotatable optical core.