Segmented Electrode Array for Thrombus Attraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical devices for thrombectomy procedures face challenges in effectively removing thrombi from blood vessels due to limitations in electrode design and voltage application, which can lead to incomplete thrombus dissolution or removal.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a reference electrode with an electrically-insulative element defining gaps to expose portions, an active electrode connected to a power source, and a conductive element to apply a voltage between the electrodes, attracting and adhering the thrombus for subsequent removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a unipolar voltage is applied between a single electrode and a reference electrode, then the thrombus can be attracted to the electrode, but the electric field distribution is uneven and thrombus removal may be incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The single electrode is segmented into multiple electrodes (first electrode and second electrode) arranged in an array. Each electrode can be independently controlled to create a more uniform electric field distribution across the thrombus, improving removal completeness while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the thrombus are treated with locally optimized electric fields by applying voltages to specific electrodes in the array. This allows tailored treatment of different thrombus portions, ensuring complete removal while keeping the overall device configuration systematic and controllable
2Productivity
If the electrode contacts the thrombus directly, then the thrombus can be attracted and removed, but the contact area is limited and attraction efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is arranged in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional configuration rather than a single linear electrode. This multi-dimensional arrangement increases the effective contact area with the thrombus from one dimension to multiple dimensions, significantly improving attraction efficiency while maintaining a compact device structure
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple electrodes are merged into a single integrated array structure that functions as a unified thrombus attraction system. The combined effect of all electrodes creates a larger effective contact area and stronger overall attraction force, improving productivity without proportionally increasing device 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
This configuration enhances the attraction and removal of thrombi by optimizing the electric field distribution and contact area, improving the efficiency of thrombectomy procedures.
Implementation Method 1
application, by the power source, of a voltage between the active electrode and the reference electrode causes the active electrode to attract the blockage
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5~6
AI summary
An apparatus (20f) for removing a blockage from a body of a subject includes a reference electrode (26), configured for insertion into the body, an electrically-insulative element (68) covering the reference electrode, the electrically-insulative element being shaped to define a gap (72) that exposes a portion of the reference electrode, an active electrode (28) covering the electrically-insulative element, and an electrically-conductive element (32) passing through the reference electrode and electrically connected to the active electrode, the electrically-conductive element being configured to electrically connect the active electrode to a power source (34) such that application, by the power source, of a voltage between the active electrode and the reference electrode causes the active electrode to attract the blockage. Other embodiments are also described.