Segmented Surgical Probe for Sterility and Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiation detection probes used in radioimmunoguided surgery are burdensome due to the need for sterilization between each use and replacement upon malfunction, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held radiation detection probe design featuring a separable detector and handle, where the detector is encased in a pre-sterilized sheath that can be easily replaced after each use, eliminating the need for sterilization and reducing the cost of probe maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire probe is sterilized between each use, then sterility is maintained, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into two segments: a reusable handle containing the detector and a disposable sheath that is pre-sterilized. The sheath is discarded after a single use, eliminating the need to sterilize the entire probe while maintaining sterility during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
A disposable pre-sterilized sheath is used to cover the detector. The sheath is discarded after one use, providing sterility without requiring sterilization of the expensive detector assembly, thus saving time and reducing overall cost.
2Reliability
If the entire probe is replaced upon malfunction, then reliability is maintained, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is segmented into a reusable handle and a disposable sheath. Only the inexpensive sheath is discarded, while the expensive detector in the handle is reused, reducing material loss and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable sheath is discarded after use or upon malfunction, while the valuable detector assembly is recovered and reused, minimizing waste and reducing replacement costs.
3Ease of manufacture
If a separable design is used, then maintenance cost decreases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into a handle and a sheath that can be easily separated. The sheath slides over the detector and can be quickly removed and replaced, simplifying maintenance while adding minimal 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
This design enhances operational efficiency by allowing for quick and cost-effective reuse of the detector while minimizing the need for sterilization and reducing waste, thereby improving the overall effectiveness and affordability of radiation detection in surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
A portable radiation detection probe is employed by a surgeon intraoperatively in order to detect sites of radioactivity
Data Source
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AI summary
A hand-held probe (100, 200, 300, 400) comprising: a detector (104) having a first mating component (108) and being configured to generate a low-level electrical signal from an operative portion of the detector, the electrical signal relating to a radiation source proximate the detector; a handle (102) including a second mating component (128) configured to removably mate with the first mating component (108) such that the handle (102) is removably coupleable with the detector (104); a graphical user interface (501) having a first numerical representation (506) and a second numerical representation (508), wherein the first numerical representation is configured to depict a count generated by the detector in real-time, wherein the second numerical representation is configured to depict an operator selectable target count.