Sinus Dilation Probe with Curved Segment and Navigation Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sinus dilation systems require multiple steps and instruments, are costly, and rely on time-consuming illumination sources, with a risk of incorrect balloon placement due to anatomical variations, leading to potential occlusion rather than dilation.
Innovation Solution
A surgical sinus dilation system featuring a rigid probe with a curved segment and a balloon connected to an inflation path, electronically coupled with a navigation system for precise balloon placement and inflation, minimizing components and steps, and eliminating the need for additional tools like guide wires and illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sinus dilation systems use multiple instruments including guide wires and illumination sources, then the procedure can be performed with established methods, but the device complexity and procedural time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the probe, balloon, and curvature into a single integrated sinus dilation instrument. The probe includes a curved segment that positions the balloon at the distal tip, eliminating the need for separate guide wires and illumination sources. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable balloon placement through the pre-configured curvature geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines the balloon position through its curved geometry, and enables navigation to the sinus ostium. This multi-functionality replaces multiple specialized instruments, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring accurate balloon placement.
2Measurement precision
If traditional illumination sources are used to visualize balloon placement, then the surgeon can estimate position, but the procedure becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical illumination-based estimation system with a navigation system that uses electromagnetic tracking or image guidance. The connector electronically couples the instrument to the navigation system, providing real-time, precise positional feedback without requiring time-consuming illumination procedures or subjective visual estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system provides continuous feedback on the instrument's position and orientation relative to the patient's anatomy. This feedback mechanism allows the surgeon to accurately track balloon placement in real-time, eliminating the need for repeated illumination checks and reducing procedural time while improving measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If a rigid probe with curved segment is used to locate balloon, then placement precision improves, but the instrument design becomes more specialized
Solution Approach 1:
The probe features a localized curved segment with specific geometric properties optimized for sinus navigation. This local quality enhancement provides precise balloon positioning at the distal tip while the rest of the probe maintains a simple, adaptable structure. The curvature is specifically designed to match sinus anatomy, improving placement precision without requiring complete redesign of the entire instrument.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe is segmented into distinct functional zones: a proximal section for manipulation, a curved intermediate section for navigation, and a distal section carrying the balloon. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall instrument versatility. The curved segment can be designed with different radii and angles to accommodate various sinus configurations.
4Reliability
If multiple procedural steps are required in conventional sinus dilation, then comprehensive treatment is achieved, but the procedural complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The probe's curved geometry is pre-configured to automatically position the balloon at the correct location within the sinus ostium. This preliminary action of geometric pre-positioning eliminates the need for multiple adjustment steps and manual positioning maneuvers, reducing procedural complexity while ensuring reliable and effective treatment through accurate balloon placement from the outset.
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 allows for precise and efficient dilation of sinus ostia with reduced procedural complexity and cost, minimizing the risk of incorrect placement and enhancing the accuracy of balloon positioning within the sinus cavities.
Implementation Method 1
the balloon is gradually inflated to dilate the narrowed or blocked ostium
Data Source
AI summary
A sinus dilation instrument useful with a navigation system and including a handle, a rigid probe, a balloon, and an identifier device. The probe extends from the handle, forms a curved segment, and carries the balloon. The identifier device is programmed to generate a signal indicative of an instrument identification assigned to the instrument, and is a frontal, maxillary or sphenoid sinus instrument. The signal is formatted to be recognized by an IGS. Once connected, the IGS recognizes the instrument and can retrieve information indicative of a spatial location of the balloon, for example via an instrument tracking device. A surgeon can “plug and play” the sinus dilation instrument with the IGS to perform a procedure.