Integrated Sinus Dilation Instrument with Waveguide Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing balloon sinus dilation systems require multiple steps and instruments, often necessitating external light sources or image guidance systems, which can complicate procedures and increase operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional instrument system that integrates aspiration, fluid delivery, and illumination capabilities, allowing for simultaneous execution of these functions, including dilation, aspiration, and fluid delivery, with a built-in light source and waveguide for transnasal procedures, reducing the need for additional equipment and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate instruments are used for balloon dilation, aspiration, and fluid delivery, then each function can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the device complexity and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate instruments (balloon dilation catheter, aspiration catheter, fluid delivery catheter) into a single integrated instrument. The instrument includes a balloon element for dilation, an aspiration lumen for suction, and a fluid delivery lumen for irrigation or medication administration, all within one catheter structure. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate procedures and instruments, reducing procedural complexity while maintaining functional reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated instrument is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: balloon dilation of sinus ostia, aspiration of secretions or debris, and fluid delivery for irrigation or medication. This multi-functionality allows a single instrument to replace several specialized instruments, simplifying the overall procedure while ensuring each function is performed reliably by its dedicated component within the integrated system.
2Illumination intensity
If external light sources and image guidance systems are used, then illumination and visualization are provided, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a light source directly into the instrument structure, combining illumination functionality with the therapeutic functions. The light source is positioned within the instrument housing and provides direct illumination at the treatment site through the sinus ostia, eliminating the need for separate external lighting equipment and image guidance systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The instrument is self-sufficient by incorporating its own light source, allowing it to provide illumination independently without relying on external equipment. This self-service capability enables the instrument to perform both therapeutic functions (dilation, aspiration, fluid delivery) and diagnostic/visualization functions (illumination) as a unified system, reducing operational complexity.
3Reliability
If multiple steps are required for sinus dilation procedures, then thorough treatment can be achieved, but the duration of the procedure and patient morbidity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated instrument enables continuous performance of multiple therapeutic actions in sequence or simultaneously without requiring instrument changes or procedural interruptions. The balloon can be inflated for dilation while the aspiration lumen continuously removes secretions and the fluid delivery lumen provides irrigation, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the procedure to reduce overall duration while ensuring thorough treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging dilation, aspiration, and fluid delivery capabilities into a single instrument, the patent eliminates the need for multiple sequential steps involving different instruments. The combined functionality allows these treatments to be performed in a more streamlined manner, reducing procedural duration while maintaining treatment effectiveness through the coordinated action of all components.
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 streamlines sinus dilation procedures by enabling simultaneous operations, reducing procedural complexity and morbidity, while enhancing precision and efficiency through integrated functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The instrument also includes a waveguide on the probe and having a light emitting end proximate the probe distal end
Implementation Method 2
a suction source operable to generate a negative pressure to execute an aspiration operation wherein the sinus dilation system draws material into the aspiration lumen through the inlet port
Data Source
AI summary
An instrument system for treating a subject includes an instrument including a base configured to be gripped by an operator, and an elongate probe including a probe proximal end coupled with the base and extending to a probe distal end. The probe includes an aspiration lumen terminating at an inlet port proximate the probe distal end, and a delivery lumen terminating at an outlet port proximate the probe distal end. The instrument also includes a waveguide on the probe and having a light emitting end proximate the probe distal end.