Microwave Ablation Probe Wall-Integrated Thermocouples for Slim Needles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microwave ablation probes face challenges in maintaining a small size while incorporating multiple temperature sensors or thermocouples, which is crucial for minimizing tissue damage during thermal ablation treatments.
Innovation Solution
The development of microwave ablation probes with integrated thermocouples or thermocouples embedded in the needle's outer wall, formed using metallic ink or fiberglass layers, allowing for precise temperature measurement and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors or thermocouples are included in the ablation probe, then temperature monitoring capability is improved, but the probe size and outer diameter increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates thermocouples directly into the needle structure by forming them as part of the needle's outer wall during the molding process. This merging of the temperature sensing function into the structural component eliminates the need for separate sensor housings and mounting mechanisms, thereby achieving multiple temperature monitoring points without significantly increasing the overall probe diameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for insertion, contains the microwave antenna, and integrates the temperature sensing capability through embedded thermocouples. This multi-functionality allows a single component to fulfill multiple roles, reducing the need for additional separate components that would increase probe size.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the microwave ablation antenna size is reduced, then damage to surrounding tissues is minimized, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a thin-walled needle structure with integrated thermocouples formed as part of the outer wall. This thin-film approach allows the needle to maintain a small outer diameter suitable for precise targeting while minimizing thermal mass and potential damage to surrounding tissues. The thin wall design also facilitates easier manufacturing through molding processes.
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
Enables precise temperature monitoring and control during ablation procedures, ensuring minimal tissue damage and effective treatment zones.
Implementation Method 1
The needle may include multiple thermocouples embedded in the shell or integrated into the shell... each thermocouple of the plurality of thermocouples may be spaced apart from each other. The thermocouples may be used to determine a temperature at or near each thermocouple on the shell.
Implementation Method 2
A microwave ablation antenna can be included in the probe and be used to deliver Radio Frequency (RF) energy such as microwave energy to a target tissue to heat the target tissue and destroy the target tissue.
Data Source
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AI summary
A microwave ablation probe needle (300) includes a shell (302) extending in an axial direction and defining an inner cavity (306), a tip (304) positioned on a distal end of the shell, and a plurality of thermocouples (308, 310, 312, 314) integrated into the shell.