Steerable Tip Cooled RF Ablation Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooled radiofrequency probes have a large diameter and limited steerability, causing trauma and pain during procedures, and difficulty in avoiding obstructions, due to their size and rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A cooled radiofrequency ablation probe with a 20 gauge diameter and a curved or bendable tip, utilizing a polymer introducer for improved steerability and reduced diameter, allowing for comparable lesion size to larger probes while minimizing tissue damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If a 17 gauge cooled radiofrequency probe is used, then lesion size is increased, but probe steerability and ease of navigation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into segments with different diameters - a larger proximal portion for structural support and a smaller distal tip for improved steerability. This segmentation allows the probe to combine the lesion-generating capability of a larger probe with the navigation advantages of a smaller probe.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe incorporates a curved or angled distal tip that changes the directional orientation of the energy delivery. This dimensional change in the probe geometry enables better navigation around obstructions and access to target tissues that would be difficult to reach with a straight probe.
2Volume of stationary object
If a 17 gauge cooled radiofrequency probe is used, then lesion size is increased, but tissue trauma and procedural pain are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the probe have different diameters optimized for different functions - the proximal portion is larger for structural integrity and cooling, while the distal tip is smaller to minimize tissue trauma during insertion and navigation, yet still delivers sufficient energy for effective lesion creation.
3Ease of operation
If a smaller diameter probe is used, then steerability is improved, but lesion size is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The probe structure is segmented with a smaller distal tip for steerability and a larger proximal portion for energy delivery and cooling, allowing the system to achieve both improved navigation and adequate lesion size.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe utilizes composite construction with multiple materials optimized for different functions - materials with high thermal conductivity for efficient cooling, biocompatible materials for tissue interaction, and structurally sound materials for maintaining probe integrity despite the reduced overall diameter.
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 20 gauge curved probe achieves comparable lesion size to 17 gauge probes with improved steerability, reducing procedural pain and trauma, and facilitating easier navigation through tissue.
Implementation Method 1
a cooling means is used to reduce the temperature of the electrode-tissue interface
Implementation Method 2
Tissue resistance to the current causes heating of tissue adjacent resulting in the coagulation of cells
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3~4C
AI summary
A cooled radiofrequency ablation probe includes an electrocap assembly including an elongated member having a body, a proximal end configured to interface with a probe handle, and a thermally and electrically conductive distal end configured to deliver electrical or radiofrequency energy to a patient's tissue. The elongated member houses at least one cooling fluid tubing within the length of the body and a thermocouple hypotube within the length of the elongated member. The body and the proximal end of the elongated member are straight, and the distal end of the elongated member is curved. A cooled radiofrequency ablation delivery kit including a radiofrequency probe, an introducer, and a stylet is also provided.