Superelastic Guide Wire With Electromagnetic Sensing for Sinus Dilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guide wire systems for balloon dilation in sinus treatment lack improvements, particularly in conjunction with image-guided surgery systems, which can enhance precision and efficacy in treating sinusitis by facilitating the insertion and positioning of balloons in constricted sinus passageways.
Innovation Solution
A guide wire system comprising a superelastic material that transitions between configurations in response to force, equipped with an electromagnetic sensor and polymeric tube, allowing precise alignment and insertion of a balloon dilation catheter under image guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a guide wire system is used for balloon dilation in sinus treatment, then the insertion and positioning of the balloon can be facilitated, but the precision and effectiveness of the procedure are insufficient without image guidance integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the guide wire system with electromagnetic sensors and image-guided surgery system integration, merging multiple functions (guidance, sensing, imaging coordination) into a unified system to achieve precise positioning while managing complexity through integrated design
2Adaptability or versatility
If the guide wire uses superelastic material to transition between configurations, then the guide wire can navigate constricted sinus passageways, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The guide wire employs superelastic material that can dynamically transition between different configurations (straight, curved, bent) in response to applied forces, allowing it to adapt to the complex geometry of sinus passageways while maintaining structural integrity through controlled deformability
3Productivity
If the balloon is expanded to open constricted sinus passageways, then sinus drainage and ventilation are improved, but mucosal tissue may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical force-based dilation with controlled balloon expansion that applies distributed pressure, substituting concentrated mechanical stress with a more uniform expansion force that achieves passageway opening while minimizing localized tissue damage
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
Enhances the precision and effectiveness of balloon dilation procedures by ensuring accurate placement of the balloon in sinus drainage pathways, preserving mucosal tissue and improving sinus drainage and ventilation.
Implementation Method 1
the guide wire comprises a superelastic material that is configured to (i) transition from a first configuration to a second configuration responsive to a force applied to the guide wire and (ii) return from the second configuration to the first configuration responsive to the force being removed from the guide wire
Implementation Method 2
An electromagnetic sensor is coupled to the distal end of the guide wire
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a guide wire system comprising (a) a guide wire having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the guide wire comprises a superelastic material, (b) a first connector coupled to the proximal end of the guide wire, (c) a second connector coupled to the guide wire between the distal end and the proximal end, (d) an electromagnetic sensor coupled to the distal end of the guide wire, and (e) a polymeric tube surrounding the guide wire and at least a portion of the electromagnetic sensor.