Textured Balloon Catheter for Simultaneous Bronchial Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for collecting biological samples from bodily cavities, particularly in the lung, are limited in their ability to obtain multiple types of samples simultaneously, are costly due to multiple components, and lack precise positioning and illumination for optimal operation.
Innovation Solution
A balloon catheter system with a textured outer surface and multiple lumens for various sampling tools, including forceps and needles, along with an imaging device and fluid inflation, allowing for simultaneous collection of multiple sample types and precise positioning within the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used to collect different sample types, then sample collection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sampling devices (brush, forceps, needle, cutter) into a single integrated catheter system with a common inflation balloon. This merging allows all sampling tools to be delivered through one catheter and positioned simultaneously at the target site, resolving the contradiction by achieving multiple sample collection capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The inflation balloon serves multiple functions: it anchors the catheter, positions the sampling devices, and collects biological samples through its textured outer surface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated devices for each function, thereby improving versatility while controlling device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used to collect different sample types, then sample collection capability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple sampling devices into a single catheter assembly, the patent reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, sterilized, and disposed of. This consolidation lowers overall system cost while maintaining the capability to collect multiple sample types
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter system is designed as a disposable single-use device, eliminating the need for complex sterilization procedures required for reusable devices. This approach reduces manufacturing and operational costs while ensuring safety, as the entire system can be discarded after a single use
3Productivity
If traditional catheters are used without textured surface, then simplicity is maintained, but sample collection efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The balloon surface is given a specific textured pattern (cross-hatch, mesh, or raised patterns) only at the portion that contacts biological tissue, while the rest of the catheter remains smooth. This localized texturing improves sample collection efficiency at the critical interface without significantly increasing overall device complexity
4Measurement precision
If illumination and imaging devices are added to the catheter, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter incorporates illumination and imaging devices as integrated components that serve dual purposes: guiding the catheter to the target site and visualizing the sampling process. This integration improves positioning precision while the shared infrastructure reduces the incremental complexity increase
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 efficient, cost-effective collection of multiple biological samples with improved precision and visualization, facilitating optimal positioning and operation within the body.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid source in fluid communication with the balloon that supplies fluid to the second lumen to inflate the balloon
Data Source
AI summary
A system for gathering biological material in a biological cavity comprising a catheter having a first lumen, a balloon, and a second lumen in fluid communication with said balloon. The balloon has a textured outer surface for collecting biological material. At least one device for sampling a bodily tissue, such as a needle, optic or forceps, is disposed in the first lumen. A fluid source in fluid communication with the balloon supplies fluid to the second lumen to inflate the balloon such that the textured outer surface collects additional biological material. The system is particularly useful for collecting samples in the lungs or bronchial airways, such as at a bronchial junction.