Thermal Ablation Imaging Probes for Real-Time Volume Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal ablation systems lack real-time imaging capabilities, leading to uncertainty about the actual ablation volume and potential harm to surrounding healthy tissue due to factors like blood flow and microbubbles interfering with ultrasound imaging.
Innovation Solution
Integration of multiple ultrasound transducers around the ablation volume and use of all-optical ultrasound transducers to decouple RF/MW signals, allowing simultaneous imaging and ablation with improved 360° coverage and elastography mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional thermal ablation is performed without integrated imaging, then the ablation procedure can be performed with simpler equipment, but real-time feedback on ablation volume and tissue treatment status is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines imaging transducers with ablation probes into a single integrated device. The imaging transducers are positioned on or within the ablation probe to provide real-time imaging during the ablation procedure, eliminating the need for separate imaging equipment and enabling simultaneous visualization and treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The ablation probe is designed to perform multiple functions: delivering thermal energy for ablation and providing imaging capabilities through integrated transducers. This multi-functional design allows the single device to both visualize and treat target tissue, reducing equipment complexity while maintaining comprehensive functionality.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasound imaging is used during RF/MW ablation, then real-time imaging feedback is obtained, but microbubbles generated during ablation interfere with imaging quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical imaging modalities (such as optical coherence tomography or photoacoustic imaging) as an intermediary between the ablation process and visualization. These optical methods are less susceptible to microbubble interference than traditional ultrasound, providing clearer real-time images of the ablation zone while maintaining the ability to monitor treatment progress.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system transitions from using acoustic waves (ultrasound) to using optical waves for imaging during ablation. This parameter change in the imaging modality fundamentally alters how images are acquired, making the imaging process less sensitive to microbubble interference while still providing real-time feedback on ablation volume and tissue treatment.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple imaging transducers are positioned around the ablation volume for 360° coverage, then complete imaging coverage is achieved, but the system complexity and difficulty of probe positioning increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple discrete transducer elements that can be independently positioned on the ablation probe. Each transducer element contributes to a portion of the overall imaging coverage, and when combined, they provide complete 360° visualization of the ablation zone without requiring a single complex omnidirectional transducer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions imaging transducers in three-dimensional space around the ablation probe, utilizing spatial arrangement to achieve 360° coverage. By distributing transducers along the length and circumference of the probe, the system creates volumetric imaging capability that captures the entire ablation zone from multiple angles simultaneously.
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
Provides real-time feedback on ablation progress, ensuring complete tissue destruction and minimizing harm to healthy tissues by enhancing imaging accuracy and reducing the need for subsequent treatments.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging transducer, different from the RF/MW emitter, is positioned in the probe to obtain imaging data
Implementation Method 2
RF and MW ablation is often performed using one or more special needles or probes. The probe is inserted near to or into the target tissue, such as cancerous tissue, and electrical current sent through the probe heats the target tissue to high temperatures which destroys the target tissue
Implementation Method 3
RF and MW ablation generates microbubbles in the ablation area due to the interaction of high-frequency currents with soft tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An ablation device includes a shaft and a radiofrequency (RF) emitter positioned in the shaft that delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to create an ablation volume. The ablation device also includes an imaging sensor positioned in the tubular shaft configured to obtain imaging data of the ablation volume.