Tissue Tightness Measurement Device for Subdermal Coagulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring biomechanical changes in tissue tightness following soft tissue coagulation are limited, primarily relying on photographic analysis of volume or surface area changes, without accurate assessment of biomechanical property modifications.
Innovation Solution
A tissue tightness measurement device that includes a displacement mechanism, position sensors, and load sensors to generate a force/displacement curve, allowing for the calculation of tissue tightness by determining the slope of the 'line of best fit' of the curve, which is used to assess the force required to displace tissue per unit of displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If photographic analysis is used to measure tissue changes, then the method is simple and non-invasive, but the measurement precision of biomechanical properties is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple photographic analysis with a mechanical measurement system that directly quantifies tissue biomechanical properties. The device uses a displacement mechanism coupled with load and position sensors to mechanically measure tissue tightness through force-displacement curve analysis, providing precise biomechanical data rather than indirect visual estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement device between the surgeon and the tissue. This device includes sensors and processing systems that indirectly measure tissue properties by analyzing the mechanical response to controlled displacement, serving as a mediator that converts complex tissue biomechanics into quantifiable data without direct invasive sampling.
2Reliability
If real-time tissue tightness measurement is implemented, then the accuracy of tissue contraction assessment is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring tissue tightness during the procedure. The displacement mechanism, load sensors, and position sensors work together to provide live force-displacement data, allowing the surgeon to immediately assess whether the desired tissue contraction has been achieved and adjust the treatment accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device is designed to be integrated with existing electrosurgical systems, serving multiple functions: it measures tissue tightness, guides the electrosurgical procedure, and provides real-time feedback on treatment effectiveness. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a simple surgical knife is used for tissue excision, then the procedure is straightforward, but the ability to redirect the plasma beam to specific operative sites is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cold plasma beam as an intermediary energy delivery mechanism between the electrosurgical generator and the target tissue. This plasma beam can be redirected to specific operative sites through the tissue, allowing precise energy delivery without requiring direct electrode contact or complex surgical access paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the plasma beam dynamic and adjustable in its path and focal point. The system allows real-time adjustment of plasma beam direction and positioning to match the specific needs of the operative site, transforming a static surgical approach into a dynamic, adaptable procedure.
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 accurate measurement of tissue tightness, providing real-time feedback to ensure desired tissue contraction is achieved during procedures, such as minimally invasive cosmetic surgeries, by quantifying biomechanical changes effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a load sensor that measures force applied to the tissue as the tissue is being displaced
Implementation Method 2
The heat effects of the radiofrequency (RF) alternating current used in electrosurgery on cells and tissue have been well established
Implementation Method 3
Protein denaturation is the process in which hydrothermal bonds (i.e., crosslinks) between protein molecules, such as collagen, are instantaneously broken and then quickly reformed as tissue cools
Implementation Method 4
Once denatured, collagen rapidly contracts as fibers shrink to one-third of their overall length
Implementation Method 5
Gas plasma is an ionized gas capable of conducting electrical energy. Plasmas are used in surgical devices to conduct electrosurgical energy to a patient
Implementation Method 6
The plasma conducts the energy by providing a pathway of relatively low electrical resistance
Implementation Method 7
a suction device that draws the tissue into the suction device
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to devices, systems and methods for subdermal tissue tightening through soft tissue coagulation and for use in cosmetic surgery applications. The devices, systems and methods of the present disclosure may be used for a minimally invasive application of plasma energy to subcutaneous tissue for the purpose of tightening lax tissue. The present disclosure further provides tissue tightness measurement devices, systems and methods, which are used to determine the tightness of tissue. The measurements obtained by the tissue tightness measurement devices and/or systems are used to determine when a desired tissue tightness has been achieved during a tissue tightening procedure.