Transvaginal Probe Stress Gradient Tissue Elasticity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current clinical methods for diagnosing pelvic organ prolapse are subjective and lack objective characterization of vaginal tissue elasticity, making it difficult to detect early stages of pelvic organ abnormalities.
Innovation Solution
A transvaginal probe equipped with pressure sensors and a motion tracking sensor is used to record stress and strain data, allowing for the calculation of a stress gradient to objectively characterize vaginal tissue elasticity and detect pelvic organ abnormalities by comparing the calculated values against predetermined thresholds or normal values from clinical data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual physical examination and digital palpation are used for diagnosing pelvic organ prolapse, then the examination can be performed with simple equipment, but the diagnostic accuracy and objectivity are poor due to subjective assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical palpation with an automated mechanical probe system that applies controlled forces and measures tissue response objectively. The probe uses motors or actuators to apply standardized compression forces while sensors measure the resulting tissue deformation, eliminating subjective human assessment and providing quantifiable elasticity data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical probe as an intermediary between the examiner and the patient's tissue. This probe serves as a mediator that objectively applies force and measures response, translating subjective physical examination into objective quantitative data about tissue elasticity and mechanical properties.
2Reliability
If digital palpation is used to assess vaginal tissue elasticity, then the procedure is simple and quick, but the sensitivity and objectivity are highly subjective without quantitative data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback loops where sensors continuously measure tissue response to applied forces and provide real-time data to a control system. This feedback enables automated adjustment of measurement parameters and provides objective quantitative data about tissue elasticity, replacing subjective palpation with measurable, repeatable assessments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes manual mechanical assessment with an automated mechanical measurement system that applies standardized forces and objectively measures tissue deformation. This replacement transforms subjective clinical judgment into quantifiable mechanical properties of the tissue.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If no quantitative tissue characterization is performed, then the examination procedure remains simple, but early stages of abnormality development cannot be distinguished from normal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary quantitative characterization of tissue mechanical properties before abnormalities develop into clinically apparent conditions. By establishing baseline elasticity and mechanical property data through standardized probing, the system can detect subtle changes that indicate early pathological development, enabling early intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses automated mechanical probing with precise force control and deformation measurement to detect subtle changes in tissue mechanical properties. This quantitative mechanical assessment can identify early abnormalities in tissue elasticity and structure that are not detectable through subjective manual examination.
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
This method provides a quantitative and objective assessment of vaginal tissue elasticity, enabling early detection of pelvic organ abnormalities and improving diagnostic accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
A vaginal tactile imager generally includes a transvaginal probe with a pressure sensor array
Implementation Method 2
The probe also includes a motion tracking sensor
Implementation Method 3
obtaining stress and strain data for one or more measurement points of the vaginal tissue; and calculating at least one stress gradient for the vaginal tissue
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for characterizing elasticity of vaginal tissue are provided. A transvaginal probe is used to deform vaginal tissue during examination. The probe is equipped with pressure sensors and a motion tracking sensor. Stress and strain data is recorded during examination. Elasticity of vaginal tissue is then characterized by calculating a stress gradient defined as a ratio of stress over strain for each point of measurement. Vaginal tactile image may also be compiled to include a family of surfaces representing locations of measurement points at predefined constant levels of stress. Pelvic organ abnormality condition may be detected if the stress gradient is below either a predetermined threshold or a normal stress gradient obtained from clinical data.