Vapor Media Thermal Ablation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical energy delivery methods, such as RF, laser, and microwave energy, lack control and precision in applying thermal energy to tissue, leading to non-uniform effects during ablation procedures due to the non-linear characteristics of tissue affecting electromagnetic energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes a controlled flow of vapor media to deliver thermal energy by causing a vapor-to-liquid phase state change at a targeted tissue site, exploiting the large energy releases during phase transitions to achieve precise thermal ablation, using a vaporization chamber and a controller to manage energy application and fluid flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If RF, laser, or microwave energy is applied directly to tissue, then thermal energy can be delivered to ablate tissue, but the energy distribution becomes non-uniform and lacks control due to non-linear tissue characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vaporized liquid media (intermediary substance) between the energy source and the tissue. This intermediary absorbs electromagnetic energy and converts it to thermal energy through phase change, which then transfers heat to the tissue in a more controlled and uniform manner, resolving the non-uniform energy distribution problem
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the phase transition of liquid media from liquid to vapor state when exposed to electromagnetic energy. This phase change process absorbs energy and then releases it during condensation, providing controlled thermal effects for tissue ablation with improved precision and uniformity
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 controlled and localized thermal energy delivery, overcoming the limitations of existing technologies by ensuring consistent energy application and precise tissue modification, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of ablative treatments.
Implementation Method 1
causing a vapor-to-liquid phase state change at a targeted tissue site, exploiting the large energy releases during phase transitions
Implementation Method 2
an inductively heatable helical tubing structure... providing a controlled flow of liquid media into the inductively heatable helical tubing structure and converting the liquid media to vapor media
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and devices for applying energy to tissue, and more particularly relates to a system for ablating or modifying structures in a body with systems and methods that generate a flow of vapor at a controlled flow rate for applying energy to the body structure.