Variable Distance Electrode Assembly for Tissue Ablation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tissue ablation technologies, such as RF energy application, lack control over the area and depth of tissue ablation, particularly in anatomical structures with varying sizes, and struggle to maintain consistent electrical continuity during the process.
Innovation Solution
A variable distance electrode assembly with a stationary and movable electrode, controlled by an actuating body, allows for customizable spacing between electrodes, enabling precise control over tissue ablation and the use of a fluid delivery member to maintain electrical continuity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fixed electrode spacing is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but control over ablation area and depth is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly incorporates a movable electrode that can be adjusted relative to a stationary electrode, transforming the fixed spacing into a dynamic, adjustable configuration. This allows the spacing between electrodes to be varied to control ablation parameters while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure through mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode assembly is divided into a stationary electrode and a movable electrode, allowing independent positioning of each component. This segmentation enables precise control over the distance between electrodes, thereby controlling ablation area and depth, while each segment can be designed with simple individual structures.
2Measurement precision
If variable electrode spacing is implemented, then ablation precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable electrode is equipped with an adjustment mechanism that allows real-time variation of the spacing between electrodes during the procedure. This dynamic adjustment capability provides precise control over ablation parameters without requiring complex pre-programmed systems, achieving high precision through mechanical flexibility.
3Area of stationary object
If electrodes are spaced further apart, then larger ablation area is achieved, but electrical continuity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive fluid is introduced as an intermediary medium between the spaced-apart electrodes to maintain electrical continuity. The fluid fills the gap between electrodes, providing a conductive pathway that allows electrical energy to be delivered across larger distances, thereby enabling larger ablation areas while preserving reliable electrical connection.
4Reliability
If conductive fluid is added to maintain electrical continuity, then ablation effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and fluid management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device integrates multiple functions into unified components: the electrode assembly serves both as the electrical delivery system and as a guide for fluid delivery, while the fluid delivery mechanism works in conjunction with the electrode positioning system. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity by eliminating separate dedicated systems for each function.
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 solution provides greater control over tissue ablation, allowing for customizable ablation patterns and maintaining effective electrical contact, thereby enhancing the precision and effectiveness of the ablation process.
Implementation Method 1
radiofrequency (RF) energy may be utilized to ablate tissue
Implementation Method 2
the RF energy may ablate the tissue to provide a desired therapeutic effect
Implementation Method 3
A variable distance electrode assembly with a stationary and movable electrode, controlled by an actuating body, allows for customizable spacing between electrodes, enabling precise control over tissue ablation and the use of a fluid delivery member to maintain electrical continuity
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes inserting a variable distance electrode assembly within a patient. A first electrode of the variable distance electrode assembly is placed adjacent to a targeted tissue area. A second electrode of the variable distance electrode assembly is placed adjacent to the targeted tissue area such that the first electrode and the second electrode are spaced from each other to define a first distance. The first and second electrodes are activated to apply electrical energy to the targeted tissue area. The first electrode is translated relative to the second electrode to define a second distance between each other while the first electrode and the second electrode continue to apply electrical energy to the targeted tissue area.