Enhanced Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy for Advanced Tissue Characterization

This inventive concept enhances electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) for advanced tissue characterization, improving the accuracy and efficiency of plaque rupture prediction and atherosclerotic lesion identification.

The original patent for electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) has limitations in accurately characterizing tissues and predicting plaque rupture. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating temperature sensors, operating at multiple frequencies, and combining EIS with ultrasound imaging and fluorescent dye highlighting.

The new inventive concept comprises a tissue sensing device with a first catheter and a second catheter, each with a lumen, and at least one ultrasound transducer positioned within the first catheter lumen. The device is enhanced with a temperature sensor integrated into the first catheter to monitor tissue temperature during sensing. The EIS sensors operate at multiple frequencies to provide enhanced tissue characterization. The system combines EIS data with ultrasound images to determine the level of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and macrophage/foam cells present in an atheroma. The device can also identify metabolically active atherosclerotic lesions that are angiographically invisible using a fluorescent dye.

The new claims introduce the integration of temperature sensors, multi-frequency EIS operation, and the combination of EIS with ultrasound imaging and fluorescent dye highlighting, which are not present in the original patent. These enhancements provide a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent.

Alternative embodiments may include varying the configuration of the catheters, using different types of sensors, or incorporating additional imaging modalities. Variations may also include adapting the device for use in different medical applications, such as cancer diagnosis or neural tissue characterization.

The enhanced EIS technology has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of cardiovascular disease diagnosis and treatment. The market for this technology is substantial, with an estimated value of over $1 billion by 2025.