혈관치료용 카테터 회전 및 풀백 구동 시스템 개발

Abstract

Varicose vein treatments range from conventional surgical ligation and sclerotherapy to venous closure using biologicaladhesives. However, considering ease of procedure, recovery time, and cosmetic outcomes like minimal scarring, minimallyinvasive techniques employing lasers or radiofrequency are preferred. The efficacy of these methods heavily relies on clinicianexpertise and ultrasound imaging, with manual catheter retraction during cauterization presenting challenges, such asoverlapping or untreated areas, especially in long vessels exceeding 1 meter, leading to increased procedure time andoperator fatigue. To address these issues, we propose an automated catheter procedure for varicose veins. This systemfeatures a handpiece for energy generation control (laser, radiofrequency) operated near the clinician for convenience. Wedesigned a pullback system that enables constant speed rotation and forward/backward movements of the catheter withoutmoving the handpiece. Through handpiece operation, the catheter rotates at a set speed, and a roller-driven pullback actionoccurs as it winds on a reel, expanding the diameter of the reel for retraction while remaining stationary. Conversely, reducingthe diameter of the reel facilitates forward movement. The length adjustment of the catheter based on winding turns on thereel makes it adaptable for various vascular procedures, enhancing the procedural accuracy and operator convenience.