Device for orienting a medical object relative to an examination object and method for emitting a light distribution

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for orienting a medical object relative to an examination object, comprising: - an orientation element which is fixable at or integrated in the medical object, the orientation element having a plurality of at least point-like markings, - a processing unit, - the processing unit being designed to receive medical image data, and - the processing unit identifying positioning information about the positioning of the medical object, - a display unit which is designed to display the medical image data and a graphical view of the orientation information, wherein the orientation information has a respective virtual continuation of the medical object based on the plurality of markings, which corresponds to a virtual arrangement of the medical object, a light guide device being designed to emit a predefined light distribution, so that when the medical object is oriented according to the respective virtual continuation, one of the plurality of markings is illuminated by the light distribution. The invention also relates to a system, a method for emitting a light distribution and a computer program product.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a device for orienting a medical object relative to an examination object, a system, a method for emitting a light distribution and a computer program product. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the context of minimally invasive interventions, in particular bone interventions, such as vertebroplasty and / or kyphoplasty, a bone cannula needle, a K-wire, a rigid needle and / or a similar screw-like tool is introduced into the bone structure of an examination object, in particular by hammering and / or drilling. The intervention instrument is usually guided to the target object through an entry point at the examination object. It is often essential for this that the positioning, in particular the orientation and / or the position, of the intervention instrument relative to the examination object is monitored. Fluoroscopy is often used here for the intraoperative navigation and / or guidance of the intervention instrument, for example by means of a C-arm X-ray apparatus. In most cases, no planning imaging and / or 3D imaging is carried out before the intervention.

[0003] The positioning of the intervention instrument and / or the angle of the C-arm X-ray apparatus can be adapted, if necessary, for example by means of fluoroscopy imaging. Alternatively or additionally, the intervention instrument, in particular the longitudinal extension direction of the intervention instrument, can also be detected in the fluoroscopy image and displayed as a graphical view by superimposing a straight line by means of a display device. By repeatedly repositioning the intervention instrument in the case of fluoroscopy imaging, the superimposed straight line can be aligned with the target object. The known methods result in an adverse increase in the radiation load of the examination object. Furthermore, these methods are often time-consuming. SUMMARY

[0004] The technical problem addressed by the invention is therefore to achieve a low X-ray dose and a time-efficient orientation of a medical object relative to an examination object on the basis of 2D imaging.

[0005] The technical problem is solved according to the invention by a device for orienting a medical object relative to an examination object, a system, a method for emitting a light distribution and a computer program product. Irrespective of the grammatical gender of the specific terms, both men and women with a male or female identity are included.

[0006] The application relates to a device for orienting a medical object relative to an examination object. The device comprises a directional element, a light guide device, a processing unit and a display unit. The directional element has a plurality of at least point-like markings and can be fixed in a defined positional relationship on or integrated into the medical object. Furthermore, the processing unit is designed to receive medical image data, which have an imaging of the examination object. Furthermore, the processing unit is designed to identify positioning information about the positioning of the medical object. The display unit is designed to display a graphical view of the medical image data and the directional information depending on the positioning information. The directional information has a corresponding virtual continuation of the medical object based on the markings. The virtual continuation corresponds to a virtual arrangement of the medical object. Furthermore, the light guide device is designed to emit a predefined light distribution. In the operating state of the device, the medical object is arranged next to or in the examination object. In the operating state, the display unit displays a graphical view of the medical image data and the directional information. In the operating state, the light guide device emits a light distribution, so that one of the plurality of markings is illuminated by the light distribution when the medical object is oriented according to the corresponding virtual continuation.

[0007] The examination object can be, for example, a human and / or animal patient and / or an examination phantom.

[0008] The medical object can be a surgical instrument, for example a needle, in particular a puncture needle, and / or a drill bit, and / or a diagnostic instrument, for example an endoscope, in particular a laparoscope, and / or a catheter and / or a trocar. The medical object can advantageously be designed at least partially, in particular completely, to be rigid and elongate, in particular rod-shaped and / or needle-shaped.

[0009] In the operating state of the device, the medical object, in particular a distal section of the medical object, can advantageously be arranged next to or in the examination object. In the operating state of the device, the medical object can in particular be arranged at least partially next to or in the examination object.

[0010] The directional element can be fixed, in particular arranged, in a defined positional relationship, in particular in a defined spatial relative position and / or relative orientation and / or relative attitude, on the medical object, in particular on a proximal section of the medical object. The directional element can in particular be detachably fixed at the medical object. To this end, the directional element and / or the medical object can have a fixing element, for example a clamping device and / or an insertion device and / or a magnetic holder. Alternatively or additionally, the directional element can be integrated into the medical object, in particular on a proximal section of the medical object, for example on a surface of the medical object.

[0011] The orientation element can have a plurality of at least point-like, regularly arranged markings. The plurality of at least point-like markings can be designed as geometric objects, for example lines and / or circles and / or crosses. Furthermore, the plurality of markings can also be designed as contrast objects, for example embossings and / or elevations and / or depressions, on a substrate of the orientation element, in particular on a surface of the orientation element.

[0012] The processing unit can be designed to receive medical image data. Receiving the image data can in particular comprise acquiring and / or reading out a computer-readable data storage and / or receiving from a data storage unit, for example a database. To this end, the processing unit can have a corresponding interface. The image data can advantageously be provided by a medical imaging apparatus used to acquire the image data.

[0013] The image data advantageously has a two- or three-dimensionally spatially resolved imaging of the examination object. The image data can additionally reflect the examination object in a time-resolved manner. The image data can have a plurality of image points, in particular pixels or voxels, which have image values, for example intensity values and / or attenuation values, which represent, in particular, the examination object. The image data can for example comprise X-ray projection imaging, in particular fluoroscopy images, of the examination object.

[0014] Furthermore, the processing unit can be designed to provide the positioning information, which comprises information about the recognized positioning of the medical object, to the light guidance device, for example by means of an interface. Providing the positioning information can comprise storing it on a computer-readable storage medium and / or transmitting it to the light guidance device, in particular to an interface of the light guidance device.

[0015] The display unit can comprise a screen and / or monitor and / or projector and / or data glasses, which are designed to display the medical image data and a graphical view of the orientation information. The orientation information can have a corresponding virtual continuation of the medical object based on the plurality of markings, respectively.

[0016] The virtual continuation can correspond to a virtual arrangement, in particular orientation and / or posture, of the medical object, in particular around a distal reference point of the medical object, respectively. The virtual arrangement of the medical object can advantageously describe a different, in particular asymmetric, orientation of the medical object, in particular in a plane, around the distal reference point. The graphical view can show the virtual continuation as a graphical element, for example a line, in particular a straight line, and / or an arrow. The graphical view can in particular have the virtual continuation as an overlay of at least part of the image data. The processing unit can advantageously be designed to adapt the orientation information, in particular display parameters and / or the number of virtual continuations, depending on the positioning information. The processing unit may, for example, adapt the distance and / or the angle of the virtual continuation in the graphical view depending on the positioning information, so that one of the markings is illuminated by the light distribution when the medical object is oriented according to the respective virtual continuation, in particular independently of a rotation relative to a longitudinal extension direction and / or an object axis of the medical object. The object axis can comprise a symmetry axis and / or a longitudinal axis and / or a feed axis and / or a push axis of the medical object.

[0017] The display unit can advantageously display the medical image data and the graphical view of the orientation information in the operating state.

[0018] The light guide device can preferably comprise a light source, for example a laser light source, which is designed to emit a predefined light distribution. The light guide device can for this purpose comprise an optical diaphragm. The light guide device can advantageously be designed to emit the predefined light distribution depending on the positioning information. The light guide device can in particular be designed to adapt a projection direction and / or a projection geometry of the predefined light distribution depending on the positioning information.

[0019] In the operating state of the device, the light guide device can advantageously emit the light distribution so that one of the plurality of markings, in particular exactly one of the markings, is illuminated by the light distribution when the medical object is oriented according to the virtual continuation corresponding to the illuminated marking. The light distribution can advantageously be emitted in the operating state of the device so that a light pattern, for example a line and / or a cross and / or a dot, is projected onto the marking.

[0020] The orientation information can also have a virtual representation of the light pattern, for example a line and / or a cross and / or a dot.

[0021] With the aid of the proposed apparatus it is possible to achieve a low X-ray dose and time-efficient orientation of the medical object relative to the examination object on the basis of the image data, in particular without a 3D imaging and / or navigation system and / or path planning. It is thereby possible to strongly dispense with registering the image data with a planning image of the examination object. Furthermore, it is possible to advantageously minimize a repositioning and / or correction of the positioning of the medical object. It is possible to advantageously realize an intuitive selection of the orientation of the medical object by the medical operator, in particular the physician, from a graphical view of the orientation information and the medical image data, in particular a virtual continuation. Furthermore, the light guide device can simultaneously be designed for emitting further light distributions to assist the medical operator in positioning the examination object.

[0022] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed apparatus, the markers can have optically distinguishable properties. Furthermore, the virtual continuations in the graphical view of the orientation information can have optically distinguishable properties. Here, the optically distinguishable properties of the virtual continuations can each correspond in pairs to the optically distinguishable properties of the respective markers.

[0023] The plurality of markers can for example have color coding and / or black-and-white coding and / or surface properties, for example reflective and / or fluorescent and / or contours, as optically distinguishable properties. The plurality of markers can advantageously be unambiguously identified depending on the optically distinguishable properties.

[0024] Furthermore, the virtual continuations in the graphical view of the orientation information, in particular the graphical view of the virtual continuations, can have optically distinguishable properties, for example color coding and / or black-and-white coding and / or line style and / or line thickness and / or line shape and / or label.

[0025] The optically distinguishable properties of the virtual continuations can for example advantageously correspond in pairs to the optically distinguishable properties of the markers by adaptation in color. In particular, there can be a mapping which forms a one-to-one mapping of the optically distinguishable properties of the virtual continuations and the optically distinguishable properties of the markers.

[0026] The proposed embodiments can improve the detection of the markers which each correspond to a virtual continuation.

[0027] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed apparatus, the plurality of markers can be designed as 2D lines which each lie in a plane, wherein the planes intersect along a common straight line which constitutes a movement axis of the medical object relative to the examination object, but not an object axis of the medical object.

[0028] The plurality of markers can advantageously each be designed as a straight or curved 2D line, respectively, which extends in a plane, respectively. Each of the plurality of markers can be designed as a 2D line, respectively, in a plane, respectively, wherein the planes are different. The plurality of markers can be designed as 2D lines, respectively, as graphical 2D lines and / or recesses and / or protrusions and / or contours. The planes in which the 2D straight lines extend can intersect, respectively, along a common straight line. The common straight line can form, respectively, an intersection line of the plurality of planes.

[0029] The common straight line can constitute an axis of movement of the medical object relative to the examination object. The medical object can be rotated and / or tilted, respectively, about the common straight line. The common straight line can extend, for example, through a reference point, in particular a reference point distal of the medical object and / or a section distal of the medical object. In the case of the medical object being designed to extend longitudinally, the common straight line can extend substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension direction of the medical object. The common straight line does not constitute, advantageously, an object axis, in particular a symmetry axis and / or a longitudinal axis and / or a feed axis and / or a push axis of the medical object.

[0030] The image data can advantageously depict the medical object parallel to the common straight line.

[0031] By tilting and / or rotating the medical object about the common straight line, the proposed embodiments achieve an intuitive orientation of the medical object relative to the examination object.

[0032] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed apparatus, the plurality of markers can be arranged substantially on a common, in particular flat, side of the orientation element.

[0033] The orientation element can advantageously have a side which extends flatly, in particular planarly and / or gently, or curvedly, in particular convexly or concavely. The plurality of markers can here be arranged on the surface of the common, in particular flatly or curvedly extending, side of the orientation element or at least partially, in particular completely, integrated into the surface of the common side of the orientation element.

[0034] The proposed embodiments enable a particularly simple projection and detection of a predefined light pattern on the surface of the common side of the orientation element.

[0035] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed apparatus, the light guiding device can emit, in the operating state, a light distribution which projects a straight line which illuminates one of the plurality of markers and a reference point of the medical object when the medical object is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation.

[0036] The light guiding device can advantageously project a straight line, for example a line segment, in the operating state. The projected straight line can illuminate the respective marker and reference point when the medical object is oriented according to one of the virtual continuations. The reference point can be arranged on the medical object, for example on a distal section of the medical object. Alternatively or additionally, the reference point can be arranged at the other marker, such that the marker corresponding to the virtual continuation and in particular the other marker not corresponding to the virtual continuation is illuminated by the straight line when the medical object is aligned according to the virtual continuation.

[0037] The proposed implementation can enable an accurate orientation of the medical object according to the projected straight line.

[0038] In a further advantageous implementation of the proposed device, the medical object can be configured substantially rigidly and elongatedly. Here, the reference point can be arranged along a longitudinal extension direction of the medical object.

[0039] The medical object can advantageously be designed substantially rigidly, in particular non-bendable and / or non-deformable or only slightly deformable. Furthermore, the medical object can be designed elongatedly, in particular rod-shaped and / or needle-shaped. When the medical object is designed as a trocar, in particular a bone trocar, the medical object can have a length of for example 10 cm to 20 cm or more than 20 cm. The medical object can in particular have a straight longitudinal extension direction. The reference point can here be arranged along the longitudinal extension direction, in particular at a distal section of the medical instrument, for example at a tip and / or a distal end section. In the operating state of the device, when the medical object is arranged next to or in the examination object, the reference point can be a contact point of the medical object with the examination object, for example a hard structure, in particular a bone surface and / or a bone structure. Furthermore, in the operating state, the reference point can be arranged inside or outside the examination object.

[0040] The image data can advantageously depict the medical object substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the medical object.

[0041] The proposed implementation can enable an accurate orientation of the medical object around the reference point, in particular a fine adjustment of the orientation. The medical object can here be oriented such that the virtual continuation and the medical object are oriented in the direction of the target object of the examination object.

[0042] In a further advantageous implementation of the proposed device, the light guiding device can emit a predefined light distribution in the operating state according to the positioning information.

[0043] The light guiding device can be designed for adapting the predefined light distribution, in particular the emission of the projection geometry, according to the positioning information. The light guiding device can for example adapt the projection direction and / or the projection angle and / or the projection geometry and / or the focus of the predefined light distribution according to the positioning information.

[0044] By adapting the emission of the predefined light distribution in accordance with the positioning information, it can advantageously be ensured that one of the plurality of markers is illuminated by the light distribution when the medical object is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation, in particular after a repositioning of the medical object.

[0045] The application relates in a second aspect to a system comprising the device according to the application and a medical imaging apparatus. Here, the imaging apparatus is designed for acquiring medical image data.

[0046] The medical imaging apparatus for acquiring image data can comprise a medical X-ray apparatus, in particular a medical C-arm X-ray apparatus and / or a cone-beam computed tomography system (English: cone-beam CT, abbreviation: CBCT) and / or a computed tomography system (CT system) and / or a magnetic resonance tomography system (MRT system) and / or a positron emission tomography system (PET system) and / or an ultrasound device. The imaging apparatus can advantageously be designed for acquiring and providing image data.

[0047] The advantages of the proposed system essentially correspond to the advantages of the proposed device. The features, advantages or alternative embodiments mentioned here can also be transferred to the other claimed technical solutions and vice versa.

[0048] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed system, the imaging apparatus can have an X-ray source and an X-ray detector, which are movably supported in a defined arrangement about a center of rotation. The medical image data can have a projection imaging of an examination object and a medical object. Furthermore, the light guiding device can be arranged at the X-ray source or the X-ray detector.

[0049] The imaging apparatus can advantageously be designed as a medical X-ray apparatus, in particular a medical C-arm X-ray apparatus. The imaging apparatus, in particular the X-ray apparatus, can have an X-ray source and an X-ray detector, which are movably, in particular rotatably, supported in a defined arrangement about a center of rotation, in particular an isocenter, in particular on a common C-arm. The image data can advantageously comprise a projection imaging of an examination object and a medical object. The X-ray source can emit an X-ray beam for acquiring the projection imaging. Furthermore, the X-ray detector can detect the X-ray beam after interaction of the X-ray beam with the examination object and the medical object and in particular provide a corresponding signal to a processing unit.

[0050] The light guiding device can advantageously be arranged at the X-ray source or the X-ray detector. The light guiding device can in particular be fixed at the X-ray source or the X-ray detector. Alternatively or additionally, the light guiding device can be at least partially, in particular completely, integrated into the X-ray source or the X-ray detector. The light guiding device can here be moved together with the X-ray source and the X-ray detector, in particular translationally and / or rotationally, in particular to the same extent and / or in the same form, as a prescribed arrangement of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector. An intrinsic registration between the coordinate system of the light guiding device and the coordinate system of the imaging apparatus can thereby be achieved.

[0051] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed system, the light guiding device can emit a light distribution with a light fan in the operating state of the apparatus. Here, the light fan can at least virtually extend through the focal point of the X-ray source and intersect the detection area of the X-ray detector.

[0052] The light fan can be composed of a plurality of light beams, which extend, for example, fan-shaped and / or parallel to one another, respectively within a layer, in particular within a plane. By emitting a predefined light distribution with a light fan, a straight line can be projected by the light guiding device.

[0053] The X-ray source can have a focal point, which can describe the spatial position of the meeting place of the X-rays of the X-ray beam. Alternatively or additionally, the focal point can advantageously describe the spatial position of a light barrier arranged at the X-ray source.

[0054] Furthermore, the X-ray detector can have a detection area, in particular a detection layer and / or a detection plane of a flat detector and / or a detection column of an array detector. The detection area can represent an X-ray-sensitive region of the X-ray detector, in particular a surface of the X-ray detector, in which region X-rays emitted by the X-ray source can be detected by the X-ray detector.

[0055] Advantageously, the light guiding device can emit a light distribution with a light fan in the operating state, such that the light fan at least virtually, in particular without the light fan being hindered, extends through the focal point of the X-ray source and at least virtually intersects the detection area of the X-ray detector. The light fan, in particular a layer or a plane of the light fan, can in particular at least virtually encompass the focal point of the X-ray source. Furthermore, the light fan can also intersect the detection area of the X-ray detector, which comprises a plurality of detector pixels, for example along a line or a rectangle of detector pixels.

[0056] An intrinsic correspondence, in particular an intrinsic registration, between the illuminatable detector pixels and the predefined light distribution, in particular the light fan, can thereby be advantageously established.

[0057] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed system, the system can further comprise a medical object designed as a trocar and / or a puncture needle and / or an endoscope and / or an implant.

[0058] The proposed embodiments can advantageously enable intuitive, x-ray dose-efficient orientation of a medical object designed as a trocar and / or a puncture needle and / or an endoscope and / or an implant, for example in orthopedic interventions.

[0059] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed system, the identification of the positioning information can comprise receiving a positioning detection signal of an electromagnetic and / or acoustic and / or optical detection unit for detecting a positioning of the medical object. Alternatively or additionally, the identification of the positioning information can comprise identifying an imaging of the medical object in the image data.

[0060] The detection unit can advantageously have electromagnetic and / or acoustic and / or optical sensors designed for detecting a positioning, in particular a spatial position and / or an orientation and / or a posture, of the medical object. The sensors can advantageously be designed for detecting a positioning, in particular a current positioning, of the medical object, in particular of a predefined section of the medical object. The sensors can in particular detect a positioning of the medical object relative to the examination object, in particular in a coordinate system of the examination object. To this end, the sensors can be integrated into the medical object, in particular into a distal section of the medical object, or can be arranged spaced apart from the medical object. Furthermore, the detection unit can be designed for providing a positioning detection signal, in particular having the positioning information, from the detected positioning of the medical object.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the processing unit can be designed for identifying an imaging of the medical object in the image data. The identification of the imaging of the medical object can comprise identifying, in particular segmenting, image points in the image data that depict the medical object. The identification of the imaging of the medical object in the image data can be realized, for example, on the basis of a threshold by comparing image values of the image points with a preset threshold value, and / or on the basis of geometric features of the medical object, for example contours and / or marker structures depicted in the image data. The medical object can in particular have marker structures, in particular visible upon imaging, for example being opaque to x-rays, at a proximal section of the medical object. Furthermore, the processing unit can be designed for determining a current positioning, in particular a spatial position and / or an orientation and / or a posture, of the medical object from the identified imaging of the medical object, and for providing the positioning information from the determined positioning. The current positioning in the image data, in particular a current rotation about a longitudinal axis of the medical object, can be identified from the marker structures.

[0062] The application relates in a third aspect to a method for emitting a light distribution by means of a light guide device. Here, medical image data is detected which depicts an examination object. Furthermore, an orientation element having a plurality of at least point-like markers is fixed in a defined positional relationship on or integrated into the medical object. Furthermore, position information is identified with respect to the positioning of the medical object. Furthermore, a graphical view of the medical image data and of orientation information is displayed by means of a display unit in accordance with the position information. Here, the orientation information has a corresponding virtual continuation of the medical object on the basis of at least one marker. Furthermore, the light distribution is emitted such that, when the medical object is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation, one of the plurality of markers is illuminated by the light distribution.

[0063] The advantages of the proposed method essentially correspond to the advantages of the proposed device. The features mentioned here can also be transferred to other claimed technical solutions and vice versa.

[0064] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed method, the light distribution can be emitted such that a straight line is projected which illuminates one of the markers and a reference point of the medical object when the medical object is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation.

[0065] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed method, the medical object can be configured substantially rigidly and elongatedly. Here, the reference point can be arranged along the longitudinal extension direction of the medical object.

[0066] The application relates in a fourth aspect to a computer program product having a computer program which can be directly loaded into the memory of a processing unit, the computer program having a plurality of program segments in order to carry out all steps of the proposed method for emitting a light distribution when the program segments are executed by the processing unit. The computer program product can here comprise software which still needs to be compiled and linked or only needs to be interpreted, or executable software code which only needs to be loaded into the processing unit for execution. By means of the computer program product it is made possible for the method for emitting a light distribution to be executed quickly, identically repeatedly and robustly by the processing. The computer program product is configured in such a way that it can execute the method steps according to the application by means of the processing unit.

[0067] The computer program product, for example stored on a computer-readable storage medium or stored on a network or a server, can be loaded into the processor of the processing unit, which can be directly connected to the processing unit or designed as part of it. Furthermore, the control information of the computer program product can be stored on an electronically readable data carrier. The control information of the electronically readable data carrier can be designed in such a way that, when the data carrier is used in the processing unit, the control information carries out the method according to the application. Examples of electronically readable data carriers include DVDs, magnetic tapes or USB sticks, on which electronically readable control information, in particular software, is stored. If the control information is read from the data carrier and stored in the processing unit, all embodiments according to the application of the method described above can be carried out.

[0068] A largely software-based implementation has the advantage that processing units already in use today can be retrofitted in a simple manner by means of a software update in order to work in the manner according to the application. In addition to the computer program, such a computer program product can include additional components, for example documentation and / or additional parts, and hardware components, for example hardware keys for the use of the software (dongles, etc.), if necessary. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0069] Embodiments of the application are illustrated in the attached drawings and described in more detail below. In different drawings, the same features are denoted by the same reference signs. In the drawings:

[0070] Figure 1 a schematic diagram showing an advantageous embodiment of the proposed device for positioning a medical object relative to an examination object,

[0071] Figure 2 and Figure 4 a schematic diagram showing the proposed device and the medical object differently oriented relative to the examination object,

[0072] Figure 3 and Figure 5 a schematic diagram showing a graphical view of the medical image data and the orientation information corresponding to the different orientations of the medical object,

[0073] Figure 6 a schematic diagram showing an advantageous embodiment of the proposed system,

[0074] Figure 7 a schematic diagram showing an advantageous embodiment of the proposed method for emitting a light distribution. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Figure 1A schematic diagram showing an advantageous embodiment of a proposed device for orienting a medical object MO relative to an examination object 31 is shown. The device can comprise an orientation element MK, a light guiding arrangement LFE, a processing unit PU and a display unit 41. The orientation element MK can have a plurality of at least point-like markings MK.1, MK.2, MK.3, MK.4 and MK.5. Furthermore, the orientation element MK can be fixed in a defined positional relationship on the medical object MO or integrated into the medical object MO. The processing unit PU can be designed to receive medical image data with an imaging of the examination object 31. The processing unit PU can also be designed to identify positioning information about a positioning of the medical object MO. Identifying the positioning information can comprise receiving a position detection signal of an electromagnetic and / or acoustic and / or optical detection unit for detecting the positioning of the medical object MO. Alternatively or additionally, identifying the positioning information can also comprise identifying an imaging of the medical object MO in the image data. Furthermore, the processing unit PU can provide the positioning information to the light guiding arrangement LFE by means of a signal S.LFE. The display unit 41 can be designed to display a graphical view of the medical image data and the orientation information. To this end, the processing unit PU can provide a corresponding signal 25 to the display unit 41. The orientation information can have for the markings a corresponding virtual continuation of the medical object MO, respectively. The virtual continuation can here correspond to a virtual arrangement of the medical object MO. The light guiding arrangement LFE can be designed to emit a predefined light distribution LV, in particular in accordance with the positioning information. Furthermore, in an operating state of the device, the medical object MO can be arranged at or in the examination object 31. Furthermore, the display unit 41 can display the graphical view of the medical image data and the orientation information in the operating state. Furthermore, in the operating state of the device, the light guiding arrangement LFE can emit the light distribution LV, in particular in accordance with the positioning information, such that one of the markings MK.1 to MK.5 is illuminated by the light distribution LV when the medical object MO is oriented according to the corresponding virtual continuation.

[0076] The medical object MO can advantageously be designed substantially rigidly and elongatedly. The reference point RP can here be arranged along a longitudinal extension direction of the medical object MO, in particular on a distal section of the medical object MO.

[0077] Figure 2 and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the proposed device and the medical object MO differently oriented relative to the examination object 31 is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the medical image data BD and the graphical view of the orientation information corresponding to the different orientations of the medical object MO of Figure 2 and Figure 4 is shown, Figure 2 The view in Figure 3the views in Fig. 1 correspond to each other, and Figure 4 the views in Fig. 1 correspond to each other, and Figure 5 the views in Fig. 1 correspond to each other, and

[0078] The markers MK.1 to MK.5 can advantageously have optically distinguishable properties, for example color coding. Furthermore, the plurality of markers MK.1 to MK.5 can be arranged essentially on a common flat side of the directional element MK. The virtual continuations VMK.1 to VMK.5, which respectively correspond to one of the markers MK.1 to MK.5, can here have optically distinguishable properties. The optically distinguishable properties of the virtual continuations VMK.1 to VMK.5 can advantageously correspond pairwise to the optically distinguishable properties of one of the markers MK.1 to MK.5, for example by adapted color coding.

[0079] The plurality of markers MK.1 to MK.5 can advantageously be designed as 2D lines respectively lying in a plane, wherein the planes intersect along a common straight line, which constitutes a movement axis of the medical object MO relative to the examination object, but not an object axis of the medical object MO.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 1, the light guide device LFE can advantageously emit a light distribution LV in the operating state, which projects a straight line, which illuminates one of the markers MK.1 to MK.5 and the reference point RP when the medical object MO is oriented according to the corresponding virtual continuation. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown in Fig. 1, the light guide device LFE can advantageously emit a light distribution LV in the operating state, which projects a straight line, which illuminates one of the markers MK.1 to MK.5 and the reference point RP when the medical object MO is oriented according to the corresponding virtual continuation. Figure 2 It is schematically shown how the medical object MO is oriented according to the virtual continuation VMK.1. The light distribution LV can here illuminate the corresponding marker MK.1. Figure 4 It is schematically shown how the medical object MO is oriented according to the virtual continuation VMK.2. The light distribution LV can here illuminate the corresponding marker MK.2.

[0081] Figure 6 It is schematically shown how the medical object MO is oriented according to the virtual continuation VMK.2. The light distribution LV can here illuminate the corresponding marker MK.2. Figure 6An example of a medical imaging apparatus, namely a medical C-arm X-ray apparatus 37, is shown in Fig. 1. The C-arm X-ray apparatus 37 can advantageously have an X-ray detector 34 and an X-ray source 33 which are arranged in a prescribed arrangement on a C-arm 38. The C-arm 38 of the C-arm X-ray apparatus 37 can be movably supported about one or more axes. The prescribed arrangement of the X-ray source 33 and the X-ray detector 34 can in particular be movably supported about a rotation center. Furthermore, a reference point RP can be arranged in the rotation center in the operating state, in particular at the same spacing between the X-ray source 33 and the X-ray detector 34, respectively. This can be achieved, for example, by initially positioning, in particular adjusting, a longitudinal axis of the medical object MO in a parallel orientation along the prescribed arrangement of the X-ray source and the X-ray detector (bulls-eye view). The prescribed arrangement is thereby enabled to be repositioned along a feed orientation (progression view) relative to the medical object.

[0082] The light guiding device LFE can advantageously be arranged on the X-ray detector 34. In order to acquire medical image data BD, in particular at least one projection image, of the examination object 31 positioned on the patient support device 32 and of the medical object MO arranged at the examination object, the processing unit PU can send a signal 24 to the X-ray source 33. The X-ray source 33 can then emit an X-ray beam. Upon the X-ray beam impinging on the surface of the X-ray detector 34 after interaction with the examination object 31, the X-ray detector 34 can send a signal 21 to the processing unit PRVS. The processing unit PU can detect the image data BD from the signal 21.

[0083] The C-arm X-ray apparatus 37 can also have an input unit 42, for example a keyboard. The input unit 42 can preferably be integrated into the display unit 41, for example in the case of a capacitive and / or resistive input display. The input unit 42 can advantageously be designed for detecting user inputs. To this end, the input unit 42 can send a signal 26, for example, to the processing unit PU.

[0084] The light guiding device LFE can advantageously emit a light distribution LV having a light fan LV.P in the operating state of the apparatus. The light fan LV.P can here at least virtually extend through the focal point of the X-ray source 33 and intersect the detection area of the X-ray detector 34.

[0085] Figure 7A schematic diagram showing an advantageous embodiment of the proposed method for emitting a PROV-LV light distribution LV is shown. In a first step, CAP-BD medical image data can be detected, which depict an examination object 31. The image data can advantageously be detected by means of a medical imaging apparatus having an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. A directional element MK having a plurality of at least point-like markers MK.1 to MK.5 can advantageously be fixed in a defined positional relationship on or integrated into the medical object MO. In a further step, ID-POS positioning information about the positioning of the medical object MO can be identified. In a further step, VISU-GD medical image data and a graphical view of the directional information can be displayed by means of a display unit 41 in accordance with the positioning information. The directional information can have, for at least one marker MK.1 to MK.5, a corresponding virtual continuation VMK.1 to VMK.5 of the medical object MO. In a further step, the LV PROV-LV light distribution LV can be emitted, in particular in accordance with the positioning information, such that one of the markers MK.1 to MK.5 is illuminated by the light distribution LV when the medical object MO is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation VMK.1 to VMK.5.

[0086] The LV PROV-LV light distribution LV can advantageously be emitted such that a straight line is projected, which illuminates one of the markers of the medical object MO and the reference point RP when the medical object MO is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation.

[0087] The medical object MO can be designed substantially rigidly and elongate. The reference point RP can here be arranged along a longitudinal extension direction of the medical object MO.

[0088] The schematic representations contained in the described figures do not depict any scale or size proportions in any way.

[0089] Finally, it is again pointed out that the methods described in detail above and the devices shown are only embodiments, which a person skilled in the art is able to modify in different ways, without departing from the scope of the present application. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude that a plurality of the relevant features is also present. Likewise, the terms "unit" and "element" do not exclude that the relevant part is composed of a plurality of sub-parts which act together, which can also be spatially distributed, if necessary.

[0090] In the present application, the expression "based on" can in particular be understood as "using". This expression that a first feature is generated (alternatively: derived, determined, etc.) in accordance with a second feature does in particular not exclude that the first feature is generated (alternatively: derived, determined, etc.) in accordance with a third feature.

Claims

1. Device for orienting a medical object (MO) relative to an examination object (31), the device comprising an orientation element (MK), a light guiding arrangement (LFE), a processing unit (PU) and a display unit (41), - wherein the orientation element (MK) has a plurality of at least point-like markings (MK.1 to MK.5), and - the orientation element (MK) is fixable in a defined positional relationship on or integratable into the medical object (MO), - wherein, the processing unit (PU) is designed for receiving (CAP-BD) medical image data, which have an imaging of the examination object (31), and - the processing unit (PU) is designed for identifying (ID-POS) positioning information about a positioning of the medical object (MO), wherein the display unit (41) is designed for displaying (VISU-GD) a graphical view of medical image data and orientation information depending on the positioning information, wherein the orientation information has, based on the markings (MK.1 to MK.5), a corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5) of the medical object (MO) respectively, wherein the virtual continuations (VMK.1 to VMK.5) correspond to a virtual arrangement of the medical object (MO), wherein the light guiding arrangement (LFE) is designed for emitting a predefined light distribution (LV), - wherein, in an operating state of the device, the medical object (MO) is arranged next to or within the examination object (31), - in the operating state of the device, the display unit (41) displays (VISU-GD) a graphical view of medical image data and orientation information, and - in the operating state of the device, the light guiding arrangement (LFE) emits (PROV-LV) a light distribution (LV) such that, when the medical object (MO) is oriented according to the corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5), one of the plurality of markings (MK.1 to MK.5) is illuminated by the light distribution (LV).

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the markings (MK.1 to MK.5) have optically distinguishable properties, wherein, in the graphical view of the orientation information, the virtual continuations (VMK.1 to VMK.5) have optically distinguishable properties, wherein the optically distinguishable properties of the virtual continuations (VMK.1 to VMK.5) correspond to the optically distinguishable properties of the respective markings (MK.1 to MK.5) pairwise respectively.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of markings (MK.1 to MK.5) are designed as 2D lines respectively lying in a plane, wherein the planes intersect along a common straight line, which constitutes a movement axis of the medical object (MO) relative to the examination object (31) and not an object axis of the medical object (MO).

4. Device according to the preceding claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plurality of markers (MK.1 to MK.5) are arranged on a surface of a common side of the orientation element (MK) or at least partially integrated into a surface of a common side of the orientation element.

5. The device according to the preceding claim 1 or 2, wherein The light guiding device (LFE) emits (PROV-LV) a light distribution (LV) in an operating state, projecting a straight line, which illuminates a reference point (RP) of the medical object (MO) and one of the plurality of markers (MK.1 to MK.5) when the medical object (MO) is oriented according to a corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5).

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein, The medical object (MO) is at least partially rigidly and elongatedly configured, wherein the reference point (RP) is arranged along a longitudinal extension direction of the medical object (MO).

7. The device according to the preceding claim 1 or 2, wherein The light guiding device (LFE) emits (PROV-LV) a predefined light distribution (LV) in an operating state according to positioning information.

8. A system comprising a device according to one of the preceding claims and a medical imaging apparatus, wherein, The imaging apparatus is designed for acquiring medical image data (CAP-BD).

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The imaging apparatus has an X-ray source (33) and an X-ray detector (34), which are movably supported in a defined arrangement around a rotation center, wherein the medical image data has a projection imaging of an examination object (31) and the medical object (MO), wherein a light guiding device (LFE) is arranged at the X-ray source (33) or the X-ray detector (34).

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein The light guiding device (LFE) emits a light distribution (LV) having a light fan (LV.P) in an operating state of the device, wherein the light fan (LV.P) at least virtually extends through a focal point of the X-ray source (33) and intersects a detection area of the X-ray detector (34).

11. The system according to one of claims 8 to 10, The system further comprises a medical object (MO) designed as a trocar and / or a puncture needle and / or an endoscope and / or an implant.

12. The system according to one of claims 8 to 10, wherein The recognition of the positioning information (ID-POS) comprises receiving a positioning detection signal of an electromagnetic and / or acoustic and / or optical detection unit for detecting a position of the medical object (MO), and / or wherein the recognition of the positioning information (ID-POS) comprises recognizing an imaging of the medical object in the image data.

13. A method for emitting (PROV-LV) a light distribution, the method comprising: - detecting (CAP-BD) medical image data depicting an examination object (31), wherein a directional element (MK) having a plurality of at least point-like markers (MK.1 to MK.5) is fixed in a defined positional relationship on or integrated into a medical object (MO), - identifying (ID-POS) positioning information about the positioning of the medical object (MO), - displaying (VISU-GD) a graphical view of the medical image data and directional information by means of a display unit (41) in accordance with the positioning information, wherein the directional information has a corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5) of the medical object (MO) on the basis of at least one marker (MK.1 to MK.5), - emitting (PROV-LV) a light distribution, so that one of the plurality of markers (MK.1 to MK.5) is illuminated by the light distribution (LV) when the medical object (MO) is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5).

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein - emitting (PROV-LV) a light distribution (LV), so that a straight line is projected, which illuminates one of the markers (MK.1 to MK.5) and a reference point (RP) of the medical object (MO) when the medical object (MO) is oriented in accordance with the corresponding virtual continuation (VMK.1 to VMK.5).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, - the medical object (MO) is at least partially rigid and is configured in a longitudinal extension, - wherein the reference point (RP) is arranged along a longitudinal extension direction of the medical object (MO).

16. A computer program product having a computer program which can be directly loadable into the memory of a processing unit (PU), comprising a plurality of program segments in order to carry out all the steps of the method according to one of claims 13 to 15, if the program segments are executed by the processing unit (PU).

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