Ablation Planning System Using Precomputed Sphere Solutions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radiofrequency ablation (RFA) techniques face challenges in accurately and efficiently treating tumors larger than the ablation zone, requiring multiple probe positions and overlapping ablations, which increases surgical time, cost, and risk, and lacks quantitative planning, leading to potential under-treatment and collateral damage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for planning ablation procedures that involve generating an image representation of the tumor, scaling ablation volumes to match the tumor size, and using pre-computed solutions to determine the minimum number of spherical ablation regions, with graphical user interfaces and optimization components to guide probe placement and minimize collateral damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple probe positions and overlapping ablations are used to treat tumors larger than the ablation zone, then comprehensive tumor coverage is achieved, but surgical time, cost, and risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preoperative planning and simulation of multiple ablation sequences before the actual surgery. By computationally determining the optimal sequence of ablations and predicting their composite effect, the system allows surgeons to prepare a detailed treatment plan that minimizes the number of ablations needed while ensuring complete tumor coverage, thereby reducing actual surgical time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates virtual copies of the tumor and ablation zones in a computerized 3D model. By simulating the ablation process on these digital replicas, the system can predict the composite ablation effect and determine the minimum number of probes needed without requiring multiple actual surgical attempts, thus reducing surgical time and risk.
2Reliability
If multiple probes are used to cover large tumors, then complete ablation coverage is achieved, but procedure cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system calculates the precise minimum number of ablations needed to achieve complete tumor coverage by simulating the composite ablation effect. This allows for partial action (using fewer probes than traditional methods) while still achieving the required coverage, thereby reducing device complexity and procedure cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system varies parameters such as probe insertion depth, angle, and power settings in the simulation to find the optimal combination that achieves complete tumor coverage with the minimum number of probes. By optimizing these parameters computationally, the system reduces the actual number of probes needed during surgery.
3Ease of operation
If manual mental planning is used for ablation, then physician experience guides treatment, but repeatability and precision are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback through 3D graphical displays that show the simulated composite ablation effect and tumor coverage. This allows physicians to review and adjust the treatment plan with precise visual information, combining the flexibility of manual planning with the precision of computerized calculation, thereby improving both repeatability and accuracy.
4Ease of manufacture
If ablation volumes are not scaled to match tumor size, then procedure is simpler, but under-treatment occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different scaling factors to different regions of the tumor based on its irregular shape and local characteristics. By adapting the ablation volume scaling locally to match the tumor geometry, the system ensures complete coverage of all tumor regions while maintaining procedural simplicity through automated calculation.
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 approach ensures comprehensive tumor coverage with minimal ablations, reduces surgical duration, and minimizes damage to healthy tissue, providing repeatable and evidence-based treatment plans.
Implementation Method 1
When the electrode is placed, a radiofrequency current is applied to the tip which creates tissue heating and cell death above 60° Celsius
Implementation Method 2
During RFA, an electrode with un-insulated tip is inserted into the tumor or lesion to be ablated under ultrasound, CT or MRI guidance. When the electrode is placed, a radiofrequency current is applied to the tip which creates tissue heating
Data Source
AI summary
In planning an ablation procedure, a planned target volume (PTV) is imported, which is typically selected by a doctor but may be computer-identified. An ablation solution comprising a plurality of ablation volumes is generated or selected using a lookup table. Ablations sharing a common axis along a line of insertion are grouped into blocks. Alternatively, the PTV is enveloped in a sphere, and a pre-computed ablation solution (e.g., a 6- or 14-sphere solution) is identified to cover the PTV sphere. Optionally, a mathematical algorithm is executed to increase an axis through the ablation spheres to generate ellipsoidal ablation volumes that envelop the PTV.