3D Ablation Visualization for Pulmonary Vein Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting and using ablation instruments, such as cryoballoons, for pulmonary vein isolation in atrial fibrillation treatment are inefficient due to inaccuracies in balloon size selection and placement, leading to suboptimal ablation and increased procedural time and risk.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for visualizing the quality of the ablation process using 3D datasets and models of anatomical objects and ablation instruments, allowing for precise planning and placement of ablation instruments by determining characteristic quality values based on their position and alignment within the anatomy, and optimizing energy emission profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single-shot devices such as cryoballoons are used for pulmonary vein isolation, then ablation speed and safety are improved, but the requirement for precise anatomical fit and positioning increases device complexity and planning difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing virtual planning and positioning of the cryoballoon before the actual ablation procedure. A 3D model of the patient's anatomy is created from preoperative imaging, and the balloon is virtually positioned and sized to ensure optimal contact with the pulmonary veins. This pre-planning phase determines the balloon diameter and insertion path in advance, allowing the actual procedure to proceed faster and more safely without needing complex real-time adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional RF catheters are used for ablation, then procedural flexibility is maintained, but ablation time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-calculating the optimal balloon size and position based on 3D anatomical models created from preoperative CT or MRI scans. This virtual planning allows the physician to select the correct cryoballoon diameter before the procedure, eliminating the need for time-consuming trial-and-error adjustments during the actual ablation. The pre-determined plan enables rapid, efficient pulmonic vein isolation while maintaining procedural flexibility through personalized anatomical adaptation.
3Measurement precision
If 3D imaging and virtual planning are implemented, then ablation precision is improved, but preoperative preparation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by creating a virtual 3D copy of the patient's anatomical structure from preoperative imaging data. This digital twin allows repeated measurement and simulation of balloon positioning without requiring additional physical imaging procedures. The 3D model can be manipulated, measured, and optimized multiple times to achieve perfect balloon fit, and once determined, the planning time is consolidated into a single preoperative session, actually reducing total preparation time despite the initial imaging requirement.
4Ease of operation
If inaccurate balloon selection and placement occur, then procedural simplicity is maintained, but ablation quality and patient safety deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using 3D imaging to continuously monitor and verify balloon positioning during the procedure. The system provides real-time visual feedback to the physician, allowing immediate detection and correction of positioning errors. This feedback mechanism ensures that the balloon maintains optimal contact with the pulmonary veins throughout the ablation process, guaranteeing high ablation quality and patient safety while keeping the operation straightforward through automated guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for visualizing the quality of an ablation process with a processing and display unit is provided. A 3D dataset of an anatomical object and a 3D image model of an ablation instrument are provided, wherein the 3D image model models at least the surface of the ablation instrument. A position and an alignment of the 3D image model of the ablation instrument within the anatomical object is specified, wherein the 3D image model of the ablation instrument is incorporated into the 3D dataset of the anatomical object. At least a part of the incorporated 3D image model of the ablation instrument and of the 3D dataset of the anatomical object is presented and at least one characteristic quality value is determined as a function of the location of the 3D image model of the ablation instrument in relation to the anatomical object.