3D Anatomical Feature Detection Using Dual-Process Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Identifying anatomical features from pre-operative images, such as CT scans or MRI, can be difficult and time-consuming for surgeons, hindering the planning of surgical procedures.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that access a three-dimensional (3D) model of an anatomical structure to detect single-layer and non-single-layer anatomical features by generating probability maps and meshes, allowing for accurate visualization and planning of surgical procedures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual identification of anatomical features from pre-operative images is used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but loss of time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentification accuracyVSAvoidplanning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of anatomical feature identification with an automated computer-based detection system. The system uses algorithms to automatically identify anatomical features from pre-operative images, substituting the surgeon's manual analysis with computational processing that is both accurate and time-efficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary detection and identification of anatomical features before the surgical procedure begins. By pre-processing the images and identifying features in advance, the system prepares the surgical plan ahead of time, reducing the time required during the actual surgical planning phase while maintaining high identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If automated detection processes are applied to 3D models, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the complex task of anatomical feature detection into separate specialized modules: one module detects single-layer anatomical features while another detects non-single-layer features. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall detection efficiency while managing system complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal detection system that can handle multiple types of anatomical features (both single-layer and non-single-layer) using a unified platform. This multi-functional approach increases productivity by detecting various feature types through a single system rather than requiring separate specialized systems for each feature type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If multiple detection processes are used for different anatomical features, then measurement precision is maintained, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeature detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements separate detection processes tailored for different anatomical feature types - one process for single-layer features and another for non-single-layer features. Each process is optimized for its specific target, maintaining high measurement precision for each feature type while the overall system manages complexity through this structured division of detection tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240371100A1Detecting and representing anatomical features of an anatomical structure
Publication Date: 2024.11.07 INTUITIVE SURGICAL OPERATIONS INC
  • US20240371100A1 patent drawing
  • US20240371100A1 patent drawing
  • US20240371100A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An exemplary system accesses a three-dimensional (3D) model of an anatomical structure, applies a first detection process to the 3D model to detect a single-layer anatomical feature in the anatomical structure, applies a second detection process, different from the first detection process, to the 3D model to detect a non-single-layer anatomical feature in the anatomical structure, and provides a representation of the anatomical structure based on the 3D model, the detected single-layer anatomical structure, and the detected non-single-layer anatomical structure. In some implementations, the representation of the anatomical structure and a representation of a potential path to be traversed by a medical instrument in the anatomical structure are displayed.