Arthroscopic Anchor Detection for Accurate SCR Graft Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for imaging and interpreting superior capsular reconstruction (SCR) procedures are lacking in accurately estimating locations, dimensions, and distances of anatomical and surgical components, particularly in patients with hard-to-access anatomy, leading to challenges in performing and optimizing surgical outcomes.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing computer-implemented methods and AI algorithms to analyze image data from an in-situ imaging device, such as an arthroscope, to detect anchor structures, determine their orientation and scale factors, and calculate measurements for precise graft placement during SCR procedures, optimizing post-operative kinematic function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging methods are used for SCR procedures, then the surgical process is simpler, but the measurement precision and accuracy of anatomical structures are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary image analysis system that processes arthroscopic images to extract precise anatomical measurements. This intermediary layer between the surgeon and the anatomical structures enables accurate measurement of locations, dimensions, and distances without requiring the surgeon to directly perform complex measurements, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with automated computer vision and image analysis algorithms. By substituting the mechanical measurement process with digital image processing, the system achieves high measurement precision while maintaining relative simplicity in the surgical workflow, as the automated system handles the complex analysis tasks.
2Reliability
If additional imaging is performed to improve surgical outcomes, then the accuracy of surgical interpretation is enhanced, but the time and complexity of the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous image analysis throughout the surgical procedure by processing arthroscopic images in real-time or near-real-time. This continuous analysis provides ongoing guidance without requiring interruption of the surgical flow, maintaining reliability of surgical outcomes while minimizing time loss. The system processes images continuously as they are captured, eliminating the need for separate imaging and interpretation phases.
3Measurement precision
If manual measurement methods are used in hard-to-access anatomy, then the procedure is faster, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service measurement system where the image analysis algorithm automatically identifies and measures anatomical structures without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously processes images, detects anatomical landmarks, and calculates measurements, eliminating the need for surgeons to manually measure hard-to-access structures. This self-service approach maintains high surgical efficiency while achieving superior measurement accuracy in difficult anatomical regions.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide systems and methods to guide a surgery by providing dimensional/shape information. One example comprises receiving imaging data (ID) contained in a video stream captured by an imaging device at a treatment site (TS) and processing the ID. The ID is analyzed to determine ID that depicts a set of anchor structures (AS) in the TS, determine an orientation attribute of each AS of the set with respect to a reference; and determine a respective scale factor (SF) for portions of ID that depict each AS of the set, the respective SF of each portion of the ID reflecting a size distortion of that portion of the ID with respect to a reference scale. Geometric information is determined for at least a portion of the TS where the set of ASs are located and is used to determine shape and dimensions of the graft.