Atlas-Based Virtual Flight-Path Calculation for Medical Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for planning virtual endoscopy paths are patient-specific and lack versatility for general training and procedure preparation, limiting their applicability beyond individual medical conditions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that combines patient-specific image data with anatomical atlas data to create a virtual representation of anatomical structures, allowing for the calculation of a virtual flight-path that can be customized based on predefined requirements, such as passing through or avoiding specific structures, using path-finding algorithms to select the most desirable route.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If patient-specific image data is processed alone to create virtual representations, then the visualization is tailored to individual anatomical structures, but the method lacks versatility for general training and procedure preparation across different patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by integrating anatomical atlas data with patient-specific image data to create a virtual representation system that serves multiple functions: it can be used for training purposes across different patients, for procedure preparation, and for surgical navigation. The atlas-based approach provides a universal template that can be adapted to any patient while maintaining individual specificity through registration and alignment processes.
2Reliability
If a virtual flight-path is calculated through detailed anatomical structures, then the visualization provides realistic and informative views, but the computational processing time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-processing and storing anatomical atlas data in a standardized format before actual use. The atlas structures, their spatial relationships, and associated metadata are prepared in advance, allowing for rapid registration and alignment with patient-specific images during actual procedure planning or training sessions, thereby reducing real-time computational requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the flight-path must pass through or avoid specific anatomical structures based on predefined requirements, then the path planning becomes more flexible and adaptable, but the path-finding algorithm complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex path-finding problem into manageable segments: first, the anatomical space is segmented into regions based on the atlas data and predefined requirements; second, the flight-path is constructed by sequentially selecting segments that satisfy constraints (passing through required structures, avoiding prohibited areas); third, the path is optimized based on additional criteria. This modular approach reduces overall algorithmic complexity while maintaining flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a computer-implemented medical method for determining a virtual flight-path (1) with respect to a virtual representation (2) of at least one anatomical structure, the method comprising executing, on a processor of a computer, the steps of:—acquiring, on the processor, patient image data describing at least one patient image showing at least one anatomical structure of a patient; —acquiring, on the processor, atlas data describing at least one model of the at least one anatomical structure; —determining, by the processor and based on the patient image data and the atlas data, representation data describing a virtual representation of the at least one anatomical structure; —acquiring, on the processor, requirement data describing at least one requirement for at least one flight-path (1); and—determining, by the processor and based on the representation data and the requirement data, flight-path data describing at least one virtual flight-path (1) with respect to the virtual representation (2) of the at least one anatomical structure.