3D Bone Model Generation from 2D Images

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Solution Overview

Problem

The high cost of MRI systems restricts access to patient-specific joint replacement procedures, as other imaging technologies like CT scanners and X-ray machines provide insufficient detail for developing form-fitting surfaces in joint replacement surgeries, leading to delayed or inhibited surgical processes due to the need for MRI scans and extensive user intervention in data processing.

Innovation Solution

A computer-assisted surgical system (CASS) utilizing electromagnetic tracking systems with small, minimally invasive sensors to track patient anatomy in real-time, allowing for precise surgical navigation and implant placement without the need for extensive MRI data processing or large incisions, integrating with robotic arms and optical tracking for enhanced precision and efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If MRI scans are used to obtain detailed joint anatomy for patient-specific joint replacement procedures, then measurement precision and manufacturing precision are improved, but device cost and loss of time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoint anatomy detailVSAvoiddata processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by automatically generating 3D bone models and surgical plans from imaging data before the surgical procedure begins. The computer-assisted surgical system processes imaging data, creates patient-specific 3D models, and develops customized surgical plans in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual measurements and planning during surgery. This preliminary processing of anatomical data ensures measurement precision is achieved while reducing intraoperative time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Manufacturing precision

If MRI scans are used to obtain detailed joint anatomy, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveform-fitting surfacesVSAvoidimaging system cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses copying by creating accurate 3D digital models (virtual copies) of the patient's joint anatomy from imaging data. These 3D bone models serve as precise digital replicas that can be manipulated, measured, and used for surgical planning without requiring repeated access to the expensive MRI scanner. The computer-assisted surgical system generates these digital copies that capture all necessary anatomical details for manufacturing patient-specific instruments and implants with high precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If extensive user intervention is required for MRI data processing, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone model accuracyVSAvoidsurgical preparation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The computer-assisted surgical system implements self-service by automatically processing imaging data to generate 3D bone models and surgical plans without requiring extensive manual user intervention. The system autonomously performs data processing, model generation, and surgical plan creation, significantly improving productivity while maintaining measurement precision through automated algorithms. The computer system serves itself by handling the complex data processing tasks that previously required manual user input and validation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Manufacturing precision

If MRI scans are required for patient-specific joint replacement procedures, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatient-specific instrumentsVSAvoidsurgical workflow time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system ensures continuity of useful action by enabling parallel processing of surgical preparation tasks. The computer-assisted surgical system allows imaging data processing, 3D model generation, and surgical planning to occur simultaneously and continuously without interruption. Multiple tasks can be performed in parallel - such as generating 3D models while the surgical team prepares instruments - eliminating sequential delays and maintaining continuous productive workflow throughout the surgical preparation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables precise and efficient surgical procedures by reducing reliance on MRI scans, minimizing user intervention, and allowing for real-time tracking and navigation, thereby improving surgical accuracy and reducing costs and procedural delays.

Implementation Method 1

A computer-assisted surgical system (CASS) utilizing electromagnetic tracking systems with small, minimally invasive sensors to track patient anatomy in real-time

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic tracking: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

integrating with robotic arms and optical tracking for enhanced precision and efficiency

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical tracking: Light

Data Source

PatentUS11931107B1Intraoperative three-dimensional bone model generation
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 SMITH & NEPHEW INC
  • US11931107B1 patent drawing
  • US11931107B1 patent drawing
  • US11931107B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods, non-transitory computer readable media, and surgical computing devices are disclosed herein for creating a three-dimensional (3D) model based on a plurality of received two-dimensional (2D) medical images containing patient anatomy and a tracking fiducial. Once the 2D images are received, a determination is made regarding any potential processing steps required to put the images into a standard view. Once the images are processed, a user may modify or adjust various factors. Using the size and orientation of the tracking fiducial a 3D virtual model is created based on a repository of known patient data, such as a bone atlas. The 3D virtual model can then be output to a display device and optionally used to facilitate a surgical procedure. The 3D virtual model of patient anatomy can advantageously be generated more quickly and using fewer resources with this technology.