Integrated C-Arm Video Navigation for Intraoperative Trajectory Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intraoperative navigation systems are invasive, space-consuming, and limited by line of sight issues, requiring additional incisions and being less accurate due to the need for a minimum detector-patient distance and weight-related distortions, while laser-based systems can only indicate a single direction and are not assistive.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a radioscopic imaging apparatus with a video imaging device aligned along a desired trajectory, allowing for accurate positioning and tracking of surgical objects relative to the trajectory, independent of detector-patient distance, with a live video feed and visual alignment aids for precise object placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional navigation system with optical or electromagnetic tracking is used, then navigation can be provided during surgery, but the system occupies large space and hampers workflow in the operating room
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the X-ray imaging apparatus and video apparatus into a single integrated system. The video camera is mounted on the C-arm of the X-ray apparatus, allowing both imaging and navigation functions to be performed by one compact device rather than requiring separate large-scale navigation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray apparatus is made multi-functional by integrating video imaging capabilities. The same C-arm structure that positions the X-ray source and detector also positions the video camera, allowing the apparatus to serve both radioscopic imaging and optical navigation purposes.
2Measurement precision
If a laser marker is used for navigation, then a single direction can be indicated, but the laser can only be projected when there is sufficient distance between the patient and the detector
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a laser that projects a single directional marker, the patent uses a video camera to capture two-dimensional image data. This allows navigation information to be obtained from multiple angles and positions without requiring specific distance constraints between the patient and detector.
3Ease of operation
If the X-ray apparatus is positioned close to the patient for procedures, then surgical access is improved, but the laser marker cannot be projected and navigation accuracy is reduced due to weight distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a video camera to create an optical copy or image of the surgical site, which is then processed to provide navigation information. This optical copying method is not affected by the physical distance or weight issues that plague laser-based systems, allowing accurate navigation even when the apparatus is positioned close to the patient.
4Reliability
If conventional navigation systems are used, then instrument positioning can be monitored, but additional incisions are required to anchor reference markers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the existing anatomical structures and surgical site characteristics as natural reference points for navigation. The video camera captures images of the surgical field, and trajectory markers are identified directly from the visual information without requiring additional invasive marker placement procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention describes a method of performing intraoperative navigation during a surgical procedure, which method comprises the steps of arranging a video imaging device on a radioscopic imaging apparatus; obtaining an initial radioscopic image of a target and identifying a desired trajectory in a target; determining a first position of the radioscopic imaging apparatus relative to the target for which a central image axis of a radioscopic imaging unit is aligned with the desired trajectory; positioning the radioscopic imaging apparatus to align a central image axis of the video imaging device with the desired trajectory; and showing a live video feed of the surgical procedure on a monitor to track the position of a surgical implement relative to the desired trajectory.