Calibration Object for Orthopedic Bone Density Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current orthopaedic procedures face challenges in accurately determining bone density and quality, which is crucial for selecting appropriate implants and predicting post-operative bone remodeling, leading to potential complications such as joint instability and pain.

Innovation Solution

A calibration object with a plurality of density members of varying radiodensities is used in conjunction with an imaging system to calibrate images of patient anatomy, allowing for the determination of radiodensity values and visualization of bone density gradients, aiding in surgical planning and post-operative analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional imaging methods are used to assess bone density, then the imaging process is simple and quick, but the accuracy of bone density measurement is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone density measurement accuracyVSAvoidimaging system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A calibration object with known radiodensity values is introduced as an intermediary between the imaging system and the patient anatomy. The calibration object contains multiple density members with predetermined radiodensity values that serve as reference standards. By imaging both the calibration object and patient anatomy together, the system can accurately determine bone density measurements through comparison with the known calibration values, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex imaging equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If multiple density members with varying radiodensities are used in calibration, then the accuracy of radiodensity determination is improved, but the complexity of the calibration object increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiodensity determination accuracyVSAvoidcalibration object structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration object is segmented into multiple discrete density members, each with a specific predetermined radiodensity value. These density members are arranged within the calibration object structure and can be individually imaged and measured. This segmentation allows the system to determine a range of radiodensity values using a single calibration object, improving measurement precision while keeping the calibration object structure manageable through modular design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If calibration images are used to determine bone density gradients, then the accuracy of implant selection is improved, but the time required for surgical planning increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebone density gradient accuracyVSAvoidsurgical planning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The calibration object is imaged and processed in advance to establish reference radiodensity values and calibration curves before the actual surgical planning. This preliminary calibration allows the system to quickly and accurately determine bone density gradients in patient anatomy images without requiring time-consuming real-time calibration during the surgical planning process, thereby improving measurement precision while minimizing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary 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

This method enhances the accuracy of bone density assessment, improves implant selection, and allows for better prediction of bone remodeling, reducing the likelihood of complications like periprosthetic fracturing and improving rehabilitation outcomes.

Implementation Method 1

A volume of each of the density members and the main body may correspond to a respective radiodensity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS12178515B2Systems and methods for density calibration
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 ARTHREX INC
  • US12178515B2 patent drawing
  • US12178515B2 patent drawing
  • US12178515B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates to planning systems and methods. The planning systems and methods disclosed herein may be utilized for planning orthopaedic procedures to restore functionality to a joint, and may include one or more calibration objects for calibrating images of patient anatomy.