Catheter 3D Marking Visualization for Tip Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Catheter navigation within a three-dimensional (3D) inner structure is challenging due to the reliance on two-dimensional (2D) x-ray projection images, making it difficult for physicians to accurately grasp the 3D position and navigate the catheter tip.
Innovation Solution
An assisting apparatus with a tracking unit, insertion element representation generating unit, and display is used to provide 3D position and local shape visualization, employing markings such as different colors, opacities, and shadings along the insertion element to enhance 3D visualization, and optionally incorporating optical shape sensing for precise tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2D x-ray projection images are used for catheter navigation, then the imaging system remains simple and cost-effective, but the physician cannot accurately grasp the 3D position of the catheter within the inner structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by projecting 3D catheter information onto a 2D display surface with depth indicators. The system generates a 2D display showing catheter position, orientation, and depth information simultaneously, allowing physicians to perceive 3D spatial relationships on a 2D screen without requiring complex 3D imaging hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that translates raw 3D catheter tracking data into a simplified 2D visual representation with depth cues. This intermediary layer processes the complex spatial information and presents it in a form that is easy to interpret on standard 2D displays, bridging the gap between 3D reality and 2D visualization.
2Loss of information
If 3D visualization with multiple markings is provided along the insertion element, then the user can accurately grasp the 3D shape and position, but the processing complexity and data requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the catheter visualization into multiple distinct markings along its length, each representing different spatial characteristics. By dividing the catheter into segments with different visual markers, the system preserves complete 3D shape information while making the data manageable through structured segmentation rather than requiring complex continuous representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color changes and visual variations along the catheter markings to encode 3D shape information. Different colors, opacities, or visual patterns indicate different segments, orientations, or depths of the catheter, allowing rich 3D information to be conveyed through simple visual modifications that require minimal processing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to assisting a user in moving an insertion element within an object. A three-dimensional (3D) position and 3D local shape of the insertion element are tracked within the object. Based on the tracked 3D position and 3D local shape of the insertion element, an insertion element representation (42′″) representing the insertion element within the object in its 3D position and 3D local shape is generated. Furthermore at least two different markings (78) applied along the length of the insertion element representation (42′″) representing indications of the local shape of the insertion element are provided. A display image (60″) including the insertion element representation (42′″) with the different markings (78) is displayed. Markings can for example include alternating ring-like structures (78) with alternating lighter and darker colors and/or different colors for the tip and the rest of the insertion element representation for improving 3D visualization of insertion elements.