Converging Collimator Gamma Probe for Intraoperative Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current gamma probes provide poor spatial resolution and are too slow for real-time imaging during surgical procedures, limiting the effectiveness of intraoperative gamma imaging for tumor resection and lymph node biopsy in breast cancer surgery.
Innovation Solution
A multimodality medical imaging device combining a gamma probe with a converging collimator and an ultrasound probe for co-registered imaging, featuring a highly-focused collimator design that enhances sensitivity and spatial resolution, allowing real-time detection and localization of radiolabeled tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional gamma probes are used for intraoperative imaging, then gamma radiation detection is achieved, but spatial resolution is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator is divided into multiple sections, each with channels converging to a specific focal point. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high spatial resolution by directing gamma rays from specific regions through dedicated channel sets to corresponding detector elements, enabling precise localization of radiolabeled tissues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a focal point dimension distant from the collimator input face, creating a three-dimensional detection geometry. By converging channels to a remote focal point rather than the collimator face, the system achieves enhanced spatial resolution and the ability to image at different depths within the tissue.
2Productivity
If conventional gamma probes are used, then gamma detection is possible, but frame rate is low and real-time imaging is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The collimator channels are pre-configured with specific geometric configurations and focal points optimized for rapid gamma ray detection. This preliminary design of the detection geometry allows the system to achieve high frame rates by eliminating the need for mechanical scanning or complex post-processing, enabling real-time imaging during surgical procedures.
3Measurement precision
If gamma detectors are used to identify hot tissues, then sensitivity to radiolabeled tissue is improved, but anatomical information is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges gamma radiation detection with ultrasound imaging in a hybrid probe system. The gamma detector provides sensitive identification of radiolabeled tissues while the ultrasound component supplies real-time anatomical imaging, allowing co-registration of functional and structural information for comprehensive surgical guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both gamma detection and ultrasound imaging capabilities in a single platform. This universal system can simultaneously perform molecular imaging of radiolabeled tissues and anatomical imaging, providing both sensitivity and structural context for surgical decision-making.
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
The device improves the identification and localization of cancerous cells, reducing repeat surgery rates by providing high sensitivity and spatial resolution, enabling more accurate tumor resection and biopsy with real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of channels in the metal block converging from the output face toward the input face, each channel extending between the input face and the output face... a focal point outside the collimator and distant from the input face
Implementation Method 2
a gamma probe configured to detect gamma radiation emitted from a radiolabeled tissue
Implementation Method 3
an ultrasound probe configured to acquire an ultrasound image of the radiolabeled tissue
Data Source
AI summary
An intraoperative imaging system combines a gamma probe and an ultrasound probe. The probes are linked to provide co-registration of gamma radiation detected by the gamma probe with an image acquired by the ultrasound probe. The gamma probe has a converging collimator made of a metal block having a plurality of channels therein, which converge from an output face toward an input face. Each channel extends between and opens out at the faces such that openings at the input face have smaller cross-sectional areas than openings at the output face so that each channel tapers inwardly from the output face to the input face. The collimator has an external focal point distant from the input face. The system improves identification and localization of cancerous cells, facilitating more accurate biopsy data and more complete surgical resection. The gamma probe increases sensitivity, while maintaining spatial resolution, and increasing depth of view.