DBS Trajectory Proficiency Assessment via Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Inaccurate electrode placement during deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgeries can lead to reduced therapeutic effects and adverse side effects, particularly for inexperienced neurosurgeons, despite advancements in software tools and algorithms for planning and visualization.

Innovation Solution

A computer-assisted simulation platform provides neurosurgeons with visual information and feedback through a man-machine interface, comparing their trajectory planning to established trajectories using primitive proficiency metrics, such as angle, distance, and risk, to assess and improve planning accuracy and safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If software tools and algorithms for automated trajectory planning are used, then planning efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision (trajectory accuracy) deteriorates for inexperienced neurosurgeons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplanning efficiencyVSAvoidtrajectory accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements automated feedback by comparing the neurosurgeon's planned trajectory against a database of previously-established trajectories and expert consensus. The system calculates proficiency metrics including angle deviations, distance errors, and risk assessments, then provides immediate feedback to the neurosurgeon. This closed-loop feedback mechanism allows inexperienced surgeons to learn from comparisons with expert trajectories, thereby improving their planning accuracy while maintaining efficient use of software tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Manufacturing precision

If extensive training is provided to improve trajectory planning accuracy, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrajectory planning accuracyVSAvoidtraining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service learning by allowing neurosurgeons to independently compare their trajectory plans against established reference trajectories and receive automated proficiency assessments. The system provides self-directed training where surgeons can review their performance metrics (angle deviations, distance errors, risk scores) and learn from the differences between their plans and expert consensus, eliminating the need for extensive supervised training programs while improving planning accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If the system provides detailed comparison metrics and feedback, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetrajectory assessment precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the trajectory assessment into distinct, manageable proficiency metrics: angle deviation, distance error, and risk assessment. Each metric is calculated independently and can be displayed separately or aggregated into an overall proficiency score. This segmentation allows the system to provide comprehensive, precise feedback without overwhelming the user with a monolithic complex assessment, making the system more manageable and interpretable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11756689B2Proficiency assessment system and method for deep brain stimulation (DBS)
Publication Date: 2023.09.12 UNIV DE RENNES I
  • US11756689B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for simulating a deep-brain stimulation in a computer-assisted platform that includes providing to a neurosurgeon, through a man-machine interface, visual information of a pre-operative situation, including a representation of a brain. The method also includes monitoring inputs of said neurosurgeon on the man-machine interface, until a trajectory is determined between an entry point and a target for the placement of an electrode. The method further includes comparing said trajectory to a set of previously-established trajectories for the pre-operative situation, so as to determine an overall measurement representative of a quality of the trajectory compared to the previously-established trajectories.