Distal Tool Markings for 3D Endoscopic Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscopy systems lack accurate methods for measuring anatomical distances and sizes of objects within a 3D scene, particularly in ureteroscopic procedures, leading to variability and inefficiency in procedures like the Rezũm™ water vapor procedure for BPH, where injection points are estimated through flawed intuitive comparisons.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of elongate tools with first markings on the distal end viewable in the endoscope's field of view, combined with virtual markings displayed by a video processor, and optionally physical markings, to provide precise anatomical distance measurements, which can be scaled and maintained relative to tool rotation and tilt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical calibration alone is used for sizing, then the system is simple to operate, but measurement precision is insufficient in 3D scenes with significant depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces measurement markings (physical markings on the tool shaft and virtual markings displayed in the imaging field of view) as an intermediary element to bridge the gap between the imaging system and the need for accurate 3D measurement. These markings serve as a reference scale that can be directly visualized alongside anatomical structures, enabling precise measurement without requiring complex optical calibration or depth information processing.
2Measurement precision
If intuitive comparison with objects of known diameter is used, then no additional markings are needed, but measurement precision deteriorates due to reliance on surgeon intuition and repetitive sizing errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-marking the tool shaft with measurement reference markings at known intervals before the procedure. These physical markings are then visualized through the imaging system, providing immediate and accurate size reference without requiring the surgeon to spend time developing intuitive comparison skills or making repeated estimation errors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical markings only are used, then the markings are always visible, but the markings cannot be scaled or adjusted for different imaging conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges physical markings on the tool shaft with virtual markings displayed in the imaging field of view. The physical markings provide a stable reference that is always visible, while the virtual markings can be scaled, positioned, and adjusted according to different imaging conditions and anatomical structures. This combination allows the system to maintain measurement precision across various scenarios while adapting to different operational needs.
4Measurement precision
If measurement markings are added to the tool, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating virtual markings that are visual copies of the physical markings on the tool shaft. These virtual markings are displayed in the imaging field of view through image processing, allowing the measurement reference to be replicated and scaled without adding physical complexity to the tool structure itself. The virtual markings serve as a digital copy that can be manipulated independently of the physical tool.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices are provided for determining anatomical distance and/or position measurements during an endoscopic procedure. Markings are placed either physically or superimposed on a distal end of an elongate tool, such that the markings are viewable in an imaging field of view of the endoscope. Anatomic distances may be determined by measurements performed with the tool. The size and/or position of anatomical structures or unknown objects may also be determined using the marked tool.