Electromagnetic Bronchoscopic Navigation for Deep Lung Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bronchoscopes are limited in their ability to navigate to deep regions of the lungs due to size constraints, necessitating the use of smaller diameter catheters and tools, and existing navigation systems could be improved with more precise tracking and distance measurement capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A navigation system utilizing electromagnetic sensors on tools and catheters, combined with CT imaging, to track and display the distance to a target site within a patient's luminal network, allowing for precise navigation and real-time updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If a bronchoscope is used to navigate the airway, then real-time imaging and navigation capability is provided, but the device cannot reach deep regions of the lungs due to size constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the navigation function into two parts: a larger bronchoscope that provides imaging and navigation capabilities, and a separate smaller catheter that can reach deep into the lungs. The catheter acts as an extendable working channel that can be advanced through the bronchoscope to access regions that the bronchoscope itself cannot reach.
Solution Approach 2:
The catheter is nested within the bronchoscope, allowing the smaller diameter catheter to pass through the larger bronchoscope. This nesting arrangement enables the system to combine the imaging and navigation capabilities of the bronchoscope with the deep reach capability of the catheter.
2Length of stationary object
If smaller diameter catheters are used to reach deep lung regions, then access to target sites is enabled, but navigation precision and tracking accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an electromagnetic field as an intermediary for tracking the catheter's position. Electromagnetic sensors on the catheter interact with the electromagnetic field to provide precise location and orientation data, enabling accurate tracking even of the small-diameter catheter in deep lung regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds electromagnetic field tracking as an additional dimension of measurement beyond visual inspection. This electromagnetic tracking dimension provides continuous, real-time position and orientation data that complements the visual navigation capability, enabling precise tracking of the catheter throughout the procedure.
3Measurement precision
If real-time imaging modalities are used for navigation, then location tracking is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic tracking system serves multiple functions: it tracks the position and orientation of the catheter, provides real-time feedback for navigation, and can be integrated with the existing bronchoscope imaging system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate tracking systems and minimizes overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic sensors on the catheter are passive devices that detect the electromagnetic field without requiring active power consumption or complex onboard electronics. The field generator and tracking software handle the complex processing, allowing the catheter itself to be relatively simple while still providing precise tracking capability.
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
Enables accurate and efficient navigation of tools to target sites in the lungs by providing real-time distance tracking and updating, overcoming size limitations of bronchoscopes and enhancing the precision of tool placement.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor on the tool is used to determine a location of the tool within a patient's body
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for navigating to a target site in a patient is provided. The system includes an extended working channel and a tool usable with an electromagnetic navigation system. In particular, the extended working channel and the tool contain an electromagnetic sensor configured to provide location information within a patient of the extended working channel and the tool to the electromagnetic navigation system. The distance from the tool and the target site can then be determined and displayed to a clinician on a display device.