Apparatus to secure field generating device to chair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ENT procedures, such as balloon sinuplasty and FESS, face challenges in precise instrument positioning due to limited 2D endoscopic views, especially when anatomical landmarks are difficult to visualize.
Innovation Solution
An image-guided surgery system with electromagnetic field generators and a navigation guidewire that provides real-time 3D visualization of instruments within the patient's anatomy, combined with a support assembly for field generators that can be retrofitted to conventional medical procedure chairs to avoid interference with the navigation system's accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 2D endoscopic views are used for visualization during ENT procedures, then the equipment complexity is low, but the measurement precision of instrument positioning is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
An electromagnetic field generator is introduced as an intermediary system between the traditional endoscope and the surgical instruments. The field generator creates electromagnetic fields that interact with sensors on the instruments, enabling 3D spatial tracking and precise positioning without requiring complex visual modifications to the endoscope itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces reliance on mechanical/optical 2D endoscopic visualization with an electromagnetic field-based navigation system. Sensors on surgical instruments detect electromagnetic fields to determine their three-dimensional positions, substituting mechanical visualization methods with electromagnetic sensing for more accurate positioning
2Measurement precision
If field generating elements are mounted directly on the chair, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision of navigation system is compromised due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic field generator is extracted from direct mounting on the chair structure and placed on a separate, adjustable support assembly. This separation removes the source of electromagnetic interference from proximity to the navigation sensors, thereby improving measurement precision while allowing the chair to retain its basic function
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly is designed as a segmented, modular structure with multiple support members that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the field generator to be placed at optimal locations away from interfering metal components while maintaining structural stability and adjustability for different surgical configurations
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
Enhances the precision and accuracy of instrument placement during ENT procedures by offering real-time 3D visualization and navigation, overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D endoscopic views and anatomical landmark visibility issues.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of field generating elements supported by the frame, wherein the field generating elements are configured to generate an electromagnetic field around a patient's head
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An apparatus includes a body, an upright member, a frame, and a plurality of field generating elements. The body is configured to be positioned between a patient's back and a backrest of a chair. The upright member extends upwardly from the body. The frame has a curved configuration configured to partially surround a patient's head. The field generating elements are configured to generate an electromagnetic field around a patient's head partially surrounded by the frame.