Electromagnetic Field Generator Isolation for Surgical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic field generators used in surgical imaging systems are ineffective when positioned on the side of a patient, particularly for procedures involving the torso, due to interference with the operating table and reduced accuracy, which limits their ability to provide high-quality images and accurate instrument positioning.
Innovation Solution
A horizontally mounted electromagnetic field generator is positioned under the patient, isolated from the metal operating room table using a non-conductive separation structure to prevent interference and support the patient's weight, allowing for more accurate and convenient imaging without obstructing the surgical area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the electromagnetic field generator is positioned on the side of the patient, then it can be easily accessed and set up, but it interferes with the operating table and reduces imaging accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic field generator is inverted from its conventional side-positioning to a position underneath the patient's table, which eliminates interference with the operating table and improves imaging accuracy while maintaining ease of setup through the support structure
2Ease of operation
If the electromagnetic field generator is positioned on the side of the patient, then it is easily accessible, but it obstructs the surgical area and reduces operating space
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the position of the electromagnetic field generator to underneath the patient's table, the device remains accessible through the support structure while clearing the surgical area and providing adequate operating space for the surgical team
3Stability of the object's composition
If the electromagnetic field generator is placed directly on the metal operating table, then it is stable and supported, but it experiences interference and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
A non-conductive support structure serves as an intermediary between the electromagnetic field generator and the metal operating table, providing mechanical stability and support while preventing electromagnetic interference and protecting the generator from damage
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
This configuration enables high-quality imaging and accurate instrument guidance during torso surgeries by eliminating interference and providing a clear operating area, while protecting the field generator from damage and accommodating modern surgeon heights.
Implementation Method 1
isolated from the metal operating room table using a non-conductive separation structure to prevent interference
Implementation Method 2
An electromagnetic field generator, which is located over the substantially non-conductive separation structure and isolated from the metal operating room table
Implementation Method 3
an ultrasound transducer may be positioned against the surface of an organ to generate an image of the interior of the organ
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the invention, a reliable apparatus for guiding an ablation probe to a target location inside a human body is thus provided. The apparatus allows incorporation of a conventional metal operating room table, but further comprises a substantially non-conductive separation structure positioned over the metal operating room table and underneath a horizontally oriented electromagnetic field generator. The resultant structure is adapted to support a human body in the prone or supine position over the operating table. Further support padding mayalso be provided. The electromagnetic field generator creates an electromagnetic field that extends through the torso of said human body positioned over the electromagnetic field generator. An ultrasound probe and ablation probe interacts with the electromagnetic field to generate positional information that is processed by a computing device to generate a graphic representation of location information on a display device.


