Electromagnetic Navigation Lung Biopsy System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bronchoscopy systems are limited in reaching deep lung targets due to size constraints and two-dimensional fluoroscopic imaging, which complicates three-dimensional navigation in airway networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that integrate electromagnetic navigation with data collection and analysis for biopsy sampling, cytopathological examination, genetic profiling, and treatment planning, utilizing a database to correlate patient data, imaging, and genetic information to provide personalized treatment options based on similarities with previous patient data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a bronchoscope is used to inspect airways, then illumination and imaging of the airway region is achieved, but the bronchoscope cannot reach deep lung targets due to size constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic navigation system as an intermediary between the clinician and deep lung targets. This system uses a catheter with electromagnetic sensors that can navigate through airways to reach distant targets, while the bronchoscope remains relatively short and manageable in size. The navigation system acts as a mediator that extends the functional reach without requiring the bronchoscope itself to be excessively long.
2Speed
If fluoroscopy is used for real-time imaging during navigation, then real-time visualization is achieved, but it is difficult to distinguish luminal passageways from solid tissue and the images are two-dimensional
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges fluoroscopic imaging with electromagnetic navigation data and three-dimensional airway modeling. The system combines the real-time visualization capability of fluoroscopy with the spatial precision of electromagnetic tracking and the anatomical context of 3D models, creating a composite navigation interface that overcomes the limitations of any single modality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional fluoroscopic images to three-dimensional electromagnetic navigation space. By mapping the catheter position in 3D space and overlaying it on 3D reconstructed airway models, the system provides spatial orientation and tissue differentiation that cannot be achieved with 2D imaging alone.
3Reliability
If a biopsy sample is taken for pathology testing, then cancer identification is achieved, but comprehensive treatment planning requires integration of multiple data types including genetic information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional data integration platform that handles diverse data types including pathology results, genetic sequencing data, imaging data, and clinical information. This universal system serves multiple functions: diagnostic confirmation, treatment planning, prognosis prediction, and research, thereby justifying the increased system complexity through its broad utility.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system including a database storing data relating to one or more of patient data, an image dataset, target data, pathway data, cytopathological data, genetic information data, treatment data, and outcome observational data from a plurality of prior patients. The system further includes a network connecting the database to an Electromagnetic Navigation (EMN) system and/or to a computing device, a display in communication with the computing device, and a user interface presenting on the display data related to the a target of a present patient. The data may be related to the target of a present patient including one or more of imaging data of the target, cytopathology of the target, genetic information of the target, and treatment options. The treatment options are based on the correlation of similarities in the data from the plurality of prior patients and the data related to target of the present patient.