Orthopedic Fixator Visualization via 3D Model Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for controlling and visualizing orthopedic fixators to correct anatomical structure deformities are inefficient and unreliable due to difficulties in identifying fixator elements in radiographic images, especially when they overlap or are obscured, leading to errors in treatment planning and potential improper alignment of anatomical structures during healing.
Innovation Solution
A guided frame matching technique is employed, where a graphical projection of the fixator is used to assist users in identifying fixator elements by overlaying a rotated and modified graphical representation of fixator elements from an easily identifiable image onto a less identifiable image, combined with a three-dimensional overview of the imaging scene to provide accurate feedback and confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional techniques are used to identify fixator elements in radiographic images, then the user can mark positions of struts and other fixator elements, but the identification becomes difficult and error-prone when elements overlap or are obscured, increasing time required and reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a three-dimensional digital copy or model of the fixator apparatus based on radiographic images. This 3D model allows users to visualize and identify fixator elements from multiple angles and perspectives, eliminating the problem of overlapping elements in 2D images. The digital replica can be rotated and examined from any viewpoint, making element identification reliable regardless of image orientation or element overlap.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional radiographic images to a three-dimensional representation of the fixator apparatus. By adding the third dimension, users can view fixator elements from multiple perspectives simultaneously or sequentially, eliminating the obscuration and overlap problems inherent in 2D projections. This dimensional enhancement allows complete visualization of all fixator elements without ambiguity.
2Productivity
If users manually identify and mark fixator elements in displayed images, then treatment plans can be developed, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming, especially when elements are not easily identifiable
Solution Approach 1:
The 3D digital model serves as a virtual replica that can be manipulated and examined without requiring repeated manual identification from 2D images. Once the model is created from the radiographic data, users can interactively explore the fixator geometry, automatically identifying all elements through the 3D visualization interface, dramatically reducing the time required compared to manual marking of 2D images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of visually searching and marking elements in 2D images with an automated 3D visualization system. The computer-generated 3D model automatically presents all fixator elements in a structured, easily identifiable format, eliminating the tedious manual search and marking process while maintaining accurate treatment plan development.
3Loss of information
If non-orthogonal images are used for visualization, then complete three-dimensional fixator imaging scene can be captured, but users are unable to efficiently view representations of corrections calculated by software
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic 3D visualization system where the fixator model can be rotated, tilted, and viewed from any angle on demand. Unlike static 2D non-orthogonal images, this dynamic system adapts to user needs by presenting views optimized for understanding specific corrections. The model can be interactively manipulated to show orthogonal projections when needed for correction visualization, combining complete 3D scene capture with ease of viewing corrections.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D digital model serves multiple functions simultaneously: it captures the complete fixator imaging scene from any orientation, allows interactive exploration from unlimited viewpoints, and can generate orthogonal projections when needed for correction visualization. This universal tool replaces multiple specialized 2D image views, providing both complete scene capture and ease of correction viewing through a single multi-functional interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A guided frame matching technique may be employed in which a graphical projection of a fixator is used to guide and assist a user in identifying fixator elements within an image. Upon being overlaid on an image, the graphical projection of fixator may be manipulated to align with, and overlay, fixator elements displayed within the image. Additionally, a three-dimensional overview of an imaging scene of the fixator may be generated. The three-dimensional overview may include a three-dimensional graphical model that displays representations of images of the fixator attached to anatomical structure segments as well as representations of imaging sources, reference locations, fixator elements, and anatomical structure segments. When the images are not truly orthogonal, a modified second image representation may be displayed to represent a second image that is truly orthogonal to a first image.