Gamma Probe Simultaneous Isotope Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current gamma probes are unable to simultaneously detect two to three different isotopes without actuating a physical switch, limiting their effectiveness in radio guided surgery.

Innovation Solution

A gamma probe system utilizing a Gadolinium Aluminum Gallium Garnet (GAGG) crystal with a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) and smart CPU, capable of wirelessly transmitting data via Bluetooth to a tablet, allowing for simultaneous detection and differentiation of multiple isotopes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a gamma probe uses a single detector design, then the device structure remains simple, but it cannot simultaneously detect multiple isotopes with different energy ranges

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveisotope detection capabilityVSAvoiddetector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a single gamma detector that can detect multiple isotopes (99mTc, 111In, 125I) by using energy window discrimination. The detector processes signals from different isotopes simultaneously by assigning specific energy windows to each isotope, eliminating the need for physical switches or multiple detectors while maintaining detection versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the detection parameter by using energy discrimination - it detects gamma rays from different isotopes by analyzing their distinct energy levels (25-511 keV range). The processor applies different energy window settings to identify and differentiate between isotopes based on their characteristic gamma ray energies, allowing one detector to perform multiple detection functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If a gamma probe requires physical switching between isotopes, then the detector design remains simple, but the operation time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection efficiencyVSAvoidisotope switching operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The detector operates continuously without interruption, simultaneously collecting data from all isotopes present. The energy window discrimination method allows continuous detection of multiple isotopes at once, eliminating the need to stop and switch between isotopes, thereby maintaining continuous useful detection action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical physical switching mechanism with an electronic signal processing approach. Instead of physically switching detectors or filters, the system uses software-based energy window discrimination in the processor to differentiate isotopes, substituting mechanical operation with electronic/intelligent processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a gamma detector covers a broad energy range (25-511 keV), then it can detect all common isotopes, but the measurement precision for individual isotopes decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveisotope coverageVSAvoidisotope identification accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The broad energy spectrum (25-511 keV) is segmented into multiple discrete energy windows, each assigned to a specific isotope. This segmentation allows the detector to maintain broad coverage while achieving precise isotope identification by analyzing gamma ray energies within specific segmented ranges corresponding to each isotope's characteristic emissions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 simultaneous and accurate detection of multiple isotopes, improving the precision and efficiency of radio guided surgery by providing auditory and graphical feedback on isotope location.

Implementation Method 1

a Gadolinium Aluminum Gallium Garnet (GAGG) crystal with a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectScintillation: Scintillation

Implementation Method 2

a Gadolinium Aluminum Gallium Garnet (GAGG) crystal with a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250186008A1System and method for a gamma probe incorporating simultaneous isotope detection

Publication Date: 2025.06.12 KUB TECH INC DBA KUBTEC

AI summary

It would be advantageous with the close quarters in breast procedure rooms to create a Gamma Probe system incorporating multi modalities, sensitivities, and multiple ranges for utilization in breast intervention procedures for the diagnosis and verification for breast cancer. Systems for specimen radiography assist radiologists and surgeons in the detection and classification of abnormal lesions in medical images gleaned from breast biopsies/lumpectomies and a Gamma Probe system with a sensor to detect radioactive, metallic/magnet, or RFID waves to help locate a lump or abnormality which were placed by an Interventional Radiologist. Radio guided surgery (RGS) uses gamma probes to localize radioactive targets. The three common RGS radioisotopes: technetium-99m (99mTc), indium-111 (111In), and iodine-125 (125I). The aspects of the disclosed embodiments pertain to a gamma probe that is able to simultaneously detect 2-3 isotopes automatically without actuating a physical switch.