Geodesic Distance Contours on Electroanatomical Maps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for visualizing geodesic distances on electroanatomical maps, such as those of the heart, are limited in accurately representing the shortest path along the heart's surface, which is crucial for understanding electrical signal propagation and identifying impaired tissue regions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that superimpose contours at specific geodesic distances from points of interest on an electroanatomical map, allowing users to visualize and identify regions of impaired electrical propagation by displaying geodesic distances, with options to superimpose contours at either geodesic or Euclidean distances, facilitating the identification of tissue conductivity issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Euclidean distance is used for visualization, then the representation is simple and computationally efficient, but it fails to accurately represent the shortest path along the heart's surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by computing geodesic distances that follow the curved surface of the heart rather than straight-line Euclidean distances through space. The system calculates shortest paths along the anatomical surface, accounting for the three-dimensional curved geometry of cardiac structures, which accurately represents how electrical signals propagate along tissue surfaces.
2Measurement precision
If geodesic distance calculation is implemented, then accurate shortest path representation is achieved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-computing and storing geodesic distance matrices between all pairs of points on the heart surface before actual analysis. This pre-computation allows rapid retrieval of accurate geodesic distances during clinical use, avoiding the need to recalculate complex shortest paths in real-time during diagnostic procedures.
3Loss of information
If contours are superimposed at multiple geodesic distances, then visualization of propagation paths is enhanced, but map clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selectively superimposing contours only in regions where they provide diagnostic value. The system can adjust contour density and spacing based on local anatomical features and electrical propagation characteristics, placing more contours in regions of interest while maintaining clarity in other areas, thus optimizing information display without excessive clutter.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described embodiments include an apparatus that includes a display and processor. The processor is configured to receive, from a user, an input that indicates one or more points of interest on an electroanatomical map, of an anatomical surface, that is displayed on the display, and to superimpose on the map, in response to the input, a plurality of contours, each one of the contours being at a different respective geodesic distance, with respect to the surface, from the points of interest. Other embodiments are also described.