Handheld Anatomical Scanning for Real-Time Deep Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image-guided systems for medical procedures, such as EVD insertion, are cumbersome, time-consuming, and unsuitable for emergency settings, lacking real-time scanning and deformable registration to account for tissue shift, making accurate targeting of deep anatomical structures challenging.
Innovation Solution
A handheld device with a camera and display, capable of capturing and comparing image data with pre-operative 3-D images, projecting structured light patterns, and generating 3-D surface maps for enhanced registration and visualization, allowing real-time scanning and augmented virtual imaging of anatomical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional image-guided systems are used for deep anatomical targeting, then targeting accuracy is improved, but procedure time increases and the system becomes unsuitable for emergency settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the targeting process into distinct modules: a handheld scanner for rapid surface mapping, a separate image processing unit for real-time 3D reconstruction, and a visualization system for trajectory display. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, with the scanner focusing on rapid data acquisition and the processing unit handling complex computations, thereby reducing overall procedure time while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical image-guided systems with optical-based structured light scanning and computer vision algorithms. The handheld device uses projected light patterns and camera-based detection instead of mechanical positioning systems, enabling rapid non-contact scanning and real-time 3D surface mapping, which significantly reduces procedure time while maintaining targeting precision
2Measurement precision
If traditional image-guided systems with rigid fixation are used, then targeting precision is improved, but the system becomes cumbersome and difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from rigid fixation to dynamic, flexible positioning. The handheld scanner can be freely moved and repositioned without requiring rigid attachment to the patient or surgical table. The software dynamically adjusts the coordinate system and registration based on the scanner's current position, maintaining targeting precision while greatly improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic feature detection and landmark identification without requiring manual positioning or external fixation devices. The software automatically detects anatomical landmarks, performs deformable registration, and calculates trajectories based on the scanned surface geometry, eliminating the need for cumbersome rigid fixation apparatus and simplifying the operational workflow
3Loss of information
If pre-operative imaging alone is used, then deep structure visualization is improved, but real-time scanning and tissue shift compensation are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs pre-operative imaging and 3D surface scanning before the surgical procedure to establish baseline anatomical models and identify deep structures. This preliminary action captures the initial state of the anatomy, which is then used for deformable registration during the procedure to track and compensate for tissue shifts, combining pre-planning with real-time adaptation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback through continuous surface scanning and deformable registration that tracks tissue displacement during the procedure. The scanned surface geometry is continuously compared with the pre-operative model, and the trajectory calculation is dynamically adjusted based on detected tissue shifts, providing real-time compensation and maintaining targeting accuracy throughout the procedure
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
Facilitates accurate and efficient targeting of deep anatomical structures by providing enhanced registration and visualization, reducing procedure time and enabling use in emergency situations.
Implementation Method 1
capturing first image data of light reflecting from a surface of the anatomical feature with the camera
Implementation Method 2
projecting structured light patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A method for visualizing and targeting anatomical structures inside a patient utilizing a handheld screen device may include grasping the handheld screen device and manipulating a position of the handheld screen device relative to the patient. The handheld screen device may include a camera and a display. The method may also include orienting the camera on the handheld screen device relative to an anatomical feature of the patient by manipulating the position of the handheld screen device relative to the patient, capturing first image data of light reflecting from a surface of the anatomical feature with the camera on the handheld screen device, and comparing the first image data with a pre-operative 3-D image of the patient to determine a location of an anatomical structure located inside the patient and positioned relative to the anatomical feature of the patient.


