Head Stabilization Markers for Sterile Surgical Re-Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing head stabilization devices (HFDs) lack integrated markers that allow for accurate and sterile re-registration of patient position during surgical navigation procedures, compromising the precision of image-based navigation systems due to the need to disturb sterile drapes for re-registration.
Innovation Solution
Integration of MRI and fiducial markers within head stabilization devices, such as skull clamps, that are detectable by navigation systems, allowing for automatic or haptic re-registration without disturbing sterile drapes, using a primary reference point to maintain positional accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional head stabilization devices are used without integrated markers, then the device structure remains simple, but re-registration requires disturbing sterile drapes which compromises sterile integrity and measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the head stabilization device with integrated markers (both MRI markers and fiducial markers) into a single unified system. The markers are embedded within the stabilization device structure, allowing simultaneous achievement of sterile maintenance and accurate re-registration without requiring separate marker application or drape disturbance.
2Measurement precision
If markers are integrated into head stabilization devices, then re-registration accuracy and sterile integrity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization device is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides mechanical head stabilization, incorporates MRI markers for imaging-based navigation, and includes fiducial markers for optical or haptic registration systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and achieves comprehensive precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A head stabilization device or HFD includes a plurality of integrated markers. The HFD may be in the form of a skull clamp, vacuum bag, combinations thereof, or other supporting structure. The integrated markers include MRI markers detectable by an MRI scanner and fiducial markers detectable by a registration tool of a navigation system. The markers provide a reference point relative to an operation site in a patient for use in a navigation guided procedure and aid in registering or calibrating the location of the patient with captured images used in the navigation guided procedure.