Headset-Based Surgical Navigation With Real-Time 3D Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surgical navigation systems are cumbersome, costly, and rely on optical image analysis that is computationally intensive and prone to interference, requiring cumbersome fiducial markers and remote displays, which obstruct the surgeon's view and increase radiation exposure.
Innovation Solution
A headset-based system using reflected light and radio signals for real-time alignment of external and internal three-dimensional models, allowing seamless integration of virtual imagery with the surgeon's perspective, and enabling haptic and pre-haptic interfaces to enhance depth perception and instrument tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical image analysis is used for surgical navigation, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical image analysis systems with a simpler radio frequency-based tracking system. Instead of using cameras and optical markers that require intensive image processing, the invention uses radio transmitters and receivers to directly track instrument positions and orientations, significantly reducing computational requirements while maintaining surgical navigation precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the surgical site using radio frequency data to generate three-dimensional models and visualizations. This virtual representation allows surgeons to navigate and plan procedures without requiring complex real-time optical analysis of the actual surgical field
2Measurement precision
If fiducial markers are used for tracking, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking function from cumbersome optical fiducial markers and integrates it directly into surgical instruments through embedded radio transmitters. This eliminates the need to attach external markers to instruments and patients, allowing surgeons to use standard instruments without additional attachment steps while maintaining precise tracking
Solution Approach 2:
The radio transmitter embedded in surgical instruments serves multiple functions: it provides tracking data for navigation, enables three-dimensional visualization, and supports both intraoperative and preoperative planning. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate fiducial marker systems
3Measurement precision
If remote displays are used for virtual imagery, then measurement precision is maintained, but ease of operation worsens due to obstructed surgeon's view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional remote displays to three-dimensional virtual models that can be viewed from multiple angles. The system generates three-dimensional representations of surgical instruments and anatomy that surgeons can rotate and examine from any perspective, providing comprehensive spatial understanding without requiring the surgeon to look away from the surgical site
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary that transmits tracking data directly to the surgeon's display device. This intermediary system allows real-time visualization of instrument positions and three-dimensional models without requiring physical connection or remote monitoring equipment that would obstruct the surgical field
4Measurement precision
If conventional surgical navigation systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to setup complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary three-dimensional modeling and virtual surgical planning before the actual surgery. Preoperative CT or MRI scans are used to create accurate three-dimensional models of the patient's anatomy, allowing surgeons to plan and rehearse procedures in advance. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming intraoperative setup and measurement steps
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the surgical instrument's own embedded radio transmitter for tracking, eliminating the need for separate calibration procedures with external fiducial markers. The instrument self-identifies its position and orientation automatically, reducing setup time while maintaining navigation precision
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
Provides a compact, cost-effective, and efficient surgical navigation system that overcomes line-of-sight limitations, reduces radiation exposure, and enhances surgical precision by integrating virtual imagery with the surgeon's natural visual and tactile senses.
Implementation Method 1
receiving an external three-dimensional model of a surgical site from the viewpoint of a headset, wherein the external three-dimensional model is derived from reflected light
Implementation Method 2
A headset-based system using reflected light and radio signals for real-time alignment of external and internal three-dimensional models
Data Source
AI summary
In at least one embodiment, a method of surgical navigation is provided. The method includes receiving an external three-dimensional model of a surgical site from the viewpoint of a headset, wherein the external three-dimensional model is derived from reflected light. The method further includes aligning the external three-dimensional model with an internal three-dimensional model of the surgical site from the viewpoint of the headset, wherein the internal three-dimensional model is derived from medical imaging, and generating an aligned view. The method further includes providing the aligned view to the headset, and updating the aligned view in real-time while the headset is moved or the surgical site is moved or modified during a surgical procedure.