Biplane and Triplane ICE Visualization for Distal End Effector Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical visualization techniques for invasive devices, such as cardiac probes, lack real-time, high-resolution biplane and triplane views, which hinders precise positioning and maneuvering during procedures.
Innovation Solution
A medical system utilizing a 4D ultrasound probe to acquire volumetric data, which is then processed to generate biplane and triplane views of the distal end effector of invasive probes, such as EP mapping catheters, allowing for real-time visualization and improved procedural guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasound imaging is used for visualizing invasive devices, then real-time imaging capability is achieved, but high-resolution biplane and triplane views are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the volumetric ultrasound data into multiple planar views (biplane and triplane views) that can be independently optimized for high resolution. By dividing the 3D volume data into 2D slices displayed in multiple planes simultaneously, the system achieves high-resolution visualization without requiring a completely complex new imaging architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D ultrasound imaging to 4D volumetric imaging (3D space + time), enabling the generation of multiple 2D planes from a single 3D volume. This dimensional enhancement allows biplane and triplane views to be derived from the same volumetric dataset, providing high-resolution multi-planar visualization while maintaining real-time capability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If X-ray fluoroscopy is used for procedural guidance, then real-time visualization is achieved, but radiation exposure and lack of soft tissue detail occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the X-ray fluoroscopy imaging mechanism with ultrasound imaging. This substitution eliminates ionizing radiation exposure while providing superior soft tissue contrast and detail. The ultrasound-based system visualizes both the invasive device and surrounding soft tissues without the harmful effects of X-rays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the imaging modality parameter from ionizing radiation (X-ray) to acoustic waves (ultrasound). This parameter change fundamentally alters the interaction mechanism with tissue, eliminating radiation exposure while enhancing soft tissue visualization capability through the inherent acoustic properties of different tissues.
3Ease of operation
If conventional 2D ultrasound views are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but precise positioning and maneuvering capability is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the 3D volumetric data into multiple 2D planar views (biplane and triplane) that can be displayed simultaneously. This segmentation provides comprehensive spatial information for precise positioning and maneuvering of invasive devices, allowing operators to view the device from multiple angles and planes without increasing physical device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional display system that presents multiple viewing planes (biplane and triplane views) from a single volumetric ultrasound dataset. This universal approach provides comprehensive spatial orientation and positioning information across multiple planes simultaneously, enhancing operational precision without requiring separate imaging systems for each view.
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
The system provides real-time, high-resolution biplane and triplane views, enhancing the physician's ability to visualize and guide invasive devices, thereby improving procedural accuracy and reducing the reliance on X-ray fluoroscopy.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasound transducer array (65) configured to image a volume (85) of the organ, the volume comprising at least a portion of the distal end effector (40)
Data Source
AI summary
A medical system includes utility and ultrasound probes, and a processor. The probes are configured for operation inside an organ. The utility probe includes a distal end effector and a first sensor configured to output first signals indicative of first positions of the distal end effector. The ultrasound probe includes ultrasound transducer array configured to image volume comprising portion of the distal end effector inside the organ, and a second sensor configured to output second signals indicative of second positions of the ultrasound transducer array. The processor is configured to, using the imaged volume, and the first and second positions, select slices of the imaged volume that comprise at least part of distal end effector in spatial relation with the organ, generate from selected slices a biplane view and/or a triplane view of the part of the distal end effector, and present the biplane view and/or triplane view to user.