Image-Based Probe Positioning for Intracardiac Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for intracardiac echocardiogram (ICE) catheter guidance, such as sensor-based and fluoroscopy-based systems, are costly, cumbersome, and pose health risks, while manual guidance requires trained specialists and is logistically challenging, limiting the maneuverability and precision of ICE procedures.
Innovation Solution
An image-based probe positioning framework that uses a machine-learned classifier to predict the position of a probe within a structure of interest based on acquired images, providing real-time guidance without the need for additional sensors or imaging modalities, thereby streamlining workflows and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sensor-based guidance systems are used, then navigation precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the position sensor from the catheter system, replacing it with an image-based navigation approach using echocardiogram images alone to determine catheter position, thereby simplifying the device while maintaining navigation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electromagnetic sensor-based position detection system with an optical/image-based detection system that uses echocardiogram image analysis to determine catheter location and orientation
2Measurement precision
If sensor-based guidance systems are used, then navigation precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the echocardiogram images already being acquired for diagnostic purposes to simultaneously provide navigation information, making the existing system serve dual functions without requiring separate sensor systems or additional operational complexity
3Measurement precision
If fluoroscopy-based navigation systems are used, then navigation precision is improved, but harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful fluoroscopy approach into a beneficial radiation-free alternative by using echocardiogram ultrasound images, which provide sufficient navigation information without ionizing radiation exposure to patients and staff
4Measurement precision
If manual guidance is used, then navigation precision is maintained, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides automated feedback by analyzing echocardiogram images in real-time and displaying catheter position and navigation recommendations, enabling operators to make faster, more accurate decisions without requiring constant expert intervention
Data Source
AI summary
A framework for image-based probe positioning is disclosed herein. The framework receives a current image from a probe. The current image is acquired by the probe within a structure of interest. The framework predicts a position of the probe and generates a recommendation of a next maneuver to be performed using the probe by applying the current image to a trained classifier. The framework then outputs the predicted position and the recommendation of the next maneuver.