Infrared Surgical Training Model with Variable Tissue Opacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional surgical training methods rely on cadavers and X-ray imaging, which are costly and expose staff to harmful radiation, and do not provide a realistic visualization of anatomical structures during minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
An anatomically correct surgical training model made from materials with varying opacity or transmissivity to infrared (IR) light, combined with an IR imaging system that simulates X-ray images without radiation, allowing for realistic tissue simulation and reduced training costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If X-ray imaging is used to visualize surgical procedures during training, then visualization capability is improved, but radiation exposure to staff increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the anatomical structure using infrared imaging technology. The infrared camera captures thermal energy emitted by the anatomical model, creating a visual representation that mimics X-ray imaging without requiring actual X-ray radiation. This copying approach allows surgical staff to visualize internal structures and surgical instruments within the model without exposure to harmful radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical X-ray imaging system with an optical/infrared imaging system. Instead of using X-ray tubes and detectors that generate and detect ionizing radiation, the system uses infrared cameras to detect thermal energy. This substitution maintains the visualization function while eliminating the harmful radiation aspect.
2Reliability
If cadavers are used for surgical training, then anatomical realism is improved, but training cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a synthetic anatomical model that copies the essential features and properties of real human anatomy. The model includes accurate representations of bones, soft tissues, and organs with appropriate textures and densities. This virtual copy allows for repeated use in training without the high costs associated with obtaining, preparing, and maintaining cadavers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies physical parameters of the anatomical model, including material composition, density, and thermal properties, to match real human tissue characteristics. By adjusting these parameters, the model achieves anatomical realism that mimics actual human anatomy while using affordable synthetic materials instead of expensive cadavers.
3Loss of information
If materials with varying opacity to IR light are used in the training model, then imaging quality is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials with different infrared opacity characteristics to represent various anatomical structures. Bone, soft tissue, and other tissues are made from materials with appropriately different IR transmission properties. This allows the infrared camera to distinguish between different tissue types and visualize surgical instruments, achieving high imaging quality through material composition rather than complex structural design.
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 a cost-effective and safe method for surgical training by offering realistic anatomical visualization, reducing radiation exposure and training costs, while enabling simulation of X-ray imaging without the need for actual X-ray equipment.
Implementation Method 1
These structures are created with varying opacity or transmissivity to IR light
Implementation Method 2
An IR emission and imaging system is provided which works in combination with the surgical model and provides imaging capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical training system includes a surgical training model formed from materials that resemble bone and body tissue. The surgical training model is opaque to visible light and is partially transmissive to IR light. A complementary surgical imaging system includes an IR emitter which emits IR light across a region of interest in the surgical training model and an IR receiver which receives light which is emitted from the IR emitter and which passes through the surgical model. The system produces images which resemble medical X-ray images. The system allows for surgical training and is particular suited for procedures such as arthroscopic procedures which are reliant on medical imaging.


