Surgical Instrument Tracking for Continuous Navigation Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical instruments used in procedures can be out of view, requiring users to intermittently remove them to determine their location or condition, which disrupts the procedure.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for tracking an instrument during a procedure using a navigation system that incorporates an optical or electromagnetic tracking system, allowing the instrument's position to be determined and illustrated relative to a patient image, even when not directly visible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the surgical instrument is used during the procedure, then the procedure can be performed, but the instrument becomes out of view and its location cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
A tracking device is introduced as an intermediary element that attaches to the surgical instrument. This tracking device contains visual features that can be detected by the navigation system, serving as a mediator between the instrument and the system that needs to track it. The tracking device enables continuous visualization of the instrument's position and orientation without interfering with the surgical procedure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical method of directly observing the instrument with an optical/electronic tracking system. Instead of requiring the user to physically remove and visually inspect the instrument, the system uses cameras and image processing to continuously track and display the instrument's location on a screen, substituting direct mechanical observation with electronic visualization.
2Loss of information
If the user removes the instrument to view its location, then the instrument position can be determined, but the procedure is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking system enables continuous monitoring of the instrument's position throughout the procedure. The navigation system continuously captures images and updates the displayed position of the instrument in real-time, eliminating the need for intermittent removal and inspection. This continuous tracking maintains procedural flow without interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous visual feedback to the user through the display device, showing the current position and orientation of the instrument relative to the patient's anatomy. This real-time feedback allows the user to monitor instrument location without removing it, enabling informed decision-making while maintaining procedural continuity.
3Loss of information
If a tracking device is added to the instrument, then continuous tracking is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking functionality is segmented into a separate, removable tracking device that can be attached to the surgical instrument. This modular approach allows the tracking capability to be added without permanently modifying the instrument's core structure. The tracking device can be independently manufactured, tested, and replaced if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device is designed as a disposable or single-use component that can be attached to the instrument for the duration of the procedure and then discarded. This approach eliminates the need for complex, permanent modifications to reusable instruments and ensures that the tracking features remain simple and reliable without requiring maintenance or calibration over time.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an instrument assembly usable in a procedure. The instrument includes a connection for a working portion and to a tool handle. A tracking device or assembly may be associated with the instrument for determining a position of the instrument.