Intravascular Optical Triangulation for Luminal Dimensional Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies, such as CT and MRI, provide limited dimensional information for vascular and other luminal prostheses implantation sites, and intravascular ultrasound imaging lacks accuracy due to artifacts and inability to measure dimensions under deformational stress, making it difficult to select appropriate prostheses for implantation.
Innovation Solution
The development of optical scanning systems and methods using catheters with illumination sources and light sensors to directly measure luminal dimensions within the body, utilizing triangulation and three-dimensional modeling to generate digital topographic models of luminal surfaces, allowing for accurate assessment of prosthetic fit and tissue characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If external imaging (CT and MRI) is used to obtain anatomical information, then imaging coverage is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to limited dimensional information and indirect interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces external mechanical imaging systems (CT and MRI scanners) with an intravascular optical measurement system. A catheter-based device with light sources and detectors is inserted into the vessel, using optical triangulation to directly measure luminal dimensions. This substitution transitions from indirect external imaging to direct internal measurement, achieving both comprehensive coverage and high precision simultaneously.
2Length of stationary object
If intravascular ultrasound imaging (IVUS) is used to characterize implantation sites, then imaging depth is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to artifacts and difficulty in interpreting anatomical boundaries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces ultrasonic imaging with optical imaging. The catheter-based system uses light sources and detectors to capture reflected light patterns from the vessel wall, creating high-contrast images that clearly define anatomical boundaries. Optical imaging eliminates ultrasound artifacts while maintaining intravascular measurement capability, achieving both deep imaging and precise boundary detection.
3Device complexity
If conventional imaging methodologies are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to measure dimensions under deformational stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic measurement capability by enabling stress application during imaging. The system can inflate a balloon or apply radial force to the vessel while simultaneously capturing optical measurements. This allows the luminal dimensions to be measured under various stress conditions (rest, mild stress, maximum stress), providing adaptable data for different implantation scenarios without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
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
Enables direct, dimensionally accurate measurement of luminal structures under deformational stress, improving the selection and design of custom implants by providing precise anatomical data, enhancing the accuracy of prosthetic implantation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the light reflected from the projected pattern is detected from a second location within the lumen
Data Source
AI summary
A digital topographic model of the luminal surface is generated by projecting an optical pattern on the luminal surface from the first location within the lumen. At least a portion of the projected pattern is detected from a second location within the lumen which is based apart from the first location. The dimensions of the luminal wall can be measured by triangulation in order to produce the digital topographic model of the body lumen.