Light-Guided Medical Imaging for Precise Instrument Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in minimally invasive surgeries, such as endoscopy, is the difficulty in precisely positioning medical devices at target sites due to limited visualization and instability, which can prolong procedures and cause patient injury.
Innovation Solution
A medical system with an imaging device, light source, and sensor that captures images, directs light onto the target site, and uses a processor to move a medical instrument towards the site based on detected light, employing a mirror to redirect light and a sensor to track the target.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If general visualization methods are used at target sites, then the procedure can be performed, but positioning precision deteriorates due to lack of visualization
Solution Approach 1:
A laser beam is introduced as an intermediary marking tool to project a visible target marker at the target site. The laser beam serves as a mediator between the imaging device and the medical instrument, providing precise visual guidance without requiring direct visualization of the target site anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser beam produces a distinct visual marker (typically red or green light) that contrasts with the surrounding tissue. This color change approach creates a clear visual target that can be easily tracked and positioned, improving positioning precision without complicating the overall system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If manual positioning methods are used, then the device structure remains simple, but positioning stability deteriorates leading to prolonged procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through the laser beam that moves with the medical instrument. As the instrument is manipulated, the laser marker automatically repositions to maintain alignment with the target site, providing continuous visual feedback that stabilizes positioning and reduces procedure time.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser beam positioning system is dynamic rather than static. The laser marker automatically adjusts its position based on the movement of the medical instrument and changes in target site location, providing adaptive stabilization that maintains precision throughout the procedure.
3Measurement precision
If target site location is determined manually, then the system remains simple, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical process of visually identifying and marking the target site is replaced with an automated optical system. The imaging device captures images of the target site, and the laser beam automatically projects the precise location, eliminating the need for manual measurement and marking while improving precision.
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
Enhances precision and stability in positioning medical devices, reducing procedure time and minimizing patient harm by accurately locating and tracking target sites.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to detect light generated by the light source
Implementation Method 2
a mirror configured to reflect the light generated by the light source toward the location of the target site
Data Source
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AI summary
A medical system (100) is disclosed that includes a medical device (110) having an imaging device configured to capture images of a target site, whereby a location of the target site is to be determined based on the images. The medical device includes a light source configured to direct light onto the location of the target site and the medical system includes a processor (104) and a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause a sensor of a medical instrument (140) to move toward the location of the target site based on the sensor detecting the light at the target site.