Magnetic Field Probe Angular Disposition Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for locating implantable markers in medical procedures are inaccurate, particularly for small lesions, due to reliance on invasive imaging techniques and bulky electromagnetic markers, which can lead to incomplete treatments and increased surgical complexity.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic field probe with software-configurable detection zones, comprising multiple magnetic sensors, that determines the angular disposition of an implantable marker by defining marker detection zones along its longitudinal axis, allowing intuitive and precise localization without continuous probe movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques (X-ray, ultrasound) are used to locate areas of interest, then localization can be achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome, expensive, and relies on being able to distinguish the area from surrounding tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the localization function from complex imaging systems and implements it through simple magnetic sensors that detect magnetic field vectors. Instead of using bulky imaging equipment, the system uses minimalistic magnetic field detection to achieve precise localization of implantable markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and optical imaging systems with a magnetic field-based detection system. Magnetic sensors measure magnetic field vectors to determine the position and orientation of implantable markers, substituting complex imaging machinery with a simpler magnetic detection approach.
2Measurement precision
If metal anchor wires are placed to mark the target, then localization accuracy improves, but the risk of infection and wire movement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses implantable magnetic markers that are small, safe, and do not carry the same infection risks as metal wires. These markers can be easily implanted and removed without the complications associated with metal anchor wires, providing a safer alternative for marking targets.
3Measurement precision
If radio-active markers are used for localization, then target identification improves, but the use is tightly controlled and regulated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs non-radioactive magnetic markers that are safer and less regulated than radio-active markers. These magnetic markers provide sufficient localization accuracy without the stringent controls and regulations that limit the use of radio-active materials, offering greater flexibility in clinical applications.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electro-magnetic and RFID markers are used, then marker functionality improves, but the markers become bulky and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple magnetic markers that are much smaller than electro-magnetic or RFID markers. These compact magnetic markers are less prone to failure and do not require complex power sources or electronic components, making them more reliable for marking small areas of interest.
5Measurement precision
If multiple magnetic sensors are used to determine angular disposition, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple magnetic sensors that measure magnetic field vectors at different positions. By segmenting the measurement task across multiple sensors, the system achieves high angular disposition accuracy while keeping each individual sensor simple and manageable.
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 probe provides accurate and intuitive detection of implantable markers, reducing the need for invasive imaging and improving treatment precision by determining the angular disposition within defined detection zones, enhancing surgical efficiency and reducing the risk of incomplete resections.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnetic sensor close to the distal end; a second magnetic sensor, disposed between the first magnetic sensor and a proximal end, the first and second magnetic sensors being configured and arranged to determine, in use, one or more magnetic field vectors of the marker
Data Source
AI summary
During both invasive and non-invasive treatments and therapies, health professionals need to accurately locate areas of interest. Inaccuracies may mean that not all the area is treated, or the treatment is incomplete. Electro-magnetic and RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) markers have been developed, but these are bulky and prone to failure. For example, any inaccuracy may result in an incomplete resection or removal of the lesion, requiring additional treatments.A magnetic field probe 100, 101 is provided for determining an angular disposition 180, 190 of an implantable magnetic marker 200, the probe comprising: a first magnetic sensor 110 close to the distal end 160, and a second magnetic sensor 120, closer to a proximal end 165, configured to determine two or more magnetic field vectors of the marker 200; the probe being further configured: to define two or more marker detection zones 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, extending from the distal end 160; to determine the angular disposition 180, 190 to the implantable marker 200; and to determine whether the angular disposition 180, 190 substantially coincides with one of the two or more marker detection zones 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, thereby determining that the marker falls within the one marker detection zones.By defining two or more marker detection zones, and configuring the probe to determine whether the magnetic marker appears to be within the one marker detection zone, a simplified and intuitive decision algorithm is provided for indicating the disposition of the marker relative to the probe.