Magnetic Field Gradient Localization for Surgical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for distal locking in intramedullary nailing, such as the freehand technique, rely heavily on fluoroscopic imaging, leading to radiation exposure for patients and surgical teams, and are time-consuming, with a steep learning curve and high complexity, necessitating a more efficient and radiation-free alignment solution.
Innovation Solution
A fully implantable wireless electronic device, ATOMS (Addressable Transmitters Operated as Magnetic Spins), generates a 3D magnetic field gradient to provide accurate 3D position information, allowing for precise alignment of locking screws in bones without fluoroscopic imaging, using a 3D magnetic Hall sensor, integrated circuit chip, and radiofrequency coil to transmit data and align surgical instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluoroscopic imaging is used for distal locking alignment, then alignment accuracy is achieved, but radiation exposure increases and surgery time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the fluoroscopic imaging system (optical/electromagnetic system) with a magnetic field-based positioning system. Magnetic sensors detect field gradients generated by known coil configurations, providing 3D spatial information without radiation. This substitution eliminates harmful radiation exposure while maintaining alignment accuracy through magnetic field localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field gradients as an intermediary between the surgical instrument and the imaging system. Instead of directly using fluoroscopic X-rays, the system uses magnetic fields as a mediator to transmit spatial information. The magnetic sensors detect these field gradients, allowing indirect measurement of position and orientation without direct radiation exposure to bone and soft tissue.
2Measurement precision
If fluoroscopic imaging is used for distal locking alignment, then alignment accuracy is achieved, but surgery time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field-based system enables continuous real-time positioning without the intermittent nature of fluoroscopic imaging. The magnetic sensors continuously detect field gradients as the surgical instrument moves, providing uninterrupted spatial information. This continuous measurement capability eliminates the need for repeated fluoroscopic cycles, significantly reducing surgery time while maintaining continuous alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and alignment assessment using magnetic field detection before final locking screw insertion. By pre-determining the optimal trajectory and position through magnetic sensor feedback, the surgeon can execute the final alignment more quickly and accurately, reducing overall surgery time compared to iterative fluoroscopic adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If fluoroscopic imaging system is used, then alignment capability is provided, but device complexity and learning curve increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential positioning function from the complex fluoroscopic imaging system. Instead of requiring a complete fluoroscopy suite with image processing software and radiation safety infrastructure, the system uses simplified magnetic sensors and field gradient detection. This extraction maintains alignment capability while dramatically reducing device complexity and the learning curve for surgical staff.
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
Reduces radiation exposure and surgery time by enabling precise alignment of locking screws in a matter of seconds, improving the efficiency and safety of intramedullary nailing procedures while minimizing the need for complex equipment and expertise.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor to sense a magnetic field value at a location of the sensor
Implementation Method 2
A magnetic field gradient is applied across a distal portion of the intramedullary nail... providing a 3D magnetic field gradient
Implementation Method 3
a radiofrequency coil to wirelessly transmit the magnetic field value from the sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A three dimensional magnetic sensor attached to a surgical nail is located based on an applied monotonic magnetic field gradient. Another three dimensional magnetic sensor locates a surgical drill. A display generates a real time image of the relative alignment of the surgical drill and of the surgical nail, allowing a surgeon to repair bone fractures.