Magnetic Tracking System for Distal Locking Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for intramedullary nail fixation in orthopedic surgery, particularly in targeting distal screw holes, are inaccurate and time-consuming due to manual techniques and reliance on x-ray imaging, leading to potential nail breakage and drill bit damage.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic position tracking system with a processor, magnetic field generator, and sensors is used to accurately locate and orient distal locking screws and drill bits, providing real-time feedback for precise alignment and depth measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual techniques with guide bushing and x-ray imaging are used for distal screw hole targeting, then the surgeon can locate the landmarks, but the process is time-consuming and inaccurate leading to potential nail breakage and drill bit damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical targeting techniques (guide bushing, x-ray imaging, eye-balling) with an electromagnetic tracking system that uses sensors, a magnetic field generator, and a processor to automatically identify landmark positions and orient drill bits, thereby improving precision while reducing surgical time
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback through a monitor display showing the position and orientation of the drill bit relative to the landmark, allowing the surgeon to make precise adjustments and achieve accurate targeting without time-consuming trial and error
2Reliability
If manual eye-balling and guide bushing techniques are used, then the surgeon can attempt to locate distal screw holes, but incorrect entry point and drill orientation occur leading to nail breakage and drill bit damage
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic tracking system replaces unreliable manual techniques with automated sensor-based detection that precisely identifies landmark positions and guides drill bit orientation, eliminating the guesswork that leads to incorrect entry points and drill misalignment
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary electromagnetic tracking system between the surgeon and the bone landmark, providing real-time positional and orientational data that mediates the drilling process and prevents harmful outcomes like nail breakage and drill bit damage
3Measurement precision
If extensive x-ray imaging is used for landmark identification, then the surgeon can locate distal screw holes, but the surgical time increases and radiation exposure is elevated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes x-ray imaging with an electromagnetic tracking system that uses sensors and a magnetic field generator to detect landmark positions, eliminating the need for repeated x-ray exposures while maintaining or improving location accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic tracking system serves as an intermediary that provides real-time positional information without requiring ionizing radiation, replacing the harmful x-ray imaging process with a safe and equally effective alternative
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
This system significantly reduces the time and risk associated with distal locking, enhances precision, and eliminates the need for extensive x-ray exposure, improving surgical efficiency and reducing complications.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic position tracking system with a processor, magnetic field generator, and sensors is used to accurately locate and orient distal locking screws and drill bits
Implementation Method 2
A magnetic position tracking system with a processor, magnetic field generator, and sensors is used to accurately locate and orient distal locking screws and drill bits
Data Source
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AI summary
A field generator for use in a surgical targeting system is disclosed. The field generator includes a mounting structure including elements that are configured to receive components of an electromagnetic field generator. The elements are disposed on the mounting structure at locations and orientations relative to each other. The field generator includes at least one covering formed over the mounting structure, wherein, in use, the locations and orientations of the elements relative to each other remain substantially unaltered after exposure to one or more sterilization processes.