Magnetized Elevator Tracking for Precise Endoscopic Instrument Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical devices face challenges in accurately navigating and aligning instruments due to limited visualization capabilities of the imager, leading to potential trauma and difficulty in procedures like ERCP, as the imager cannot visualize the trajectory of bile ducts or papilla.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a magnetized elevator with a position-sensing system that includes magnetic field sensors to measure the orientation and position of the distal tip, providing real-time feedback to operators through augmented camera views or 3D visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If an imager (camera) is used at the distal tip to facilitate navigation, then the operator can visualize areas within the body lumen walls, but the imager cannot visualize the trajectory of bile ducts or papilla, rendering it difficult to align the instrument for optimal insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary magnetic field sensing system between the operator and the target anatomy. Instead of relying solely on direct optical visualization through the imager, the system uses magnetic sensors to detect the position and orientation of the distal tip, providing indirect but accurate spatial information that complements the limited direct visual field of the imager.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical limitation of direct visual alignment with a magnetic field-based sensing system. The magnetic sensors substitute for the insufficient optical visualization capability, enabling precise positioning feedback without being constrained by the imager's field of view limitations.
2Productivity
If repeated attempts are made to cannulate the papilla using only imager guidance, then the operator can continue the procedure, but trauma to the subject increases, potentially leading to pancreatitis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where magnetic sensors continuously monitor the position and orientation of the distal tip and provide real-time spatial information to the operator. This feedback enables precise tracking of instrument trajectory and papilla orientation, allowing the operator to align the instrument correctly on the first or second attempt rather than making multiple repeated attempts that cause trauma.
3Device complexity
If the imager is limited to viewing areas within walls of the body lumen, then the imaging system remains simple, but the system cannot convey information the operator desires for procedure execution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the distal tip assembly multi-functional by integrating both imaging capabilities and magnetic field sensing capabilities into a single system. The magnetic sensors are incorporated into the distal tip along with the imager, enabling the system to perform both optical visualization and magnetic position/orientation sensing, thereby providing comprehensive procedural information without requiring separate systems.
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 the precision of instrument alignment and cannulation of papilla by providing accurate positional and orientational feedback, reducing procedural trauma and improving the efficiency of medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a sensing element configured to measure a magnetic field of the magnet and to output a signal indicative of a configuration of the elevator
Implementation Method 2
The sensing element may be configured to measure an alternating external magnetic field in order to output the signal indicative of the orientation of the distal tip
Implementation Method 3
The sensing element may include a magnetoresistive sensor. The sensing element may be configured to measure a component of the magnetic field of the magnet that is along a sensing direction of the magnetoresistive sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly of a medical device may comprise an elevator configured to raise and lower in order to adjust an orientation of an instrument inserted through a working channel of the medical device. The elevator may include a magnet. The assembly also may include a sensing element configured to measure a magnetic field of the magnet and to output a signal indicative of a configuration of the elevator.