Microwave Ablation Probe Tracking with Ultrasound Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Clinicians face challenges in effectively planning and performing microwave ablation procedures due to the difficulty in navigating surgical instruments within the body using raw CT, X-ray, or MRI images, which are typically reviewed offline and lack real-time guidance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an ablation probe with electromagnetic tracking, an ultrasound imager, and a computing device that displays real-time ultrasound images, tracks the probe's location, and provides guidance for navigating and ablating targets, including displaying a planned ablation zone and trajectory, to facilitate precise microwave ablation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If clinicians review CT, X-ray, or MRI images in raw form offline, then they can identify targets of interest, but they cannot effectively plan or perform surgical ablation procedures in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of electromagnetic tracking sensors, ultrasound imaging, and a computing device that processes and displays integrated information. This intermediary translates raw imaging data and probe position into a unified real-time display that facilitates both target identification and procedure execution, resolving the contradiction between accurate target identification and ease of procedure performance
2Loss of information
If clinicians memorize CT image data before procedures, then they retain information about target location, but they lose time and accuracy in navigating instruments during the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback by tracking the electromagnetic position of the ablation probe and comparing it with the pre-planned pathway displayed on the ultrasound images. This real-time feedback allows clinicians to immediately see deviations from the planned trajectory and make corrections, eliminating the need to rely on memorized information and reducing procedure time while maintaining accuracy
3Measurement precision
If real-time tracking and display systems are implemented, then navigation accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs electromagnetic tracking sensors that serve multiple functions: they track probe position, provide orientation data, and integrate with the ultrasound imaging system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices, thereby improving tracking accuracy while limiting the increase in overall system complexity
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
Enables precise navigation and ablation of targets within the body by providing real-time, iterative tracking and guidance, improving the accuracy and efficiency of microwave ablation procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic tracking system configured to track the location of the ablation probe inside a patient's body by using at least one electromagnetic sensor located on the ablation probe
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasound imager configured to generate real-time ultrasound images
Implementation Method 3
a microwave ablation treatment procedure
Implementation Method 4
microwave ablation
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are systems, devices, and methods for performing a microwave ablation procedure comprising an ablation probe, an electromagnetic tracking system configured to track the location of the ablation probe while the ablation probe is navigated inside a patient's body, an ultrasound imager configured to generate real-time ultrasound images, and a computing device configured to display guidance for navigating the ablation probe to an ablation target within the patient's body, display the tracked location of the ablation probe on real-time ultrasound images based on the tracked location of the ablation probe, iteratively update the displayed location of the ablation probe as the location of the ablation probe is tracked while the ablation probe is navigated, and display guidance for ablating the target when the ablation probe is navigated proximate to the target.