MRI-Guided Needle Template Positioning for Accurate Biopsy Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI-guided biopsy techniques suffer from low specificity and high false negative rates due to incorrect needle placement, lack of real-time imaging, soft tissue deformation during insertion, and low resolution, leading to delayed or inadequate cancer treatment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a guide template and automated chassis with a magnetic resonance-compatible actuator, allowing precise positioning of medical instruments using real-time MRI feedback, enabling accurate placement of needles or other instruments relative to target tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If real-time MRI imaging is implemented during biopsy needle insertion, then targeting accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the biopsy procedure into distinct phases: pre-biopsy imaging to identify the lesion, needle insertion through the template, and real-time MRI monitoring during insertion. The template itself is segmented into multiple channels allowing different insertion angles. This segmentation enables real-time imaging without requiring a completely integrated complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a template as an intermediary device that facilitates needle insertion while enabling MRI compatibility. The template acts as a mediator between the MRI system and the biopsy needle, providing a structured pathway that can be visualized in real-time MRI without requiring direct integration of the needle with the MRI system.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated chassis with actuator is used to position guide template, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated chassis system that uses an actuator (such as a motorized mechanism) to position the guide template. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with automated mechanical systems improves positioning precision while the modularity of the chassis design helps manage the added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide template is designed to be movable along the chassis, transitioning from a static to a dynamic positioning system. The template can be adjusted to different angles and positions using the actuator, allowing adaptive positioning that improves precision without requiring a completely fixed complex structure.
3Measurement precision
If curved channel in guide template is used for needle insertion, then targeting accuracy is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved channels within the guide template instead of straight pathways. These curved channels allow the needle to follow a predetermined arc that accounts for tissue deformation and anatomical curvature, improving targeting accuracy. The curvature is pre-calculated and built into the template design, reducing the need for manual adjustment during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved channel geometry is predetermined and pre-configured in the guide template based on pre-biopsy imaging and planning. The optimal insertion path is calculated in advance, and the template is manufactured with the corresponding curved pathway, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments during the procedure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple curved channels are provided in guide template, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide template is designed with multiple curved channels that can accommodate different needle insertion angles and trajectories. This multi-functional template can be used for various biopsy scenarios and target locations, replacing the need for multiple specialized templates. The standardized design maintains relatively simple construction while providing versatile functionality.
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 targeting accuracy, reduces false negative rates, and improves procedural efficiency by allowing real-time intraoperative MR guidance during medical interventions.
Implementation Method 1
In various implementations, the actuator includes a magnetic resonance compatible actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A system for accurately positioning a medical instrument is provided. The system includes a guide template for directing the medical instrument and an automated chassis for moving the guide template. The guide template has a body defining a curved channel extending through the guide template. The curved channel is configured to receive the medical instrument. The automated chassis includes an actuator and a rail system. The guide template is coupled to the rail system of the automated chassis. A position of the guide template is movable along a length of the rail system. The actuator moves the guide template along a length of the rail system. The system facilitates positioning the medical instrument relative to a target tissue under real-time guidance.