MRI Reference Tool for Knee Joint Axis Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging techniques for aligning prosthetic joints, such as MRI, CT, and x-ray scans, are time-consuming and complex, often requiring multiple images and potentially exposing patients to unnecessary radiation, while also being prone to image degradation due to patient movement.
Innovation Solution
A reference tool with pivotable members and a coupling mechanism is used to image a body part, allowing for simultaneous visualization of anatomical axes, such as the mechanical axis of the leg, by positioning the tool relative to anatomical reference points like the femoral head and ankle joint, enabling accurate alignment and imaging of the knee joint in a single image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate MRI images are taken of different body areas (knee, hip, ankle), then complete anatomical analysis is achieved, but imaging time increases and patient movement degrades image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple anatomical reference areas (femoral head center, knee joint center, ankle joint center) into a single imaging session by using a reference tool with multiple members that can be simultaneously positioned on different body parts. This allows all necessary anatomical data to be captured in one image rather than requiring multiple separate MRIs, directly resolving the time loss issue while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference tool serves multiple functions simultaneously: it marks anatomical reference points on the femoral head, knee joint, and ankle joint, and provides mechanical axis indicators all within a single device. This multi-functionality enables complete anatomical analysis in one imaging session, eliminating the need for multiple separate imaging procedures.
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate imaging procedures are performed on knee, hip and ankle, then complete anatomical data is obtained, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the imaging of multiple anatomical areas (knee, hip, ankle) into a single MRI session using a reference tool with multiple members positioned simultaneously on different body parts. Since MRI uses electromagnetic fields rather than radiation, this approach eliminates cumulative radiation exposure while maintaining complete anatomical data acquisition.
3Measurement precision
If a reference tool with multiple members is used to mark anatomical points, then imaging accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference tool is divided into multiple independent members (first member for femoral head, second member for ankle joint, pivotal coupling member for knee joint) that can be separately positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows each member to be optimized for its specific anatomical reference point while maintaining overall system functionality, managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference tool incorporates a pivotal coupling member that allows dynamic adjustment of angles between members to match the patient's specific anatomical geometry. This dynamic capability enables the rigid reference tool to adapt to individual anatomical variations, maintaining high accuracy without requiring multiple custom tools for different patients.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of imaging a body part includes locating a first, second and third anatomical reference area. The third anatomical reference area is disposed generally between the first and second anatomical reference areas. Furthermore, the method includes positioning a first member of a reference tool relative to the first anatomical reference area, positioning a second member of the reference tool relative to the second anatomical reference area, and a pivotal coupling member relative to the third anatomical reference area. The pivotal coupling member pivotally couples the first and second members of the reference tool. In addition, the method includes imaging a target area of the body part to produce an image. The image includes the target area of the body part and the first and second members. The first member indicates a first axis of the body part, and the second member indicates a second axis of the body part.