Needle Guidance via Localizer Coil Array for Implantable Device Refilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refilling implanted medical devices is challenging due to difficulties in determining the precise orientation and location of the refilling system relative to the implanted medical device, particularly in accessing the reservoir without causing damage or requiring open access.
Innovation Solution
A navigation system using a localizer with a coil array and a processor to generate a navigation field, allowing for precise orientation and position determination of a delivery system relative to an implanted medical device, including a method to restart therapy delivery after refilling, and a constant current system to power the localizer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If palpation or Hall Effect sensor is used to locate the port, then the port position can be detected, but the orientation and precise location of the refilling system relative to the implanted medical device cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The localizer is divided into multiple coils (first localizer coil, second localizer coil, third localizer coil) that can be independently activated. Each coil provides spatial information about the port location, and by segmenting the field generation, the system can determine both the position and orientation of the needle relative to the implanted device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-point location detection to three-dimensional spatial mapping by activating multiple coils at different positions and orientations. This creates a volumetric navigation field that provides both location and orientation information, enabling precise needle guidance in multiple dimensions.
2Measurement precision
If a navigation system with multiple coils is used to determine precise orientation and position, then the refilling accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The localizer coils serve multiple functions: they generate navigation fields for needle guidance, detect port location, and provide orientation information. By making the coil array multi-functional, the system reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The navigation system uses the implanted medical device's own structural features and the natural electromagnetic field interactions to determine needle position and orientation. The system leverages the existing coil array and processor to create a self-contained navigation solution that doesn't require external complex equipment.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the coil array is powered continuously to maintain navigation field, then the orientation and position tracking is continuous, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coil array is activated in periodic cycles rather than continuously. The processor controls the timing of coil activation based on the refilling procedure requirements, providing navigation field when needed (during needle insertion) and reducing power consumption during idle periods while maintaining continuous capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the coil activation pattern based on real-time procedural needs. The processor can selectively activate specific coils or the entire array depending on the current task phase, optimizing the balance between continuous navigation capability and energy consumption.
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 accurate and efficient refilling of implanted medical devices by determining the precise location and orientation of the delivery system, ensuring safe and effective operation without the need for open access.
Implementation Method 1
A localizer formed of one or more transmitting coils that transmit a navigation region or field
Implementation Method 2
a Hall Effect sensor can be used to determine the position of the port
Data Source
AI summary
A support tool or a supply assembly that delivers a functional fluid to a patient includes an antenna array for receiving or sensing a navigation field. The navigation field can be generated from a localizer. The localizer can be incorporated or included in an implanted device.