Manual Neuropilot Navigation Device for Accurate Brain Probe Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In neurosurgery, the lack of availability of intraoperative imaging in peripheral facilities and the urgency of emergencies often lead to less accurate placement of probes and instruments in the brain, increasing the risk of complications such as bleeding and scarring, as complex neuronavigation systems are not always feasible.
Innovation Solution
A manual neuronavigation tool that uses pre-surgery MRI or CT scan data to set angles for guiding probes or instruments into the brain, potentially enhanced with an ultrasonic tip and sensors for real-time adjustments, providing a cost-effective and accurate method for procedures like shunt placement, brain biopsy, and abscess drainage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex neuronavigation systems are used, then placement accuracy of probes and instruments is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified 2D representation (copy) of the 3D brain anatomy from CT/MRI images, displaying target locations and trajectories on a planar surface. This copying approach maintains essential navigational information while eliminating the need for complex 3D visualization systems, achieving good placement accuracy with reduced device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential navigational elements (target coordinates, entry points, trajectory angles) from complex medical imaging data and presents them in a simplified format on a portable device. By taking out only the critical information needed for probe placement, the system achieves accurate guidance without requiring the full complexity of advanced neuronavigation systems
2Measurement precision
If intraoperative imaging is performed, then real-time guidance accuracy is improved, but surgical time and preparation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs all necessary imaging (CT or MRI) and 3D reconstruction procedures before surgery, creating a detailed navigational map in advance. During the actual surgery, the surgeon only needs to reference the pre-prepared 2D display on the portable device to determine probe trajectories and target locations, eliminating the need for time-consuming intraoperative imaging and reducing surgical time while maintaining guidance accuracy
3Measurement precision
If multiple passes are made to reach the correct position, then placement accuracy may be improved, but surgical risk and operative time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the trial-and-error mechanical probing approach with a calculated trajectory system. By using pre-calculated entry points and angles displayed on the portable device, the surgeon can plan the optimal single-pass trajectory to reach the target, substituting the mechanical trial-and-error method with a computational approach that reduces the need for multiple passes and associated surgical risks
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
The manual tool enhances accuracy comparable to complex neuronavigation systems, reduces surgical risks, and is affordable for both central and peripheral hospitals, facilitating life-saving procedures in emergencies by minimizing the need for complex preparation and reducing operative time.
Implementation Method 1
the probe is equipped with an ultrasonic tip to provide further intraoperative targeting information
Data Source
AI summary
A device suitable for guiding a trajectory of a surgical shunt or needle comprising two protractors on a curved frame configured to fit over, or attach to, the skull of a patient, wherein the two protractors are respectively oriented in a circular dimension and anterior-posterior/medio-lateral directions. A method for using the device to guide a surgical needle, probe, shunt or other instrument during surgery.