Optical RFID Tag for Precise Lesion Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for localizing lesions during surgical procedures, such as lumpectomies, face challenges due to the limited guidance provided by two-dimensional imaging and the risk of marker migration, leading to inaccurate lesion identification and potential removal of healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
The use of implantable RFID tags powered by optical energy, which modulate backscatter signals in response to radiofrequency signals, allowing for precise localization within the body using a probe that transmits synchronized electromagnetic and optical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a wire is inserted into the breast for localization, then the location of the lesion can be identified, but the wire may move between placement and surgery causing inaccurate localization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wire localization system with an optical-based RFID tag system. The RFID tag uses optical signals from a probe to power and communicate with the implantable marker, eliminating the need for mechanical wires that can migrate. The optical communication provides stable, reliable localization without the movement issues inherent in wire-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system between the external probe and the implantable RFID tag. The optical signals serve as a mediator to transfer power and data wirelessly, replacing the direct mechanical connection of wires. This intermediary optical field provides stable communication without physical tethering, preventing marker migration.
2Measurement precision
If two-dimensional imaging is used to identify the lesion, then the location can be marked, but the guidance is limited for three-dimensional localization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional imaging to three-dimensional optical localization. The probe delivers optical signals that can penetrate tissue and communicate with the RFID tag in multiple dimensions, enabling precise three-dimensional localization. This dimensional transition allows accurate identification of lesions within the complex three-dimensional breast anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical probe serves multiple functions: it delivers optical signals for powering the RFID tag, transmits communication data, and provides localization guidance. This multi-functional optical system replaces the limited two-dimensional imaging, providing comprehensive three-dimensional localization capability through a single integrated system.
3Measurement precision
If a radioactive seed is placed to provide localization, then the location can be identified during procedure, but the seed may migrate and gamma probes provide limited precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radioactive seed system with an optical-based RFID communication system. Instead of using radioactive seeds that can migrate and require gamma probes, the system uses optical signals to power and communicate with an implantable RFID tag. This substitution provides precise localization guidance while eliminating the migration risk and improving measurement precision through optical rather than gamma detection.
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
This approach enhances the accuracy and precision of lesion localization, increasing the maximum detectable range and consistency of signal modulation, while reducing the risk of marker migration and improving tissue margin definition during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an energy converter configured to transform the optical signals from the light source into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a probe comprising one or more antennas for transmitting radiofrequency signals into a patient's body and receiving backscatter signals transmitted from the patient's body
Implementation Method 3
the optical signals cause the tag to modulate backscatter signals transmitted by the antenna in response to the transmitted radiofrequency signals and received by the probe
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for identifying or locating a tag within a patient's body that include a probe that transmits synchronized electromagnetic signals, e.g., RF energy, and optical signals, e.g., infrared light pulses into the patient's body, whereupon the tag converts the optical signals into electrical energy to open and close a switch in the tag to modulate signals, e.g., backscatter signals, transmitted by the tag in response to the electromagnetic signals. For example, the tag may include photodiodes coupled to the switch that transforms the optical signals to alternately short the antenna to modulate the backscatter signals. Alternatively, the tag may include a smart circuit that harvests electrical energy from the optical signals to power the smart circuit and/or modulate the backscatter signals, e.g., to include data related to the tag and/or alternate the tag between an information mode and a distance mode.