Patient Avatar Navigation for Reduced-Radiation Instrument Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems require continuous image data acquisition, such as fluoroscopy, to visualize the position of instruments relative to a patient, which can be cumbersome and expose the patient to radiation.
Innovation Solution
A navigation system that tracks instruments and patients using electromagnetic and optical localizers, combined with ultrasound imaging, allows for the generation of a patient-specific avatar that is morphed in real-time to illustrate instrument positions without the need for continuous image data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If continuous image data acquisition (fluoroscopy) is used to visualize instrument position relative to patient, then visualization precision is improved, but radiation exposure to patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy (avatar) of the patient's anatomy that mirrors the real patient's internal structures. This digital twin is updated in real-time using intermittent ultrasound images and tracking data, allowing continuous visualization of instrument positions without requiring continuous fluoroscopy imaging, thereby eliminating radiation exposure while maintaining visualization precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by acquiring patient-specific anatomical data through ultrasound imaging before the procedure begins. This pre-acquired data is used to construct a detailed 3D avatar model that serves as the foundation for real-time instrument tracking and visualization throughout the procedure
2Measurement precision
If continuous image data acquisition is used to track instrument position, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to cumbersome operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical imaging system (fluoroscopy equipment requiring continuous operation and manual adjustment) with an electromagnetic tracking system using localizers attached to instruments. This substitution enables automatic, continuous tracking of instrument positions through electromagnetic field detection, eliminating the need for continuous imaging and reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking system operates autonomously by continuously monitoring electromagnetic fields from localizers attached to instruments. The system self-updates the avatar and instrument positions without requiring manual intervention or continuous operator attention, thereby maintaining high measurement precision while improving procedural efficiency
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 precise visualization of instrument positions relative to the patient without continuous imaging, reducing radiation exposure and improving procedural efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A position of an instrument may be tracked using an electromagnetic localizer
Implementation Method 2
A position of an instrument may be tracked using an optical localizer
Implementation Method 3
combined with ultrasound imaging
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system to display a representation of an instrument. The representation of the instrument may be displayed relative to a representation of a patient. The representation of the patient may be fit in real-time to represent positions of two or portions of the patient relative to one another.