Patient Tracking Sensor with Rotating Cable for Surgical Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ENT procedures lack precise navigation and visualization tools for dilating anatomical passageways, such as sinuses, which can lead to inaccuracies in instrument positioning and increased difficulty in accessing anatomical landmarks.
Innovation Solution
A dilation catheter system integrated with an image-guided surgery (IGS) navigation system and an illuminating guidewire, allowing for real-time 3D visualization and precise positioning of instruments within the anatomical structures using electromagnetic fields and optical fibers for transillumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional 2D endoscopic views are used for visualization, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and positioning accuracy of instruments deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple navigation components (electromagnetic field generators, tracking sensors, 3D reconstruction systems) into an integrated image-guided surgery navigation system that provides real-time 3D visualization and instrument tracking, thereby achieving precise positioning while managing system complexity through unified architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electromagnetic fields as an intermediary between the physical surgical instruments and the digital 3D anatomical models, enabling non-contact tracking and real-time correlation of instrument positions with preoperative imaging data without direct mechanical intervention
2Measurement precision
If real-time 3D navigation and visualization tools are integrated, then the measurement precision and positioning accuracy improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the navigation system into distinct functional modules (electromagnetic field generation, sensor tracking, 3D reconstruction, real-time rendering) that can be independently optimized and maintained, allowing high precision functionality while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the navigation system to perform multiple functions (anatomical landmark identification, instrument tracking, 3D visualization, surgical planning) within a single integrated platform, reducing the need for multiple separate devices and thereby managing complexity while providing comprehensive precision navigation
3Ease of operation
If electromagnetic fields and optical fibers are used for transillumination and navigation, then the ease of operation and visualization improve, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes optical fiber transillumination that causes anatomical structures to glow or change apparent coloration when illuminated, providing intuitive visual feedback for instrument positioning and anatomical landmark identification, thereby improving ease of operation through enhanced visual contrast
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based navigation methods with electromagnetic field-based tracking and optical fiber illumination, eliminating the need for physical contact probes and reducing mechanical complexity while improving ease of operation through non-contact, real-time visualization
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
Enhances the precision and accuracy of anatomical passageway dilation by providing real-time 3D navigation and visualization, improving the ability to access and dilate sinuses and other ENT structures without the limitations of traditional 2D endoscopic views.
Implementation Method 1
A variable direction view endoscope may be used with such a system to provide visualization within the anatomical passageway
Implementation Method 2
An illuminating guidewire may be positioned within the target area and then illuminated, with light projecting from the distal end of the guidewire
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a processing assembly, a plurality of field generators, and a patient tracking assembly. The patient tracking assembly includes a sensor assembly and a communication assembly. The sensor assembly includes a first body, a first sensor, and an electrical conduit. The first body selectively attaches to a patient. The first sensor is mounted to the first body and generates a signal in response to movement within an electromagnetic field. The communication assembly includes a second body and a cable. The second body rotates relative to the first body from a first rotational position to a second rotational position. The cable extends away from the second body. The cable communicates with the processing assembly. The electrical conduit couples the first sensor with the cable while the casing is in the first rotational position and the second rotational position.