Medical Probe Guidance via Rotation Sensor and Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging probe guidance systems for minimally invasive procedures, such as prostate biopsies, face challenges with imprecise positioning due to prostate movement during interventions, requiring bulky systems and lengthy image processing times, which can lead to inaccurate needle placement and prolonged procedure durations.
Innovation Solution
A device with a sensor generating signals representing the probe's rotation in space, connected to a control unit that processes images to estimate plausible positions, allowing for rapid and precise localization of the probe relative to the anatomical volume, reducing the need for bulky transmitter/receiver systems and enabling quicker image acquisition and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a two-dimensional ultrasound scan is used for positioning, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the positioning precision is poor due to inability to account for three-dimensional prostate movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical guidance systems with an image processing-based solution. Instead of using articulated arms or transmitter/receiver systems, the invention uses computer vision to track the probe's position by analyzing images of anatomical landmarks, thereby achieving precise positioning through software rather than hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system that acts as a mediator between the ultrasound images and the positioning requirement. By processing images to extract probe position information relative to anatomical landmarks, the system bridges the gap between simple imaging equipment and precise positioning needs
2Measurement precision
If transmitter/receiver systems are used to track instrument position, then positioning can be monitored, but the system becomes bulky and cannot account for prostate movements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical transmitter/receiver tracking system with an image processing-based position determination system. By using computer vision to analyze probe position in images, the system eliminates the need for bulky electromagnetic tracking equipment while maintaining positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the probe's position information through image processing. Instead of physically tracking the probe with sensors, the system analyzes images to create a computational model of probe position, thereby reducing hardware complexity
3Measurement precision
If three-dimensional image acquisition is used, then probe position can be determined more accurately, but image acquisition time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using two-dimensional ultrasound images instead of complete three-dimensional image sets. By selectively processing 2D images to extract the necessary position information, the system achieves sufficient accuracy without the time cost of full 3D acquisition
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary image processing to pre-extract probe position information before the actual positioning operation. By analyzing images in advance and pre-determining probe position relative to anatomical landmarks, the system reduces real-time processing requirements
4Measurement precision
If the probe remains stationary for image acquisition, then image processing can be performed, but the probe cannot be positioned precisely due to anatomical volume shifts during intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring probe position through image processing and using this information to adjust positioning in real-time. The system analyzes images during the procedure to detect probe position changes and provides feedback for corrective positioning, thereby maintaining precision without requiring the probe to remain stationary
Data Source
AI summary
A device for guiding a medical imaging probe in order to move the probe close to an anatomical space, the probe having a mechanism for acquiring images of the anatomical space, and the device having at least one sensor mounted to the probe. The device includes a processing mechanism for deducing a rotation of the probe in the space from the signals generated by the sensor and for estimating a plurality of plausible positions of the probe relative to the anatomical space by deducing the rotation of the probe in the space. The processing mechanism is arranged such as to determine the position of the probe relative to the anatomical space from the plausible positions. Also disclosed is a method for guiding the probe.