Reflector Marker Localization Using Light-Modulated Radar Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for localizing lesions during surgical procedures, such as lumpectomy, face challenges due to the limitations of two-dimensional imaging and the potential for marker migration, leading to inaccurate lesion identification and removal of either the lesion or healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing markers with energy converters and antennas that modulate radar or light signals to provide precise three-dimensional localization, using energy pulses or light pulses to open and close switches, allowing for accurate detection and stabilization of the marker within the tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a wire is inserted into the breast for localization, then the lesion location 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 detection system. Instead of relying on a physical wire that can move, the invention uses a reflective marker detected by an optical imaging system, eliminating the mechanical stability problem while maintaining localization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective marker as an intermediary between the lesion and the detection system. This marker is placed at the lesion site and reflects light from the imaging system, providing a stable visual reference point that doesn't suffer from the migration issues of wire-based systems.
2Device complexity
If two-dimensional imaging is used to guide surgery, then the equipment is simple, but the guidance is limited for three-dimensional structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a third dimension to the imaging system by incorporating depth measurement capabilities. The optical imaging system can detect the distance to the reflective marker, providing three-dimensional localization information while maintaining relative simplicity compared to full 3D imaging systems.
3Measurement precision
If a radioactive seed is used for localization, then the seed can be detected with a gamma probe, but the seed may migrate within the body and the probe provides limited precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radioactive seed and gamma probe system with an optical reflective marker system. This substitution eliminates radiation exposure, reduces the risk of migration, and provides superior localization precision through optical detection methods.
4Ease of operation
If the surgeon estimates the location based on images, then no additional guidance is needed, but the precision is limited due to two-dimensional imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reflective marker as a visual intermediary that enhances the surgeon's ability to locate the lesion. The marker provides a clear, easily detectable reference point that works well with standard surgical imaging equipment, maintaining procedural simplicity while significantly improving localization accuracy.
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 of lesion localization, reducing the risk of marker migration and improving the accuracy of tissue removal by providing three-dimensional guidance during surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an energy converter for transforming energy pulses striking the marker into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
one or more antennas coupled to the switch, the switch configured to open and close to modulate radar signals reflected by the marker back to a source of the signals
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
Markers and related systems and methods are provided for localizing lesions within a patient's body, e.g., within a breast. The marker includes one or more photosensitive diodes for transforming light pulses striking the marker into electrical energy, one or more antennas, and a switch coupled to the photodiodes and antennas such that the light pulses cause the switch to open and close and modulate radar signals reflected by the marker back to a source of the signals. The antenna(s) may include one or more wire elements extending from a housing, one or more antenna elements printed on a substrate, or one or more chip antennas. Optionally, the marker may include a processor coupled to the photodiodes for identifying signals in the light pulses or one or more coatings or filters to allow selective activation of the marker.