Implantable Reflector Markers for Precise 3D Lesion Localization
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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 displacement, leading to inaccurate lesion identification and removal of either the lesion or healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
The development of implantable markers with integrated antennas and photosensitive diodes that respond to electromagnetic and light signals, allowing for precise localization through radar and infrared light modulation, enhancing detection accuracy and stability within the body.
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 light-emitting markers implanted with the lesion that are detected by an optical sensor, eliminating mechanical instability while maintaining localization precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces light-emitting markers as an intermediary between the lesion and the detection system. These markers emit light that can be tracked optically, providing a stable intermediary signal that doesn't suffer from the movement problems of mechanical wires.
2Measurement precision
If a radioactive seed is placed for localization, then the seed position can be identified using 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 marker and light detection system. This substitution provides more precise localization through optical methods while eliminating the migration issue through proper marker fixation, achieving both improved precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses light-emitting markers that can be detected through their optical properties. The markers emit or reflect light at specific wavelengths that can be detected and tracked, providing precise and reliable position information without the limitations of gamma radiation detection.
3Measurement precision
If two-dimensional imaging is used to guide surgery, then the lesion can be located, but the images provide limited guidance for three-dimensional structures and margin determination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to the localization system by using light-emitting markers that can be tracked in real-time. This transforms static two-dimensional imaging into dynamic three-dimensional tracking, providing complete spatial information including depth and margin distances that were previously lost in 2D representations.
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 solution provides accurate three-dimensional localization of lesions, reducing the risk of tissue misremoval and improving surgical precision by stabilizing the marker's position and enhancing signal detection amidst tissue inhomogeneities.
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.