Orthogonal-Coded Reflector Markers for 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 migration, leading to inaccurate lesion identification and removal of either the lesion or healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing implantable markers with energy converters, clock circuits, and sequence generators to modulate electromagnetic signals based on orthogonal code sequences, synchronized with light pulses, allowing for precise identification and localization of multiple markers within the body using a probe that transmits and receives electromagnetic signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a wire is inserted 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 electromagnetic signal-based system. Implantable markers transmit electromagnetic signals that can be detected by a probe, eliminating the need for physical wires that can migrate. The markers remain stationary while providing continuous electromagnetic identification signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electromagnetic field representation (copy) of the physical marker positions. Instead of relying on the physical wire's position, the system uses electromagnetic signals to create a virtual representation of marker locations that can be visualized on imaging systems, allowing accurate localization without physical wire migration.
2Ease of operation
If two-dimensional imaging is used for lesion identification, then the procedure can be guided, but the three-dimensional structure of the breast cannot be adequately represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a third dimension to surgical guidance by using electromagnetic signal timing and intensity variations to determine depth and spatial relationships. The system transforms 2D probe positions into 3D marker location information, enabling accurate localization of lesions within the volumetric breast structure.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple markers are implanted for localization, then simultaneous identification is needed, but signal separation becomes difficult without orthogonal coding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different orthogonal code sequences to different markers, creating unique parameter signatures for each marker. This allows the system to distinguish and simultaneously identify multiple markers by analyzing their distinct electromagnetic signal patterns, enabling scalable multi-marker localization without proportionally increasing system complexity.
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 accurate and simultaneous localization of multiple markers, providing three-dimensional guidance for surgeons during procedures, reducing the risk of incomplete removal or unnecessary tissue removal.
Implementation Method 1
Each marker may include an energy converter configured to transform the light pulses from the energy source into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a probe comprising one or more antennas for transmitting electromagnetic signals into a patient's body and receiving reflected signals from the patient's body
Implementation Method 3
the sequence generator coupled to the switch to open and close the switch to modulate electromagnetic signals from the probe reflected by the marker based on the code sequence
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for identifying and locating a plurality of reflector markers implanted within a target tissue region within a patient's body. A probe is provided that is activated to transmit electromagnetic signals into the patient's body, receive reflected signals from the patient's body, and in synchronization with transmitting the electromagnetic signals, deliver light pulses into the patient's body. The markers reflector tags modulate reflected signals from the respective markers based on orthogonal code sequences opening and closing respective switches of the markers to modulate the reflective properties of the markers. The probe processes the return signals to separate the reflected signals based at least in part on the code sequences to identify and locate each of the plurality of reflector tags substantially simultaneously.