Robotic Airway Navigation for First-Pass Intubation Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional airway management techniques for tracheal intubation, such as direct laryngoscopy, video laryngoscopy, and flexible intubation scopes, suffer from suboptimal success rates, particularly in difficult airway situations, leading to complications like hypoxia, airway trauma, and increased first-pass failure rates, especially in patients with challenging anatomies.
Innovation Solution
A robotic-assisted intubation system with integrated dual-video navigation, utilizing a handheld device that combines a laryngoscope and endoscope with image sensors, enabling automatic or manual control to enhance visualization, navigation, and placement of the endotracheal tube, guided by AI and robotic actuators for improved accuracy and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional techniques (direct laryngoscopy, video laryngoscopy, flexible intubation scopes) are used for tracheal intubation, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment and manual operation, but the first-pass success rate is low and complications such as hypoxia and airway trauma increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a robotic system as an intermediary between the operator and the intubation procedure. The robotic device includes a robotic arm with an end effector that can autonomously or semi-autonomously perform intubation tasks, acting as a mediator that reduces human error and improves precision while minimizing trauma to the airway structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation by the operator with an automated robotic mechanical system. The robotic arm and end effector provide controlled, precise movements for tube insertion and positioning, substituting the imprecise manual dexterity required in conventional techniques with programmable, consistent robotic motion control
2Measurement precision
If manual navigation and placement of the endotracheal tube is performed, then the operator has direct control, but visualization of airway anatomy and navigation accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates multiple image sensors (including optical coherence tomography and ultrasound sensors) that provide real-time feedback about the position of the endotracheal tube and the anatomy of the airway. This feedback loop allows the robotic system to automatically adjust its navigation and placement actions based on continuous monitoring, improving both accuracy and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic end effector is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing multiple tasks including visualization, navigation, tube manipulation, and confirmation of proper placement. This universal design consolidates several manual operations into a single integrated robotic system that can perform all functions automatically or semi-automatically
3Area of stationary object
If conventional laryngoscopy methods are used, then the equipment is simple and easy to operate, but the field of view is narrow and easily obscured by blood or secretions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical coherence tomography and ultrasound imaging technologies that provide cross-sectional and three-dimensional views of the airway structures, adding dimensional information beyond the traditional two-dimensional visual field of conventional laryngoscopy. This multi-dimensional visualization expands the effective field of view and provides anatomical information that is not visible with standard methods
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system divides the intubation procedure into distinct functional segments: visualization by multiple sensors, navigation by robotic arm, tube manipulation by end effector, and confirmation by image analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together as an integrated system, managing complexity through functional decomposition
4Loss of information
If direct manual intubation is performed without robotic assistance, then the procedure can be completed quickly without complex equipment, but the ability to provide continuous visual feedback and confirmation of proper placement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system incorporates multiple image sensors including optical coherence tomography and ultrasound sensors that provide continuous real-time feedback about the position and proper placement of the endotracheal tube. This feedback is processed by the control system to confirm correct placement in the trachea versus the esophagus, eliminating the information loss that occurs with manual methods
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs self-verification of tube placement through its own sensor array and image processing capabilities, without requiring separate confirmation procedures. The system autonomously analyzes the imaging data to confirm proper tracheal placement, providing self-service verification that reduces reliance on manual assessment methods
Data Source
AI summary
Airway management methods, devices, assemblies and systems. Methods, devices, assemblies and systems may include robotic movement and control of an intubation tube introducer or guide, and may include utilizing image data from one or more image sensors. The methods, devices, assemblies and systems may optionally be used in endotracheal intubation procedures.