Robotic Cut Guide Tracking for Precise Surgical Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical cutting guide technologies face challenges in precision due to patient movement and obstructed visual access, and the integration of robotics in surgery often comes with high costs and longer operation times.
Innovation Solution
A robotic arm system with a cut guide that uses a tracking and control system to establish zones around the surgical site, allowing for precise alignment and movement of a cutting device within predetermined planes or lines, enabling both autonomous and interactive control to maintain precision and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a manual cut guide is used for surgical cutting, then the surgeon can perform the procedure with standard equipment, but the alignment precision deteriorates due to patient movement and obstructed visual access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated robotic system that uses sensors and control algorithms to position the cut guide. The robotic arm autonomously positions the guide based on pre-operative imaging data and real-time tracking, eliminating the need for manual placement and overcoming visual obstruction issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the patient's anatomy from pre-operative CT or MRI scans and uses this digital model to plan and execute the cutting procedure. The robotic system replicates the planned cutting paths and angles with high precision, avoiding the need for direct visual measurement during surgery.
2Measurement precision
If a robotic system is used to control surgical cutting devices, then alignment precision and control are improved, but the operational cost and equipment complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system is designed to perform multiple surgical tasks beyond just cutting, including positioning guides, drilling holes, and placing implants. This multi-functionality justifies the equipment complexity by consolidating multiple specialized devices into a single versatile platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system autonomously positions and adjusts the cut guide without requiring constant manual intervention. The system self-corrects for patient movement using real-time tracking and maintains precise alignment automatically, reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If a robotic system is used for surgical procedures, then cutting precision is improved, but the surgical operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs extensive pre-operative planning and 3D modeling before surgery, allowing the robotic arm to execute pre-programmed cutting paths during the procedure. This preliminary preparation reduces intraoperative decision-making time and enables faster execution of precise cuts.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system maintains continuous operation during the cutting phase without requiring repeated manual repositioning or adjustment. The automated system continuously tracks patient movement and compensates in real-time, maintaining cutting precision throughout the procedure without interruption.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a system and method for surgical tracking and control are generally described herein. A system may include a robotic arm configured to allow interactive movement and controlled autonomous movement of an end effector, a cut guide mounted to the end effector of the robotic arm, the cut guide configured to guide a surgical instrument within a plane, a tracking system to determine a position and an orientation of the cut guide, and a control system to permit or prevent interactive movement or autonomous movement of the end effector.