Robotic Surgery Imaging Alignment via Automated Target Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for aligning imaging devices and robots in robotic surgery are time-consuming, complex, and expose patients to additional radiation due to the need for multiple images during the initial setup.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a processor and memory to transmit instructions for aligning an imaging device and a reference target, using image processing and target detection algorithms to determine the alignment of anatomical elements and reference targets, and generate repositioning requirements to automatically adjust the imaging device and reference target for proper alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used for alignment, then the imaging device and robot can be aligned, but the process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the reference target and anatomical element in preoperative images before the surgical procedure. The processor pre-calculates the required image data and generates alignment instructions in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming trial-and-error alignment during the actual setup phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error alignment process with an automated computational system. The processor uses image processing algorithms to automatically determine the position of the reference target and anatomical element, substituting the manual mechanical adjustment process with automated digital computation and instruction generation.
2Measurement precision
If multiple images are taken during initial setup, then proper alignment can be achieved, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses preoperative images that have already been captured before the surgical procedure to perform alignment. By leveraging these pre-acquired images and performing computational analysis beforehand, the system eliminates the need for additional intraoperative images during setup, thereby reducing radiation exposure to the patient.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copies of preoperative images (digital representations) to perform the alignment process. Instead of taking new images during setup, the system works with replicated data from previous imaging, allowing for repeated analysis without additional radiation exposure to the patient.
3Reliability
If conventional alignment methods are used, then the robot can be registered to patient space, but the process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the alignment process into distinct computational steps: detecting the reference target, detecting the anatomical element, determining the required image data, and generating alignment instructions. This segmentation of the complex registration process into manageable algorithmic steps simplifies the overall process while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system performs self-service by automatically detecting features and generating its own alignment instructions without requiring complex manual intervention. The processor autonomously analyzes images, determines positioning requirements, and generates repositioning instructions, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of aligning an imaging device in connection with robotic surgery includes causing a robot to position a reference target over a body of a patient; receiving image data from an imaging device; identifying, with an image processing algorithm, at least a first portion of an anatomical element in the image data; identifying, with a target detection algorithm, at least a first portion of a reference target in the image data; comparing a determined location of the imaging device, the reference target, and the anatomical element to yield a location determination and causing at least one of the robot to re-position the reference target or the imaging device to re-position.