Segmented Scintillation Crystal Probe for Directional Radiation Localization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current scintigraphic probes used for detecting radiation sources in medical examinations, such as identifying sentinel lymph nodes, are inefficient and time-consuming, increasing the risk of complications during surgical operations due to their limited ability to quickly and accurately locate the source.
Innovation Solution
A goniometric probe with a hollow tubular body divided into multiple scintillation crystal sectors and a laterally shielded scintillation crystal, coupled with photodetecting means, provides directional guidance to the operator by distinguishing photon emissions from different crystals, allowing for rapid and precise localization of radiation sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional scintigraphic probe is used to detect radiation sources, then the probe can identify the presence of radiation, but the time needed to locate the source is long and the precision of directional localization is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The probe divides the scintillation crystal into multiple longitudinal sectors (at least three), each capable of independently detecting radiation. This segmentation allows the system to determine the angular position of the radiation source by identifying which sector detects the signal, thereby providing directional information without requiring time-consuming sweeping movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point detection approach to a multi-sector angular detection system. By adding the angular dimension through segmented sectors arranged around the radiation source, the probe can simultaneously determine both the presence and direction of radiation, eliminating the need for time-consuming spatial sweeping while improving localization precision.
2Ease of operation
If the probe structure is simplified to reduce complexity, then the device becomes easier to operate, but the ability to provide directional guidance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The probe uses a segmented scintillation crystal divided into longitudinal sectors, where each sector is coupled to photodetecting means. This segmentation provides directional guidance by identifying which sector detects radiation, enabling the operator to easily determine the source direction without complex instrumentation or multiple detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Each longitudinal sector of the scintillation crystal has a specific functional quality - detecting radiation from a particular angular direction. This local differentiation of detection zones allows the probe to provide directional information through a relatively simple structure, where each sector's unique angular sensitivity guides the operator without requiring complex overall system design.
3Measurement precision
If a hollow tubular structure with multiple sectors is used, then directional detection is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scintillation crystal is divided into longitudinal sectors that can be manufactured and assembled in a modular fashion. Each sector can be processed independently and then coupled to photodetecting means, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining high detection accuracy through the segmented angular detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe employs a nested structure where photodetecting means are positioned within or coupled to each longitudinal sector of the scintillation crystal. This nesting allows for compact assembly and simplified manufacturing, as the detection elements are integrated within the crystal structure rather than requiring separate complex positioning mechanisms.
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
The probe enables quick and precise identification of radiation sources, significantly reducing surgical time and improving safety by providing vectorial indications of radiation origin, achieving high sensitivity and efficiency in radio-guided surgery and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
The operation of a scintigraphic probe generally is based upon the capability of some types of crystals to generate photons of visible light when hit by the radiation coming from the source
Implementation Method 2
These photons are highlighted upon using photomultipliers and they are transformed in electric pulses
Data Source
AI summary
A scintigraphic probe, of the type used to detect the emission of a radiation and its origin direction in order to identify a radiation source, allows a quick identification of the source and it comprises: a first scintigraphic detecting element, comprising a substantially tubular body (2), said body being hollow and with a proximal opening, divided at least in three longitudinal sectors (5) constituted each one by a scintillation crystal with a respective scintillation or light transmission feature different from the other ones; a second scintigraphic detecting element (6) comprising a scintillation crystal internally housed in said tubular body (2) so as to be laterally shielded thereby and having an unschielded surface at said proximal opening (3); and photo-detecting means coupled to the above- mentioned scintillation crystals.