Electronic Sensor Coupler for Intraoperative Anatomical Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging techniques are inconvenient and lack real-time data for intraoperative anatomical changes during surgery, leading to sub-optimal patient outcomes due to subjective assessments and interruptions in surgical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using electronic devices with accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to detect and communicate the orientation and position of surgical instruments or patient anatomy relative to an earth frame of reference, allowing for real-time, accurate measurements and calibration, and including a coupler for maintaining devices in proximity and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques (CT-scans, x-rays) are used for intraoperative assessment, then anatomical structure snapshots can be obtained, but the surgical procedure is interrupted and real-time monitoring is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical imaging systems (CT-scans, x-rays) with electronic sensing devices containing accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers. These electronic devices continuously monitor anatomical orientation without requiring surgical interruption, transforming the measurement approach from snapshot-based imaging to continuous real-time tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic devices enable continuous monitoring of anatomical orientation throughout the surgical procedure. The sensors continuously collect data on device position and orientation relative to the patient's anatomy, providing uninterrupted real-time feedback that eliminates the need to pause surgery for imaging assessments.
2Loss of information
If traditional imaging techniques are used, then anatomical snapshots are obtained, but the data does not reflect real-time changes as they occur during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes traditional imaging-based measurement with electronic sensor-based measurement. The accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers directly measure anatomical orientation in real-time, capturing dynamic changes as they occur during surgery rather than providing static snapshots that miss transient anatomical variations.
3Ease of operation
If imaging devices are positioned for traditional imaging, then anatomical images can be obtained, but the representation is subjective and requires surgeon assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic devices with sensors automatically and continuously measure anatomical orientation without requiring surgeon interpretation. The devices self-monitor position and orientation relative to the patient's anatomy and provide objective numerical data, eliminating the need for subjective visual assessment by the surgeon.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides continuous real-time feedback on anatomical orientation through the electronic sensors. This objective feedback loop allows the surgeon to immediately see measurement results and adjust the surgical approach accordingly, replacing subjective assessment with quantifiable data-driven decision-making.
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 precise, real-time monitoring of anatomical changes during surgery, reducing the need for interruptions and improving surgical accuracy by providing continuous, objective data on anatomical orientation and position.
Implementation Method 1
Each electronic device can detect at least one of an orientation or a position of the electronic device with respect to earth's frame of reference
Implementation Method 2
Each electronic device can detect at least one of an orientation or a position of the electronic device with respect to earth's frame of reference
Implementation Method 3
Each electronic device can detect at least one of an orientation or a position of the electronic device with respect to earth's frame of reference
Data Source
AI summary
Electronic devices that detect their position and/or orientation with respect to earth's frame of reference are described. A coupler can removeably maintain the electronic devices in physical proximity of one another. Each electronic device can have a housing and the coupler can be included on the housing and arranged to physically connect the housing of the electronic device to the housing of at least one other electronic device. Alternatively, the coupler can be a packaging that maintains the electronic devices in physical proximity of one another. Each electronic device can be calibrated using the orientation or position information obtained by other electronic devices maintained by the coupler. Further, each electronic device can include a power source that remains inactive until the device is ready for use.