Sensor-Based Surgical Instrument Tracking for Real-Time 3D Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical tracking systems, such as fluoroscopy, provide limited 2D imaging and require cumbersome adjustments, lacking real-time, three-dimensional tracking of surgical instruments and personnel movements, which hinders precise procedural guidance and outcome analysis.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing sensor packages with accelerometers, gyroscopes, and communication interfaces for real-time, three-dimensional tracking of surgical instruments and personnel movements, combined with data recording and AI/ML models for outcome prediction and procedural improvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If fluoroscopy is used to monitor catheter insertion and manipulation, then real-time imaging is provided, but only 2D images are obtained requiring cumbersome equipment movement for additional views
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D fluoroscopic imaging to 3D optical tracking using multiple cameras that capture spatial coordinates in three dimensions. This dimensional upgrade eliminates the need for equipment movement to obtain different views, as the entire 3D space is captured simultaneously by the camera array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical fluoroscopy system (requiring physical equipment movement) with an optical tracking system using cameras and fiducial markers. This substitution eliminates mechanical constraints and allows non-contact, multi-angle tracking without moving equipment.
2Loss of information
If fluoroscopy equipment is moved to obtain additional views, then more imaging perspectives are obtained, but radiation exposure risks increase and procedure time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple cameras positioned at different angles to simultaneously capture 3D spatial information, providing multiple imaging perspectives at once rather than sequentially. This eliminates the time loss associated with moving equipment between views.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiducial markers are pre-attached to surgical instruments before the procedure begins, and the camera system is pre-positioned to capture all necessary angles. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for time-consuming equipment repositioning during the procedure.
3Measurement precision
If traditional tracking methods are used, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but real-time three-dimensional tracking precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fiducial markers as intermediary elements attached to surgical instruments. These markers serve as mediators between the physical instrument and the optical tracking system, enabling precise 3D position and orientation measurement through pattern recognition algorithms without requiring complex sensors in the instruments themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates optical copies (images) of fiducial markers on surgical instruments and uses computer vision algorithms to extract spatial information. This copying approach allows precise tracking without physically modifying the instruments with complex electronic sensors.
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 real-time guidance and post-surgery review, improves surgical outcomes by analyzing movement data for future procedures, reduces risks, and aids in training and facility analytics.
Implementation Method 1
a first sensor element including an accelerometer
Data Source
AI summary
A system may include a first sensor element comprising an accelerometer. A system may include a first communications interface. A system may include a second sensor package comprising. A system may include a second sensor element comprising an accelerometer. A system may include a second communications interface, wherein the first sensor package is configured to be disposed in a reference position, wherein the second sensor package is configured to move relative to the first sensor package, wherein the first communications interface is configured to enable electronic communications with at least one of the second sensor package or a computer system, wherein the second communications interface is configured to enable electronic communications with at least one of the first sensor package or the computer system.