Shape-Sensing Optical Fiber for Surgical Targeting Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for targeting non-visible features during orthopedic surgery, such as intramedullary nail fixation, face challenges due to anatomical inconsistencies and deflections, leading to inaccurate alignment and increased radiation exposure with existing electromagnetic position sensing systems, and compounding errors with dual navigation systems.
Innovation Solution
A shape-sensing element with optical fibers and Fiber Bragg Gratings is used to provide precise positional and orientation data, coupled with a guide system that adjusts to align with the target feature, reducing radiation exposure and improving accuracy by using a single system for alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electromagnetic position sensing systems are used for targeting, then alignment capability is provided, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromagnetic position sensing systems with a mechanical shape-sensing cable system. The cable contains multiple strain sensors that mechanically detect deflections and translate them into positional information, eliminating the need for electromagnetic fields and associated radiation exposure while maintaining alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape-sensing cable acts as an intermediary element that is inserted into the intramedullary nail to sense deflections. This intermediary mechanically couples the nail's deflection to the sensing system, allowing indirect measurement of position without requiring direct electromagnetic interaction that would expose the patient to radiation.
2Measurement precision
If dual navigation systems are used for targeting, then alignment capability is improved, but measurement errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the deflection sensing function and position measurement function into a single integrated shape-sensing cable system. By combining these functions that were previously performed by separate navigation systems, the patent eliminates compounding errors between systems while maintaining comprehensive alignment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape-sensing cable performs multiple functions simultaneously: it senses deflections, measures position, and provides orientation information. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized navigation systems, reducing error accumulation while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If iterative x-ray imaging is used for distal targeting, then alignment capability is achieved, but radiation exposure increases and surgical time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape-sensing cable is pre-inserted into the intramedullary nail before the surgical procedure begins. This preliminary action allows the system to continuously track deflections and provide real-time positional information throughout the surgery, eliminating the need for repeated post-positioning x-ray imaging and reducing cumulative radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape-sensing cable provides continuous deflection sensing and position measurement throughout the surgical procedure. This continuous monitoring replaces the discontinuous, iterative x-ray imaging process, maintaining accurate alignment information without requiring repeated radiation exposure to verify position.
4Measurement precision
If outrigger style drill guide is used for proximal targeting, then alignment capability is provided, but reliability decreases for distal targeting due to deflection
Solution Approach 1:
The shape-sensing cable system dynamically adapts to the intramedullary nail's deflected position by continuously measuring the cable's shape changes. This dynamic sensing capability allows the system to maintain accurate distal targeting reliability despite deflections that would cause static outrigger guides to fail, while still providing proximal targeting capability.
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 solution enhances the accuracy and reliability of targeting non-visible features during orthopedic surgery by providing precise alignment without radiation exposure, reducing the need for multiple navigation systems and minimizing errors, thus improving surgical efficiency and patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
A shape-sensing element with optical fibers and Fiber Bragg Gratings is used to provide precise positional and orientation data
Implementation Method 2
A shape-sensing element with optical fibers and Fiber Bragg Gratings is used to provide precise positional and orientation data
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for targeting a feature on a surgical device, includes a shape sensing element coupled to a surgical device. A guide system having a moveable guide aperture is coupled to the surgical device in communication with the shape sensing element. An interrogator is operable to poll the shape sensing element for information related to the deflection of the targeted feature coupled in communication with a portion of the shape sensing element. A data processor is operable to communicate with the interrogator and provide adjustment information to the user related to the change in shape of the shape sensing element, which is related to a translation of the guide aperture with respect to the first device end such that the guide axis is aligned with the target axis. The shape sensing element may comprise at least one optical fiber, which may comprise a set of Bragg Gratings.