3D Spinal Alignment Tracking for Low-Radiation Intraoperative Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tools limit a surgeon's ability to quickly and accurately assess the intraoperative alignment of the spine, often requiring excessive radiation exposure and inadequate visualization of anatomical landmarks, disrupting the surgical workflow.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a dynamic reference frame (DRF) with trackable markers, a 3D tracking camera, and a processor to analyze and display spinal alignment and therapeutic device data, using radiopaque markers and fiducial alignment assemblies for precise anatomical registration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional spinal alignment assessment tools are used, then spinal alignment can be assessed, but radiation exposure is excessive and visualization of anatomical landmarks is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional X-ray based mechanical imaging systems with an optical tracking system using cameras to capture fluorescent markers. This substitution eliminates ionizing radiation while maintaining the ability to track spinal anatomy and alignment in real-time during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs fluorescent markers that change color or emit light at specific wavelengths to indicate anatomical landmarks and spinal alignment features. The optical camera detects these fluorescent signals, providing visual information without requiring radiation exposure.
2Measurement precision
If traditional spinal alignment assessment tools are used, then alignment data can be obtained, but surgical workflow is disrupted and assessment speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical tracking system operates continuously throughout the surgical procedure, providing real-time alignment feedback without interrupting the surgical workflow. The system maintains continuous tracking of spinal landmarks as the surgeon works, eliminating the need for repeated X-ray imaging sequences that disrupt workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically tracks and records spinal alignment data without requiring manual intervention or additional imaging procedures. The optical cameras continuously capture marker positions, and the system autonomously processes this data to provide alignment assessment, reducing the burden on the surgical team.
3Loss of information
If radiopaque markers are used for visualization, then anatomical landmarks can be seen, but radiation exposure is required which conflicts with reduced radiation goals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces radiopaque markers visible only on X-ray images with fluorescent markers visible to optical cameras. This substitution maintains the ability to visualize and track anatomical landmarks while eliminating the need for radiation-based imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses fluorescent markers that emit light at specific wavelengths when excited by light sources. These markers provide vivid visual contrast against the surgical field, enabling clear visualization of anatomical landmarks without requiring radiation exposure.
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 rapid and accurate assessment of spinal alignment with reduced radiation exposure, providing detailed anatomical and therapeutic device data for improved surgical precision.
Implementation Method 1
at least one 3D tracking camera or imaging system configured to track one or more of the plurality of trackable markers
Implementation Method 2
radiopaque markers configured to be visually observable using an X-ray source or imager
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments provide systems, assemblies, and methods of analyzing patient anatomy, including providing an analysis of a patient's spine, and also analyzing the biomechanical effects of implants. In some embodiments, the systems, assemblies, and/or methods can include obtaining initial patient data, acquiring spinal alignment and contour information, acquiring flexibility and/or biomechanical information, registering patient anatomical landmarks of interest relative to fiducial markers, analyzing databases of measurements and patient data to predict postoperative patient outcomes. Further, in some embodiments, the systems, assemblies, and/or methods can assess localized anatomical features of the patient, and obtain anatomical region data. In some embodiments, the systems, assemblies, and/or methods can also analyze the localized anatomy and therapeutic device location and contouring. Further, the systems, assemblies, and/or methods can output localized anatomical analyses and therapeutic device contouring data and/or imagery on a display according to some embodiments.