Stereotactic Frame Non-Invasive Magnetic Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic therapy for medical conditions is time-consuming and expensive due to the need for repeated use of invasive stereotactic frame designs and expensive MRI machines to accurately apply ultrasonic energy to the same treatment zone.
Innovation Solution
A stereotactic frame with adjustable transducer assemblies that allow for repeatable positioning of ultrasonic energy without invasive procedures or repeated use of MRI machines, enabling precise targeting and alignment of ultrasonic waves for subsequent treatments without the need for MRI imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing stereotactic frame designs are used with invasive attachment procedures, then precise positioning of ultrasonic energy can be achieved, but patient comfort deteriorates and treatment accessibility worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical invasive attachment system (screws, pins penetrating the skull) with a non-invasive magnetic attachment system. The stereotactic frame attaches to the patient's head using magnetic forces through the nasal bridge and chin regions, eliminating the need for invasive procedures while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the attachment mechanism from mechanical penetration to magnetic attraction, fundamentally altering the physical parameter of attachment force application. This allows the frame to be securely positioned without breaking the skin or causing invasive damage to the patient's skull.
2Measurement precision
If MRI machines are used for each treatment session to relocate the target area, then accurate targeting can be achieved, but treatment cost increases and treatment time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the target localization and coordinate system establishment during the initial frame attachment procedure. Once the stereotactic frame is securely attached to the patient's head using non-invasive magnetic means, the treatment coordinates are established and can be reused for multiple subsequent treatment sessions without requiring repeated MRI scans.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a reusable coordinate system and treatment plan during the first session that can be copied and applied in subsequent sessions. The stereotactic frame maintains the same spatial reference system across multiple treatments, eliminating the need to recreate the targeting setup each time and reducing both time and cost.
3Measurement precision
If invasive stereotactic frame designs are used for each treatment session, then precise ultrasonic energy application can be achieved, but treatment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal stereotactic frame system that can be attached and used for multiple treatment sessions without requiring replacement or re-invasion. The non-invasive magnetic attachment allows the same frame to serve as a reusable positioning system across numerous treatments, reducing the cumulative cost associated with repeated invasive procedures and associated imaging.
Data Source
AI summary
A stereotactic frame includes a vertical column that extends up from a base. A first laterally extending support arm extends from a first side of the column and a second laterally extending support arm extends from a second side of the column. One of the first or second support arms may include a transducer assembly. The transducer assembly may move a focal point of the transducer in different lateral and longitudinal horizontal positions and different vertical positions. The transducer assembly also may move the focal point of the transducer beam into different pivoting angled positions. The stereotactic frame applies repeatable ultrasonic energy to targets inside a patient without using invasive attachment procedures and without having to repeatedly use expensive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines.