Customized Stereotactic Positioning Interfaces with Implantable Emitters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stereotactic frame systems for surgeries and treatments are invasive, causing patient discomfort and inefficiency due to the need for repeated reapplication and re-planning, especially when targeting deep brain structures or areas like the neck and spine, where precise immobilization is challenging.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the implantation of detectable anchors or emitters in the patient's body, followed by scanning and digital modeling to create customized positioning interface devices that allow for precise alignment and targeting without the need for repeated reapplication of the stereotactic frame, enabling non-invasive re-positioning and improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stereotactic frame is applied using traditional pins and head ring, then the patient can be immobilized for surgery, but the process is invasive and causes patient discomfort and anxiety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by implanting anchors or emitters in the patient's body before the surgical procedure. This allows the stereotactic frame to be positioned using these pre-placed markers rather than requiring invasive pin insertion at the time of surgery. The frame can be aligned with the pre-implanted anchors through imaging guidance, eliminating the need for painful skull penetration during the procedure itself.
2Measurement precision
If traditional stereotactic frame systems are used, then deep brain structures can be targeted, but the frame must be reapplied and re-planned for repeated procedures, reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by implanting permanent or semi-permanent anchors/emitters that remain in the patient's body across multiple procedures. These pre-placed markers serve as consistent reference points that can be reused for subsequent stereotactic procedures, eliminating the need for repeated frame application and anatomical landmark identification. This significantly improves procedural efficiency while maintaining targeting accuracy through the use of the same reference framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies copying by creating a digital model or virtual representation of the patient's anatomy with the implanted anchors/emitters. This digital copy can be used for planning multiple procedures without requiring physical reapplication of the stereotactic frame. The virtual model serves as a reusable template that maintains precise spatial relationships, allowing efficient planning and execution of repeated procedures.
3Ease of operation
If traditional fixation methods are used, then the stereotactic frame can be positioned, but alignment with anatomical reference points is difficult and never perfect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment system (manual positioning of frame relative to external anatomical landmarks) with an imaging-based system. The stereotactic frame is aligned using images of the pre-implanted anchors/emitters, which serve as precise, visible reference points. This substitution of mechanical landmark-based alignment with imaging-guided anchor-based alignment dramatically improves both ease of operation and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (the implanted anchors or emitters) that mediates between the stereotactic frame and the patient's anatomy. These intermediaries provide a stable, detectable connection point that facilitates precise alignment. The anchors serve as a bridge that allows the frame to be accurately positioned relative to internal anatomical structures through imaging, rather than relying on external surface landmarks.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are methods and apparatuses for performing precise medical procedures. Provided are methods of providing unitary positioning interfaces for stereotactic devices or medical devices. The methods include implanting emitters in a patient, scanning the patient using any suitable scanning technique, determining orientation and location data of the emitters and any suitable anatomic structures, generating a digital image, and fabricating a solid physical model from the digital image. Also provided herein are methods of verifying medical treatments and systems for performing medical procedures.