Surgical 3D Visualization for Concealed Anatomical Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical imaging systems are limited in recognizing and conveying information about concealed structures and dimensions within a three-dimensional space, leading to uncertainty in identifying critical anatomical structures during surgical procedures, which can result in inadequate surgical outcomes due to excessive caution or missed tissue.
Innovation Solution
A surgical visualization system that includes an imaging device and a control circuit to generate a virtual three-dimensional construct of anatomical organs, identify relevant structures, and overlay a layout plan or propose surgical resection paths, using spectral imaging and structured light to provide real-time, intraoperative data on the proximity and depth of critical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging systems are used, then the surgical procedure can be performed with basic visualization, but concealed structures and three-dimensional dimensions cannot be accurately recognized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional imaging to three-dimensional visualization by capturing depth information through multiple cameras positioned at different locations. This enables the system to recognize concealed structures and their spatial relationships, directly resolving the contradiction between recognition accuracy and device complexity by adding a dimensional capability that provides new information about hidden anatomical features.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system is divided into multiple independent camera units positioned at different locations and orientations. Each camera captures a specific view, and the control circuit integrates these segmented views to reconstruct the complete three-dimensional anatomy. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high recognition accuracy by processing multiple perspectives simultaneously without requiring a single overly complex imaging device.
2Loss of information
If conventional imaging systems are used, then the system remains simple, but certain anatomical structures and dimensions remain unrecognizable intraoperatively
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit serves multiple functions: it receives images from multiple cameras, reconstructs three-dimensional anatomy, identifies concealed structures, determines their positions and dimensions, and overlays this information onto the surgical field. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity while eliminating information loss about concealed anatomical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit acts as an intermediary between the multiple camera inputs and the surgical visualization display. It processes the raw images, reconstructs the three-dimensional model, and presents the enhanced visualization to the surgeon. This intermediary function bridges the gap between simple camera inputs and the need for comprehensive anatomical information, effectively reducing information loss without requiring direct complex imaging hardware at every stage.
3Reliability
If conventional imaging systems are used, then the system is easy to operate, but clinicians cannot confidently identify critical anatomical structures
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback to the surgeon by continuously reconstructing and displaying the three-dimensional anatomy based on the current camera inputs. As the surgical procedure progresses and the camera positions change, the system automatically updates the anatomical model, giving the clinician immediate feedback about the location of critical structures. This feedback mechanism enhances reliability and confidence without requiring complex manual intervention to maintain the visualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit automatically performs the complex tasks of image integration, three-dimensional reconstruction, and structure identification without requiring manual input from the surgeon. The system self-adjusts to camera movements and automatically maintains the anatomical model throughout the procedure. This self-service capability maintains ease of operation while significantly improving the reliability of critical structure identification through automated processing.
4Productivity
If conventional imaging systems are used, then the procedure is straightforward, but excessive caution or missed tissue may result from uncertainty
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by reconstructing the complete three-dimensional anatomy and identifying all critical structures before the surgical procedure begins. The control circuit processes images from multiple cameras to create a comprehensive preoperative model that shows the surgeon exactly where critical structures are located. This preliminary reconstruction allows the surgeon to plan the procedure with confidence, eliminating excessive caution while preventing missed tissue, thereby improving both surgical precision and productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A surgical system for use in a surgical procedure is disclosed. The surgical system includes at least one imaging device and a control circuit configured to identify an anatomical organ targeted by the surgical procedure, generate a virtual three-dimensional (3D) construct of at least a portion of the anatomical organ based on visualization data from the at least one imaging device, identify anatomical structures relevant to the surgical procedure from the visualization data from the at least one imaging device, couple the anatomical structures to the virtual 3D construct, and overlay onto the virtual 3D construct a layout plan of the surgical procedure determined based on the anatomical structures.