Surgical Electronic Module for Real-Time Anatomical Orientation Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical methods lack the ability to accurately and efficiently measure anatomical position and orientation changes in real-time during surgery, relying on invasive and radiation-exposing imaging techniques that disrupt procedures and provide subjective, qualitative data.
Innovation Solution
Development of a surgical electronic module that attaches to anatomical structures or surgical devices, using sensors and processors to quantify changes in position and orientation, communicating these changes to users through a display, and allowing for real-time, quantitative assessment without the need for external imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques (CT-scans, x-rays) are used to assess anatomical changes intraoperatively, then anatomical position and orientation can be measured, but the surgery is interrupted, radiation exposure occurs, and only qualitative snapshots are provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/imaging-based measurement systems (CT-scans, x-rays) with an electronic sensor system that uses accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to detect and measure anatomical position and orientation changes in real-time without interrupting surgery or exposing patients to radiation
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic module continuously monitors anatomical changes throughout the surgical procedure, providing uninterrupted real-time data flow rather than discrete snapshots, enabling the surgeon to assess anatomical position at any moment during the procedure
2Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques are used, then anatomical changes can be assessed, but the data provided is qualitative and requires subjective surgeon assessment
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces subjective visual assessment with objective electronic sensing, using accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers to generate precise quantitative data about anatomical position and orientation that eliminates surgeon subjectivity and provides measurable, actionable metrics
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic module provides real-time feedback to the surgeon through a display interface, showing current anatomical position and orientation data that allows the surgeon to make informed decisions based on objective measurements rather than subjective assessment
3Measurement precision
If traditional imaging techniques are used, then anatomical position can be measured, but patient and staff are exposed to harmful radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes radiation-based imaging techniques with non-ionizing electronic sensing technology, using accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers that detect anatomical position through motion and magnetic field sensing rather than electromagnetic radiation, completely eliminating radiation exposure to patient and staff
4Ease of operation
If surgeons step back to use imaging devices, then anatomical correction can be assessed, but the assessment is subjective and involves interruption
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the cumbersome process of positioning external imaging devices with a compact electronic module that attaches directly to the surgical site, using sensors to automatically track and measure angular correction in real-time without requiring surgeon movement or external equipment positioning
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 precise, real-time measurement of anatomical changes during surgery, reducing radiation exposure, improving surgical accuracy, and enhancing procedural efficiency by providing quantitative data for optimal patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor can be disposed in the housing and can be configured to detect a position or orientation of the module with respect to the earth
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed in which changes in the position and/or orientation of an anatomical structure or of a surgical tool can be measured quantitatively during surgery. In some embodiments, the systems and methods disclosed herein can make use of inertial motion sensors to determine a position or orientation of an instrument or anatomy at different times and to calculate changes between different positions or orientations. In other embodiments, such sensors can be utilized in conjunction with imaging devices to correlate sensor position with anatomical landmarks, thereby permitting determination of absolute angular orientation of a landmark. Such systems and methods can facilitate real-time tracking of progress during a variety of procedures, including, e.g., spinal deformity correction, etc.