Surgical Instrument Orientation Feedback Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer-assisted surgical navigation systems require surgeons to frequently switch between the patient and a screen, leading to inefficiencies and potential deviations from the surgical plan, especially during procedures like total hip arthroplasty where tissue occlusion impairs visualization and accurate implant placement is critical.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electromagnetic tracking system with multiple sensors, allowing for real-time orientation and positioning feedback to guide surgical instruments and implants, enabling precise alignment and placement without the need for constant screen reference, using sensors that can be inserted via small needles or pins without creating large incisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If surgical navigation systems use screen-based feedback for implant placement, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to frequent gaze switching between patient and screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical feedback device as an intermediary between the surgical navigation system and the surgeon. This device projects orientation indicators and alignment information directly into the surgeon's field of view, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need to switch between screen and patient while maintaining precise measurement guidance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional screen-based feedback to three-dimensional spatial feedback by projecting optical indicators directly onto the surgical field. This dimensional change allows the surgeon to perceive alignment information in the same spatial plane as the implant, eliminating the need to shift gaze between separate viewing planes
2Manufacturing precision
If preoperative templating is used to plan implant orientation, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to difficulty in implementing the plan during surgery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time optical feedback that continuously displays the surgeon's progress toward achieving the preoperative plan. The system provides immediate visual confirmation when alignment targets are met, enabling rapid verification and adjustment without time-consuming manual measurements or repeated reference to preoperative images
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares alignment indicators and orientation targets in advance as part of the surgical navigation setup, so that during the actual implantation process, the surgeon can directly compare the physical implant position with pre-calculated optimal positions without performing additional planning calculations during surgery
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used for real-time tracking, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensors into an integrated tracking system that functions as a unified device. By merging the sensors and their processing functions into a single coordinated system, the patent achieves high measurement precision while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate independent components
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
This solution enhances the accuracy and efficiency of implant placement by providing real-time optical feedback, reducing the risk of malposition and wear, and improving surgical precision through continuous tracking and alignment assistance.
Implementation Method 1
The implementation of an electromagnetic tracking system with multiple sensors, allowing for real-time orientation and positioning feedback to guide surgical instruments and implants
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and computer-implemented and surgical methods for providing and/or using optical, visual, and/or audio feedback when using a surgical instrument, such as to position and orient an implant are disclosed. A device includes a frame and a C-ring. The frame includes a fixation component optionally located at a first end and a tracking array optionally located at an opposing second end. The fixation component can be positioned at or near a center axis of the C-ring and is configured to releasably engage a surgical instrument. The tracking array may include tracking elements, such as reflective surfaces. The C-ring may include a plurality of light sources optionally arranged in a radial pattern. The light sources may be selectively illuminated based on a determined realignment to provide optical feedback with respect to at least a direction in which the surgical instrument should be moved to achieve a planned alignment.