Surgical Navigation System Using Sensor-Based Coaxial Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current imaging systems, such as C-Arm X-ray examination systems, suffer from distortion and expose patients to unnecessary radiation, lacking the accuracy and precision required for intricate procedures like spinal surgery, and are difficult to use effectively.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for incrementally positioning a guidance system by coaxially aligning a bushing axis with a central beam axis of a portable imaging device, using an annular ring and connecting elements to adjust the orientation, and associating sensors with a rotatable element to measure angles and transmit data for precise alignment and navigation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If C-Arm X-ray examination systems are used for imaging, then visualization of the surgical area is achieved, but image distortion occurs and patient radiation exposure increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisualization capabilityVSAvoidradiation exposure

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the imaging function from the guidance function. The portable imaging device (fluoroscope) provides visualization, while the surgical navigation device with sensors and processing system provides precise positioning and guidance, eliminating the need for prolonged C-Arm imaging and reducing radiation exposure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces sensors, processors, and software as intermediaries between the imaging device and the surgical instruments. These intermediaries enable precise positioning and navigation through computational methods rather than relying solely on continuous radiographic imaging

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Illumination intensity

If C-Arm X-ray examination systems are used for imaging, then visualization of the surgical area is achieved, but image distortion reduces accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisualization capabilityVSAvoidimaging accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical/optical imaging system (C-Arm X-ray) with a sensor-based detection and computational processing system. Sensors detect positional information and the processor computes precise locations, eliminating geometric distortion inherent in radiographic imaging

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital copy or representation of the surgical field using sensors and processing algorithms, rather than relying on distorted radiographic images. This digital model enables accurate measurement and positioning without the distortion artifacts of X-ray imaging

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Illumination intensity

If traditional imaging systems are used, then basic visualization is provided, but ease of operation is reduced due to complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisualization capabilityVSAvoidusability

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The surgical navigation device autonomously tracks instruments, calculates positions, and provides guidance without requiring manual operation of complex imaging equipment. The system self-calibrates and self-adjusts based on sensor data, simplifying the user interface and操作流程

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The portable imaging device serves multiple functions: it provides initial visualization, establishes the coordinate system, and enables the navigation system to function. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex systems and simplifies overall operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Measurement precision

If incremental positioning of guidance system is implemented, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical incremental positioning mechanisms with electronic sensors and computational algorithms. The processor calculates precise positions based on sensor data, eliminating the need for mechanical micrometers, adjustment screws, and other complex mechanical positioning devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses dynamic sensor tracking and real-time computational processing to achieve precise positioning, rather than static mechanical adjustments. The sensors continuously monitor position and the processor dynamically calculates optimal placement, providing precision without mechanical complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12011312B2Image based positioning and guidance system and methods of use

Publication Date: 2024.06.18 TRINITY ORTHOPEDICS

AI summary

Systems, devices, and methods to accurately and precisely align a visualized axis with one or more objects in an image field during a procedure using an imager based positioner system attached to an electronic positioning device are described. Specific methods of implanting guide pins into a first pedicle and a second pedicle of a vertebrae of a patient through a lumen of a trocar to a target of interest are also described.