Surgical Navigation Validation via Single X-Ray Image Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current navigation systems in spinal surgery are error-prone due to the reliance on external reference bodies and cameras, which can lead to inaccurate tracking of surgical tools within the body, potentially causing harm to patients.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a single X-ray image to validate the correctness of real-time tracking navigation information by determining the 3D position and orientation of surgical objects relative to patient anatomy, eliminating the need for external cameras and reference bodies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical tracking with external cameras and reference bodies is used, then real-time tracking of surgical tools is enabled, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to potential tracker movements and drilling distance from camera
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the external reference bodies and cameras from the navigation system. Instead of using optical tracking with external components, the system directly uses X-ray images to determine the position and orientation of surgical tools, removing the source of tracking errors entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces X-ray imaging as an intermediary to directly observe the surgical tool position within the patient's body. The X-ray images serve as a mediator between the surgical tool and the navigation system, providing direct visual evidence of tool position without requiring external reference bodies
2Ease of operation
If multiple external reference bodies and cameras are used for navigation, then real-time tracking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex external tracking infrastructure including multiple cameras, reference bodies attached to the patient and tools, and the associated calibration and synchronization systems. The navigation system operates using only the X-ray imaging system and image processing algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray imaging system serves multiple functions: it provides both the anatomical reference framework and the surgical tool position information simultaneously. The same imaging modality used for anatomical visualization is also used for tool tracking, eliminating the need for separate optical tracking systems
3Reliability
If external reference bodies are attached to surgical tools and patient, then tracking is enabled, but harmful factors increase due to potential movements causing incorrect navigation instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the external reference bodies that are attached to the patient and surgical tools. By removing these physical attachments, the system eliminates the risk of tracker movement causing navigation errors, while still maintaining the ability to track tool position through X-ray imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously validates navigation accuracy by comparing the observed tool position in X-ray images with the planned trajectory. This feedback mechanism allows for real-time verification of navigation accuracy and enables correction if deviations occur, enhancing patient safety
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 approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of surgical procedures by directly determining the spatial relation of surgical tools to the anatomy, reducing the risk of errors and allowing for more precise and safe surgeries.
Implementation Method 1
providing a validation of 3D navigation information based on single 2D X-ray images
Data Source
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AI summary
A validation of a 3D position and 3D orientation of a first object, e.g. the region of interest of the anatomy, relative to a second object, e.g. the surgical tool, may generally be achieved in accordance with the present disclosure by a comparison of a 2D X-ray image generated from any imaging direction and a virtually generated projection image of a structure which is also depicted in the 2D X-ray image.