Surgical Positioning Guide with Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning guide systems for surgical tools lack objective and efficient methods for confirming correct positioning relative to anatomic landmarks, relying on tactile feedback which can be time-consuming and skill-dependent.
Innovation Solution
A positioning guide system equipped with an interface corresponding to multiple anatomic landmarks and a plurality of sensors that provide real-time feedback on proximity, allowing for objective confirmation of correct positioning through visual, audio, or haptic outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If tactile feedback is used to confirm positioning, then the method is simple and does not require additional components, but the positioning process is time-consuming and skill-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tactile feedback system with an optical sensing system. Sensors detect the position of the positioning guide relative to anatomic landmarks and provide objective visual feedback, eliminating the need for surgeon tactile assessment and significantly reducing positioning time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sensors continuously monitor the position of the positioning guide and provide real-time visual feedback to the surgeon. This allows for rapid confirmation of correct positioning without requiring tactile skills, directly addressing the time loss issue.
2Measurement precision
If tactile feedback is used to confirm positioning, then no additional components are needed, but the accuracy and objectivity of positioning confirmation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the subjective mechanical tactile assessment with an objective optical measurement system. The sensors provide precise, quantifiable data about the position of the positioning guide, dramatically improving measurement precision and objectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors as an intermediary between the positioning guide and the surgeon's assessment. These sensors act as mediators that objectively measure and communicate the positioning status, eliminating the need for direct tactile assessment and improving accuracy.
3Reliability
If multiple sensors are added to provide real-time feedback, then positioning accuracy and objectivity are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor system to serve multiple functions: detecting position, providing visual feedback, and confirming correct positioning. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive reliability improvements through a single integrated system.
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
The system enables faster, more accurate, and objective positioning of surgical tools, reducing reliance on tactile feedback and enhancing the efficiency and precision of surgical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the sensors may include pressure sensors wherein the output is indicative of pressure between the interface and the anatomic landmarks
Implementation Method 2
the sensors may include proximity sensors wherein the output is indicative of distance between the interface and the anatomic landmarks
Data Source
AI summary
A positioning guide system for guiding a surgical tool comprising a positioning guide and a user interface. The positioning guide comprising: an interface to correspond to a plurality of anatomic landmarks of a patient; a plurality of sensors to provide an output indicative of the proximity of the interface and one or more of the plurality of anatomic landmarks; and a tool guide, for a surgical tool, positioned relative to the interface. The user interface provides a user output indicative of correct positioning of the positioning guide and the anatomic landmarks of the patient based on the output of the plurality of sensors.