Surgical Rod Measurement Using Optical Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for shaping surgical rods in spinal fixation systems rely on visual estimates, which can be inaccurate and inefficient, leading to suboptimal alignment and stabilization of vertebrae during surgical procedures for spinal disorders.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a processor, a probe for tracing the surface of the surgical rod, a tracking system for generating data on linear and rotational movements, and a display for creating graphical representations of the rod's geometry, allowing for precise measurement and confirmation of the rod's alignment before and after implantation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If visual estimates are used to shape and bend the rod, then the surgeon can quickly determine rod geometries, but the measurement precision and alignment accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual estimation method with an optical tracking system. A probe with tracking elements is moved along the rod surface, and an optical system captures images and calculates precise three-dimensional coordinates, substituting subjective visual estimation with objective optical measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational system that processes optical images and calculates rod geometries. The system includes an image processor that receives images from the optical system, calculates three-dimensional coordinates of tracking elements, and determines rod geometry parameters, serving as a mediator between physical measurement and surgical decision-making.
2Ease of operation
If visual estimates are used to adjust rod shape in situ, then the surgeon can make quick adjustments, but the manufacturing precision and alignment accuracy worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the optical tracking system continuously monitors rod position and geometry during surgery. The system provides real-time feedback on whether the rod alignment matches the predetermined geometry, allowing the surgeon to make precise adjustments based on objective data rather than visual estimation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by predetermining the required rod geometries based on patient-specific spinal measurements before surgery. The optical tracking system then verifies whether the actual rod installation matches these pre-calculated geometries, allowing for corrective action if deviations are detected.
3Measurement precision
If a tracking system with probe and image processing is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the optical tracking system to perform multiple functions: tracking probe position, imaging rod surface features, calculating three-dimensional coordinates, and determining rod geometry parameters. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a digital three-dimensional model of the rod based on tracked positions of tracking elements. This virtual copy allows for precise geometric analysis without requiring direct physical measurement, simplifying the computational process while maintaining high precision.
4Measurement precision
If precise tracking and image processing systems are used, then rod geometry determination accuracy improves, but loss of time in data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating the expected rod geometry parameters based on patient-specific spinal measurements taken before surgery. During surgery, the system only needs to verify whether the actual rod installation matches these pre-determined parameters, significantly reducing real-time computational requirements and data processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex real-time mathematical computations with pre-calculated geometric models. The system uses the pre-established three-dimensional coordinates of tracking elements and simple geometric relationships to determine rod orientation and curvature, avoiding the need for complex iterative calculations during surgery.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for measuring a surgical rod are disclosed. The system includes a processor, a probe in communication with the processor and configured to trace along a surface of the implant, a tracking system in communication with the processor and the probe for generating first data representing at least one of linear and rotational movement of the probe during a first trace along the surface of the implant, wherein the processor is configured to receive the first data and generate a first graphical representation of the implant based on the first data, and a display in communication with said processor for displaying the graphical representation of the implant based on the first data. Various methods are also disclosed.