Surgical Tool Positioning via 3D Image Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging techniques in the medical field, such as ultrasound and MRI, generate two-dimensional image slices that require manual combination to create a three-dimensional view, which is cumbersome and lacks real-time control for precise surgical tool positioning during procedures like prostate cancer treatment.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that reconstruct three-dimensional images from two-dimensional slices, allowing for real-time control and feedback to accurately position surgical tools relative to a target volume by selecting imaginary target locations within the 3D image, focusing imaging means on regions of interest, and correcting tool movement in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple 2D image slices are manually combined to create a 3D view, then a three-dimensional view of the target volume is obtained, but the process is cumbersome and lacks real-time control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms multiple 2D image slices into a 3D volumetric representation, enabling surgeons to view and interact with anatomical structures in three dimensions. This dimensional transformation allows for intuitive navigation and real-time control of surgical tools by providing spatial context that 2D images cannot convey, directly resolving the contradiction by making 3D visualization automatic rather than manual.
2Measurement precision
If conventional 2D imaging is used for surgical guidance, then imaging equipment is simple, but precise positioning of surgical tools relative to target volume is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coordinate transformation system that acts as an intermediary between the imaging system and surgical tool positioning. This intermediary transforms 3D image coordinates into 6-DOF tool pose information, enabling precise tool positioning without requiring complex direct coupling between imaging and robotic systems. The transformation matrix serves as the mediator that translates visual information into actionable positioning data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter representation from 2D image coordinates to 3D volumetric coordinates with full 6-degree-of-freedom transformation parameters (3 for position, 3 for orientation). This parameter expansion enables precise tool positioning by providing complete spatial information, while the mathematical transformation keeps the system implementation manageable.
3Reliability
If real-time 3D imaging and tool positioning control is implemented, then surgical accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal coordinate transformation framework that serves multiple functions: 3D visualization, tool positioning guidance, and real-time feedback. This multi-functional approach improves surgical reliability by integrating multiple capabilities into a unified system, reducing the need for separate specialized systems while maintaining high accuracy through comprehensive spatial awareness.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining the position of a surgical tool relative to a target volume inside an animal body according to a pre-plan comprising the steps of i) obtaining a plurality of two-dimensional images of said target volume using imaging means, each 2D-image being represented by an image data slice I(x,y,z); ii) reconstructing from said plurality of image data slices I(x,y,z) a three-dimensional image of said target volume using transformation means, said 3D-image being represented by a volumetric image data array V(x,y,z); iii) displaying said three-dimensional image of said target volume to an user using displaying means.