Integrated Surgical Vision Module for Real-Time Instrument Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Minimally invasive surgeries face challenges in visualization and precise instrument positioning due to limited integration of imaging and tracking systems, lacking real-time correlation and situational awareness.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a digital camera and optional electromagnetic or optical motion tracking sensors into a single surgical instrument, with features like screw-on mechanisms, snap-fit designs, and ergonomic grips, to provide high-resolution visual data and real-time positional tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional imaging and tracking systems are used separately, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and situational awareness deteriorate due to lack of integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate imaging systems and motion tracking systems into a single integrated surgical instrument. The image capture device and motion tracking indicator are merged within the same instrument body, allowing simultaneous acquisition of visual and positional data from the same location, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The surgical instrument is designed to perform multiple functions: it can capture images, track motion, and provide both visual and positional data through a single device. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate imaging and tracking systems, resolving the contradiction between improved precision and increased complexity.
2Loss of information
If imaging data and positional data are not correlated, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information increases due to lack of real-time correlation
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback by correlating imaging data with positional data from the motion tracking indicator. The processed images are enhanced with positional information, creating a feedback loop that continuously updates the surgeon's situational awareness throughout the surgical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary data processing and correlation of imaging and positional data in real-time before presenting the integrated information to the surgeon. This preliminary action ensures that all relevant information is prepared and correlated ahead of time, reducing information loss during critical surgical moments.
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging and real-time tracking are integrated, then measurement precision improves, but use of energy increases due to continuous operation of camera and sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The camera and motion tracking sensors can operate in periodic intervals rather than continuously, capturing data at strategically timed moments during the surgical procedure. This periodic operation maintains measurement precision for critical moments while significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical instrument comprises a body, a vision module combined with the body, the vision module having a camera with a field of view covering a vicinity of a distal end of the surgical instrument; and a lighting directed towards the field of view.