Target Position Determination Using 2D Radioscopy Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the target position in invasive medical procedures require two preoperative 3D CT data records and cannot account for skin displacements between recordings, limiting the use of intraoperative 2D imaging due to small reconstruction volumes.
Innovation Solution
A method using preoperative or intraoperative definition of entry and target positions through x-rays, MR, or ultrasound, with 2D x-ray images recorded from orthogonal directions to determine the target position in a coordinate system, allowing for intraoperative 2D imaging without the need for large reconstruction volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two preoperative 3D CT data records are generated to determine target position, then the target position can be determined in a coordinate system, but the procedure complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging process by separating the acquisition of anatomical data (from preoperative CT or intraoperative 2D x-ray) from the marker-based coordinate system establishment. This allows using simpler 2D intraoperative imaging combined with marker detection, avoiding the need for complex dual 3D CT scans while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces markers (optical and/or x-ray visible) as an intermediary element that bridges the imaging system and the target position. These markers serve as reference points that can be detected in 2D images to establish a coordinate system, eliminating the need for complex 3D reconstruction while enabling precise target localization.
2Measurement precision
If two preoperative 3D CT data records are used, then target position can be determined, but the time required for the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning by attaching markers to the patient's body or imaging device before the actual imaging step. This preliminary action establishes the coordinate system in advance, allowing the subsequent 2D x-ray imaging to directly provide target position information without requiring time-consuming 3D reconstruction processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical 3D CT scanning system with a lighter 2D x-ray imaging system combined with marker detection. This substitution reduces the time required for data acquisition and processing, as 2D imaging is faster and requires less computational reconstruction time compared to 3D CT scanning.
3Measurement precision
If a large reconstruction volume is used in x-ray method, then both markers and target position can be represented, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using markers placed specifically at the region of interest (near the target position or on the imaging device). This localized approach allows using a small reconstruction volume that only needs to cover the immediate area containing the markers and target, rather than requiring a large volume to capture all anatomical structures.
4Device complexity
If simple intraoperative 2D imaging is used, then cost and complexity are reduced, but the reconstruction volume is too small to represent both markers and target
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses markers as an intermediary that connects the simple 2D imaging system to the target position. The markers serve as known reference points whose positions can be precisely determined in the 2D image, and from which the target position can be calculated through coordinate transformation, even with a limited reconstruction volume.
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
Enables accurate determination of the target position using 2D x-ray images, reducing the need for extensive preoperative imaging and allowing for real-time adjustments, thus improving the precision and efficiency of invasive medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
at least two 2D radioscopy images of the patient, which together represent the site marker and the target position in each instance, are recorded from different recording directions
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining the location, in a coordinate system, of a target position for an invasive medical procedure on a patient. An entry mark that defines the coordinate system and indicates an entry position for the procedure is affixed to the patient. A site marker, which can be identified in a radioscopy image, is fixed in a known relative location in the coordinate system. At least two 2D radioscopy images of the patient, which both depict the respective site marker and the target position, are recorded from different recording directions. The location of the target position in the coordinate system is determined from the representation of the target position and from the representation of the site marker in the 2D radioscopy images and from the relative location of the site marker in the coordinate system.