TMS Probe Electromagnetic Navigation via Integrated Tracking Coils
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surgical navigation systems require a separate, often cumbersome tracking device for non-invasive probes, which complicates the navigation of instruments like transcranial magnetic stimulators (TMS) and increases procedural complexity.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a coil system into the TMS probe to function as both a magnetic stimulation device and a tracking system, using electromagnetic fields to navigate and track the probe's position relative to the anatomy, eliminating the need for a separate tracking device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate tracking device is added to the probe for navigation, then the position tracking capability is improved, but the device complexity and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tracking device and stimulation probe into a single integrated unit. The probe contains both the stimulation electrode and the tracking reflectors, eliminating the need for separate tracking devices. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining position tracking capability throughout the procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe serves multiple functions: it provides both electrical stimulation and optical tracking capabilities. The same probe structure that delivers therapeutic stimulation also contains reflectors for position monitoring, making the device universal and reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Measurement precision
If a separate tracking device is added to the probe, then the position tracking capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome equipment
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the tracking functionality into the probe itself, the system eliminates the need to manage separate tracking devices. The operator works with a single integrated probe rather than coordinating multiple separate components, significantly improving ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If additional components are added to the probe for tracking, then the position tracking capability is improved, but the quantity of substance and hardware increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe integrates tracking reflectors within its existing structure rather than adding separate tracking hardware. This approach maintains position tracking capability while minimizing the quantity of additional material and hardware required.
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
This approach simplifies the navigation of non-invasive instruments by using the TMS probe's coils to produce and sense electromagnetic fields, allowing precise tracking and positioning without additional hardware, thereby enhancing procedural efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The TMS probe can include one or more coils operable to produce an electromagnetic field
Implementation Method 2
A localizing or tracking system can further include a coil system operable to transmit an electromagnetic field to allow tracking of the tracking device positioned on the TMS probe
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method is disclosed that can be used to track and navigate an instrument relative to a patient. The system can include an electromagnetic tracking system to track an electromagnetic stimulation probe, such as a transcranial magnetic stimulation probe. The system can, according to various embodiments, provide a tracking device on the probe, track the coil of the probe, provide a field relative to the probe, and determine the position of the patient based upon the field produced by the probe.