Ultrasound Probe Registration for Bone Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer-assisted and robotically-assisted surgery systems require invasive methods to align bone models with patient anatomy, involving sharp probes and numerous intra-incision points, which are cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A registration system utilizing a two-dimensional array of ultrasonic transducers on a rounded probe to generate registration points by determining contact with the patient's anatomy, allowing for non-invasive alignment of bone structures with ultrasonic data and pressure sensing, processed by a computing device to register anatomy to a bone model.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sharp probe is used to penetrate soft tissue to measure bone surface points, then registration accuracy can be achieved, but patient trauma and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical sharp probe penetration method with an ultrasonic imaging system that uses sound waves to visualize bone surfaces through soft tissue. The ultrasonic transducer array captures acoustic reflections to generate bone surface images without physical penetration, eliminating tissue trauma while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ultrasonic waves as an intermediary medium between the probe and bone surface. The ultrasonic transducer sends acoustic waves through soft tissue, which reflect off bone surfaces and return to the transducer, allowing indirect measurement of bone geometry without direct mechanical contact or penetration
2Measurement precision
If numerous intra-incision points are collected for registration, then alignment accuracy improves, but registration time and procedural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from collecting discrete point data in three-dimensional space to capturing continuous surface imagery in two-dimensional ultrasonic cross-sections. The ultrasonic transducer array generates multiple imaging planes that collectively provide comprehensive bone surface geometry information, reducing the number of measurement points needed while maintaining or improving registration accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary bone surface imaging and automated feature extraction before the registration process begins. The system pre-processes ultrasonic images to identify bone landmarks and surfaces, preparing registration data in advance so that the actual alignment operation requires minimal additional time and manual intervention
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a rounded probe with ultrasonic transducers is used instead of a sharp probe, then patient safety improves, but the complexity of the registration system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single ultrasonic transducer array: tissue penetration via acoustic waves, bone surface imaging, contact detection, and measurement data acquisition. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems (imaging device, measurement tool, safety monitoring system) into one unified probe, managing complexity while achieving multiple objectives simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic system automatically performs bone surface detection, image generation, and registration point identification without requiring manual intervention for each measurement point. The system self-calibrates and self-registers by comparing ultrasonic images with pre-operative CT or MRI models, reducing the need for complex manual操作流程 and minimizing human error
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 precise and efficient registration of bone structures without penetrating soft tissue, reducing the need for multiple incision points and improving surgical accuracy through real-time ultrasonic and pressure data processing.
Implementation Method 1
receiving ultrasonic data of a patient's anatomy from a registration probe that includes a two-dimensional array of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers
Implementation Method 2
determining which of the ultrasonic transducers are contacting the patient's anatomy
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (100) for registration of a bone structure includes a registration probe (108) and a processing circuit (106). The registration probe includes a two-dimensional array (110) of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers coupled to a rounded tip of the probe, wherein the ultrasonic transducers are configured to provide ultrasonic data. The processing circuit is configured to receive ultrasonic data from the ultrasonic transducers, determine which of the ultrasonic transducers are in contact with anatomy of a patient, generate registration points based on the ultrasonic data and the determination of which of the ultrasonic transducers are in contact with the anatomy of the patient, and register the anatomy of the patient to a model of bone using the registration points.