Upright MRI Scanner with Rotating Patient Support for Weight-Bearing Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MRI systems with solenoidal magnet designs restrict access and require sequential imaging and surgical procedures, making real-time visualization and efficient spinal surgery challenging, especially for spinal abnormalities that manifest differently in weight-bearing positions.
Innovation Solution
An upright MRI scanner with a horizontally-oriented magnetic field and a subject positioning system that allows for translation and rotation, enabling imaging and surgical access in multiple weight-bearing orientations without removing the subject from the scanner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional recumbent MRI system is used, then imaging can be performed, but surgical access is restricted and sequential procedures are required
Solution Approach 1:
The MRI system transitions from a static recumbent configuration to a dynamic system where the subject support can be rotated and repositioned. The subject is first positioned in a recumbent state for imaging, then the support rotates to an upright position for surgical access, allowing both imaging and surgery to occur in the same apparatus without compromising either capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a rotational dimension to the traditional linear MRI apparatus. By rotating the subject support from a horizontal recumbent position to a vertical upright position, the system creates multiple operational dimensions, enabling surgical teams to access the subject from appropriate angles while maintaining imaging capability
2Ease of operation
If the subject is removed from the magnet for surgery, then surgical access is improved, but real-time visualization is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the imaging function and surgical access function into a single integrated apparatus. The subject remains in the MRI magnet throughout the entire procedure, allowing simultaneous or sequential imaging and surgery without removal, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with repeated insertion and removal operations
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging capability continues uninterrupted throughout the surgical procedure. The MRI system can capture real-time images during surgery, providing continuous visualization of the procedure's effectiveness without breaking the imaging sequence, thus maintaining continuous useful action for both monitoring and treatment
3Measurement precision
If repeated insertion and removal of the subject is performed, then imaging and surgery can be alternated, but procedure time increases and risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple operational modes (recumbent imaging, upright surgery, weight-bearing imaging) within a single apparatus, eliminating the need for repeated insertion and removal. This integration maintains imaging accuracy while significantly improving procedure safety by reducing handling risks and procedural time
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for potential complications by maintaining continuous imaging capability throughout the procedure. This allows real-time monitoring and immediate detection of any issues, providing a safety buffer that compensates for the inherent risks of spinal surgery, thereby cushioning against potential adverse outcomes
4Measurement precision
If the subject is imaged in a recumbent position, then imaging can be performed, but weight-bearing spinal abnormalities cannot be visualized
Solution Approach 1:
The subject support system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing transition between recumbent and upright positions. This enables the system to adapt to different imaging requirements: recumbent position for baseline anatomy and upright position for weight-bearing spinal abnormalities, thereby achieving both visualization accuracy and position flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The MRI apparatus becomes a multi-functional system capable of performing both recumbent imaging and upright weight-bearing imaging in the same session. This universality allows comprehensive evaluation of spinal abnormalities under different gravitational conditions without requiring separate imaging sessions or different equipment
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
Facilitates accurate and efficient imaging and surgical procedures by allowing real-time visualization of spinal anatomy in weight-bearing positions, reducing procedure time and risk, and enabling simultaneous imaging and treatment without subject repositioning.
Implementation Method 1
an upright magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus... a magnet... capable of imaging a target anatomy of the subject while the subject is in the upright position
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a magnetic resonance imaging system having a magnet and first and second sidewalls positioned on opposite sides of an imaging field of the magnet, and a subject support configured to support a subject that is positioned in an upright position. The system may be capable of imaging a target anatomy of the subject while the subject is in the upright position, and may further include a motor for translating the subject support between first and second positions within and outside of the imaging field of the magnet, respectively. The subject support may include a seat on which the subject may sit facing the subject support, such that the subject's back can be operated on and imaged while the subject is in an upright position.