3D Virtual Bronchoscope for Lung Navigation Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bronchoscopy systems face limitations in navigating to targets deep within the lungs due to size constraints and struggle with distinguishing three-dimensional airway structures from two-dimensional fluoroscopic images, and there is a need to assess the ability of tools to reach targets outside the airway while considering catheter orientation and deflection.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a computing device with a user interface to display a probability treatment zone, allowing clinicians to visualize the trajectory and orientation of tools within the airway, enabling precise navigation and interaction with targets by depicting the tool's probability of interaction with the target in three-dimensional space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fluoroscopy is used for navigation to deep lung targets, then real-time imaging is provided, but it is difficult to distinguish luminal passageways from solid tissue and the images are two-dimensional
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms two-dimensional fluoroscopic images into three-dimensional virtual models of the airway tree. By reconstructing the airway geometry from multiple fluoroscopic views and integrating with pre-acquired CT data, the system creates a 3D navigational map that preserves real-time imaging capabilities while providing accurate spatial differentiation between luminal passageways and solid tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a virtual bronchoscope as an intermediary that traverses the 3D reconstructed airway model. This virtual probe provides real-time feedback on catheter position and orientation within the airway tree, allowing clinicians to navigate deep lung targets with enhanced spatial awareness while maintaining the speed of fluoroscopic imaging.
2Length of moving object
If the catheter is advanced as close as possible to the target, then the distance to target is minimized, but the catheter orientation in relation to the target may be suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides real-time feedback on both the position and orientation of the catheter relative to the target through the virtual bronchoscope interface. The system displays directional indicators and orientation metrics that guide the operator in adjusting catheter angle and direction, ensuring optimal alignment for tool deployment while maintaining minimal distance to the target.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary 3D reconstruction and virtual bronchoscopy planning before the actual procedure. This allows the operator to pre-determine the optimal catheter orientation and trajectory to reach the target, and to plan the optimal deployment angle for access tools or needles before advancing the catheter to the final position.
3Measurement precision
If a bronchoscope is made larger to improve imaging and navigation capabilities, then imaging quality improves, but the bronchoscope cannot reach deep lung targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the bronchoscope's view by rendering the 3D airway model from the catheter's actual position and orientation. This virtual bronchoscope provides high-quality imaging and navigation information without requiring a physically larger or more complex real bronchoscope, allowing deep lung access while maintaining superior imaging capabilities through computational rendering.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for navigating to a target includes an extended working channel having a lumen for receiving a tool, a computing device including a memory and at least one processor, and a display device. A plurality of images and a program are stored in the memory. The program, when executed by the at least one processor, presents a user interface. The user interface includes at least one image of the plurality of images depicting the target and a progression of the extended working channel through the airway. The user interface also includes a probability treatment zone defining a probability distribution of a trajectory of the tool once deployed beyond an opening of the extended working channel.