3D Voxel Ablation Mapping for Precise Cardiac Gap Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cardiac ablation maps lack accuracy in representing ablation gaps due to large ablation tags that do not reflect tissue status after ablation, and electrode position changes during procedures due to respiration, heartbeat, or muscle contraction, leading to inaccurate representation of ablation levels.
Innovation Solution
A high-resolution, high-dynamic-range ablation map is generated by overlaying small, densely spread ablation tags on a 3D heart rendering, with each tag assigned to a voxel and scored based on ablation instances, and a graphical user interface filters out inadequate ablation instances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If large ablation tags are used to mark ablation sites, then the ablation map is easier to view, but the accuracy in representing tissue status and ablation gaps is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ablation representation into multiple small tags distributed across the ablation zone rather than using single large tags. Each small tag corresponds to a specific voxel or small region, enabling both comprehensive coverage and precise localization of ablation effects and gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D ablation tags to 3D voxel-based representation with spatial coordinates. By incorporating depth information and three-dimensional positioning, the system achieves millimeter-resolution mapping that accurately represents tissue status while maintaining visual clarity through multi-dimensional data presentation.
2Productivity
If ablation tags are placed at electrode positions, then the ablation locations are marked, but electrode position changes during procedure reduce the accuracy of ablation representation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D mapping and voxel assignment before ablation begins. By pre-defining the spatial relationship between electrode positions and target voxels, the system can accurately track and represent ablation effects even as the electrode moves during the procedure, eliminating the need for continuous repositioning of tags.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously updates the ablation map by tracking electrode position changes and recalculating which voxels are affected. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures that the visual representation remains accurate despite electrode movement, allowing the physician to monitor ablation progress dynamically.
3Measurement precision
If densely spread small ablation tags are used, then the resolution and detail of ablation map is improved, but the complexity of data processing and map generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standardized voxel model as a template that is copied and assigned to different spatial locations based on electrode position. This copying approach simplifies data processing by reusing the same voxel structure throughout the 3D space, reducing computational complexity while maintaining high resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of tag size from large to small and increases density, but compensates by using automated algorithms for tag placement and scoring. This parameter transformation is managed through software that calculates optimal tag positions and assigns scores based on ablation instances, reducing the perceived complexity for the user.
4Reliability
If all ablation instances are included in the map, then the completeness of ablation record is improved, but inadequate ablation instances reduce the accuracy of the map
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality criteria to different ablation instances based on local conditions. By evaluating each instance against specific criteria (such as contact force, temperature, or duration) and assigning scores accordingly, the system maintains completeness while filtering out inadequate instances through localized quality assessment rather than uniform inclusion.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method includes dividing a three-dimensional (3D) rendering of at least a portion of a heart into voxels having coordinates in a coordinate system of a position mapping system. Using a position tracking system, positions of one or more electrodes of a catheter are measured inside the heart during an ablation session that comprises multiple ablation instances. Each measured position is assigned a predefined number of voxels nearest to the position. A respective ablation score is calculated for each voxel, the ablation score representing at least a number of the ablation instances affecting the voxel. A respective ablation tag is assigned to each voxel and the ablation tag is graphically encoded according to the ablation score of the voxel. The graphically encoded ablation tags are overlaid on the 3D rendering to generate an ablation map. The ablation map is presented to a user.