X-Ray Guided 3D Device Modeling for In-Body Material Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assessing the environment of a medical implant or instrument inside a patient are inaccurate due to reliance on two-dimensional X-ray images or sensor information alone, leading to uncertainties and ambiguities in determining the properties of surrounding materials and interactions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using a combination of two-dimensional X-ray images and sensor information to parameterize a three-dimensional model, incorporating model parameters and sensor data to accurately ascertain the environment information, including material properties and interactions, by integrating a trained function for real-time processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only two-dimensional X-ray images are used to assess the environment of a medical implant, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability of environmental information deteriorate due to uncertainties and ambiguities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple information sources (2D X-ray images and sensor information from the implant) into a unified assessment system. The processing facility integrates data from fluoroscopic images and implant-mounted sensors to compensate for the limitations of each individual source, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complex 3D imaging systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a processing facility as an intermediary that receives and evaluates multiple types of information (X-ray images, sensor data, preoperative images). This intermediary synthesizes the information to produce accurate environmental assessments, acting as a mediator between the simple 2D imaging system and the need for precise 3D environmental information.
2Device complexity
If only sensor information from the implant is used, then the device complexity remains low, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to identify absolute positions and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges relative position data from implant sensors with absolute position information from X-ray imaging systems. The processing facility combines these data sources to determine both the absolute position of the implant and the relative positions of surrounding structures, achieving high measurement precision while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
3Measurement precision
If three-dimensional image data is acquired to improve environmental assessment accuracy, then the measurement precision improves, but the loss of time increases due to additional imaging procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preoperative image acquisition (CT or MRI scans) before the medical procedure. These preoperative images provide detailed three-dimensional environmental information in advance, allowing the procedure to proceed using faster 2D fluoroscopic imaging without sacrificing measurement precision for environmental assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic sensor information from the implant that continuously updates relative position data during the procedure. Combined with static preoperative images and real-time 2D fluoroscopy, this dynamic data provides accurate environmental information without requiring time-consuming 3D imaging during the procedure.
4Measurement precision
If multiple information sources are integrated to improve environmental assessment, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensors and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The processing facility is designed as a multi-functional system that handles diverse data types (2D X-ray images, sensor signals, preoperative 3D images). This universal processing platform integrates multiple functions (image processing, sensor data evaluation, fusion of different data sources) into a single system, improving measurement precision while managing device complexity through functional integration.
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 identification of materials and interactions with medical devices, reducing uncertainties and improving the accuracy of environmental assessments within the patient's body, facilitating controlled procedures like endoscopy and implant positioning.
Implementation Method 1
at least one two-dimensional X-ray image that maps at least one portion of a third article located inside a patient
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for ascertaining an item of environment information is provided. The item of environment information relates to material in surroundings of a third article and/or an interaction of the third article with the material. The method includes receiving an X-ray image and an item of sensor information, and determining model parameters or limiting possible parameter values of the model parameters of a three-dimensional model of the third article as a function of the X-ray image in order to specify an X-ray-dependent model. The three-dimensional model describes a three-dimensional shape and/or pose of the third article as a function of the model parameters. The method includes ascertaining the item of environment information as a function of the X-ray-dependent model, where the item of environment information and/or the X-ray-dependent model additionally depends on the item of sensor information. The item of environment information is provided.