Automated X-ray Device Positioning for Implant Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual positioning of X-ray devices in medical procedures for verifying the placement of implants, such as pedicle screws, is cumbersome and increases radiation exposure due to the need for multiple images and tedious alignment processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses 3D scan data and navigation systems to determine the target position of an X-ray device by registering anatomical structure images and implant trajectories, allowing for automatic positioning and orientation of the X-ray device to optimize imaging directions and reduce manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning of C-arm X-ray device is used to verify implant position, then imaging can be performed, but the procedure becomes tedious and radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning of the C-arm X-ray device with an automated computer-implemented method. The system calculates optimal positioning parameters based on registered 3D image data and implant trajectory, then automatically guides or positions the X-ray device to the target location, eliminating the need for manual trial-and-error positioning and reducing radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary registration of 3D image data with the patient's anatomical coordinate system before the X-ray imaging step. By pre-calculating the optimal X-ray device position and orientation based on the registered implant trajectory, the system prepares all necessary information in advance, allowing single-shot accurate imaging without repeated exposure.
2Measurement precision
If multiple images are taken to find suitable imaging direction, then complete evaluation is possible, but radiation exposure and procedure time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the registered 3D image data and known implant trajectory to calculate the single optimal imaging direction that will provide complete evaluation information. The computer-determined target position is based on feedback from the navigation system's tracking of the implant's actual position, allowing accurate single-shot imaging without time-consuming trial-and-error approaches.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment process is used for X-ray device, then positioning can be achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a computer system as an intermediary between the implant trajectory data and the X-ray device positioning. The computer calculates the optimal positioning parameters and provides guidance to the operator or automatically controls the C-arm, serving as a mediator that translates surgical navigation data into precise radiographic positioning without requiring manual geometric calculations or complex manual alignment procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a computer-implemented method for determining a target position of an X-ray device which encompasses acquiring image data describing an anatomical structure of a patient, for example, by means of a 3D scan, and registering the image data relative to a coordinate system of the patient, for example by means of a navigation system (embodied by registered image data). Furthermore, a trajectory of an implant positioned within the anatomical structure relative to the patient coordinate system is acquired (embodied by trajectory data). A target position of an X-ray device for acquiring an X-ray image of at least part of the implant is determined based on the registered image and the acquired trajectory of the implant (embodied by X-ray device position data).