Multispectral Fiducial Markers for Enhanced Surgical Navigation
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A next-generation medical instrument system incorporating multispectral fiducial markers, machine learning algorithms, and real-time tracking capabilities to revolutionize surgical navigation and planning.
Background and Problem Solved
Current surgical navigation systems rely on limited 2D and 3D imaging capabilities, resulting in inadequate planning and navigation. The original patent introduced fiducial markers, but limitations remained. This new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing multispectral fiducial markers, enabling real-time tracking and navigation during surgical procedures.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The system comprises a handheld medical instrument with multiple interconnected fiducial markers, each emitting a unique spectral signature detectable by a multispectral imaging sensor. Machine learning algorithms analyze patient medical images, correlating them with real-time tracking data to generate a personalized surgical plan. The system includes a shape-memory alloy instrument that adapts to complex anatomical structures and a virtual reality display projecting a 3D model of the patient's anatomy and instrument trajectory.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce multispectral fiducial markers, machine learning algorithms, and real-time tracking capabilities, making the original inventive concept obsolete. The novel combination of these elements enables enhanced surgical navigation and planning, providing a significant improvement over existing systems.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different types of sensors, such as hyperspectral or infrared, or incorporating additional features like instrument sterilization tracking or real-time tissue analysis. Variations could include adapting the system for use in different medical specialties or integrating with robotic-assisted surgery platforms.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
This inventive concept has vast commercial potential in the medical technology industry, particularly in surgical navigation and planning. Target markets include hospitals, surgical centers, and medical device manufacturers, with potential for expansion into emerging markets and specialized medical fields.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B34/20 |
| A | A61 | A61B34/10 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/107 |
| A | A61 | A61B2034/2068 |
| G | G06 | G06F3/011 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical imaging, surgical navigation systems, and instrument tracking technologies, involving interdisciplinary expertise in biomedical engineering, computer vision, machine learning, and medical device design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with advanced degrees, proficient in multispectral imaging, machine learning algorithms, surgical navigation technologies, and instrument tracking systems, with knowledge of medical imaging modalities and surgical planning techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's multispectral fiducial markers and machine learning tracking represent predictable technological extensions of the source patent's foundational fiducial marker concepts. The incremental improvements in spectral detection, real-time tracking, and adaptive instrument design would be considered straightforward technological progressions within the established medical instrument navigation domain. The combination of known techniques from medical imaging, machine learning, and surgical navigation would be viewed as an expected innovation by a skilled practitioner seeking enhanced surgical precision.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,274 |
|---|---|
| Title | Medical instrument with fiducial markers |
| Assignee(s) | Medivis, Inc. |