Next-Generation Ultrasound Guidance System

Publication ID: 24-11857370_0005_PTD
Published: October 28, 2025
Category:Future Evolutions & Paradigm Shifts

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Next-Generation Ultrasound Guidance System,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857370_0005_PTD, Published October 28, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857370_0005_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,370.

Summary of the Inventive Concept

A paradigm-shifting ultrasound guidance system that integrates real-time MRI-ultrasound fusion, machine learning-based lesion detection, and advanced tracking and registration capabilities to revolutionize targeted biopsy and interventions.

Background and Problem Solved

The original patent addressed the limitations of MRI-guided biopsy by proposing a method for visually assisting an operator of an ultrasound system. However, this approach still relied on manual registration and lacked real-time feedback. The new inventive concept solves these limitations by introducing a next-generation system that combines real-time MRI-ultrasound fusion, automated probe tracking, and personalized diagnosis capabilities, enabling more accurate and efficient targeted interventions.

Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept

The new inventive concept comprises a real-time MRI-ultrasound fusion module, a machine learning-based lesion detection module, and a user interface displaying a 3D visualization of the fused MRI and ultrasound images. The system also includes automated ultrasound probe tracking using deep learning-based algorithms and real-time registration capabilities. Additionally, the system enables personalized prostate cancer diagnosis using generative adversarial networks and convolutional neural networks. The wearable sensor-based adaptive ultrasound imaging capability further enhances image quality and operator experience.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce a novel fusion of real-time MRI-ultrasound fusion, machine learning-based lesion detection, and advanced tracking and registration capabilities, which are not obvious from the original patent. The integration of these components enables a paradigm shift in ultrasound-guided interventions, providing a more accurate, efficient, and personalized approach to targeted biopsy and diagnosis.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different machine learning algorithms, various sensor arrays for probe tracking, or different registration algorithms. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in other anatomical regions or medical applications, such as cardiovascular or neurological interventions.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The next-generation ultrasound guidance system has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the fields of urology, radiology, and interventional oncology. The system's ability to improve accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes could lead to widespread adoption in hospitals and clinics, generating significant revenue and market share.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A61 A61B8/463
A A61 A61B8/085
A A61 A61B8/4245
A A61 A61B8/466
A A61 A61B8/483
A A61 A61B8/5261
A A61 A61B8/5292

Field of Art

Medical imaging technologies, specifically ultrasound and MRI fusion systems for diagnostic interventions, with expertise in image registration, medical sensor technologies, and machine learning applications in medical imaging

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A biomedical engineer or medical imaging specialist with advanced degrees in bioengineering, electrical engineering, or medical physics, possessing expertise in medical imaging algorithms, sensor technologies, and computational image processing techniques

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's machine learning-enhanced MRI-ultrasound fusion system represents a predictable technological evolution of the source patent's core imaging registration methodology. The disclosed variations leverage known machine learning techniques to enhance existing image fusion and tracking capabilities, which would be considered an obvious optimization to a skilled practitioner familiar with medical imaging technologies and computational approaches to diagnostic imaging.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Method for transforming imaging data between coordinate systems with landmark identification
PTD Variation
Machine learning-based lesion detection and 3D visualization of fused imaging data
Obviousness Reasoning
Applying machine learning techniques to image registration is a known approach in medical imaging, representing a predictable extension of existing image transformation techniques
Source Patent Element
Ultrasound transducer with positional tracking capabilities
PTD Variation
Deep learning-based automated ultrasound probe tracking using sensor arrays
Obviousness Reasoning
Enhancing probe tracking with advanced computational techniques is an obvious technological progression using standard machine learning approaches
Source Patent Element
Prostate imaging and landmark identification method
PTD Variation
Generative adversarial network for generating 3D prostate models and convolutional neural network for risk region identification
Obviousness Reasoning
Applying neural network techniques to medical imaging segmentation and risk assessment represents a predictable application of known machine learning methodologies
Source Patent Element
Coordinate system transformation for anatomical region visualization
PTD Variation
Real-time MRI-ultrasound registration with adaptive imaging parameters
Obviousness Reasoning
Dynamically adjusting imaging parameters based on sensor input is an obvious optimization for improving diagnostic imaging accuracy
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. ยง 103, the variations disclosed in this publication would be considered obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art at the time of invention, as they represent predictable technological extensions of the foundational imaging techniques disclosed in US Patent 11857370, utilizing standard machine learning and computational approaches known in the medical imaging field.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,370
TitleMethod and system for visually assisting an operator of an ultrasound system
Assignee(s)NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA