Abstract: A lesion identification system for surgical operations has a light marker adapted for placement in the vicinity of a lesion inside an organ of an organism, and a location-identifying device detecting a light emitted from the light marker at an outside of the organ for identifying a location of the lesion. The marker includes a light emitter and an engagement member associated with the emitter to be engageable with a wall of the organ. The engagement member includes a clip. The light emitter emits light with a wavelength in a near-infrared range. The device includes an endoscope comprising an inserter section having an image pickup element picking up a reflected light, involving the light from the light marker, at an outside of the organ, and an image pickup unit allowing the reflected light, picked by the image pickup element, to be generated as an image for display on a monitor.

Abstract: A method for tracking at least one medical marker is provided, wherein actual properties of the at least one marker are compared with nominal properties of the at least one marker. A basis for subsequent use of information obtained from the at least one marker is formed based on the comparison.

Abstract: The invention is directed to marker delivery devices and methods of using such devices. The delivery devices embodying features of the invention include a delivery cannula with a discharge opening and a releasable plug disposed in the inner lumen of the delivery cannula so as to at least partially occlude the discharge opening. The releasable plug prevents ingress of tissue, body fluids and the like into the bore of the tube, and prevents the premature discharge of any markers proximal to the releasable plug from passing through the discharge opening before the distal end of the cannula is properly positioned at a desired location within a patient's body. The releasable plug preferably has an MRI detectable element. Preferably, at least one remotely detectable marker mass is provided in the inner lumen of the cannula proximal to the releasable plug.

Abstract: During preprogrammed medical treatment and remote controlled surgery tracking the movements of the body being treated and integrating those tracked movements with the preprogrammed/remote controlled treatment to arrive at an integrated modified treatment track and following that modified track during the treatment. The treating instrument may be a solid scalpel or high-energy radiation, such as X-rays, ultra sound, laser beams or the like.

Abstract: A navigation system for use during a surgical procedure is provided. The navigation system is configured to use electromagnetic tracking data produced by electromagnetic tracking devices and 2D image data produced by a fluoroscope to intra-operatively register 2D images of a patient to a pre-operative 3D image of the patient. In some implementations, a surgeon may be able to perform an interventional or surgical procedure guided by the navigation system.

Abstract: Implantable devices and methods for external beam radiation treatments are disclosed. One embodiment of an implantable device for guided radiation therapy comprises an active marker configured to be positioned within the patient and to transmit a non-ionizing wireless signal in response to a non-ionizing wirelessly transmitted source energy. The device further includes a fastening unit coupled to the active marker and configured to (a) hold the marker within a desired distance of a target in the tissue and (b) inhibit deformation of tissue from moving the active marker relative to the target.

Abstract: A magnetic resonance imaging system is provided for obtaining MR images by scanning a region of the object previously located on an object's positioning image. The system comprises a displaying unit, inputting unit, approximating unit, and locating unit. The displaying unit displays a plurality of tomographic images of the object as the positioning image, each of the tomographic images including an indication of a target of interest thereon. The inputting unit enables information about a running state of the target in a direction along the target to be supplied toward each of the tomographic images. The approximating unit calculates three-dimensionally an approximated curve indicating the running state of the target in the direction on the basis of the supplied information about the running state. The locating unit locates the region substantially perpendicular to the approximated curve.

Abstract: The present invention provides new and useful features and mechanisms for the localization and transport of biopsy specimens. The invention having a specimen board, an absorbent material in operative engagement and in coplanar alignment with the specimen board, a compression sheet, radio opaque indicia located within the specimen board, and a flexible connection between the compression sheet and the specimen board, and an attachment device which provides for removable engagement of the specimen board and compression sheet. The apparatus further provides for a clear visualization window and operating instructions. The absorbent material is capable of adjustable movement between a first and second position, providing orthogonal positioning relative to the specimen board. As a result, the apparatus may be used to create three dimensional radiographic images allowing tissue analysis resulting in orthogonal views while maintaining original positional reference points.

Abstract: A method for performing computer-assisted orthopaedic surgery includes the steps of: (1) producing and displaying three-dimensional geometrical models of first and second bones, the first and second bones forming a joint; (2) identifying a zone of impingement between the first bone and the second bone on at least one of the bones; and (3) generating and displaying a color map of at least one surface of at least one bone, the at least one surface being within the zone of impingement, the color map including different colors representing different depths of bone to be removed in order to achieve an increased range of motion between the first and second bones.

Abstract: A system for selectively disabling a surgical instrument operating in a surgical site of a region of interest of a living subject.

Abstract: A marker-tracking system includes an object, a marker illuminating device, a marker sensing device, and a computing device. The object includes a first retroreflective marker having a shape that is substantially defined by two spherical caps of different radii that are disposed substantially concentric in relation to one another. The marker illuminating device substantially illuminates the first retroreflective marker, the marker sensing device detects the illuminated first retroreflective marker and generates first data indicative of the location of the illuminated first retroreflective marker in space, and the computing device processes the first data generated by the marker sensing device to determine a position and/or orientation of the object in space.

Abstract: System and methods for image guided surgery is provided. The surgical tracking system can include at least one sensor configured to acquire a marker signal associated with a first location of a marker within a body and to output a first signal indicative of the first location, and also further configured to acquire a device signal associated with a second location of a movable imaging device and to output a second signal indicative of the second location. The movable imaging device can be configured to generate a plurality of sequential images. The surgical tracking system can further include at least one processor configured to receive the first signal, the second signal, and the plurality of sequential images, and to generate a plurality of composite images where at least one of the plurality of composite images include a visual indication of the first location on at least one of the plurality of sequential images.

Abstract: A multimodal fiducial marker (10) for registration of data is disclosed. The multimodal fiducial marker (10) generally comprises a first portion (12) made from at least one radiopaque material and a second portion (14) made from a porous material capable of absorbing at least one radioactive material. The second portion (14) at least partially surrounds the first portion (12).

Abstract: A radiotherapy apparatus controller includes: a movement collection section; a sensor control section configured to change a first time interval in which a second sensor measures a position of an irradiation area in the subject, based on the movement information; and an irradiation control section. The movement collection section collects movement information indicating a movement of a subject from a first sensor. The sensor control section changes a first time interval in which a second sensor measures a position of an irradiation area in the subject, based on the movement information. The irradiation control section controls a radiotherapy apparatus such that therapeutic radiation irradiated to the irradiation area is changed based on the position.

Abstract: A system for tracking the position of an instrument relative to an area of interest includes a first fixator configured to carry first and second localizing devices. A second fixator is configured to carry the first localizing device. A third localizing device communicates with the first localizing device and the second localizing device communicates with the first localizing device such that the position of the second localizing device can be determined relative to the position of the third localizing device. The second localizing device is attachable to the instrument and the first localizing device is attachable to the first fixator such that the first localizing device communicates with the second localizing device on the instrument in order that the position of the second localizing device on the instrument can be determined relative to the third localizing device.

Abstract: A system for constructing image slices through a selected object, the system comprising an identifiable fiducial reference in a fixed position relative to the selected object, wherein the fiducial reference comprises at least two identifiable reference markers. A source of radiation is provided for irradiating the selected object and the fiducial reference to form a projected image of the selected object and the fiducial reference which is recorded by a recording medium.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to apparatus and devices for neuronavigation. A non-invasive dental based fiducial array is disclosed. The fiducial array has a base support member, one or more removable and repositionable marker bases supported by the base support member and a stopper spaced from and supported by the base support member that engages a part of the head of a patient or an animal and cooperates with the base support member to immobilize the fiducial array relative to a location of the head, such as maxillary teeth. An anchoring site is formed on the base support member to accept a custom made dental impression to precisely position the base support member relative to the location of the head.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a vascular image are disclosed wherein a single composite display simultaneously provides a first view of a patient including an angiogram image and a second view including an intravascular image rendered from information provided by an imaging probe mounted on a distal end of a flexible elongate member. A cursor, having a position derived from image information provided by a radiopaque marker proximate the imaging probe, is displayed within the angiogram image to correlate the position of the imaging probe to a presently displayed intravascular image and thus provide an easily discernable identification of a position within a patient corresponding to a currently displayed intravascular image. The resulting composite display simultaneously provides: an intravascular image that includes information about a vessel that is not available from an angiogram and a current location within a vessel of a source of intravascular image data from which the intravascular image is rendered.

Abstract: An optical beam pointing system for setting an irradiation position and which is capable of automatically performing positional adjustments of visible light beams with respect to an aiming center. The system uses opposed pointers disposed on opposite sides of an irradiation center, each pointer including a light-projecting portion for projecting a beam aimed at the irradiation center, a light-receiving portion for generating a detection signal, and a control portion.

Abstract: A solid fiduciary marker for registering at least two images when imaging the same subject using distinct imaging devices is disclosed. The solid fiduciary marker is visible in at least two of a Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Planar gamma camera, X-ray CT, planar X-ray, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and optical imager. The marker includes at least two of various doping compounds to be detected by the various imaging systems. The doping compounds include a positron emitting nuclide, a gamma emitting nuclide, a doping compound, metal, and a silicone-based polymer is used in association with an MRI device.

Abstract: An article to enable the creation of a model of a surface includes a flexible substrate and multiple optical tracking points attached to the flexible substrate at predetermined location. The optical tracking points can be tracked by a tracking system, and a data link enables communication from the flexible substrate to a tracking system. Also disclosed is an article that enables the creation of a model of a surface including multiple light emitting diodes attached to the flexible substrate at predetermined locations. Finally, a method of registering an article and a method for creating a model of a surface having a shape are disclosed.

Abstract: A patient defines a patient space in which an instrument can be tracked and navigated. An image space is defined by image data that can be registered to the patient space. A tracking device can be connected to a member in a known manner that includes imageable portions that generate image points in the image data. Selected image slices or portions can be used to register reconstructed image data to the patient space.

Abstract: A low-density sensor panel assembly system is provided for use with remote marker assemblies that generates a marker signal and for use with a radiation therapy source that generates a radiation beam during radiation therapy. The system includes a sensor array having a layer of sensor coils arranged in a selected pattern and configured to receive the marker signal from the remote marker. A support panel is connected to the sensor array and retains each of the sensor coils in a substantially fixed and unmoving position relative to the other sensor coils. The sensor panel and sensor array define a low-density panel structure configured to dwell in the radiation beam during the radiation therapy.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for percutaneous and/or minimally invasive implantation of a construct. The construct may be implanted using a navigation system for planning and execution of a procedure. A plurality of portions of the construct may be interconnected using locations and paths determined and navigated with the navigation system.

Abstract: An anatomical data registration device may include a dental device. The dental device may configurable to be subject-specific. A dental device may be positionable in a substantially fixed spatial relationship relative to a portion of the subject. An anatomical data registration device may include one or more radiopaque markers. At least one of the radiopaque markers may be positioned in the dental device. The radiopaque marker may be configured to facilitate alignment of two or more images of the portion of the subject. The data registration device may be positionable within a subject's mouth.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for virtual implant review. Certain embodiments provide a method for virtual implant review. The method includes registering a two-dimensional image and a three-dimensional image. The method includes detecting an implant or instrument in the two-dimensional image. The method also includes performing an initial implant registration of the implant or instrument with respect to the three dimensional image based on navigation information and refining the initial implant registration based on image data analysis to generate a refined implant registration. Additionally, the method includes displaying a representation of the implant or instrument with respect to the three-dimensional image based on the refined image registration and the refined implant registration.

Abstract: A system and method for use during hip surgery includes a position frame that is removably secured to the patient's femur. The system further includes a tracking unit and navigation engine that establish a pelvic coordinate system and, with the patient's leg placed in a predetermined orientation, capture the location of the femoral position frame within the pelvic coordinate system. The system further includes an image generator configured to display one or more images for directing the surgeon to return the patient's leg to the predetermined orientation following a trial reduction based upon the previously captured position. A leg change determination engine compares the current, post-reconstruction position of the femoral position tracking frame with the previously captured, pre-reconstruction position to derive leg length, offset, and anterior-posterior change values. The change values are then provided to the surgeon for evaluating the suitability of the trial reduction.

Abstract: A fiduciary marker includes a hollow cylindrical body comprised of a bio-compatible polymer and including a first end, a second end, an inner surface extending between the first end to the second end and an outer surface extending between the first end to the second end. A plurality of apertures are formed in the body and extend from the inner surface to the outer surface.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for use within an image-guided surgical navigation system for facilitating the combined positioning and orientation of multiple surgical implements. A tool guide having multiple cannulas is tracked by a surgical navigation system in real time. Position data of the tool guide is registered and combined with pre-acquired images by the navigation computer. Concurrent graphical representations of the plurality of cannulas are superimposed over the images and displayed. The display allows the surgeon to place the tool guide into the patient's body and position and orient the plurality of cannulas which are then used to place each of the implements.

Abstract: System for registering a first image with a second image, the system including a first medical positioning system for detecting a first position and orientation of the body of a patient, a second medical positioning system for detecting a second position and orientation of the body, and a registering module coupled with a second imager and with the second medical positioning system, the first medical positioning system being associated with and coupled with a first imager, the first imager acquiring the first image from the body, the first imager producing the first image by associating the first image with the first position and orientation, the second medical positioning system being associated with and coupled with the second imager, the second imager acquiring the second image and associating the second image with the second position and orientation, the registering module registering the first image with the second image, according to the first position and orientation and the second position and orienta

Abstract: A bone reposition device includes first and second bone supports for supporting first and second portions of a fracture or osteotomize bone about a fracture or osteotomize site, a plurality of sequentially connected connection members and a plurality of joints each with at least a pair of adjacent parts for connecting the connection members therebetween and to the first and second bone supports. The plurality of joints includes at least six joints, each of which possesses one degree of freedom and allows controllable relative rotation or translation of said pair of adjacent parts about one of three axes respectively.

Abstract: A system for measuring the position of a hand-held tool relative to a body in six degrees of freedom employs a camera attached via a mechanical linkage to the tool so that the camera moves together with the proximal portion of the tool and has a field of view including the distal end of the tool. A processing system processes images from the camera to determine a position of at least part of the tool. By employing optically identifiable fiducial reference points defined on the external surface of the body, a projection of the tool tip position onto a plane containing the target can be derived and displayed together with the target position, thereby facilitating guiding the tool to the target.

Abstract: A computer-assisted surgery system for guiding an operator in altering a pelvis. A sensing apparatus is provided for tracking a reference tool and a bone altering tool. A position calculator calculates a position and orientation of a pelvic frame of reference as a function of the tracking of the reference tool, and for calculating a position and orientation of the bone altering tool with respect to the frame of reference. A source of posture data and a posture data correction calculator are provided and are operative to provide a display of information allowing an operator to take into consideration the posture data from the source of posture data when altering the pelvis. A display unit is connected to the position calculator and to the posture data correction calculator for displaying the display of information and the bone altering tool with respect to the pelvic frame of reference.

Abstract: Methods and systems enable accurate control of robotic treatments of internal features of a body by tracking movements of the exterior of the body. Such tracking enables programmed and automated or semi-automated surgical operations to compensate for movement of the patient's body during surgery. A tracking system that includes a marker, which may be disposable, that is attached to the body and accurately tracked in a three-dimensional coordinate system by a tracking system. Compensation for body movements may be accomplished by adjusting the movement or position of a surgical instrument, a surgical robot, a radiation source collimator and/or the operating room table. The markers may include a radiofrequency identifier (RFID) chip or memory chip that can be interrogated by the tracking system.

Abstract: A method for determining a three-dimensional form of a body from two-dimensional projection images includes producing at least one projection image of the body and producing corresponding model projection images from a generic model of the body. The body projection images and the model can be input into a computer-assisted processing unit and the generic model can be adjusted to the body by comparing image contents of the body projection images with the model projections images at a two-dimensional level only. The three-dimensional form of the body can be determined from the adjusted generic model.

Abstract: A method of registering an article having a surface to previously created scan data of the article includes the steps of providing a flexible substrate having multiple tracking points attached to the substrate, applying the substrate to the article to be registered, creating a model of the surface of the article from a location of each tracking point; and registering the model with the previously created scan data. A method of creating a model of a surface having a shape and an article to enable the creation of a model of a surface are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for mapping a condition of a structure that includes a plurality of support members covered by a wall is disclosed and includes a computer processor having a memory, a two-dimensional model of the structure stored in the memory and a three-dimensional model generator operatively associated with the computer. A density sensor that includes an ultrasonic transducer is operatively connected to the computer processor and provided with an ultra wideband transmitter. A position locating system is provided for determining the position of the ultra wideband transmitter, and hence the density sensor, in a frame of reference and communicating the position to the computer processor which displays indications of density on a three-dimensional model of the structure. A method for mapping a condition of a structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A contrast marker for use in imaging applications, wherein the marker is sensitive to an applied magnetic field through the formation of radical pair species and wherein the marker is independently magnetically sensitive, optically sensitive, and magneto-optically sensitive.

Abstract: A targeting device for providing a series of coordinates/lines within a sheet of sterile, flexible material with an adherent surface which is applied to the skin (after suitable surgical preparation). The sheet is non-porous and may have a topical antiseptic on the side which is applied to the skin. A fluoroscope or roentgenographic image of the portion of the body to which the adherent film is applied will show the underlying skeletal and radiopaque elements as well as the overlying surgical grid. Once the targeting device is applied, the coordinates on the grid lines are clearly visible on the surface of the skin as well as on the fluoroscopic or radiographic image and by knowing the direction of the fluoroscopic or radiographic beam, the operator will be able to thereby correlate a specific locus on the skin with an underlying skeletal element or other underlying radiopaque structure.

Abstract: A system and method for positioning a patient for radiotherapy is provided. The method comprises: acquiring a first x-ray image sequence of a target inside the patient at a first angle; acquiring first respiratory signals of the patient while acquiring the first x-ray image sequence; acquiring a second x-ray image sequence of the target at a second angle; acquiring second respiratory signals of the patient while acquiring the second x-ray image sequence; synchronizing the first and second x-ray image sequences with the first and second respiratory signals to form synchronized first and second x-ray image sequences; identifying the target in the synchronized first and second x-ray image sequences; and determining three-dimensional (3D) positions of the target through time in the synchronized first and second x-ray image sequences.

Abstract: A method for early detection of a pregnancy complication, including touching a position sensor to a point on a fetal presenting part of a fetus in a mother, and capturing a position of the position sensor, touching the position sensor to a set of points on the mother and capturing the position of the position sensor at each point, and detecting a pregnancy complication sign based upon a predefined criterion for said pregnancy complication. Methods and apparatus are provided for identifying the BPD pattern in an ultrasound image, for determining characteristics of body parts outside of a pelvic region, for BPD reconstruction and for an adapter for a position sensor are also described among other embodiments.

Abstract: Methods for determining a position of an implant in an ultrasound imaging system are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes determining an initial transformation matrix based at least in part on positions of a plurality of implants in a fluoroscopy coordinate system and estimated positions of said plurality of implants in an ultrasound coordinate system, modifying said initial transformation matrix based on an accuracy of said estimated positions of said plurality of implants, and determining a position of an implant in said ultrasound coordinate system based at least in part on said modified transformation. Computer program product, systems, and user interfaces associated with embodiments of the methods are also provided.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems relating to image guided interventions on dynamic tissue. One embodiment is a method that includes creating a dataset that includes images, one of the images depicting a non-tissue internal reference marker, being linked to non-tissue internal reference marker positional information, and being at least 2-dimensional. Another embodiment is a method that includes receiving a position of an instrument reference marker coupled to an instrument; transforming the position into image space using a position of a non-tissue internal reference marker implanted in a patient; and superimposing a representation of the instrument on an image in which the non-tissue internal reference marker appears. Computer readable media that include machine readable instructions for carrying out the steps of the disclosed methods. Apparatuses, such as integrated circuits, configured to carry out the steps of the disclosed methods.

Abstract: A system and method for calibrating and positioning a radiation therapy treatment table with a high degree of precision and accuracy. The system and method comprising a treatment table for use with a radiation therapy system with radiographic indexing markers embedded or inlaid in the patient treatment table. The radiographic indexing markers having a density different from density of the table material, or a radio-frequency or magnetic contrasting matter, something that the imaging system and detector of the radiation therapy system can detect, so that when scanned, with or without a patient or phantom on the table, the precise location of the patient treatment table in the x, y and z planes is known. The radiographic indexing markers may also have the ability to be visually seen by the technician, doctor, physicist or other health care provider conducting the procedure.

Abstract: A computerized system 40 for locating a device. System 40 includes a sensor module 20 and a CPU 42. A radioactive source 38, associated with the device, produces a signal in the form of radioactive disintegrations. Module 20 includes a radiation detector 22 capable of receiving a signal from source 38 attached to the device. Module 20 produces an output signal 34. CPU 42 receives output signal(s) 34 and translates output 34 into directional information relating to a position of source 38.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus for fusing or combining functional image data and anatomical image data. The invention, which may be carried out through user interaction or automatically, enables composite and clinically valuable images to be generated that display functional and anatomical data acquired with different imaging systems. By identifying fiducial markers on a functional data image and correlating the fiducial markers with anatomical markers or indicia on the anatomical data image, the respective images may be aligned with one another before a composite image is generated.

Abstract: An apparatus for marking bone of a patient includes a marker, a tracking system and a display. The marker includes pigment and is configured to impart the pigment on the bone. The tracking system is in communication with the marker. The tracking system is configured to determine a location of the marker relative to the bone and to match at least one anatomical feature of the bone of the patient to an image of the bone. The display is in communication with the tracking system and adapted to show an image of the location of the marker relative to the image of the bone while the marker imparts the pigment on the bone.

Abstract: A surgical navigation system has a computer with a memory and display connected to a surgical instrument or pointer and position tracking system, so that the location and orientation of the pointer are tracked in real time and conveyed to the computer. The computer memory is loaded with data from an MRI, CT, or other volumetric scan of a patient, and this data is utilized to dynamically display 3-dimensional perspective images in real time of the patient's anatomy from the viewpoint of the pointer. The images are segmented and displayed in color to highlight selected anatomical features and to allow the viewer to see beyond obscuring surfaces and structures. The displayed image tracks the movement of the instrument during surgical procedures. The instrument may include an imaging device such as an endoscope or ultrasound transducer, and the system displays also the image for this device from the same viewpoint, and enables the two images to be fused so that a combined image is displayed.

Abstract: An apparatus and procedures for percutaneous placement of surgical implants and instruments such as, for example, screws, rods, wires and plates into various body parts using image guided surgery. The invention includes an apparatus for use with a surgical navigation system, an attaching device rigidly connected to a body part, such as the spinous process of a vertebrae, with an identification superstructure rigidly but removably connected to the attaching device. This identification superstructure, for example, is a reference arc and fiducial array which accomplishes the function of identifying the location of the superstructure, and, therefore, the body part to which it is fixed, during imaging by CAT scan or MRI, and later during medical procedures.

Abstract: An apparatus and procedures for percutaneous placement of surgical implants and instruments such as, for example, screws, rods, wires and plates into various body parts using image guided surgery. The invention includes an apparatus for use with a surgical navigation system, an attaching device rigidly connected to a body part, such as the spinous process of a vertebrae, with an identification superstructure rigidly but removably connected to the attaching device. This identification superstructure, for example, is a reference arc and fiducial array which accomplishes the function of identifying the location of the superstructure, and, therefore, the body part to which it is fixed, during imaging by CAT scan or MRI, and later during medical procedures.