Localization of imaging target regions and associated systems, devices and methods
Inventors
Mauldin, Jr., Frank William • Owen, Kevin • Dixon, Adam
Assignees
Publication Number
US-11147536-B2
Publication Date
2021-10-19
Expiration Date
2033-12-27
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Abstract
Handheld ultrasound imaging devices for identification of target regions are generally described. Medical ultrasound is a popular medical imaging modality primarily used for diagnostic imaging of soft tissue but also for interventional procedures such as guidance of a needle or catheter placement. Examples include diagnostic imaging of organs, such cardiac or liver structures. Common interventional procedures that rely on ultrasound guidance are central line placement and guidance of nerve blocks, both of which are high volume procedures in certain hospital settings such as the intensive care unit (ICU). Handheld ultrasound imaging devices with integral display screens and improve portability are described, along with systems and methods for orienting displayed ultrasound images so as to improve their usefulness in guiding interventional procedures.
Core Innovation
The invention is directed to handheld ultrasound imaging devices designed for identification and localization of target regions, particularly during medical diagnostic and interventional procedures. These devices consist of a housing that integrates an ultrasound imaging unit, a hand grip region, and a rotatable display, providing improved portability and ease of operation compared to traditional cart-based systems. The handheld configuration allows the user to position the device directly at the site of interest, with the display and controls immediately accessible.
A key problem addressed is the difficulty, cost, and limited accessibility of existing ultrasound systems, particularly for interventional guidance procedures like central line placement and nerve blocks in settings such as the ICU. Traditional systems are often bulky, difficult to share among multiple clinicians, and lack optimal ergonomics for precise or stable probe control, which can impact the accuracy and ease of such procedures.
The invention further incorporates features such as rotatable displays, detachable marking units for indicating probe insertion sites, and configurable actuators on the hand grip region. The rotatable display can be oriented at multiple angles, ensuring that ultrasound images are visible to the user in an orientation that matches anatomical reality and procedural requirements. The detachable marking unit aids procedural accuracy by marking the skin at the target site, even after the transducer is removed, and accessories such as covers can make the system sterile and usable without requiring transmission gel.
Claims Coverage
The patent claims cover several inventive features centering on a handheld ultrasound imaging device with distinct ergonomic, imaging, and user-interface innovations.
Handheld ultrasound device with rotatable display
The device comprises a housing that includes an ultrasound imaging unit, a hand grip region disposed between a rotatable display and the imaging unit, and a processor for processing image data. The rotatable display is configured to rotate about at least one axis by at least 30 degrees and to present ultrasound images in multiple orientations such that the displayed probe orientation matches the actual orientation as perceived by the user. The device allows operation in any orientation relative to gravity and enables users to move around the subject while keeping the probe orientation on the display consistent with the real probe orientation.
The independent claim establishes a portable ultrasound imaging system with a rotatable display and ergonomic configuration that enables flexible, orientation-matched image visualization and operation during various procedures.
Stated Advantages
Enhanced portability allows easy transport and use in varied clinical settings, addressing limitations of cart-based systems.
Rotatable integrated display enables users to adjust viewing angles without repositioning the entire device, improving ergonomic use and image visibility.
Positioning the hand grip directly above the imaging unit allows finer, more precise control of the scan plane, supporting more accurate targeting during procedures.
Display can show image orientations that match real-world anatomical orientation, increasing the intuitiveness and utility of ultrasound-guided interventions.
Detachable marking units assist in accurately marking and targeting probe insertion sites, improving procedural accuracy even after moving the imaging device.
Configurable actuators on the hand grip allow efficient operation, such as capturing images or adjusting settings, without the need to reorient the device or hand.
Accessories such as covers and marking units may be configured for use without ultrasound gel, reducing setup complexity and maintaining image quality.
The self-contained, pocket-sized form factor enables true handheld, single-hand operation.
Documented Applications
Diagnostic imaging of organs, such as cardiac or liver structures.
Guidance of interventional procedures including needle or catheter placement.
Ultrasound guidance for central line placement.
Ultrasound-guided nerve block procedures.
Spinal anesthesia procedures utilizing the marking unit for accurate needle insertion.
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