Ultrasound locatable surgical guidewire system and method
Inventors
OLAFSEN, Linda J. • Schubert, Keith E. • OLAFSEN, Jeffrey S. • Dayawansa, Samantha • Huang, Jason H.
Assignees
Baylor University • Baylor Scott and White Health
Publication Number
US-11883114-B2
Publication Date
2024-01-30
Expiration Date
2041-05-18
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Abstract
The present disclosure provides a system and method for using widely available ultrasound imaging to overcome the limitations of imaging guidewires and other small objects that may be subwavelength in size relative to an ultrasound wavelength. The system and method can reduce the use of X-rays and exposure to the dangerous effects of radiation and avoids the expense of MRI technology. The subwavelength object, such as a guidewire, can be detected using several methods and associated systems described herein, including the object changing positions at a frequency that creates a brighter ultrasound image of the object as the object progresses across a scanned region of the ultrasound detector. In some embodiments, the movement of the small object causes a different speckle signature than the object itself would otherwise generate. Analysis of changes in speckle patterns due to progressive movement of an object can yield a detectable object.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a system and method for detecting small, subwavelength-sized objects, such as surgical guidewires, using ultrasound imaging technology. The system employs movement of the object between a first state and a second state position, creating changes in the speckle pattern of the ultrasound image. By analyzing differences in speckle signatures, the location of the object can be detected even when the object is smaller than the ultrasound wavelength and would otherwise be indistinguishable from background noise.
This innovation addresses a significant problem in medical imaging, particularly in procedures that require tracking thin guidewires or similar instruments within the body. Existing imaging methods such as X-ray fluoroscopy expose patients and clinicians to harmful ionizing radiation and necessitate the use of contrast agents, while MRI approaches are costly and can be impractical for complex neurovascular procedures. Standard ultrasound struggles to detect subwavelength objects due to poor resolution and interference from speckle noise, making it unsuitable for locating very thin guidewires.
The disclosed system utilizes object movements—either induced, for example by shape memory materials and controlled heating, or natural—at specific frequencies to cause detectable and distinguishable changes in the speckle pattern within the ultrasound image. The approach can include lateral or longitudinal movement and optionally synchronizes object movement with ultrasound pulse acquisition for maximized visibility. This enables the use of widely available, non-ionizing, and economical ultrasound imaging to navigate and locate subwavelength guidewires and other instruments in real time.
Claims Coverage
There are two independent claims, each covering key inventive features related to the detection of small objects with ultrasound imaging using movement and speckle pattern analysis, and a corresponding method.
Detection of object location using speckle pattern differences from object movement
A system for detecting one or more objects with ultrasound imaging technology, where the object has a first state at a first state position and a second state at a second state position, and movement of the object causes ultrasound waves to reflect from each position, creating distinct first and second speckle patterns. A difference between the first and second speckle patterns indicates the location of the object.
Method for detecting object location by analyzing speckle pattern differences during object movement
A method of detecting one or more objects using ultrasound imaging technology by placing an object capable of at least partially reflecting ultrasound waves into a substance, moving the object from a first state at a first position to a second state at a second position, allowing ultrasound waves to reflect from each position, and creating respective speckle patterns at each state. A difference between the speckle patterns determines the location of the object.
The claim coverage broadly protects systems and methods for detecting objects by using movement-induced differences in ultrasound speckle patterns to determine object location.
Stated Advantages
Improved navigation to treatment sites and reduced time to reach the site, increasing successful treatment and survival rates in patients.
Reduction in exposure to X-ray or ionizing radiation for both patients and physicians by using ultrasound imaging of the guidewire.
Lower cost and greater portability compared to MRI, enabling easier access to the technology in rural or remote areas.
Capability to automate or remotely control arterial navigation for treatment in remote locations, such as battlefields and rural areas.
Increased accuracy in object tracking that can improve navigational speed while minimizing or eliminating damage to other tissue.
Documented Applications
Detection and navigation of subwavelength surgical guidewires, particularly for neurosurgery and neurovascular procedures.
Endovascular navigation within body passageways using ultrasound-based localization.
Treatment of neurovascular conditions such as stroke and cancer, including use with robotically controlled guidewires and sensor-equipped wired tips.
Use in body and nonorganic substances conducive to ultrasound wave detection.
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