Target region identification for imaging applications

Inventors

Bizzell, Daniel Lee • McNeil, Raeshon Lamont • Perez, Juan Carlos

Assignees

Enventys LLC • Rivanna Medical Inc

Abstract

Systems and methods related to the location of target regions in imaging applications are generally described. Certain embodiments relate to devices and/or methods for image-guided identification of suitable regions at which to insert needles, catheters, and the like. Such systems and methods can be used in association with a variety of imaging technologies, including ultrasound imaging. In certain embodiments, the systems and methods described herein can be used in association with hand-held ultrasound imaging devices.

Core Innovation

The invention concerns systems and methods for accurately identifying and marking target regions in imaging applications, particularly for procedures such as needle or catheter insertion. The core solution involves an imaging device with an integrated or associated marking unit capable of producing a mark on the target to be imaged, such as skin, within defined boundaries of the imaging device or its display. The marking unit can be activated via an actuator and may comprise mechanisms like lasers, mechanical indenters, lancing units, or ink-markers to create a visible or physical mark.

The problem addressed by the invention pertains to the limitations of existing ultrasound-guided marking methods. Current ultrasound devices do not provide mechanisms to accurately mark the skin relative to the underlying anatomy while the imaging device remains in position, leading to challenges in precise anatomical localization and insertion point targeting. Existing needle guides are either not aligned with the actual anatomical site or restrict insertion to a fixed angle, which hinders accuracy and flexibility during procedures.

The described systems include imaging devices having a housing with an imaging unit (which may be an ultrasound transducer), a working side for placement on or near the target, and, optionally, an output display for anatomical visualization. Some embodiments incorporate alignment indicators on the housing and an associated template, which, by marking reference locations and employing a template, allow for the accurate transfer of the imaged target’s position to the surface for subsequent procedures. The invention enables precise, image-guided localization and marking of anatomical regions to guide medical actions such as injections.

Claims Coverage

The patent contains a single independent claim that covers the inventive features of a device for imaging and accurate marking of target regions.

The core inventive feature centers on an imaging device designed for accurate, image-guided marking of target regions by combining a recessed working side, an actuator, and a marking unit capable of marking within the output display’s periphery.

Stated Advantages

Documented Applications