Method of monitoring a location of an area of interest within a patient during a medical procedure
US6119033A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 23, 1997 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 23, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/363
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for a medical imaging system are disclosed. The imaging system is particulary suited for surgical procedures performed with respect to a lesion in a breast, although application of the invention is not so limited. An image of a portion of a patient's anatomy can be displayed on a computer. A surgical instrument and a lesion within the patient's anatomy can be displayed, showing the relative positions of each. A portion of the patient's anatomy can be monitored using markers or sensors that report position relative to an external reference point. Movement of a lesion within soft tissue can be calculated and displayed in response to changes in position or shape of the soft tissue. Accordingly, position of a lesion within a breast can be tracked in response to changes in the shape of the breast as the patient is moved or the breast is manipulated during the procedure. The system can show multiple views, can appropriately magnify the view when the instrument is in a critical position and can provide other signals assisting a surgeon in performing a procedure. Sensors and instruments for use in the system are disclosed. The procedure can be recorded for playback.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.