Tool position indicator
US7302288B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignees
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 25, 1996 |
| Grant date | Nov 27, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2090/3983
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A tool for use with a surgical navigation system includes a plurality of LEDs mounted to the distal end of the tool. The LED's provide an indication of the direction in which the tool must be moved to reach a desired position. Four LED's mounted along perpendicular axes are provided. Modes for indicating the desired location, orientation, rotation, and depth are provided. A mode indicator may also be provided. The tool is designed for use with a surgical navigation system which includes an infrared localizer and computer system. The indicators assist the surgeon in positioning the surgical tool in relation to the patient. Indicators other than LEDs may be used; the indicators may also be mounted in alternate locations in the operating room environment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.