Fiducial marker and protective cap

US8170645B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Medtronic, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Matthew S. Solar · Pembroke Pines, US
• Mark S. Freas · Indialantic, US
• Thomas L. Bridges · Melbourne Beach, US
• David M. Lee · Los Alamos, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 7, 2005
• Grant date: May 1, 2012
• Expiry date: May 22, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/3995
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

This document discusses, among other things, a fiducial marker kit. In one example, the kit includes a fiducial marker assembly that includes a bone screw base for receiving an imageable marker or locatable divot. A valved protective sleeve prevents debris from accumulating in a receptacle portion of the base, which may otherwise degrade the accuracy of patient registration in an image-guided surgical procedure. In one example, the valve automatically opens or closes upon insertion or removal of a screwdriver or other tool, or a shaft portion of the imageable marker or locatable divot. Various bone screw base and receptacle combinations are also discussed.