Interactive navigation system for shock wave applications

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Medical Imaging
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Shock wave lithotripters are used for orthopedic diseases.
• Ultrasound is common for therapy head positioning, but X-ray is preferred for orthopedics.
• Accurate therapy head localization is crucial for effective shock wave treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a new X-ray-guided method for locating lithotripter therapy heads in orthopedic applications.
• To evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of this novel localization technique.

Main Methods:

• Surgeons position target tissue at the C-arc isocenter using AP and lateral X-ray projections.
• An optical tracker monitors therapy head position via infrared LEDs.
• A virtual reality display provides real-time feedback for navigation and alignment.

Main Results:

• The tracking system demonstrated an accuracy of 1.55 mm (RMS) for angular movements up to +/-15 degrees.
• The method allows for free-hand navigation and precise alignment of the shock wave focus.
• Initial tests on 100 patients confirmed the clinical feasibility of the approach.

Conclusions:

• The described X-ray-guided method offers a feasible and accurate solution for lithotripter therapy head localization in orthopedics.
• This technique enhances precision in shock wave therapy delivery for orthopedic conditions.
• The use of optical tracking and virtual reality represents a significant advancement in lithotripter navigation.