Z2

Surgery assistance system for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Klemens Opfermann, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg; Enrico Pannicke, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg; Dr Bennet Hensen, Hannover Medical School

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Transfer and Entrepreneur Centre


Challenge

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a high-end clinical application which is e.g. used in medical diagnostics and for planning medical interventions. With respect to the support of minimally invasive interventions, the initial positioning of the instrument at the planned puncture site is a major challenge. The reason is that the instruments are only visible in the MR image after they entered the patient. The invention mentioned here relates to a device that provides medical professionals with precise information on the optimal entry point of the minimally invasive instruments.


Technology

The invention describes an operative assistance system for an MRI, displaying an entry point for an instrument on the surface of a patient. The challenge here is to find an implementation that is simple with respect to its application. Due to the strong magnetic fields, conventional actuators cannot be used. The present invention uses conventional multi-winding conductor loops to generate force. When they are powered with electrical current, the interaction with the static magnetic field leads to a deflection of the individual conductor loops parallel to these fields. When using two parallel conductor loops, the orientation of the arrangement can be adjusted via the ratio of the two currents. This enables the conductor loops to rotate for 360° in the plane of the static magnetic field and, by means of a suitable force deflection, the alignment of a laser to indicate the puncture point. The mechanism provides a simple but precise method for generating force within a strong static magnetic field.


Commercial Opportunity

We offer licenses for the invention and the technology.


Development Status

There is a fully functional prototype for the technology.


Patent Situation

  • DE 10 2016 005 437, granted
  • DE 10 2016 005 436, granted
  • EP 17 730 361, positive decision for granting
  • IL 262370, application filed
  • US 16/094,716, application filed

 

Surgery assistance system for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)