Systems and methods utilizing shape sensing fibers

Abstract

Systems and methods that utilize shape sensing fibers are described herein. In certain variations, a fiber may include a service loop or other length that allows for sliding or displacing of a fiber within the lumen of an elongate instrument when the distal portion of the elongate instrument is articulated. Systems and methods for registering a shape sensing fiber, including registration fixtures and registration techniques are also described herein.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Prov. Pat. App. 61 / 513,488 filed Jul. 29, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. This application relates to and incorporates herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes the patent application filed on the same day as the present application and titled “APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR FIBER INTEGRATION AND REGISTRATION” and identified by attorney docket number HNMD-N-F042.00-US.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present systems and methods relate generally to systems and methods utilizing shape sensing fibers and to the integration and registration of shape sensing fibers therein.BACKGROUND[0003]Currently known minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions use elongate instruments, such as catheters or more rigid arms or shafts, to approach and address various tissue structures within the body. For various re...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a method and apparatus for actuating an elongated instrument, such as a medical device, using a shape sensing fiber. The fiber is positioned within the instrument and the housing of the instrument, and the fiber is connected to a controller that transfers actuating force to the instrument to control its movement. The fiber allows for sensory feedback to maintain its shape and to provide information about the shape and location of the instrument. This technology allows for precise control and manipulation of the instrument, with reduced strain on the fiber and improved accuracy in its shape sensing capabilities.

Problems solved by technology

Conventional technologies such as electromagnetic position sensors may be utilized to measure 3-dimensional spatial position but may be limited in utility for elongate medical instrument applications due to hardware geometric constraints, electromagnetivity issues, etc.

However, large strain changes induced by mechanical structures (such as pinching, twisting, etc.) may disrupt the accuracy of shape algorithms.

The addition of components to a catheter may negatively affect the performance of a catheter (such as stiffness, inner and outer diameters, etc.).

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