Patent ID: 7846103
Filing Date: 2010-12-07
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. An articulating probe guide for use in conjunction with a medical imaging device, the imaging device generating a cross-sectional image of a portion of a patient's body in an image plane, the articulating probe guide comprising: an imaging device holder having a connecting mechanism for connecting the imaging device holder to the imaging device; a probe guide body pivotally connected to the imaging device holder by a hinge; a probe holder for holding a probe provided in the probe guide body, the probe holder adapted and configured to allow angular and axial translations of the probe within the image plane when the imaging device holder is connected to the imaging device; a first encoder incorporated into the hinge for detecting angular orientation of the imaging device holder relative to the probe guide body; and a second encoder provided in the probe guide body for detecting angular orientation of the probe relative to the probe guide body and the liner position of the probe within the probe guide body; wherein the angular orientations of the imaging device holder and probe are used to extrapolate the probe's penetration path and superimpose the penetration path on to the cross-sectional image formed by the imaging device; and wherein the second encoder comprises at least two pressure sensitive sensor strips for detecting the angular orientation and liner position of the probe, and the probe holder comprises a spring loaded face plate for holding the probe between the face plate and the pressure sensitive sensor strips by exerting a lateral compressive force against the probe.