Non-radiological colonoscope tracking image guided colonoscopy using commercially available electromagnetic tracking system

• Published in: 2010 IEEE Conference on Robotics, Automation and Mechatronics pp. 62 - 67
• Main Authors: Lee Yik Ching, Möller, Knut, Suthakorn, Jackrit
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.06.2010
• Subjects: Biopsy; Biosensors; Coils; Colonoscope Tracking; Colonoscopy; Conolonoscopy; Costs; Electromagnetic Tracking; Hospitals; Image Guided Intervention; Instruments; Lesions; Navigation; Surgical Navigation; Visualization
• ISBN: 1424465036; 9781424465033
• ISSN: 2158-2181
• DOI: 10.1109/RAMECH.2010.5513213

A non-radiological method of visualizing the path of a colonoscope using a chain of electromagnetic sensor coils along the biopsy channel of the instrument has been developed. The electromagnetic imaging system has been introduced as an aid to colonoscopy, and reveals a great potential for assisting endoscopists. There is an existing model available on the market by Olympus, ScopeGuide; however, due to cost consideration and other factors concerned, some hospitals may not want to replace existing instruments. This paper discusses about the possibility of using a commercially available electromagnetic tracking system, the Northern Digital Aurora system and presents a simple algorithm employed to find a representation of the colonoscope path. A possibility of reducing the amount of sensor coils used in existing model is also discussed. The visual guidance is expected to provide the user with a sense of assurance, which is often missing in the navigation of colonoscope. The work may be useful in locating the exact position when a lesion is found during the procedure, and to identify a loop when it is formed. It may also be useful as a navigational aid in colonoscopy training and teaching purposes.