2017 Volume 55Annual Issue 4PM-Abstract Pages 358
Peripheral nerve block (PNB) is an anesthesia that injects anesthetic around peripheral nerve to block pain transmission. Ultrasound-guided PNB can visualize needle position and spread of anesthetic on the sonogram. However, it requires high skill for anesthesiologist. Objective of the research is to develop a system that predict needle path and tip position to perform PNB accurately and safely. First, images of needle marked at 20 and 10mm intervals are taken by two small USB cameras and the needle is automatically recognized by image processing. 3D position of the marks on the needle are measured, and finally inserted positions and angles are calculated. Average of insert position error was 0.38 mm and that of vertical and horizontal angle error were 1.01 and 0.32 degree respectively. It is assumed that results wasn't enough for supporting needle puncture of 5mm peripheral nerve, but enough for 13mm brachial plexus.
