Mar 7 2013
Pathfinder Technologies, the developer of computer-assisted navigation products, and InnerOptic Technology, the developer of ultrasound-guided navigation products, announced a licensing agreement today that will enable Pathfinder to offer InnerOptic’s technology on its Explorer™ navigation system.
In use at top cancer centers in the US, Pathfinder’s Explorer™ system was designed to improve visualization in liver surgery by offering real-time instrument tracking in relation to 3D anatomical models built from pre-operative MRI or CT scans. InnerOptic’s technology allows real-time, 3D visualization of a surgical instrument’s location in the context of intra-operative ultrasound imaging, the standard imaging modality used in liver surgery today.
By adding InnerOptic’s capabilities, Pathfinder provides the best technology in real-time tracking, in relation to both pre- and intra-operative imaging, offering physicians the most detailed and accurate anatomical information possible at the point of therapeutic delivery. Furthermore, Pathfinder will offer InnerOptic’s electromagnetic navigation modality, which enables more precise tracking of the tip of a non-rigid surgical instrument, such as an ablation needle. In offering both electromagnetic and optical navigation modalities, Pathfinder can offer the most comprehensive navigation system on the market.
Pathfinder CEO Jim Cloar recognized this marriage of technologies as a critical step in offering physicians even greater visualization tools for enhanced outcomes. “Since its inception, our technology has improved safety and outcomes by offering real-time navigation from detailed pre-operative scans,” noted Mr. Cloar. “However, incorporating InnerOptic’s advanced ultrasound and electromagnetic tracking capabilities into our device enables even greater visualization and spatial accuracy. We are thrilled to integrate this technology into our product offering, because we know it will benefit patients.”
Similarly, InnerOptic CEO Brian Heaney recognizes the significance of implementing real-time ultrasound tracking into the capabilities of Pathfinder’s Explorer™ device. “We are excited to partner with Pathfinder Technologies to integrate our 3D navigation technology on Explorer™,” said Mr. Heaney. “Combining our products onto one platform provides surgeons with multiple navigation solutions in performing complex liver interventions and, most importantly, enhancing patient outcomes.”
Pathfinder Technologies has also officially changed its name from Pathfinder Therapeutics and re-launched its brand and website. The purpose of these efforts is to highlight Pathfinder’s plans to be holistically focused on the widespread use of navigation technology and visualization tools for surgical and interventional procedures.
For more information on the integrating between Pathfinder and InnerOptic, contact Jim Cloar at [email protected] or Brian Heaney at [email protected].