Real time detection and tracking of Gauzes by RFID UWB technique

The paper presents the implementation of the GUID (Gauzes UWB Identifier) system to control the path of gauzes and other medical instruments during surgical operations. The system allows tracking of these devices during the entire surgery, with particular reference to real-time localization of gauzes within the patient´s body. A precise localization of gauzes, available to the surgeon, permits an easy removal of these devices, which are sometimes difficult to identify by visual perception. The final objectives are the improvement of the patient safety, of surgeon working procedures, and the reduction of stress conditions of the surgical staff. The GUID prototype is based on RFID Ultra Wide Band(UWB) technology and the experimental phases were carried out in laboratory using the tags both in air and in biological tissue. The results show the performance of a correct identification of the tags and the accuracy of the calculated position with respect to the real position of the tags.