System and method for fixation of implantable sensors

An implantable apparatus that is configured to be implanted in a patient, the implantable apparatus comprising:

• one or more first screws configured to be screwed into one or more bones on a first side of an internal object to be imaged;
• one or more second screws configured to be screwed into the one or more bones on a second side of the internal object to be imaged, wherein the one or more first screws and the one or more second screws comprise pedicle screws, wherein the one or more bones comprise vertebra, and wherein the internal object to be imaged comprises a spinal cord;
• a first rod configured to extend through the one or more first screws;
• a second rod configured to extend through the one or more second screws, wherein the internal object to be imaged is configured to be positioned between the first and second rods;
• a first support structure configured to have the first rod extend therethrough, wherein the first support structure is configured to support a sensor proximate to a first end of the sensor, and wherein the sensor comprises an implantable ultrasound sensor;
• a second support structure configured to have the second rod extend therethrough, wherein the second support structure is configured to support the sensor proximate to a second end of the sensor, wherein the first and second support structures are configured to support the sensor such that the sensor is at least partially positioned over the internal object to be imaged, and wherein the first and second support structures each comprise:
• a rod portion configured to receive the first rod or the second rod therethrough, wherein the rod portion is configured adjust a position of the sensor in a first direction, and wherein the rod portion comprises:
• a plurality of posts that define a first recess, wherein the first rod or the second rod is configured to be received into the first recess;
• and
• one or more actuators positioned at least partially between the posts, wherein the one or more actuators are engaged with internal threads defined on inner surfaces of the posts, and wherein the one or more actuators are configured to rotate to move in the first direction;
• and
• a sensor portion configured to be coupled to the rod portion and to support the sensor, wherein the sensor portion is configured to be rotated with respect to the rod portion, wherein the sensor portion is configured to adjust a position of the sensor in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction, and wherein the sensor portion comprises:
• a shaft that extends at least partially through the rod portion;
• and
• a clamp coupled to the shaft, wherein the clamp supports the sensor therein.

A method, comprising:

• screwing one or more screws into one or more bones in a patient during a surgical procedure;
• inserting a rod through the one or more screws;
• positioning a support structure such that the rod extends through the support structure;
• inserting a sensor at least partially into the support structure;
• and
• adjusting the support structure to vary a position of the sensor in a first direction, a second direction, or both, wherein the first and second directions are perpendicular to one another.