Apparatus and method for maintaining image quality while minimizing patient X-ray dose

Abstract

A system includes an initialization module, an imaging module, an alignment module, a processing module, and a setup module. The initialization module obtains patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters of a patient. The initialization module selects a first setting for an x-ray source based on the patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters. The imaging module obtains a first sample set of images of a region of interest of the patient and a master sample set of images. The first sample set is acquired as a result of an operation of the x-ray source according to the first setting. The alignment module aligns the first sample set with the master sample set. The processing module processes pixel data corresponding to the result of the alignment based on a pixel parameter or one of the patient parameters. The setup module adjusts the first setting to provide an updated setting. An x-ray dose associated with the updated setting is less than an x-ray dose associated with the first setting.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with an international application date of 2016 / 10 / 20, international application number PCT / US2016 / 057945, and application number 201680076673.2 entering the Chinese national phase, entitled "Device and method for maintaining image quality while minimizing the patient's X-ray dose". Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to x-ray imaging systems, and more particularly to a control system for controlling x-ray dose of an x-ray scanner. Background Art

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] A subject, such as a human patient, may elect or be required to undergo a surgical procedure to correct or enhance the patient's anatomy. Enhancement of the anatomy may include various procedures, such as movement or enhancement of bones, insertion of implantable devices, or other appropriate procedures. A surgeon may perform surgery on the patient based on images of the patient that may be acquired using an x-ray scanner having an imaging system. The images may be acquired before, during, and / or after the surgery. The imaging system may be, for example, A medical imaging system, such as those sold by Medtronic, Inc., or a C-Arm imaging system. The images may be fluoroscopic or radiographic, depending on the operating mode of the imaging system.

[0005] The images of the patient acquired can assist the surgeon in planning and performing surgery, as well as in evaluating the results of the surgery. The surgeon can choose between a two-dimensional image or a three-dimensional image representation of the patient. The images assist the surgeon in performing surgery with less invasive techniques by allowing the surgeon to view the patient's anatomy without having to move overlying tissue, including skin and muscle tissue, while performing the surgery.

[0006] An O-arm imaging system includes an O-shaped gantry and an O-shaped rotor. A C-arm imaging system includes a C-shaped gantry and a C-shaped rotor. Each of these imaging systems generally includes an x-ray source and an x-ray detector mounted opposite each other on a corresponding rotor. Each x-ray source generates x-rays that are directed toward a subject. Each x-ray detector detects the x-rays after they pass through the subject.

[0007] As an example, an imaging system may include an x-ray source, an x-ray detector, and a generator. The generator converts a low voltage (e.g., 400 volts (V)) into a high voltage (e.g., 150 kilovolts (kV)). The high voltage is supplied to the x-ray source to generate x-rays. For the same dose cycle and current, the higher the low voltage and, therefore, the higher the high voltage, the higher the dose of x-rays received by the patient. Similarly, for the same low voltage, the higher the current level and / or the longer the dose cycle, the higher the dose of x-rays received by the patient.

[0008] The voltage, current, and dose cycle can be adjusted by the surgeon (or system operator). The surgeon may intuitively increase the voltage, current, and / or dose cycle in an attempt to provide an improved image. This not only increases the x-ray dose to the patient, but also reduces the quality of the acquired image. Increasing the voltage, current, and / or dose cycle can result in: overloading the x-ray detector; images becoming "grainy" and / or "speckled"; and / or image quality being degraded during surgery. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This section provides a summary of the invention of the present disclosure and is not an exhaustive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. According to various embodiments, a system is provided that includes an initialization module, an imaging module, an alignment module, a processing module, and a setup module. The initialization module is configured to obtain patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters of a patient. The initialization module is configured to select a first setting for an x-ray source based on the patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters. The imaging module is configured to obtain (i) a first sample set having one or more images of a region of interest of a first patient, and (ii) a master sample set having one or more images. The first sample set having one or more images is acquired as a result of the x-ray source operating according to the first setting. The alignment module is configured to align the first sample set having one or more images with the master sample set having one or more images. The processing module is configured to process pixel data corresponding to the result of the alignment based on one of the pixel parameters or the patient parameters. The setup module is configured to adjust the first setting to provide an updated setting. The x-ray dose associated with the updated setting is less than the x-ray dose associated with the first setting.

[0010] In other features, a method is provided and includes obtaining patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters for a first patient, wherein an initialization module is configured to select first settings for an x-ray source based on the patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters. The method further includes obtaining (i) a first sample set of one or more images of a region of interest of the first patient, and (ii) a master sample set of one or more images, wherein the first sample set of one or more images is acquired as a result of the x-ray source operating according to a first plurality of settings. The method further includes: aligning the first sample set of one or more images with the master sample set of one or more images; processing pixel data corresponding to a result of the alignment based on one of the pixel parameters or the patient parameters; and adjusting the first settings to provide updated settings, wherein an x-ray dose associated with the updated settings is less than an x-ray dose associated with the first plurality of settings.

[0011] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of an imaging network including a surgical operation system having a source control module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 2 is an environmental view of an imaging system including a source control module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 or Figure 2 A functional block diagram of a portion of an imaging system;

[0016] Figure 4 is a functional block diagram of a navigation processing module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0017] Figures 5A-5B A method of operating a surgical operating system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Disclosed herein are imaging systems and methods that maintain or improve image quality and minimize patient x-ray dose relative to conventional imaging systems. The disclosed imaging systems can be considered intelligent imaging systems that monitor, track, and learn imaging system and surgeon parameters associated with x-ray dose generated during various procedures. The imaging system monitors trends and provides feedback to the surgeon to improve settings for improved image quality and reduced x-ray dose.

[0019] The following description is merely exemplary in nature. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features. Although the following teachings primarily relate to imaging systems such as A medical imaging system (such as those sold by Medtronic) or a C-Arm imaging system) is described, but the teachings are applicable to other imaging systems.

[0020] Figure 1 An imaging network 10 is shown that may include a server 12, a central provider device 14, a network 16, and a surgical operating system 18. The surgical operating system may be located at a site and include a navigation system and an imaging system, as further described below. Each of the surgical operating systems 18 includes a source control module 19. The source control module 19 controls an x-ray source (an example of which is shown in FIG. Figure 2 ) for x-ray imaging performed by a surgical operating system 18. Various parameters are monitored, tracked, and stored in the surgical operating system 18, which may be transmitted to the central provider device 14 via the network 16. The source control module 19 may generate recommended settings for x-ray imaging and / or receive recommended settings from the central provider device 14. The central provider device 14 may generate recommended settings based on the parameters received from the surgical operating system 18. The server 12, the central provider device 14, and the surgical operating system 18 may include corresponding memories and transceivers for storing and transmitting parameters. The network 16 may be a local area network, a wide area network, a wireless network, etc. The network 16 may include the Internet.

[0021] The server 12 may store records such as surgical records 20, patient records 22, and surgeon records 24, as well as tables 26. The surgical records 20 may store surgical parameters corresponding to the respective surgery. The surgical parameters may include recommended parameters and / or provider parameters. Recommended parameters may be parameters recommended based on monitored, tracked, and / or historical values, predetermined values, and / or provider parameters. Provider parameters may be parameters recommended by a provider (e.g., the central provider device 14). The recommended parameters and provider parameters may each include imaging system settings used during different surgeries and performed by different surgeons. The imaging system settings may include x-ray source voltage (e.g., in kilovolts), generator voltage, current level (e.g., in milliamperes), dose period (e.g., in seconds), and / or other imaging system settings. The recommended parameters and provider parameters may be determined by the source control module 19 and / or the central provider device 14. The central provider device 14 may generate the recommended parameters and / or provider parameters based on the parameters collected and / or recommended by the source control module 19.

[0022] Each patient record 22 may include patient parameters. Each patient record may include parameters specific to a particular patient and corresponding procedure. More than one record may be stored for a patient who has undergone or will undergo multiple procedures. The patient parameters for each record may include: a patient identifier (ID); the patient's weight; one or more regions of interest (ROIs); the patient's size (e.g., the patient's dimensions); the volume of a portion of the patient's or the entire body; the shape of the patient's organs, bones, ROIs, or other parts; gender; age; medical history; anatomical structure IDs (e.g., the IDs of the patient's skull, knees, spine, or other parts); ROI IDs; and / or other patient parameters. The patient's size and / or weight may indicate the percentage of adipose tissue within the patient's body. The ROI may include one or more body parts. The patient's dimensions may include the dimensions of a body part and / or the entire body of the patient. Dimensions may be simple, such as height, width, and length, or they may be complex, identifying the perimeter (or external dimensions) of a body part or the entire body. Dimensions may be the dimensions of an internal organ or bone. Dimensions may be the dimensions of an ROI.

[0023] The surgeon record may include parameters specific to the surgeon and the corresponding procedure. Each record may be associated with a specific surgeon, a specific procedure, and / or one or more patients with similar patient parameters. Each record may include surgeon parameters, which may include: surgeon ID; low and / or high x-ray source voltage for each patient; generator voltage; generator current level; x-ray source current level for each patient; typical surgeon low and / or high x-ray source voltage for a specific procedure; typical surgeon x-ray source current level for a specific procedure; last used low and / or high x-ray source voltage; last used x-ray source current level; dose cycle for a specific patient; typical and / or last used dose cycle; x-ray source duty cycle; x-ray source on cycle; x-ray source off cycle, etc.

[0024] Table 26 may relate the parameters and / or settings stored in records 20, 22, 24 to the recommended x-ray source settings. Table 26 is not static, but may be continuously modified and added to before, during, and / or after a procedure is performed. The recommended x-ray source settings may be based on the determined image quality values ​​and x-ray dose. The recommended x-ray source settings may be predetermined, determined by one or more of the source control modules 19, and / or determined by the central provider device 14, as described above. The recommended x-ray source settings may be based on the image quality values ​​and x-ray dose values ​​determined by the image control modules 19 during and / or after the corresponding performed procedure. Figure 2 ) and / or an image quality value determined by the source control module 19 and / or indicated by the surgeon. The indicated image quality value may be input by the surgeon into the source control module 19. The surgery may be performed on a cadaver or a living patient.

[0025] Figure 2 An operating room (or the interior of an operating room) 30 is shown, and a user 31 (e.g., a doctor) is performing surgery on an object (e.g., a patient) 32. While performing the surgery, the user 31 uses an imaging system 33 to acquire image data of the patient 32. The acquired image data of the patient 32 may include two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) images. A model may be generated using the acquired image data. The model may be a three-dimensional (3D) volume model generated based on the acquired image data using various techniques, including algebraic iteration techniques. The image data (designated 34) may be displayed on a display device 35 and, in addition, on a display device 36a associated with an imaging computing system 36. The displayed image data 34 may include 2D images, 3D images, and / or time-varying 4D images. The displayed image data 34 may also include acquired image data, generated image data, and / or a combination of acquired and generated image data.

[0026] The acquired image data of the patient 32 can be acquired as 2D projections. The 2D projections can then be used to reconstruct 3D volumetric image data of the patient 32. Furthermore, theoretical or forward 2D projections can be generated from the 3D volumetric image data. Thus, the image data can be used to provide 2D projections and / or a 3D volumetric model.

[0027] The display device 35 may be part of a computing system 37. The computing system 37 may include a variety of computer-readable media. The computer-readable media may be any available media accessible by the computing system 37 and may include volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media. By way of example, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Storage media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store computer-readable instructions, software, data structures, program modules, and other data and that can be accessed by the computer 37. The computer-readable media may be accessed directly or through a network such as the Internet.

[0028] In one example, the computing system 37 may include an input device 38 (such as a keyboard), and one or more processors 39 (which may include a multi-core processor, a microprocessor, etc.) that may be incorporated into the computing system 37. The input device 38 may include any suitable device to enable a user to interact with the computing system 37, such as a touchpad, a stylus, a touch screen, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a trackball, a wireless mouse, an audible control, or a combination thereof. Further, although the computing system 37 is described and shown herein as including an input device 38 separate from the display device 35, the computing system 37 may include a touchpad or a tablet computing device and may be integrated into or become part of the computing system 37. A connection (or communication line) 40 may be provided between the computing system 37 and the display device 35 for data communication to allow the display device 35 to be driven to display the image data 34.

[0029] The imaging system 33 may be an O-arm imaging system, a C-arm imaging system, or other suitable imaging system. The imaging system 33 may include a mobile cart 41, an imaging computing system 36, and a gantry 42 (or an x-ray scanner gantry). The gantry 42 includes an x-ray source 43, a collimator (not shown), a multi-row detector 44, a flat panel detector 45, and a rotor 46. The x-ray source 43 may include a generator and / or may be connected to a generator. Figure 2, mobile cart 41 can be moved from one operating room or room to another, and gantry 42 can be moved relative to mobile cart 41. This allows imaging system 33 to be mobile and used in various procedures without requiring capital expenditure or space dedicated to a fixed imaging system. Although gantry 42 is shown as being mobile, gantry 42 may not be connected to mobile cart 41 and may be in a fixed position.

[0030] The gantry 42 may define the isocenter of the imaging system 33. In this regard, a centerline C1 passing through the gantry 42 defines the isocenter or center of the imaging system 33. Generally, the patient 32 may be positioned along the centerline C1 of the gantry 42 such that the longitudinal axis of the patient 32 is aligned with the isocenter of the imaging system 33.

[0031] The imaging computing system 36 can independently control the movement, positioning and adjustment of the multi-row detector 44, the flat panel detector 45 and the rotor 46 to achieve image data acquisition via the image processing module 47 of the processor 39. The processed image can be displayed on the display device 35.

[0032] During operation, the x-ray source 43 emits x-rays that pass through the patient 32 and are detected by the multi-row detector 44 or the flat panel detector 45. The x-rays emitted by the x-ray source 43 may be shaped by a collimator and emitted for detection by the multi-row detector 44 or the flat panel detector 45. The collimator may include one or more leaves that can be controlled to shape the x-rays emitted by the x-ray source 43. The collimator may shape the x-rays emitted by the x-ray source 43 into a beam corresponding to the shapes of the multi-row detector 44 and the flat panel detector 45. The multi-row detector 44 may be selected to acquire image data of low-contrast regions of the anatomy, such as soft tissue. The flat panel detector 45 may be selected to acquire image data of high-contrast regions of the anatomy, such as bone. The x-ray source 43, the collimator, the multi-row detector 44, and the flat panel detector 45 may each be coupled to and / or mounted on the rotor 46.

[0033] The multi-row detector 44 and the flat panel detector 45 can be coupled to the rotor 46 to: (i) be diametrically opposed to the x-ray source 43 and the collimator within the gantry 42, and (ii) be independently movable relative to each other and movable into alignment with the x-ray source 43 and the collimator. In one example, the multi-row detector 44 can be positioned so that the flat panel detector 45 can be adjacent to the multi-row detector 44. In an alternative example, the flat panel detector 45 can be moved above the multi-row detector 44 into alignment with the x-ray source 43 when an image using the flat panel detector 45 is acquired. In another example, the multi-row detector 44 can be positioned above the flat panel detector 45. As a further alternative, the multi-row detector 44 and the flat panel detector 45 can each be moved separately so that a selected multi-row detector 44 or flat panel detector 45 can be aligned with the x-ray source 43 and the collimator. The selected one of the multi-row detectors 44 and the flat panel detectors 45 may be aligned with the x-ray source 43 and the collimator when the selected one is substantially opposite or separated by approximately 180 degrees from the x-ray source 43 and the collimator.

[0034] Because the x-ray source 43, collimator, multi-row detector 44, and flat panel detector 45 are coupled to a rotor 46, the x-ray source 43, collimator, multi-row detector 44, and flat panel detector 45 are movable within the gantry 42 about the patient 32. Thus, the multi-row detector 44 and flat panel detector 45 can be rotated in a 360° motion about the patient 32, as indicated by arrow 48. The x-ray source 43 and collimator can move in unison with at least one of the multi-row detector 44 and flat panel detector 45 so that the x-ray source 43 and collimator remain substantially 180° apart from and opposite the multi-row detector 44 or flat panel detector 45.

[0035] The gantry 42 has multiple degrees of freedom of motion. The gantry 42 can be isometrically swayed or swung (also referred to herein as iso-sway) relative to the table 49 on which the patient 32 is placed. Isometric sway is indicated by arrow 50. The gantry 42 can be: tilted relative to the patient 32 (as indicated by arrow 51); moved longitudinally relative to the patient 32 (as indicated by arrow 52); moved up and down relative to the mobile cart 41 and transverse to the patient 32 (as indicated by arrow 53); and moved away from or toward the mobile cart 41 (as indicated by arrow 54). These different degrees of freedom of motion of the gantry 42 allow the x-ray source 43, collimator, multi-row detector 44, and flat panel detector 45 to be positioned relative to the patient 32.

[0036] The imaging system 33 can be precisely controlled by the imaging computing system 36 to move the x-ray source 43, collimator, multi-row detector 44, and flat panel detector 45 relative to the patient 32 to generate accurate image data of the patient 32. In addition, the imaging system 33 can be connected to the processor 39 via a connection 55, which includes a wired or wireless connection or physical medium transfer from the imaging system 33 to the processor 39. Thus, image data collected by the imaging system 33 can also be transferred from the imaging computing system 36 to the computing system 37 for navigation, display, reconstruction, etc.

[0037] The imaging system 33 can also be used during non-navigated or navigated procedures. In navigated procedures, a localizer (including either or both of the optical localizer 60 and the electromagnetic localizer 62) can be used to generate a field, or receive or transmit a signal, within a navigation domain relative to the patient 32. If desired, components associated with performing navigated procedures can be integrated within the imaging system 33. A navigation space or navigation domain relative to the patient 32 can be registered to the image data 34 to allow registration of the navigation space defined within the navigation domain and the image space defined by the image data 34. A patient tracker (or dynamic reference frame) 64 can be connected to the patient 32 to allow dynamic registration and maintain registration of the patient 32 to the image data 34.

[0038] The instrument 66 can then be tracked relative to the patient 32 to allow for navigated surgery via a navigation system 81. The instrument 66 can include an optical tracking device 68 and / or an electromagnetic tracking device 70 to allow the instrument 66 to be tracked using either or both of the optical locator 60 or the electromagnetic locator 62. The instrument 66 can include a communication line 72 with a navigation interface device 74 that can communicate with the electromagnetic locator 62 and / or the optical locator 60. The navigation interface device 74 can then communicate with the processor 47 via a communication line 80. The connections or communication lines 40, 55, 76, 78, or 80 can be wire-based as shown, or the corresponding devices can communicate with each other wirelessly.

[0039] Instrument 66 can be an interventional instrument and / or implant. Implants can include ventricular or vascular stents, spinal implants, neural stents, etc. Instrument 66 can be an interventional instrument, such as a deep brain stimulator or neurostimulator, an ablation device, or other suitable instrument. Tracking instrument 66 allows the position of instrument 66 relative to patient 32 to be viewed using registered image data 34 without directly viewing instrument 66 within patient 32. For example, instrument 66 can be graphically shown as an icon superimposed on image data 34.

[0040] Further, the imaging device 33 may include a tracking device, such as an optical tracking device 82 or an electromagnetic tracking device 84, to be tracked using the corresponding optical positioner 60 or electromagnetic positioner 62. The tracking devices 82, 84 may be directly associated with the x-ray source 43, the multi-row detector 44, the flat panel detector 45, the rotor 46, the gantry 42, or other suitable components of the imaging system 33 to determine the position or location of the x-ray source 43, the multi-row detector 44, the flat panel detector 45, the rotor 46, and / or the gantry 34 relative to a selected reference frame. As shown, the tracking devices 82, 84 may be positioned on the exterior of the housing of the gantry 42. Thus, various portions of the imaging system 33, including the instrument 66, may be tracked relative to the patient 32 to allow for initial, automatic, or continued registration of the patient 32 relative to the image data 34.

[0041] The image processing module (IPM) 47 may receive user input data from the input device 36 c and may output image data 34 to the display device 35 or the display device 36 a. The user input data may include a request to acquire image data of the patient 32 . Based on the user input data, the IPM 47 may generate a detector signal and a motion signal. The detector signal may include the selected detector for image acquisition. The motion signal may include a motion profile of the rotor 46 moving to the selected position to acquire image data. The motion signal may be a command or instruction signal provided from the IPM 47 to the gantry control module 85. The gantry control module 85 may be included in the gantry 42 and on the rotor 46 and position the rotor 46 based on the instruction signal.

[0042] The processor 39 or mobile cart 41 may include a navigation control module (NCM) 87 and a source control module (SCM) 89 (e.g., Figure 1 19 ). The NCM 87 tracks the instrument 66 relative to the patient 32 to allow the tracked position of the instrument 66 relative to the image data 34 to be shown for performing the procedure. The SCM 89 can control, monitor, track, adjust and / or set x-ray source parameters (e.g., x-ray source voltage, current level and / or dose cycle). The SCM 89 can access surgical parameters, patient parameters, surgeon parameters and / or recommended parameters based on previously used, current and / or input x-ray source parameters. The SCM 89 can provide recommended x-ray source parameters based on the accessed surgical parameters, patient parameters, surgeon parameters and / or recommended parameters and / or previously used, current and / or input x-ray source parameters. This is described in more detail below. The IPM 47, NCM 87 and SCM 89 can communicate with each other and share data. The IPM 47, NCM 87 and SCM 89 can be implemented as separate modules as shown, or can be implemented as a single module.

[0043] IPM 47, NCM 87, and SCM 89 may be implemented in imaging computing system 36, on mobile cart 30, or as part of processor 26. IPM 47 and / or SCM 89 may send a source signal to x-ray source 43. The source signal may instruct x-ray source 36 to output or emit at least one or more x-ray pulses. The x-ray pulses are generated based on x-ray source parameters set by SCM 89. IPM 47 and / or SCM 89 may send a collimator signal to the collimator. The collimator signal may indicate a selected shape for one or more collimated x-ray pulses. The selected shape of the collimated x-ray pulses may correspond to a selected one of multi-row detector 44 and flat panel detector 45. In this regard, if multi-row detector 44 is selected, the collimated x-ray pulses may be shaped by the collimator to match the shape of multi-row detector 44. If flat panel detector 45 is selected, the collimated x-ray pulses may be shaped by the collimator to match the shape of flat panel detector 45.

[0044] IPM 47 may also receive as input a multi-row detector signal, which may include one or more collimated x-ray pulses detected by multi-row detector 44. Image processing module 47 may also receive as input a flat panel detector signal, which may include one or more collimated x-ray pulses detected by flat panel detector 45. Based on the received collimated x-ray pulses, image processing module 47 may generate image data 34.

[0045] In one example, the image data 34 may include a single 2D image. In another example, the image processing module 47 may perform automatic reconstruction of an initial 3D model of a region of interest of the patient 32. The reconstruction of the 3D model may be performed in any suitable manner, such as using an algebraic technique for optimization. The algebraic technique may include expectation maximization (EM), ordered subset expectation maximization (OS-EM), simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (SART), and total variation minimization. A 3D volume reconstruction may be provided based on the 2D projections.

[0046] Algebraic techniques may include an iterative process to perform a reconstruction of the patient 32 for display as image data 34. For example, a pure or theoretical image data projection based on an atlas or stylized model of a "theoretical" patient, or generated therefrom, may be iteratively altered until the theoretical projection image matches the acquired 2D projection image data of the patient 32. The stylized model may then be appropriately altered to a 3D volumetric reconstruction model of the acquired 2D projection image data of the patient 32 and may be used in surgical interventions, such as navigation, diagnosis, or planning interventions. In this regard, the stylized model may provide additional detail regarding the anatomy of the patient 32, which may enable the user 31 to effectively plan surgical interventions. The theoretical model may be associated with the theoretical image data to reconstruct the theoretical model. In this manner, a model or image data 34 may be constructed based on the image data of the patient 32 acquired using the imaging system 33. The IPM 47 may output the image data 34 to the display device 36a.

[0047] The processor 39 may receive as input the detector signal and the motion signal from the IPM 47. Based on the detector signal and / or the motion signal, the processor 39 may transmit (via wire or wirelessly) a control signal to the GCM 85. The GCM 85 may be located on the rotor 46. Based on the detector signal, the GCM 85 may generate a first movement signal to move a selected one of the multi-row detector 44 or the flat panel detector 45 into alignment with the x-ray source 43 and the collimator. Based on the motion signal, the GCM 85 may also generate a second movement signal to move the rotor 46 relative to the patient 32 within the gantry 42 or rotate the rotor 42. The movement of the x-ray source 43, the collimator, the multi-row detector 44, and the flat panel detector 45 around the patient 32 may be controlled to acquire image data at a selected position and orientation relative to the patient 32.

[0048] 2D image data can be acquired at each of the plurality of annular positions of the rotor 46. 3D image data can be generated based on the 2D image data. Furthermore, the gantry 42, x-ray source 43, multi-row detector 44, and flat panel detector 45 may not be moved in a circle, but may be moved in another pattern, such as a spiral, or other rotational movement around or relative to the patient 32. This can reduce the patient's exposure to radiation. The pattern (or path) can be asymmetric and / or nonlinear based on the movement of the imaging system 33 (such as the gantry 42). In other words, the path may not be continuous, as the gantry 42 may be stopped and moved back in the direction of the path previously followed by the gantry 42. This may include following a previous vibration of the gantry 42.

[0049] Input to the imaging system 33 may be received at input device 36c, input device 38, or other control modules (not shown) within the computing system 37 or imaging computing system 36, and / or determined by other submodules (not shown) within the IPM 47. The IPM 47 may receive user input data requesting acquisition of image data of the patient 32. The input data may include information regarding whether the region of interest on the patient 32 is a high-contrast region (e.g., bone tissue) or a low-contrast region (e.g., soft tissue). In one example, the user input data may include a region of interest on the anatomy of the patient 32. The IPM 47 may automatically determine whether to use a multi-row detector 44 or a flat-panel detector 45 based on the region of interest. For example, the user may select (i) a multi-row detector 44 to acquire images of soft tissue, and (ii) a flat-panel detector 45 to acquire images of bone tissue.

[0050] Based on the user input data, the IPM 47 and / or the SCM 89 may generate source data and detector type data. The IPM 47 may also generate motion profile data and collimator data. The source data may include information about outputting x-ray pulses or signals to power down the imaging system 33. The detector type data may include the selected multi-row detector 44 or flat panel detector 45 used to acquire the image data. The motion profile data may include the selected profile for the movement of the rotor 46 within the gantry 42. The collimator data may include information about shaping the x-ray pulses into collimated x-ray pulses to match the selected one of the multi-row detector 44 and the flat panel detector 45.

[0051] IPM 47 may also receive multi-row detector data and flat panel detector data as input. The multi-row detector data may indicate the energy of collimated x-ray pulses received by multi-row detector 44. The flat panel detector data may indicate the energy of collimated x-ray pulses received by flat panel detector 45. Based on the multi-row detector data and the flat panel detector data, IPM 47 may generate image data 34 and may output the image data 34 to display device 36 a or display device 35.

[0052] Processor 39 may receive detector type data and motion profile data as input. Based on the detector type data, processor 39 may generate flat panel movement data or multi-row movement data (and / or corresponding signals). The flat panel movement data may include the selected position to which flat panel detector 45 is moved to align with x-ray source 43 and collimator. The multi-row movement data may include the selected position to which multi-row detector 44 is moved to align with x-ray source 43 and collimator.

[0053] Based on the source data, the processor 39 or its modules may cause the x-ray source 43 to generate pulse data for collimator control. The pulse data may include pulse data for at least one x-ray pulse. The processor 39 and / or its modules may receive as inputs a plurality of rows of movement data and collimated pulse data. Based on the plurality of rows of movement data, the multi-row detector 44 may be moved to align with the x-ray source 43. Based on the received pulse data, the processor 39 and / or its modules may generate a plurality of rows of detector data (and / or corresponding signals) for use by the IPM 47. The processor 39 and / or its modules may receive as inputs a plurality of panel movement data and collimated pulse data. Based on the panel movement data, the flat panel detector 45 may be moved to align with the x-ray source 43. Based on the received pulse data, the flat panel control module may generate flat panel detector data (and / or corresponding signals) for use by the IPM 47.

[0054] Based on the motion profile data, processor 39 may generate rotor movement data (and / or corresponding signals) for GCM 85. The rotor movement data may indicate a selected movement profile of rotor 42 within gantry 34 to enable acquisition of image data. GCM 85 may receive the rotor movement data as input. Based on the rotor movement data, rotor 46 may be moved to a desired position within gantry 42 to acquire image data.

[0055] Figure 3 Show Figure 2 1. Portion 100 of imaging system 33 of the present invention may include x-ray source 43, GCM 85, SCM 89, x-ray detectors 44, 45, and power supply 102. GCM 85 may include gantry transceiver 104, gantry processing module 106, and gantry power control module 108. Gantry transceiver 104 may include gantry media access control (MAC) module 110 and gantry physical layer (PHY) module 112. Gantry transceiver 104, gantry processing module 106, and power control module 108 may receive power from power supply 102.

[0056] SCM 89 includes a source transceiver 114, a source processing module 116, and a source power control module 118. Source transceiver 114 includes a source PHY module 120 and a source MAC module 122. Source transceiver 114 and source processing module 116 may receive power from source power control module 118, which in turn receives power from a second power source 124.

[0057] The gantry processing module 106 can communicate wirelessly with the source processing module 116 via the transceivers 104, 114 and the corresponding antennas 130, 132. The gantry processing module 106 can receive sensor signals and / or information directly from the sensor 140 or from the source control module 89. Based on the signals from the source processing module 116, the gantry processing module 106 can control (i) the power supplied to the rotor 46 and / or the positioning and speed of the rotor 46, and (ii) the power supplied to the x-ray source 43. The source processing module 116 can generate a mode signal, which is provided to the gantry power control module 108. The gantry power control module 108 can supply power to the actuators, motors, x-ray source 43, and / or detectors 44, 45 based on the operating mode indicated by the mode signal. The power supplied to the x-ray source 43 and detectors 44, 45 is shown as POW1 and POW2.

[0058] The source MAC module 122 generates a control signal based on the data and / or information received from the source processing module 116. The source PHY module 120 wirelessly transmits the control signal to the gantry PHY module 112. The source MAC module 122 may generate an information signal based on the data and / or information received from the source processing module 116. The information signal is wirelessly transmitted to the gantry PHY module 112 via the source PHY module 120. The gantry processing module 106 may control the operation of devices (e.g., the x-ray source 43, the x-ray detectors 44, 45, the power control module 108, etc.) based on the information signal and / or signals from the sensor 140.

[0059] The gantry power control module 108 may receive power from a generator (e.g., power source 102) or other power source. Power sources 102, 124 may be the same or different power sources. Power may be based on sensor signals from sensors 140 that may be connected to the gantry control module 85 and / or the source control module 89.

[0060] The source control module 89 and / or the source processing module 116 can be connected to and / or have access to a memory 150. The memory 150 can store various parameters (or settings) 152 and a table 154. The parameters 152 can include any of the parameters described herein, including surgical parameters, patient parameters, surgeon parameters, recommended parameters, etc. The table 154 can link the surgical parameters, patient parameters, and surgeon parameters with the recommended parameters. The table 154 is not static, but can be continuously modified and added to before, during, and / or after the procedure is performed.

[0061] Figure 41. An example of a source processing module (SPM) 116 is shown, which may include a mode module 200, an initialization module 202, an image module 204, an alignment module 206, an image quality module 208, a setup module 210, a surgeon assessment module 212, a continuity module 214, a post-processing module 216, a feedback module 218, a confirmation module 220, and a threshold check and warning module 222. These modules are described below with respect to Figures 5A-5B Be described.

[0062] for Figure 1-4 For further definition of the module structure, see the following Figures 5A-5B 4 and the definition of the term "module" provided below. Figure 1-2 The systems and / or their parts may be used in a variety of ways (exemplary methods are described in Figures 5A-5B is shown in the figure) is operated. Figures 5A-5B In the present invention, a method of operating a surgical operating system or a portion thereof is shown. Figure 1-4 The following tasks are described for the implementation of , but these tasks can be easily modified to be applicable to other implementations of the present disclosure. These tasks can be performed iteratively.

[0063] The method may begin at 250. At 252, surgeon information is obtained via an input device (e.g., input device 38 and / or a scanner). The surgeon information may include, for example, a surgeon ID or other identifying information. The surgeon information may be automatically uploaded when the surgeon's ID badge is swiped and / or scanned via the input device. The surgeon information may include a selected procedure and / or surgeon parameters including x-ray source parameters for the procedure performed by the surgeon. The selected procedure may be indicated by the surgeon via the input device.

[0064] At 254, the SPM 116 may receive input from the surgeon activating the x-ray source parameter control method. The SPM 116 may activate the method based on the input. If the method is activated, task 258 may be performed. The x-ray source parameter control method may include the following tasks 258-318. The method may be activated when the surgeon enters surgeon information and / or swipes or scans an ID badge at an input device, for example. The SPM 116 may verify the surgeon information before allowing the method to be activated. If the method is not activated and / or the surgeon information is not approved, the method may end at 256.

[0065] At 258, the SPM 116 performs a setup and / or initialization process to setup and / or initialize the imaging system 33. This may include selecting an operating mode (258A), obtaining surgical parameters if not already obtained (258B), obtaining surgeon parameters if not already obtained (258C), obtaining patient parameters for the selected procedure if not already obtained (258D), obtaining recommended parameters for the procedure being performed (258E), and directing the imaging acquisition portion of the imaging system (258F). Initial x-ray source settings may be set as described below based on one or more of the parameters obtained during task 258. For example, x-ray source voltage, current level, and dose cycle may be selected based on patient parameters such as body size, region of interest, shape of bones and / or organs, etc. As another example, x-ray source parameters may be set based on other parameters such as pixel intensity of previously stored images for the selected procedure. The x-ray source settings may be set to the last or preset settings for the surgeon, site, imaging system, patient, and / or procedure being performed.

[0066] At 258A, the mode module 200 selects an operating mode. The mode module 200 selects an operating mode for the SPM 116 and / or other modules of the imaging system 33. The modes may include an automatic learning mode, a manual mode, a post-processing mode, a patient-specific mode, and / or a non-patient-specific mode. The mode module 200 may select one or more of the modes to operate during the same time period. For example, the mode module 200 may select to operate in one of the automatic learning mode, the manual mode, and the post-processing mode, and may also select to operate in one of the patient-specific mode and the non-patient-specific mode.

[0067] During automatic learning mode, parameters are monitored, tracked, and used to adjust x-ray source settings to recommended levels. During automatic learning mode, settings can be automatically adjusted to recommended levels, and confirmation of the recommended levels can be requested from the surgeon (or user). During manual mode, parameters are monitored, tracked, and used to recommend x-ray source settings. During manual mode, although recommended levels are indicated, x-ray source levels are not automatically adjusted. Without the surgeon accepting and / or recommending settings to the levels, x-ray source settings will not be adjusted. Automatic learning mode and manual mode can be performed before and / or during surgery.

[0068] The post-processing mode can be executed after surgery and / or when surgery is not being performed. The post-processing mode allows the surgeon to review and evaluate images captured during surgery and post-process the images based on x-ray source settings that are different from the x-ray source settings used during surgery. This allows the surgeon to determine improved x-ray source settings for subsequent surgery. The system-recommended settings can be provided to the surgeon during post-processing mode as described below.

[0069] At 258B, 258C, 258D, and 258E, parameters may be loaded into the SPM 116 from memory (e.g., memory 150), the central provider device 14, and / or other storage devices and / or centrally accessible devices. The parameters may all be associated with the selected procedure and / or similar procedures. If, for example, the parameters are not available or are partially available for the selected procedure, the parameters may include default parameters. The default parameters may be surgeon-specific or independent of the surgeon performing the selected procedure. The x-ray source parameters may be selected by the setup module 210 and / or by the surgeon. The surgeon may approve the selected settings. For example, the setup module 210 may (i) select recommended, preset, default, and / or surgeon-preferred settings and then (ii) generate a request for the surgeon to confirm the settings. The surgeon may then confirm the settings and / or modify the settings before continuing to task 260. At 258F, the imaging acquisition portion (e.g., detectors 44, 45) may be directed to a target and / or predetermined initial position before performing the selected procedure.

[0070] At 260 , the post-processing module 216 and / or the SPM 116 may determine whether a post-processing module has been selected. If the SPM 116 is not operating in a post-processing module, task 262 is performed, otherwise task 272 is performed.

[0071] At 262, the image module 204 may determine whether to acquire an image or set of images. The image or set of images may be (i) an initial (or baseline) image or set of images, (ii) an additional image or set of images, or (iii) an image or set of images used as a primary image or set of images. A single image of the region of interest may be acquired, or a set of images (e.g., image slices) of the region of interest or body part (e.g., one or more bones and / or organs) may be acquired. Each image or set of images acquired during an iteration of task 264 may be referred to as a sample set. The determination of whether to acquire an image or set of images may be based on whether a primary image / set of images is available and / or whether a predetermined minimum sample set is met. The predetermined minimum sample set may require one or more images of the region of interest and / or one or more images of each slice of the region and / or one or more body parts. If an image or set of images is to be acquired, task 264 is performed, otherwise task 272 is performed.

[0072] At task 264, the image module 204 can acquire an initial image or set of images, or another image or set of images, as described for task 262. The image module 204 can control the x-ray source 43 and detectors 44, 45 to acquire the images. The x-ray source 43 can be operated using the x-ray source parameters loaded and / or selected in the previous task.

[0073] At 266, the image module 204 and / or the quality module 208 may determine that the quality of the image acquired at 264 is greater than a predetermined threshold. This may include determining pixel intensity and / or other pixel parameters (contrast, brightness level, etc.) and comparing to predetermined values ​​to determine the quality of the image. The image quality value may be based on surgeon input indicating a surgeon ranking of the quality level of the image. If there is more than one image, an average quality value for the images may be determined and compared to a predetermined threshold. If the quality of the acquired image is below the predetermined threshold, task 267 may be performed, otherwise task 268 may be performed. If task 267 is performed, the acquired image may be discarded and / or stored for future reference.

[0074] At 267, the x-ray source settings may be adjusted. The surgeon may adjust the settings manually, or the settings may be adjusted automatically, and the surgeon may be prompted to confirm the settings based on the operating mode. If operating in manual mode, adjusted settings may be recommended based on historical data, and the surgeon may then accept the settings, maintain the current settings, or enter different settings. If operating in automatic learning mode, the recommended adjustments (updated settings) may be provided and set, and the surgeon may be prompted to confirm the updated settings. If the surgeon does not accept the updated settings, the previous settings are maintained unless the surgeon enters different settings and / or adjustment values. Similar tasks are performed at 302-318. Task 262 is performed after task 267.

[0075] At 268, the image module 204 may determine whether to set the acquired image or image set as the primary image or primary image set. This may occur, for example, if a previous primary image or primary image set has not yet been stored and / or acquired. This may also or alternatively occur if the surgeon indicates via an input device that the most recently acquired image or image set is the primary (or preset) image or primary (or preset) image set. If the last acquired image or image set is to be the primary image or primary image set, task 270 is performed, otherwise task 280 is performed. At 270, the last acquired image or image set is marked to be identified as the primary image or primary image set. Subsequent acquired images may be compared to the primary image. Task 280 may be performed after task 270.

[0076] At 272, the image module 204 may determine whether to access a previously stored master image or master image set. Task 272 may be performed when operating in automatic learning mode, manual mode, or post-processing mode. This may be based on input received from the surgeon and / or settings stored and associated with the surgeon indicating access to a master image or master image set. The master image / image set may be stored in the memory mentioned above. The master image / image set may be the most recently acquired image / image set. If the master image / image set is accessed, task 274 is performed; otherwise, task 276 is performed. At 274, the image module 204 accesses the previously stored master image / image set. Task 280 may be performed after task 274.

[0077] At 276, the image module 204 may determine whether to access a previously stored image or image set (i.e., a non-primary image / image set). This may be based on input received from the surgeon and / or settings stored and associated with the surgeon indicating access to an image or image set. The image / image set may be stored in the memory mentioned above. The image / image set may be the most recently acquired image / image set or another image / image set. If the image / image set is accessed, task 278 is performed, otherwise task 280 is performed. At 278, the image module 204 accesses the previously stored image / image set.

[0078] At 280, the image module 204 can determine whether a predetermined minimum sample set threshold has been met. If the threshold has been met, task 282 is performed, otherwise task 260 can be performed.

[0079] At 282, the alignment module 206 may adjust the zoom level and / or rotate one or more of the acquired and / or accessed image(s) to a corresponding primary image in the master image(s). At 284, the alignment module 206 performs edge alignment to align the primary image, the acquired image(s), and / or the accessed image(s), and / or portions thereof relative to one another. This may include comparing pixel parameters (e.g., brightness, intensity level, color, contrast, sharpness value, etc.) of the images to locate edges of bones, tissues, organs, body parts, regions of interest, and the like. Differences in adjacent pixels may be determined to locate edges. A predetermined number of pixels in each of the images in corresponding quadrants of the images may be compared. As an example, a predetermined number of brightest pixels and / or pixels that provide a predetermined pattern may be compared to align the images and / or portions thereof. Horizontal and / or vertical rows of pixels may be compared. All or portions of the images may be scanned to provide a "best-fit" alignment. As another example, each pixel has a unique set of values ​​(e.g., red, green, and blue values) that can be compared to provide a best-fit alignment. The differences between the red, green, and blue values ​​of adjacent pixels of each image can be compared to the differences between the red, green, and blue values ​​of adjacent pixels of the other images to provide a best-fit alignment. Edge alignment can be performed to minimize and / or eliminate offsets between images and / or portions thereof. The images can be scaled based on the x-ray source settings used for each image before and / or during alignment.

[0080] At 286, alignment module 286 can determine whether a valid alignment of the images or portions thereof has been established. If the differences between corresponding pixels of the different images are, on average, within a predetermined range, or if the transitions (differences between adjacent pixels) of each image are within a predetermined range of each other, then a valid alignment may have been performed. If a valid alignment has been performed, task 288 can be performed, otherwise task 294 can be performed.

[0081] At 288, the alignment module 288 may determine whether alignment has been attempted for the current image (task 284 has been performed) more than a predetermined number of times. If alignment has been attempted more than the predetermined number of times, task 290 is performed; otherwise, the alignment module 288 returns to task 286. At 290, the alignment error may be reported to the surgeon via, for example, the display device 35. If task 290 is performed, the SPM 116 may return to task 260 to acquire and / or access additional images. After task 290, the method may end at 292.

[0082] At 294, the quality module 208 may process the alignment results, including the aligned images. This may include processing pixel regions of interest and (i) evaluating separate image quality values ​​for the images before alignment and / or (ii) evaluating a combined image quality value for the combined results of the aligned images after alignment. In one embodiment, the pixel regions of interest of the most recent set of image samples after alignment are processed separately to provide image quality values.

[0083] During task 294, a second set of image quality values ​​(or one or more sets of image quality values) may be determined. Processing of the results of the alignment may be based on pixel parameters (e.g., pixel intensity values, continuity values, or other pixel parameters disclosed herein) and / or patient parameters, which may be compared to predetermined values ​​and / or weighted and then compared to predetermined values. The weighted values ​​may be based on the pixel parameters; on the average pixel intensity level of the image; on the patient parameters; on the age of the image; on whether the image is of the current patient; on whether the image is for the current procedure or a similar procedure; on the quality level as indicated by the surgeon; and / or on other stored quality values, etc. The determined second set of quality values ​​may be determined based on the number and / or percentage of pixels within the region of interest having pixel parameters within predetermined corresponding ranges.

[0084] At 296, if not operating in post-processing mode, the SPM 116 and / or post-processing module 216 may proceed to task 300, otherwise may proceed to task 312. At 300, the settings module 210 may determine whether the amount of time since the last adjustment of the x-ray source settings is greater than or equal to a predetermined period. If the amount of time since the last adjustment is greater than or equal to the predetermined period, task 302 may be performed.

[0085] At 302, if operating in automatic learning mode, SPM 116 proceeds to task 304; otherwise, SPM 116 performs task 312. At 304, settings module 210, continuity module 214, and / or SPM 116 adjust the current x-ray source settings to updated values. This may include determining adjustments to current values ​​and / or updated values. This may include providing calculated, looked-up, and / or recommended adjustments and / or updated values. The adjusted and / or updated values ​​may be determined based on table 154, which may relate surgical parameters, patient parameters, surgeon parameters, x-ray source parameters, and image quality values ​​to provide recommended x-ray source settings for patient 32, imaging system 33, and / or other patients and imaging systems for maximum image quality and minimum x-ray dose. During patient-specific mode, only values ​​associated with patient 32 may be used. During non-patient-specific mode, values ​​for other patients may be used. The maximum image quality and minimum x-ray dose values ​​may have been previously verified. The updated settings may provide a reduced x-ray dose value compared to the previously used settings. This may be based on the second set of quality values ​​determined at 294 and / or any parameters obtained during task 258. The table may be a multi-dimensional table with any number of different parameters.

[0086] If there is a lack of continuity between the current image (or the image currently being acquired) and the previously stored image, then the default x-ray source settings or best fit settings may be selected. This may occur, for example, if there is a lack of images of the patient (a non-standard or atypical patient) and / or a record of the patient's condition for which the procedure is being performed. For example, there may be a lack of images of rare conditions such as scoliosis or other rare conditions.

[0087] At 306, and when operating in the automatic learning mode, the confirmation module 220 may request the surgeon to confirm the updated settings. If the updated settings are confirmed, task 308 is performed, otherwise task 310 is performed. At 308, the adjusted settings are maintained for subsequent imaging and / or processing and may be stored in memory and / or provided to the central provider device 14 for future use by the imaging system 33 and / or other imaging systems. At 310, the confirmation module 220 returns to the x-ray source settings used before the update and does not maintain the updated settings. Task 260 may be performed after tasks 308 and 310.

[0088] At 312, when operating in post-processing mode or manual mode, the setup module 210 and / or post-processing module 216 provides the settings determined at 304. The settings may be indicated to the surgeon via a display. The surgeon may then continue with the current settings and / or accept the recommended settings. If the recommended settings are accepted, as determined at 316, the setup module updates the settings. If the settings are not accepted, task 360 may be performed. Task 312 may also include displaying a modified image based on the updated settings to provide an example of how the image would look if the updated settings were used. This may include post-processing the image using filters and / or other image enhancement techniques. This may include adjusting the pixel intensity of the image. The surgeon may be prompted about the difference in x-ray dose for the updated x-ray source settings relative to the x-ray dose presented for the x-ray source settings used to provide the previously acquired and / or accessed images.

[0089] At 314, the updated settings may be stored as another set of settings for the surgeon and / or procedure, as performed at 308. At 316, if the updated settings are accepted and / or are to be stored as preset (or master) settings, task 318 is performed, otherwise task 260 is performed. The surgeon may be prompted as to whether the updated settings are to be stored as a preset or master setting for future iterations of the method.

[0090] The tasks described above are intended to be illustrative examples; depending on the application, the tasks may be performed sequentially, synchronously, simultaneously, continuously, during overlapping time periods, or in a different order. Furthermore, depending on the implementation of the event and / or the sequence of events, any of the tasks may not be performed or may be skipped.

[0091] The SPM 116 and / or surgeon assessment module 212 of the imaging system 33 can monitor surgeon trends. This can include monitoring a particular surgeon's x-ray source parameter trends relative to other surgeons' x-ray source trends for similar patient and surgical parameters. These trends can also be compared to recommended x-ray source settings. The feedback module 218 can provide feedback to the surgeon and / or other users via the display device 35, indicating whether the surgeon is following the trends of other surgeons or using x-ray source settings that result in poor image quality and / or higher x-ray dose. The feedback can be provided to and / or similarly determined by the central provider device 14. The feedback can also indicate whether the surgeon's trends deviate from the recommended settings and / or the typical differences between the surgeon's settings and the recommended settings. The surgeon assessment module 212 can also predict surgeon trends for specific patients and / or surgeries. For example, if the surgeon gradually increases or decreases x-ray source settings over time, or consistently uses specific x-ray source settings, this information can be indicated via the display device.

[0092] The post-processing mode allows the surgeon to use the method described above to evaluate images acquired during a surgical procedure, and then use updated settings determined by the method in subsequent procedures for improved image quality and / or reduced x-ray dose.

[0093] The threshold check / warning module 222 can determine whether the x-ray source settings selected by the surgeon are (i) outside a predetermined range of settings typically used by other surgeons for similar patients and similar procedures, and / or (ii) outside a predetermined range of recommended (centrally certified and / or industry recommended) settings. If the settings are outside the predetermined range and / or any of the x-ray source settings are greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum, the threshold check / warning module 222 can prompt the surgeon to change the selected settings. The surgeon can be shown the typical surgeon settings and / or the recommended settings, and can be prompted as to whether the typical surgeon settings and / or the recommended settings are acceptable. Sample images can be provided for the typical surgeon settings and / or the recommended settings, as described above. If one or more of the x-ray source settings are outside the predetermined range (which would result in an x-ray dose greater than a predetermined level), the threshold check / warning module 222 can prompt the user and / or prevent imaging.

[0094] The methods disclosed above allow for post-analysis of images using image detection algorithms and regions of interest to provide radiation trends. Target and / or recommended x-ray source settings can then be provided based on estimated and / or determined patient parameters (e.g., body habits) to subsequently provide the recommended settings back to the user. This includes the type of images that the imaging system at a particular site typically provides for the recommended settings. Information about how the imaging system is being used at a particular site can be provided back to a central provider device and / or indicated to the user and / or technician.

[0095] In the methods described above, image sample sets can be acquired at a predetermined frequency so that post-processing of the images can be performed. Parameters associated with each of the image sets can be recorded for future evaluation. Each image set can be specific to a particular patient, surgeon, one or more procedures, one or more regions of interest, and the like.

[0096] The wireless communications described in this disclosure may be implemented in whole or in part in accordance with IEEE Standard 802.11-2012, IEEE Standard 802.16-2009, IEEE Standard 802.20-2008, and / or Bluetooth Core Specification v4.0. In various implementations, Bluetooth Core Specification v4.0 may be modified by one or more of Bluetooth Core Specification Annexes 2, 3, or 4. In various implementations, IEEE 802.11-2012 may be supplemented by Draft IEEE Standard 802.11ac, Draft IEEE Standard 802.11ad, and / or Draft IEEE Standard 802.11ah.

[0097] The above description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, its application or use. The broad teachings of the present disclosure can be implemented in various forms. Therefore, although the present disclosure includes specific examples, the true scope of the present disclosure should not be so limited, because other modifications will become apparent when studying the drawings, the specification and the appended claims. It should be understood that one or more steps within the method can be performed in a different order (or simultaneously) without changing the principles of the present disclosure. Further, although each embodiment is described above as having certain features, any one or more of these features described with respect to any embodiment of the present disclosure can be implemented and / or combined with the features of any other embodiment, even if the combination is not explicitly described. In other words, the described embodiments are not mutually exclusive, and the arrangement of one or more embodiments to each other remains within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] Various terms, including "connected," "engaged," "coupled," "adjacent," "immediately adjacent," "on top of," "over," "under," and "disposed," are used to describe spatial and functional relationships between elements (e.g., between modules, circuit elements, semiconductor layers, etc.). Unless explicitly described as "direct," when a relationship between a first and a second element is described in the above disclosure, the relationship may be a direct relationship with no other intervening elements between the first and second elements, but may also be an indirect relationship with one or more intervening elements (spatially or functionally) between the first and second elements. As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A" or "B" or "C), using a non-exclusive logical "OR," and should not be construed to mean "at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C."

[0099] In this application (including the definitions below), the term "module" or the term "controller" may be replaced with the term "circuit". The term "module" may refer to, be part of, or include: an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital circuit, an analog circuit, or a mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital circuit, an analog circuit, or a mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor circuit (shared, dedicated, or a group) that executes code; a memory circuit (shared, dedicated, or a group) that stores code executed by the processor circuit; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip.

[0100] The module may include one or more interface circuits. In some examples, the interface circuit may include a wired or wireless interface connected to a local area network (LAN), the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or a combination thereof. The functionality of any given module of the present disclosure may be distributed among multiple modules connected via the interface circuit. For example, multiple modules may allow for load balancing. In a further example, a server (also referred to as a remote or cloud) module may implement some functionality on behalf of a client module.

[0101] The term code, as used above, may include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and may refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, data structures, and / or objects. The term shared processor circuit includes a single processor circuit that executes some or all code from multiple modules. The term group processor circuit includes a processor circuit combined with additional processor circuits that executes some or all code from one or more modules. References to multiple processor circuits include multiple processor circuits on discrete dies, multiple processor circuits on a single die, multiple cores of a single processor circuit, multiple threads of a single processor circuit, or combinations of the above. The term shared memory circuit includes a single memory circuit that stores some or all code from multiple modules. The term group memory circuit includes a memory circuit combined with additional memory that stores some or all code from one or more modules.

[0102] The term memory circuit is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. As used herein, the term computer-readable medium does not include transient electrical or electromagnetic signals (such as on a carrier wave) propagated through the medium; the term computer-readable medium may therefore be considered to be tangible and non-transient. Non-limiting examples of non-transient, tangible computer-readable media are non-volatile memory circuits (such as flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or mask read-only memory circuits), volatile memory circuits (such as static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (such as analog or digital magnetic tape or hard drives), and optical storage media (such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0103] The apparatus and methods described in the present disclosure may be implemented in part or in whole by a special-purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. The functional blocks, flow chart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications that can be translated into a computer program by the routine work of a skilled technician or programmer.

[0104] The computer program includes computer-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium. The computer program may also include or rely on stored data. The computer program may include a basic input / output system (BIOS) for interacting with the hardware of the special-purpose computer, device drivers for interacting with specific devices of the special-purpose computer, one or more operating systems, user applications, background services, background applications, etc.

[0105] A computer program may include: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, such as HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) or XML (Extensible Markup Language), (ii) assembly code, (iii) object code generated from source code by a compiler, (iv) source code executed by an interpreter, (v) source code compiled and executed by a just-in-time compiler, etc. By way of example only, source code may be written using syntax from the following languages: C, C++, C#, Objective C, Haskell, Go, SQL, R, Lisp, Fortran, Perl, Pascal, Curl, OCaml, HTML5, Ada, ASP (Active Server Pages), PHP, Scala, Eiffel, Smalltalk, Erlang, Ruby, Visual Lua, and

[0106] No element recited in the claims is intended to be a means-plus-function element within the meaning of 35 U.S.C. §112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, “the operation of” or “the step of”.

Claims

1. An imaging system, comprising: an image module configured to obtain (i) a first sample set having one or more images of a region of interest of a first patient, and (ii) a master sample set having one or more images, wherein the first sample set having one or more images is acquired as a result of an x-ray source operating according to a first plurality of settings based on parameters for the first patient; an alignment module, the alignment module being configured to: align the first sample set having one or more images with the master sample set having one or more images; a processing module configured to: process data corresponding to the alignment result; and A settings module is configured to adjust the first plurality of settings to provide updated settings to improve acquired image quality and / or reduce x-ray dose.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein Further including: an initialization module configured to: obtain parameters for the first patient, Wherein the initialization module is configured to select the first plurality of settings for the x-ray source based on the parameters.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The parameters include at least one of: patient parameters, surgical parameters, and surgeon parameters.

4. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Further included is a feedback module configured to provide feedback indicating whether one or more of the first plurality of settings used for the surgery is outside of (i) one or more corresponding predetermined ranges of typical surgeon settings for the surgery, or (ii) one or more corresponding predetermined ranges of recommended settings for the surgery.

5. The system according to claim 2, wherein: Further included is a threshold module configured to generate a warning signal to indicate that one or more of the first plurality of settings is outside of one or more ranges, indicating that an x-ray dose resulting from use of the first plurality of settings is greater than a predetermined threshold.

6. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Further included is a quality module configured to: (i) determine a quality of the first sample set having one or more images, and (ii) instruct the image module to acquire a second set having one or more images based on the quality of the first sample set having one or more images.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that An x-ray dose associated with the updated settings from the settings module is less than an x-ray dose associated with the first plurality of settings.

8. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that Further included is a surgeon assessment module configured to monitor x-ray source parameters of a first surgeon relative to x-ray source parameters of a second surgeon for similar patient and surgical parameters.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The patient parameters include parameters corresponding to the first patient and parameters corresponding to the second patient.

10. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The settings module is configured to: determine updated settings for the x-ray source based on: a size of the first patient; the region of interest of the patient; pixel intensity levels of the first sample set of one or more images and the master sample set of one or more images; and continuity of the first sample set of one or more images.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The settings module is configured to: during the auto-learn mode, (i) adjust the first plurality of settings to the updated settings, and (ii) prompt a surgeon to confirm the updated settings.

12. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The alignment module is configured to: (i) rotate and adjust a zoom level of the first sample set of one or more images for alignment with the master sample set of one or more images, and (ii) verify the alignment of the first set of one or more images with the master sample set of one or more images.

13. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The processing module processes pixel data as a result of the alignment or patient parameters.

14. An imaging method, comprising: obtaining (i) a first sample set having one or more images of a region of interest of a first patient, and (ii) a master sample set having one or more images, wherein the first sample set having one or more images is acquired as a result of an x-ray source operating according to a first plurality of settings for the first patient; aligning the first sample set having one or more images with the master sample set having one or more images; processing data corresponding to the results of the alignment; and The first plurality of settings are adjusted to provide updated settings to improve acquired image quality and / or reduce x-ray dose.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: obtaining parameters for the first patient; as well as The first plurality of settings for the x-ray source are selected based on the parameters.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein Obtaining parameters for the first patient includes obtaining patient parameters from at least one patient, surgical parameters from at least one surgery, and surgeon parameters from at least one surgeon.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein Further including: Parameters are obtained for the first patient, obtaining parameters for the first patient comprising obtaining patient parameters from at least one patient, surgical parameters from at least one surgery, and surgeon parameters from at least one surgeon.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein Further including: The first plurality of settings for the x-ray source are selected based on the parameters.

19. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: An x-ray dose associated with the updated settings is less than an x-ray dose associated with the first plurality of settings.

20. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: Further including: storing the updated settings as a preset or as an updated master sample set with one or more images for a second procedure, in: The first plurality of settings are used to acquire the first sample set of one or more images during a first procedure; and The second operation is performed after the first operation.

21. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: Further including: determining a quality of the first sample set of one or more images; Based on the quality of the first sample set of one or more images, a second sample set of one or more images is acquired.

22. The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein: Further comprising determining updated settings for the x-ray source based on: the size of the first patient; the region of interest of the patient; pixel intensity levels of the first sample set of one or more images and the main sample set of one or more images; as well as The continuity of the first sample set of one or more images.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein Further including: During the auto-learn mode, (i) the first plurality of settings are adjusted to updated settings, and (ii) the surgeon is prompted to confirm the updated settings.

24. The method of claim 22, wherein: Further including: During manual mode, (i) the surgeon is prompted for the updated settings without adjusting the first plurality of settings, and (ii) if input is received indicating confirmation of the updated settings, the first plurality of settings are adjusted to the updated settings.

25. The method of claim 15, wherein: Further including: determining whether a minimum sample set is available before processing the data; as well as If the minimum set of samples is not available, a second set of samples having one or more images is acquired or accessed.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein: The second sample set having one or more images is of the region of interest of the first patient or of the region of interest of a second patient.

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