System and method for protocol-dependent 2D pre-scan projection images based on 3D pre-scan volume image data

By employing MIP and air/soft tissue interface rendering algorithms in 2D pre-scanned projection images, visually enhanced images are generated based on 3D pre-scanned data, solving the problem of inaccurate scan planning in existing technologies, reducing radiation dose, and improving scan accuracy and efficiency.

CN113811247BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-18KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202080035524.8
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2019-05-14
Filing Date
2020-05-13
Publication Date
2025-11-18
Estimated Expiration
2040-05-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, 2D pre-scan projection images only provide limited information about the region of interest, resulting in an excessive margin in the extension of the scan plan or bounding box in the z-axis direction, which increases unnecessary radiation dose.

Method used

Different rendering algorithms, such as maximum intensity projection (MIP) and air/soft tissue interface rendering algorithms, are used to generate visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images based on 3D pre-scan data to more accurately plan the region of interest for 3D volumetric scanning.

Benefits of technology

With visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images, operators can more accurately confirm and adjust scan plans or bounding boxes, reducing unnecessary radiation doses and improving scan accuracy and efficiency.

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Abstract

An imaging system (302) includes an x-ray radiation source (312) configured to emit radiation through an examination region, a detector array (314) configured to detect radiation through the examination region and generate a signal indicative of the radiation, wherein the detected radiation is for a 3D pre-scan, and a reconstructor (316) configured to reconstruct the signal to generate 2D pre-scan projection images. The imaging system also includes a console (318), wherein a processor thereof is configured to execute 3D volume planning instructions (328) in a memory to display the 2D pre-scan projection images (402, 602, 802, 1002) and a scan plan or bounding box (404, 604, 804, 1004) for planning a 3D volume scan of a region / tissue of interest based on a selected protocol for a 3D volume scan of the region / tissue of interest being planned, and receive an input confirming or adjusting the scan plan box to create a 3D volume scan plan for the 3D volume scan of the region / tissue of interest.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The following generally relates to imaging, and more specifically to protocol-related two-dimensional (2D) pre-scan projected images based on three-dimensional (3D) pre-scan volumetric image data, and is described using specific applications of computed tomography (CT). Background Technology

[0002] A computed tomography (CT) scanner includes an X-ray tube that rotates around the area to be examined and emits X-ray radiation that passes through the area. A detector array detects the X-ray radiation that passes through the area to be examined and onto a target or object within it (which attenuates the X-ray radiation). The detector array generates projection data indicating the incident X-ray radiation. A reconstructor reconstructs the projection data to generate three-dimensional (3D) volumetric image data indicating the area to be examined and onto the target or object within it.

[0003] Before performing a volumetric scan, a pre-scan is performed to generate a 2D pre-scan projection image to plan the volumetric scan. Historically, a pre-scan (also known as reconnaissance, guidance, or investigation) was performed while an X-ray tube emitted X-ray radiation, using an X-ray tube statically positioned at a given angle and moving the target or object along the longitudinal scan axis (z-axis) through the area to be examined. The reconstructor reconstructs the acquired data to generate a 2D pre-scan projection image that mimics the X-ray image and shows the interior of the target or object.

[0004] During pre-scanning, the scope of the target or object being scanned is such that the region of interest / tissue for volumetric scanning is visible in the 2D pre-scan projection image. For example, a pre-scan for lung scanning might cover from the shoulder to the pelvis. To plan the volumetric scan, the user identifies the z-axis range on the 2D pre-scan projection image for the region of interest / tissue. This is done by defining a scan plan or bounding box for the start and end scan positions of the region of interest / tissue to be scanned. Figure 1 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image 102 with an example scan plan or bounding box 104 superimposed thereon.

[0005] US10,045,754B2 (which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) discusses low-dose 3D pre-scanning, which is similar to 2D pre-scanning except that the X-ray tube rotates during the scan to acquire tomographic data, which is then reconstructed to produce 3D pre-scan volumetric image data. This 3D pre-scan volumetric image data has worse contrast resolution than diagnostic 3D volumetric image data from diagnostic scans and is not used for diagnostic purposes. For planning purposes, the 3D pre-scan volumetric image data is used, for example, to generate a 2D pre-scan projection image by summing the 3D volume along the ray path.

[0006] A 2D pre-scan projection image generated from data acquired during a 3D pre-scan is similar to a 2D pre-scan projection image generated from data acquired during a 2D pre-scan and can be similarly used to plan volumetric scans of regions / tissues of interest. For example, a user can use a scan plan or bounding box to define the start and end scan locations for the region / tissue of interest to be scanned. Figure 2 shows an example of such a 2D pre-scan projection image 202 and an example scan plan or bounding box 204.

[0007] Unfortunately, in either case (i.e., from a 2D pre-scan acquisition (e.g., as shown in Figure 1) and a 3D pre-scan acquisition (e.g., as shown in Figure 2)), the 2D pre-scan projection images reveal only limited 2D information about the tissue of interest to be scanned. For example, in Figures 1 and 2, there is no clear depiction of the lung and diaphragm at the lung / diaphragm interface. Thus, the scan plan or bounding box is typically extended with a margin in the z-axis direction to ensure that the region is scanned, for example, to avoid having to rescan the target or object due to incomplete scanning of the entire region of interest. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The aspects described in this article address the problems mentioned above and / or other issues.

[0009] For example, the following describes a method, in one instance, that uses different rendering algorithms to display a 2D pre-scanned projection image to visually enhance the region of interest / organism in the displayed 2D pre-scanned projection image, wherein the region of interest / organism is determined according to a scanning protocol.

[0010] In one aspect, an imaging system includes: an X-ray radiation source configured to emit radiation through an area to be examined; a detector array configured to detect the radiation through the area to be examined and generate a signal indicating the radiation, wherein the detected radiation is used for a 3D pre-scan; and a reconstructor configured to reconstruct the signal to generate a 2D pre-scan projection image. The imaging system also includes a console having a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to execute 3D volume planning instructions in the memory, the 3D volume planning instructions causing the processor to: display the 2D pre-scan projection image and a scan plan or bounding box, the scan plan or bounding box being used to plan a 3D volume scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected protocol for the planned 3D volume scan; and receive input confirming or adjusting the scan plan or bounding box to create a 3D volume scan plan for the 3D volume scan of the region of interest / organism. The 3D volume scan of the region of interest / organism is performed based on the 3D volume scan plan.

[0011] In another aspect, one method includes obtaining projection data from a 3D pre-scan. The method further includes reconstructing the projection data to create a 2D pre-scan projection image. The method also includes displaying the 2D pre-scan projection image and a scan plan or bounding box for planning a 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected protocol for the planned 3D volumetric scan. The method further includes receiving input confirming or adjusting the scan plan or bounding box to create a 3D volumetric scan plan for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism.

[0012] In another aspect, a computer-readable storage medium stores computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a computer's processor, cause the processor to: obtain projection data from a 3D pre-scan; reconstruct the projection data to create a 2D pre-scan projection image; display the 2D pre-scan projection image and a scan plan or bounding box, the scan plan or bounding box being used to plan a 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected protocol for the planned 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism; and receive input confirming or adjusting the scan plan or bounding box to create a 3D volumetric scan plan for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism.

[0013] Other aspects of this application will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the accompanying description. Attached Figure Description

[0014] This invention can take the form of various components and their arrangements, as well as various steps and their scheduling. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0015] Figure 1 illustrates a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 2D pre-scanning.

[0016] Figure 2 illustrates a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 3D pre-scanning.

[0017] Figure 3 An example imaging system including 3D volume planning instructions is illustrated according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0018] Figure 4 A 2D pre-scan projection image of a frontal rib MIP and a scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 3D pre-scanning, according to one or more embodiments herein, are shown.

[0019] Figure 5 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image of a frontal rib and a scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 2D pre-scanning.

[0020] Figure 6 Lateral spinal MIP 2D pre-scan projection images and scan plans or bounding boxes created from data acquired during 3D pre-scanning, according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0021] Figure 7 illustrates a prior art lateral spine 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 2D pre-scan.

[0022] Figure 8 A frontal lung MIP 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 3D pre-scanning, according to one or more embodiments herein.

[0023] Figure 9 illustrates a prior art frontal lung 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 2D pre-scanning.

[0024] Figure 10 The lateral lung MIP2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 3D pre-scanning, according to one or more embodiments herein, are shown.

[0025] Figure 11 shows a prior art lateral lung 2D pre-scan projection image and scan plan or bounding box created from data acquired during 2D pre-scan.

[0026] Figure 12 Example methods according to one or more embodiments described herein are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The following describes a method for generating 2D pre-scan images based on data acquired using 3D pre-scans and a scanning protocol for a volumetric scan of a region of interest / tissue being planned using the 2D pre-scan images. In one example, this allows for the display of differently drawn 2D pre-scan images to visually enhance the region of interest / tissue within the 2D pre-scan images.

[0028] Figure 3An imaging system 302, such as a computed tomography (CT) scanner, is illustrated. The illustrated imaging system 302 includes a fixed gantry 304 and a rotating gantry 306, the rotating gantry 306 being rotatably supported by the fixed gantry 304. The rotating gantry 306 rotates about an examination area 308 about a longitudinal axis (“Z”). An object support 310 (such as a couch) supports an object or target in the examination area 308 and guides the object or target for loading, scanning, and / or unloading.

[0029] An X-ray radiation source 312 (such as an X-ray tube) is supported by a rotating gantry 306 and rotates with the gantry 306 around an inspection area 308, emitting X-ray radiation that passes through the inspection area 308. An X-ray radiation-sensitive detector array 314 is positioned relative to the X-ray radiation source 312 across the inspection area 308. The X-ray radiation-sensitive detector array 314 detects the X-ray radiation passing through the inspection area 308 (and the target or object therein) and generates a signal indicating it (i.e., projection data or line integral).

[0030] The reconstructor 316 is configured to reconstruct signals from the X-ray radiation-sensitive detector array 314 to generate image data. For example, in one instance, the reconstructor 316 is configured to reconstruct a 2D pre-scan image using data acquired from a 2D pre-scan and / or a 3D pre-scan. For 3D pre-scan data, this may include reconstructing 3D pre-scan volumetric image data and then generating a 2D pre-scan image based thereon. Additionally or alternatively, the reconstructor 316 is configured to reconstruct diagnostic 3D volumetric image data using data acquired from a diagnostic 3D volumetric scan planned using 2D pre-scan images.

[0031] In one instance, the rebuilder 316 is implemented using hardware (such as a central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) configured to execute computer-executable instructions stored, embedded, encoded, etc., on computer-readable storage media and / or non-transient memory. The rebuilder 316 may be part of system 302 (as shown) and / or remote from system 302 (e.g., in a remote computing system, distributed across other computing systems, part of a "cloud"-based resource, etc.).

[0032] The operator console 318 includes one or more human-readable output devices 320 (such as a display monitor, viewfinder, etc.) and one or more input devices 322 (such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.). The operator console 318 also includes a processor 324 (e.g., a CPU, μCPU, etc.) and a computer-readable storage medium (“memory”) 326 (excluding transient media) (such as physical memory, like memory storage devices, etc.). The computer-readable storage medium 326 includes computer-readable instructions. The processor 324 is configured to execute at least the computer-readable instructions.

[0033] In one instance, the computer-readable instructions include at least 3D data acquisition instructions and reconstruction instructions. Examples of suitable data acquisition include 2D pre-scans and / or 3D pre-scans, and diagnostic 3D volumetric scans. Examples of suitable reconstruction include 2D pre-scan projection images from data acquired using 2D pre-scans and / or 2D pre-scan projection images from data acquired using 3D pre-scans, and diagnostic 3D volumetric image data from data acquired from diagnostic 3D volumetric scans.

[0034] The computer-readable instructions also include 3D volume planning instructions 328. As described in more detail below, 3D volume planning instructions 328 include instructions for creating and displaying a 2D pre-scan projection image generated based on data acquired using a 3D pre-scan and based on a scanning protocol for a region / tissue of interest planned using the 2D pre-scan image for 3D volumetric scanning. In one example, the scanning protocol is obtained from commands prescribed by a clinician (e.g., referring physician, radiologist, etc.) and is entered / selected by a user who sets up the imaging system 302 to scan the object via one or more input devices 322 of the console 318 and / or otherwise.

[0035] The following describes a non-limiting example of a 2D pre-scan projection image generated from data acquired using 3D pre-scanning and based on a scanning protocol for a region of interest / organism planned using the 2D pre-scan image for 3D volumetric scanning.

[0036] In one example, the scanning protocol is used for scanning ribs, and instruction 328 selects a rendering algorithm for the ribs. In this example, the selected rendering algorithm is the Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP) rendering algorithm because the tissue of interest is bone, which greatly attenuates X-rays, resulting in voxels with values ​​representing bone or material represented by high intensity. Typically, MIP is a rendering technique used to project voxels with maximum intensity along a ray from a given viewpoint onto a projection plane.

[0037] In one instance, instruction 328 determines a drawing algorithm for a scanning protocol used for the ribs from a predetermined mapping, lookup table (LUT), etc. That is, the mapping, etc., may include data structures that map each type of scanning protocol to a drawing algorithm and store them in memory 326 and / or other storage devices. The mapping, etc., may be predetermined based on empirical and / or theoretical data. In another instance, the user specifies the drawing algorithm of interest. In yet another example, instruction 328 includes artificial intelligence (e.g., machine learning) learning the mapping, etc., from user selections / preferences of individual clinicians and / or healthcare facilities.

[0038] Figure 4 Figure 5 shows a 2D pre-scan projection image 402 and a scan plan or bounding box 404 of a front view of an object generated from data acquired during a 3D pre-scan based on a scanning protocol targeting the ribs. For comparison, Figure 5 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image 502 and a scan plan or bounding box 504 of a front view of an object generated from data acquired during a 2D or 3D pre-scan (which is not based on a scanning protocol). Figure 4 And 5, relative to the 2D pre-scanned projection image of Figure 5, Figure 4 The ribs in the 2D pre-scanned projection image are visually enhanced (i.e., brighter). In one instance, this allows the operator to more easily confirm adequate coverage using the scan plan or bounding box 404 and / or adjust the scan plan or bounding box 404 to adequately cover the ribs of interest.

[0039] In another example, the scanning protocol is for a spinal scan. In this example, instruction 328 again selects the MIP rendering algorithm because the tissue of interest is bone. Figure 6 Figure 7 shows a 2D pre-scan projection image 602 of an object, generated from data acquired during a 3D pre-scan based on a scanning protocol for the spine, and a scan plan or bounding box 604. For comparison, Figure 7 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image 702 of an object, generated from data acquired during a 2D or 3D pre-scan (which is not based on a scanning protocol), and a scan plan or bounding box 704. Figure 6 And 7, relative to the 2D pre-scanned projection image of Figure 7, Figure 6 The spine in the 2D pre-scanned projection image is visually enhanced (i.e., brighter). Similarly, this allows the operator to more easily confirm adequate coverage using the scan plan or bounding box 604 and / or adjust the scan plan or bounding box 604 to adequately cover the spine of interest.

[0040] In another example, the scanning protocol is for a lung scan. In this example, instruction 328 selects the air / soft tissue (ST edge) interface rendering algorithm because the lung is soft tissue filled with and surrounded by air. Figure 8 Figure 9 shows a 2D pre-scan projection image 802 and a scan plan or bounding box 804 of a frontal view of an object generated from data acquired during a lung-specific scanning protocol. For comparison, Figure 9 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image 702 and a scan plan or bounding box 904 of a frontal view of an object generated from data acquired during a 2D or 3D pre-scan (which is not based on a scanning protocol). Figure 8 And 9, relative to the 2D pre-scanned projection image of Figure 9, Figure 8 The lungs in the 2D pre-scan projection image are visually enhanced (i.e., brighter). This allows the operator to more easily confirm adequate coverage using the scan plan or bounding box 804 and / or adjust the scan plan or bounding box 804 to ensure adequate lung coverage.

[0041] In another example, the scanning protocol is again for a lung scan. Execution instruction 328 also selects the air / soft tissue (ST edge) interface rendering algorithm because the lungs are soft tissue filled with and surrounded by air. Figure 10 Figure 1002 shows a 2D pre-scan projection image 1002 and a scan planning frame 1004, representing a lateral view of an object generated from data acquired during a lung-specific scan protocol. For comparison, Figure 11 shows a prior art 2D pre-scan projection image 702 and a scan planning frame 1104, representing a lateral view of an object generated from data acquired during a 2D or 3D pre-scan (which is not based on a scan protocol). Figure 10 And 11, relative to the 2D pre-scanned projection image of Figure 11, Figure 10 The lungs in the 2D pre-scan projection image are visually enhanced (i.e., brighter). Similarly, this allows the operator to more easily confirm adequate coverage using the scan plan or bounding box 1004 and / or adjust the scan plan or bounding box 1004 to ensure adequate lung coverage.

[0042] Return to Figure 3In one instance, console 318 displays only visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images (e.g., 2D pre-scan projection images 402, 602, 802, or 1002) during volumetric scan planning. In another instance, console 318 displays both visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images (e.g., 2D pre-scan projection images 402, 602, 802, or 1002) and non-visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images (e.g., 2D pre-scan projection images 502, 702, 902, or 1102) during volumetric scan planning. In yet another instance, the user can switch between visually enhanced and non-visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images. The displayed images can be automatically determined by instruction 328 and / or defined by the operator via operator preferences or otherwise for each different type of scan and / or inspection. The operator can confirm and / or adjust (e.g., increase or decrease the z-axis range) and then confirm the scan plan or bounding box.

[0043] Suitable rendering algorithms include those for projecting 3D data onto a 2D plane. Non-limiting examples include, but are not limited to, MIP, ST edges, Minimum Intensity Projection (MinIP), which is a negative of MIP and projects a voxel with the lowest intensity, Multiplanar Reconstruction (MPR), reformatting volumes to generate 2D pre-scanned projected images in axial, sagittal, coronal, and / or oblique planes, Curved MPR (cMPR) that effectively straightens curved structures (e.g., spine, blood vessels, etc.) to allow simultaneous visualization of the entire length of a segment or the entire curved structure in the same plane, and / or other volume rendering techniques.

[0044] In one instance, the method described herein allows for more accurate volumetric scan planning because the scan plan or bounding box boundaries can be more accurately fitted to the region of interest / tissue compared to a volumetric scan plan planned using prior art 2D pre-scan projection images, which do not visually enhance the region of interest / tissue. In one instance, this can reduce the overall patient dose by mitigating margins relative to a configuration in which prior art 2D pre-scan projection images are created by adding margins to ensure the region of interest / tissue is covered in the pre-scan.

[0045] In addition to planned volumetric scanning or as an alternative to planned volumetric scanning, the 2D pre-scan projection images described herein (which are generated based on data acquired during 3D pre-scanning and a selected scanning protocol for the region / tissue of interest) can also be used in trauma or other situations, for example, to identify bone fractures directly from 2D pre-scan projection images, which in one instance saved time and / or reduced patient dose.

[0046] When imaging system 302 is configured for spectral (multi-energy) imaging, visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection images can utilize spectral characteristics. For example, the visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection image can be a contrast-only visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection image or a virtual non-contrast visually enhanced 2D pre-scan projection image, for example, where the region of interest / tissue includes blood vessels, etc. In this case, a predetermined mapping (or other mapping, etc.) includes the type of spectral image data for each scanning protocol, the user will select the type of spectral image data of interest, and / or an artificial intelligence algorithm will also learn the type of spectral image data from the user's selection for an individual clinician and / or healthcare facility.

[0047] Typically, the spectral configuration will include an X-ray tube configured to emit broadband (multicolor) radiation for a single selected peak emission voltage of interest, and the radiation-sensitive detector array will include energy-resolved detectors (such as multilayer scintillator / light sensor detectors and / or photon counting (direct conversion) detectors), or an X-ray tube configured to switch between at least two different emission voltages during scanning and / or two or more X-ray tubes angularly offset on a rotating gantry, wherein each X-ray tube is configured to emit radiation with a different average energy spectrum, and the radiation-sensitive detector array will include non-energy-resolved detectors and / or energy-resolved detectors.

[0048] Figure 12 Example methods according to one or more embodiments described herein are illustrated.

[0049] It should be understood that the order of actions in this method is not restrictive. Therefore, other orderings are envisioned in this paper. Additionally, one or more actions may be omitted, and / or one or more additional actions may be included.

[0050] At 1202, perform a 3D pre-scan, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0051] At 1204, the region of interest / organism for 3D volumetric scanning is identified from the selected scanning protocol used for 3D volumetric scanning, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0052] At 1206, the mapping algorithm is identified based on the selected scanning protocol for the 3D volumetric scan of the region / organism of interest, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0053] At 1208, the identified rendering algorithm is used to create a 2D pre-scan projection image for planning the 3D volumetric scan using the 3D pre-scan data, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0054] At 1210, a scan plan for 3D volumetric scanning is created using the 2D pre-scanned projection image, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0055] At 1212, a 3D volumetric scan of the region / tissue of interest is performed based on a scan plan for 3D volumetric scanning, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0056] At 1214, 3D volumetric image data of the region / tissue of interest are reconstructed based on data acquired during 3D volumetric scanning, as described herein and / or otherwise.

[0057] The above can be implemented as computer-readable instructions encoded or embedded on a computer-readable storage medium, which, when executed by one or more computer processors, perform the described actions. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the computer-readable instructions may be carried by a signal, a carrier wave, or other transient medium that is not a computer-readable storage medium.

[0058] Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such illustrations and descriptions should be considered illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Those skilled in the art, through studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention.

[0059] The word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words “a” or “an” do not exclude multiple. A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. Although specific measures are recited in different dependent claims, this does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0060] Computer programs may be stored / distributed on suitable media, such as optical or solid-state media supplied with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems. No reference numerals in the claims should be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An imaging system (302), comprising: An X-ray radiation source (312) is configured to emit radiation through the area being inspected; A detector array (314) is configured to detect radiation passing through the inspection area and generate a signal indicating the radiation, wherein the detected radiation is used for 3D pre-scanning; Reconstructor (316), configured to reconstruct the signal to generate a 2D pre-scanned projection image; and A console (318) having a processor (324) and a memory (326), wherein the processor is configured to execute 3D volume planning instructions (328) in the memory, the 3D volume planning instructions causing the processor to: Displaying the 2D pre-scan projection images (402, 602, 802, 1002) and scan plans or bounding boxes (404, 604, 804, 1004), the scan plans or bounding boxes are used to plan a 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected scan protocol for the planned 3D volumetric scan; and Receive confirmation or adjustment input for the scan plan or bounding box to create a 3D volumetric scan plan for the region of interest / tissue. The 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / tissue is performed based on the 3D volumetric scan plan; and The console is configured to: identify the region of interest / organism based on the selected scanning protocol, obtain a rendering algorithm for the identified region of interest / organism, and render the 2D pre-scanned projection image of the region of interest / organism based on the obtained rendering algorithm.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The drawing algorithm is a volume drawing algorithm that projects 3D volume data onto a 2D plane.

3. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein, The rendering algorithm visually enhances the region of interest / organism in the displayed 2D pre-scanned projection image.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The rendering algorithm is selected from the group consisting of: maximum intensity projection, soft tissue / edge interface, minimum intensity projection, multiplane reconstruction, and curved multiplane reconstruction.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The rendering algorithm is selected from the group consisting of: contrast-only images and virtual non-contrast images.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The memory includes a predetermined mapping between scanning protocols and drawing algorithms, and the console is also configured to select the drawing algorithm based on the predetermined mapping according to the selected scanning protocol.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The console selects the drawing algorithm based on user input that identifies the drawing algorithm.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The console selects the chosen rendering algorithm based on a trained machine learning algorithm.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The trained machine learning algorithm is trained to map the drawing algorithm to the scanning protocol based on at least one drawing algorithm from a selection of drawing algorithms for clinicians or healthcare entities.

10. A method comprising: Obtain projection data from 3D pre-scan; Reconstruct the projection data to create a 2D pre-scanned projection image; The 2D pre-scanned projection image and scan plan or bounding box are displayed, the scan plan or bounding box being used to plan a 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected protocol for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism being planned; The region of interest / organism is identified based on the selected scanning protocol; Obtain the rendering algorithm for the identified region of interest / organization; and The obtained rendering algorithm is used to render the 2D pre-scanned projection image of the region of interest / tissue; and Receive confirmation or adjustment of the scan plan or bounding box input to create a 3D volumetric scan plan for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The rendering algorithm visually enhances the region of interest / organism in the displayed 2D pre-scanned projection image.

12. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising: The drawing algorithm is obtained based on user input or by selection by a machine learning algorithm according to a predetermined mapping between the scanning protocol and the drawing algorithm.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising: The 3D volumetric scan of the region / tissue of interest is performed based on the 3D volumetric scan plan.

14. A computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor of a computer, cause the processor to: Obtain projection data from 3D pre-scan; Reconstruct the projection data to create a 2D pre-scanned projection image; The 2D pre-scanned projection image and scan plan or bounding box are displayed, the scan plan or bounding box being used to plan a 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism based on a selected scan protocol for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism being planned; The region of interest / organism is identified based on the selected scanning protocol; Obtain the rendering algorithm for the identified region of interest / organization; and The obtained rendering algorithm is used to render the 2D pre-scanned projection image of the region of interest / tissue; and Receive confirmation or adjustment of the scan plan or bounding box input to create a 3D volumetric scan plan for the 3D volumetric scan of the region of interest / organism.

15. The computer-readable storage medium according to claim 14, wherein, The rendering algorithm visually enhances the region of interest / organism in the displayed 2D pre-scanned projection image.

16. The computer-readable storage medium according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein, The computer-executable instructions also cause the processor to: The drawing algorithm is obtained based on user input or by selection by a machine learning algorithm according to a predetermined mapping between the scanning protocol and the drawing algorithm.

17. The computer-readable storage medium according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein, The computer-executable instructions also cause the processor to: The 3D volumetric scan of the region / tissue of interest is performed based on the 3D volumetric scan plan.

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