Interactive MRI imaging system and processing method thereof

Abstract

The invention provides an interactive MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) system and a processing method thereof, and provides an interactive imaging mechanism integrating touch pressure feedback and an MRI real-time evaluation sensorimotor function, and under the condition of determining that a patient is abnormal through an MRI image, the touch pressure feedback is given, so that the sensitivity of the patient is improved. Therefore, real-time tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data and a brain functional fMRI activation mode pattern of the patient can be collected, the sensorimotor dysfunction of the patient can be evaluated more objectively and accurately based on the data, and more accurate rehabilitation plans and monitoring treatment effects can be achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical imaging, specifically to an interactive MRI imaging system and its processing method. Background Technology

[0002] Cerebrovascular diseases (including stroke and cerebral hemorrhage) pose a significant health challenge. According to the World Health Organization, cerebrovascular disease is the second leading cause of death globally, after cardiovascular disease, and is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. Many patients with cerebrovascular diseases suffer from sensory-motor dysfunction, such as weakness or hemiplegia on one side of the body, as well as decreased or lost touch. These sensory-motor dysfunctions obviously have a serious impact on patients' quality of life and can easily lead to a significant financial burden.

[0003] Currently, the main methods for assessing these functional impairments are clinical neurological examinations, such as the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIH) or muscle strength tests. In practice, these examinations rely on the physician's subjective judgment and the patient's cooperation. Obviously, subjective errors may affect the accuracy of the assessment results, thereby affecting the patient's treatment plan and rehabilitation process.

[0004] Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a non-invasive way to observe changes in brain structure, such as infarct areas or hemorrhages, while functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can objectively assess brain activity. However, current MRI- or fMRI-based techniques have limitations in detecting sensorimotor dysfunction. These techniques lack sufficient specificity and precise quantitative indicators, resulting in insufficient spatial resolution for identifying subtle neural damage or monitoring changes in functional areas. Furthermore, their temporal resolution is insufficient to capture real-time changes in sensorimotor dysfunction during dynamic activities. Therefore, current techniques struggle to accurately assess a patient's specific functional impairment, potentially negatively impacting subsequent treatment plans and rehabilitation processes. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides an interactive MRI imaging system and its processing method, which provides an interactive imaging mechanism that integrates tactile feedback and real-time MRI assessment of sensorimotor function. When an abnormality is determined in a patient through MRI images, tactile feedback is provided, thereby enabling the acquisition of real-time tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and functional fMRI activation patterns of the brain. Based on this data, the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction can be assessed more objectively and accurately, which helps to achieve more precise rehabilitation plans and monitor treatment effects.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an interactive MRI imaging system, which includes a pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner, and a control system;

[0007] The MRI scanner performs a routine MRI scan of the patient's brain and transmits the obtained MRI image data to the control system.

[0008] When the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on MRI image data, the control system triggers the tactile feedback device to generate tactile stimulation to the corresponding part of the patient's body, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the patient's body part, and transmits them to the control system. On the other hand, it triggers the MRI scanner to collect the functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain and transmits it to the control system.

[0009] The control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map to perform sensory-motor dysfunction analysis and obtain corresponding sensory-motor dysfunction analysis results.

[0010] Secondly, this application provides a processing method for an interactive MRI imaging system. The processing method is applied to an interactive MRI imaging system, which includes a pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner, and a control system. The processing method includes:

[0011] The MRI scanner performs a routine MRI scan of the patient's brain and transmits the obtained MRI image data to the control system.

[0012] When the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on MRI image data, the control system triggers the tactile feedback device to generate tactile stimulation to the corresponding part of the patient's body, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the patient's body part, and transmits them to the control system. On the other hand, it triggers the MRI scanner to collect the functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain and transmits it to the control system.

[0013] The control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map to perform sensory-motor dysfunction analysis and obtain corresponding sensory-motor dysfunction analysis results.

[0014] Thirdly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a plurality of instructions adapted for loading by a processor to execute the method provided in the second aspect of this application.

[0015] From the above, it can be concluded that this application has the following beneficial effects:

[0016] For the examination of sensorimotor dysfunction, this application provides an interactive imaging mechanism that integrates tactile feedback and real-time MRI assessment of sensorimotor function. When the presence of abnormality is confirmed in the patient through MRI imaging, tactile feedback is provided, thereby enabling the collection of the patient's real-time tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain. Based on this data, the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction can be assessed more objectively and accurately, which helps to achieve more precise rehabilitation planning and monitoring of treatment effects. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a system architecture diagram of the interactive MRI imaging system of this application;

[0019] Figure 2 This is another system architecture diagram of the interactive MRI imaging system of this application;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a processing method for the interactive MRI imaging system of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or modules is not necessarily limited to those explicitly listed, but may include other steps or modules not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices. The naming or numbering of steps appearing in this application does not imply that the steps in the method flow must be performed in the chronological / logical order indicated by the naming or numbering. The execution order of named or numbered process steps can be changed according to the desired technical purpose, as long as the same or similar technical effect is achieved.

[0023] The module division described in this application is a logical division. In practical applications, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between modules shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between modules may be electrical or other similar forms, none of which are limited in this application. Furthermore, the modules or sub-modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, may or may not be physical modules, or may be distributed in multiple circuit modules. Some or all of the modules may be selected to achieve the purpose of the solution in this application according to actual needs.

[0024] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 This paper illustrates a system architecture diagram of the interactive MRI imaging system of this application, from... Figure 1 As can be clearly seen, the interactive MRI imaging system provided in this application mainly comprises three parts: a pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner, and a control system.

[0025] As for tactile feedback devices, it is understood that they have a tactile stimulation generating structure, so that corresponding tactile stimulation can be applied to the body part of the patient or user, thereby prompting the patient's body to make corresponding responses. Then, the tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data required by this application can be collected through corresponding sensors.

[0026] Among them, there is usually more than one type and number of sensors. Taking the pressure sensor as an example, it can use the physical properties of flexible materials to convert external mechanical quantities into electrical quantities, mainly targeting deformation and pressure.

[0027] It should be understood that the specific types of sensors used are not the focus of this application. It is sufficient to meet the data usage requirements of collecting tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data. Existing technologies can be used. Therefore, this application will not elaborate on the specific types of sensors used. Of course, it should also be understood that in some cases, the existing sensors can be optimized according to the actual situation, and even novel sensors developed independently can be used.

[0028] The MRI scanner is easily understood to be a conventional MRI scanning device. In other words, this application does not require any modifications to existing MRI scanners; it only needs to control its operation, linking the tactile feedback device and the control system. Of course, in some cases, corresponding to the practical application of the interactive MRI imaging system provided in this application, corresponding hardware and software modifications can be made to existing MRI scanners, depending on actual needs.

[0029] In this application, the MRI scanner can not only acquire conventional MRI image data, but also acquire functional fMRI activation pattern state maps of the patient's brain (including the content of fMRI image data) during subsequent fMRI processing. This provides two aspects of data support for subsequent analysis and processing of sensorimotor dysfunction.

[0030] The control system, acting as a control center, can be implemented by any type of device with the necessary data processing capabilities, such as server equipment, physical host equipment, or even user equipment (UE). Specifically, the UE can be a laptop, all-in-one computer, or personal digital assistant (PDA) terminal device. When a doctor manually configures an interactive MRI imaging task, initiates an interactive MRI imaging task according to a preset task initiation strategy, or receives an interactive MRI imaging task transmitted from a related system, the control system can trigger both the feedback device and the MRI scanner to execute the interactive MRI imaging task. Based on the tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data collected by the tactile feedback device through tactile stimulation, combined with the MRI image data collected by the MRI scanner and the functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain, it conducts specific sensory and motor dysfunction analysis and processing to analyze the current sensory and motor dysfunction status of the patient, and to determine the specific location and distribution of intracranial lesions related to cerebrovascular disease.

[0031] As you can understand, the above is a brief introduction to the three hardware components of the system and their interrelationships. The following section will provide a more detailed explanation of the specific workflow.

[0032] Specifically, the general workflow of the interactive MRI imaging system provided in this application during the execution of interactive MRI imaging tasks may include the following:

[0033] (1) An MRI scanner performs a routine MRI scan of the patient's brain and transmits the obtained MRI image data to the control system.

[0034] It is understood that this application relates to the analysis of sensory and motor dysfunction related to cerebrovascular diseases. Correspondingly, it is necessary to conduct specific MRI scans on the patient's brain to obtain corresponding MRI image data for the control system to analyze the patient's sensory and motor dysfunction, thereby determining the specific location and distribution of intracranial lesions related to cerebrovascular diseases.

[0035] In this application, MRI image data from a conventional MRI scan is acquired by an MRI scanner and used as the basis for determining whether a patient has any abnormalities. When the control system determines that a patient has an abnormality based on the MRI image data from the conventional MRI scan, the interactive MRI imaging processing of this application can be triggered, and the patient's specific sensory and motor dysfunction can be analyzed in conjunction with a tactile feedback device.

[0036] Furthermore, MRI scanners are mature examination devices with their own control components. In some cases, corresponding to the specific application requirements of this application, the control components can be separated and integrated into the control system involved in this application. This would provide better control over the MRI scanning work performed by the MRI scanner and achieve a more suitable goal with this application.

[0037] The MRI scanner and the control system are preferably connected wirelessly, but in some cases a wired connection can also be used. The same applies to the tactile feedback device.

[0038] (2) When the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on MRI image data, the control system triggers the tactile feedback device to generate tactile stimulation to the corresponding patient body parts, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the patient body parts, and transmits them to the control system. On the other hand, it triggers the MRI scanner to collect the brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map and transmits it to the control system.

[0039] Understandably, if an MRI scan reveals a brain abnormality or suspected abnormality in a patient, a tactile feedback device can be triggered to provide tactile stimulation to the patient in order to collect tactile response data and muscle feedback performance data required for subsequent analysis and processing of sensorimotor dysfunction.

[0040] The tactile feedback device generates tactile stimulation, which is easy to understand. It is the control system that adjusts according to the abnormal situation judged earlier. In specific operation, it can be achieved by tactile commands that describe the specific tactile stimulation required and the corresponding work content. By sending tactile commands that are appropriate to the current situation to the tactile feedback device, the tactile feedback device generates the required, delicate and appropriate tactile stimulation.

[0041] It is worth adding that the trigger feedback device can simultaneously generate the tactile pressure stimulation required for this interactive MRI imaging task to at least one part of the patient's body. Correspondingly, this requires the configuration of corresponding hardware and software conditions for the tactile pressure stimulation to meet the need to generate tactile pressure stimulation at different locations at the same time.

[0042] Furthermore, it is understandable that the tactile stimulation produced on different parts of the body at the same time can be different. In practice, the tactile stimulation can be adjusted in a targeted manner according to the characteristics of different parts of the body. This is possible in practice, which can further improve the patient's comfort during the examination and also promote higher examination accuracy.

[0043] For the tactile feedback device, corresponding sensors are deployed at the points where tactile stimulation is applied to the patient's skin. In this way, while applying tactile stimulation to the patient, the sensors can also sense the corresponding tactile response and muscle performance feedback, forming the tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data required by this application. At the same time, on the MRI scanner side, it can record the brain's activity patterns through fMRI imaging technology. The resulting functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain can be used for subsequent analysis of the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction.

[0044] As an example, when a patient is at rest, applying pressure stimulation can trigger a corresponding tactile response using sensors, generating tactile response data for analysis. Under a doctor's supervision, when pressure stimulation is applied again, the patient is instructed to perform a series of movements, including grasping a virtual object, flexing the elbow, knee, and raising the leg. The high-precision (1-degree) motion sensor in the pressure feedback device monitors changes in joint angles and minute movements and pressure changes in the limb skin, generating corresponding muscle performance feedback data. This data is a key indicator for assessing fine motor control.

[0045] This example demonstrates that while both tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data collection require sensors configured in the tactile stimulation device, data collection can be performed separately in detail. This allows for the acquisition of more accurate data under more suitable conditions for each.

[0046] Regarding this process, it's understandable that the tactile feedback device itself can have a corresponding control component to control the tactile stimulation and sensory perception within the device. It can also transmit the collected tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data to the control system for further processing via data transfer. Of course, this control component can be omitted in practice, with the control system directly handling the control / interaction.

[0047] Meanwhile, the brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map acquired during the process of the tactile feedback device stimulating the patient under the triggering or control of the control system is understood to be an existing processing content of the MRI scanner and is not the focus of this application. Therefore, it will not be elaborated here.

[0048] (3) The control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data and brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map to carry out sensory-motor dysfunction analysis and processing, and obtain the corresponding sensory-motor dysfunction analysis results.

[0049] It is understandable that, given the availability of MRI image data and functional fMRI activation pattern state maps of the brain acquired by the MRI scanner, as well as tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data acquired by the tactile feedback device, the rich information can be used to conduct precise analysis and treatment of the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction, thereby analyzing the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction and obtaining the corresponding sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results.

[0050] In layman's terms, for patients with cerebrovascular diseases, the tactile responses spontaneously generated by the body after applying pressure stimulation and the fine motor performance of muscles during motor tasks correspond to changes in brain activity. Based on this, the correlation between brain activity and external pressure stimulation can be identified and quantified, and biomarkers of sensorimotor function (such as the connectivity and reaction time of the sensorimotor network) can be extracted. Thus, based on the acquired tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data, combined with MRI imaging data and functional fMRI activation pattern state maps of the brain, a detailed analysis of the patient's sensorimotor function status can be achieved. In this way, during the entire interactive MRI imaging task, the specific location and distribution of intracranial lesions can be determined, and the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction can be monitored and assessed in real time.

[0051] In addition, human intervention may be involved in the analysis process, so that doctors can combine their own work experience to control the direction and results of the analysis and achieve more accurate analysis results.

[0052] In this regard, the control system may also involve a corresponding interactive interface. This means that the control system itself has a corresponding display screen (including a touch screen), or the control system may be connected to a corresponding display screen device or other devices with a display screen to meet the human-computer interaction needs of doctors.

[0053] Correspondingly, this interactive interface can display the processing progress / results of at least one part of the pressure feedback device, MRI scanner, and control system as needed, while the entire system is performing the current interactive MRI imaging task, so as to provide accurate feedback on the task execution status / patient examination status of the system.

[0054] That is, the control system can also display tactile response data, MRI image data, muscle performance feedback data, brain functional fMRI activation pattern state diagram, and sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results (including processing progress and processing results) through an interactive operation interface.

[0055] After obtaining high-precision sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results from current interactive MRI imaging tasks under this working mechanism, doctors can obviously use this as a basis to more accurately tailor more precise diagnostic plans and personalized treatment plans for patients, optimize the patient's rehabilitation process, and help significantly improve the patient's quality of life.

[0056] As can be seen from the above-mentioned solution, this application provides an interactive imaging mechanism that integrates tactile feedback and real-time MRI assessment of sensorimotor function for the examination of sensorimotor dysfunction. When the presence of abnormality in the patient is determined through MRI imaging, tactile feedback is provided, thereby enabling the collection of the patient's real-time tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain. Based on this data, the patient's sensorimotor dysfunction can be assessed more objectively and accurately, which helps to achieve more precise rehabilitation planning and monitoring of treatment effects.

[0057] The following section will further explain the possible implementation methods of the interactive MRI imaging system provided in this application in practical applications.

[0058] As an exemplary embodiment, the dynamic adjustment of the parameters of the tactile stimulation device to the patient can specifically include three aspects: stimulation frequency, stimulation intensity, and stimulation duration. For the stimulation frequency, the default stimulation frequency can be 10Hz.

[0059] Generally speaking, the parameters of tactile stimulation can be adjusted according to the actual situation of the patient (this setting can be included in the default tactile stimulation settings, that is, appropriate tactile stimulation can be preset according to the different characteristics of different patients).

[0060] As an example, for patients with impaired sensation, the intensity and frequency of stimulation can be appropriately increased; for patients with severe motor disorders, the intensity and frequency of stimulation can be appropriately decreased.

[0061] In addition, the parameters of the pressure stimulation can be adjusted according to factors such as the patient's age, gender, condition, comfort level, or response to achieve the best assessment results.

[0062] Meanwhile, for the analysis and processing of the sensorimotor dysfunction of the control system, as an exemplary embodiment of this application, the control system can specifically perform the analysis and processing of sensorimotor dysfunction based on a pre-configured Support Vector Machine (SVM) or neural network model, in combination with MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and the brain functional fMRI activation pattern status map, to obtain the corresponding analysis results of sensorimotor dysfunction.

[0063] It can be understood that deploying corresponding artificial intelligence (AI) products such as SVM and neural network models on the control system side to implement the processing content in aspects such as the analysis and processing of its sensorimotor dysfunction will contribute to achieving a more efficient and accurate processing effect in specific applications and can better provide an implementation solution for the solution of this application.

[0064] Next, Figure 2 combined with the following schematic diagram of another system architecture of the interactive MRI imaging system of this application, a more specific description of the touch-pressure feedback device in the interactive MRI imaging system will be given.

[0065] As Figure 2 shown, the touch-pressure feedback device involved in this application can specifically include three main parts: a portable air compressor, a touch-pressure actuator, and a sensor. In addition, it can also include a console computer and a portable pneumatic control circuit module. The console computer can be integrated into the control system or be the control part of the touch-pressure feedback device itself. These two situations have been mentioned before. The portable pneumatic control circuit module is a working component supporting the portable air compressor. During the process of generating touch-pressure stimulation to the patient, the following main working logic can be involved:

[0066] 1. The airflow generated by the portable air compressor flows to the pressure regulator, and the pressure regulator combines with the pneumatic solenoid valve to output a control air pressure with a specified pressure. Both the pressure regulator and the pneumatic solenoid valve are controlled by the pneumatic control circuit module. The stimulation intensity is specifically adjusted using a single pressure regulator and a group of pneumatic solenoid valves;

[0067] 2. The control air pressure passes through the pneumatic tube through the RF barrier wall and enters the MRI scanning room, and is output to the touch-pressure actuator made of flexible and non-magnetic materials. The touch-pressure actuator generates touch-pressure stimulation on the patient's skin through the control air pressure (the corresponding air pressure changes during inflation and deflation);

[0068] 3. The sensor is embedded in the structure of the touch-pressure actuator to collect tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data.

[0069] Among them, from Figure 2 As can be seen, the portable air compressor, pressure regulator, portable start solenoid valve, pneumatic control circuit module, and console computer can be deployed in a dedicated operating room. The pneumatic tube that outputs tactile stimulation passes out of the operating room and enters the MRI scanning room where the MRI scanner is located. The specific output of tactile stimulation is completed by a tactile actuator that is specifically attached to the patient's body surface.

[0070] Pedal actuators, also known as soft pneumatic actuators, can be made of flexible and non-magnetic materials such as silicone resin. Their hardness is similar to that of human skin, providing optimal comfort.

[0071] The tactile actuator simulates tactile feedback and muscle contraction performance by controlling air pressure (both manifested through tactile stimulation applied to the patient), and can provide stimulation of varying intensities and frequencies. To maximize the application area on the skin while minimizing the amount of air transmitted through the long tube, a specially designed annular skin actuator (with a 1.5 cm diameter control air pressure output port and a 2 mm inlet tube channel) is also available.

[0072] The control of pneumatic solenoid valves can involve circuit control structures of high-power MOSFET switches and microcontrollers.

[0073] As an example, holes can be drilled in the radio frequency shielding wall of an MRI scanner to place several 5-6 meter long pneumatic tubes side by side next to the MRI scanning bed. This provides a plug-and-play, easy-to-use feature. It can be easily controlled by using simple serial commands on the computer in the control room to turn a given channel on or off at a given frequency. The pressure regulator can also be operated by the computer, and the working pressure of the pneumatic system can be read in real time.

[0074] During task execution / inspection, the content of the tactile stimulation or the specific location of the tactile stimulation can be adjusted according to the real-time situation. These operations can also be completed in conjunction with the interactive operation interface mentioned earlier. This allows for more precise adjustments based on a better understanding of the patient's sensorimotor function status.

[0075] In one exemplary embodiment, the patient's body part to be stimulated by the tactile actuator includes at least one of the following: upper arm, forearm, lower leg, and limb weakness.

[0076] Obviously, during each task execution / examination, the patient's body part to be stimulated is not fixed. It is usually selected from areas of sensory abnormalities and limb weakness in the upper arm, forearm, and lower leg. Figure 2As shown, the pressure feedback device is equipped with 12 pressure actuators, which can meet the application needs of simultaneously generating pressure stimulation on up to 12 body parts of the patient and collecting corresponding data. Of course, 12 pressure actuators are just an example, and the number of pressure actuators can be flexibly configured in actual situations.

[0077] It is understood that this section provides a specific implementation plan for the tactile stimulation involved in this application. Through these locations, a better analysis of sensory and motor dysfunction in patients can be conducted in actual situations.

[0078] To better understand the above solutions, you can also refer to the following set of examples for a more vivid understanding.

[0079] 1. Arrangement of the pressure actuator and conventional MRI scan sequence

[0080] During the MRI scan, the patient lies comfortably on the MRI scanning bed. To comprehensively assess sensory and motor function, 12 carefully designed tactile actuators are meticulously attached to different key areas on both sides of the patient's upper and lower limbs. This ensures that the actuators cover areas of sensory abnormalities or motor impairments. At the same time, for comparative analysis, the corresponding areas on the healthy side are also attached with the same tactile actuators. This symmetrical arrangement helps to accurately collect data, provide comprehensive comparative information, and thus more accurately assess the patient's condition and develop personalized treatment plans.

[0081] The standard head scan sequences set up include:

[0082] T1-weighted imaging (T1WI): repetition time (TR) = 500 ms, echo time (TE) = 20 ms;

[0083] T2-weighted imaging (T2WI): TR = 4000ms, TE = 100ms;

[0084] Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery (FLAIR): TR = 9000ms, TE = 130ms, Inversion Time (TI) = 2800ms;

[0085] Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI): TR = 6000 ms, TE = 80 ms, diffusion sensitivity factor (b-value) = 0, 1000 s / mm 2 ;

[0086] Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL): TR = 4000ms, TE = 10ms, TI = 1500ms.

[0087] Doctors can select parameters of the tactile feedback device, such as stimulation frequency, intensity, and duration, through an interactive interface. The parameter settings of the tactile feedback device can be adjusted according to the patient's specific situation.

[0088] For example, for patients with impaired sensation, the intensity and frequency of stimulation can be appropriately increased; for patients with severe motor disorders, the intensity and frequency of stimulation can be appropriately decreased.

[0089] Doctors can also adjust the parameter settings of the tactile feedback device based on factors such as the patient's age, gender, condition, as well as the patient's comfort and responsiveness, in order to achieve the best assessment results.

[0090] 2. Touch feedback and data acquisition

[0091] The MRI scanner begins a routine MRI scan. If the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on the MRI image data obtained from the routine MRI scan, it can trigger the tactile feedback device to generate corresponding tactile stimulation based on the MRI signal. The stimulation frequency is set to 10Hz, and the intensity can be adjusted according to the patient's comfort.

[0092] In a resting state, the patient's tactile responses can be monitored and recorded in real time by sensors in the soft pneumatic actuator device. The sensor sampling frequency is 100Hz and the resolution can reach 0.1mm. The collected tactile response data is sent to the control system in real time via wireless transmission technology, ensuring the real-time nature and accuracy of data acquisition.

[0093] Under the doctor's supervision, the patient attempted a series of motor tasks, such as grasping virtual objects, flexing elbows, knees, and raising legs. These tasks aimed to activate specific areas of the brain associated with motor function, re-sending tactile stimulation. This stimulation was monitored by sensors in a tactile feedback device. These sensors could detect changes in joint angles with an accuracy of 1 degree, capturing minute movements and pressure changes in the patient's limb skin. The collected muscle performance feedback data is a key indicator for evaluating fine motor control and was transmitted in real time to the control system via wireless transmission technology, ensuring the real-time nature and accuracy of data acquisition.

[0094] It's easy to see that the content here corresponds to the previous setting of collecting data separately to improve data accuracy.

[0095] Simultaneously, fMRI imaging technology records the brain's activation patterns during tactile response and muscle performance feedback data acquisition (i.e., only one recording is needed if data acquisition is performed simultaneously, and two recordings are needed if data acquisition is performed separately), thereby revealing the neural basis of sensorimotor dysfunction. The acquired functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain is also transmitted to the control system in real time via wireless transmission technology. The fMRI imaging parameters are: TR = 2000ms, TE = 30ms, slice thickness = 3mm, and no gap.

[0096] 3. Data Processing and Analysis

[0097] The control system can use advanced algorithms such as SVM or machine learning to process the collected data. These algorithms can identify and quantify the correlation between brain activity and external tactile stimulation, and extract biomarkers of sensorimotor function, such as the connectivity and reaction time of the sensorimotor network, thereby providing a detailed analysis of the patient's sensorimotor function status.

[0098] The above is an introduction to the interactive MRI imaging system provided in this application. Corresponding to the workflow of this interactive MRI imaging system, this application also provides a processing method for the interactive MRI imaging system. This processing method is applied to the interactive MRI imaging system, which includes a pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner, and a control system. Based on this, see [reference needed]. Figure 3 , Figure 3 This paper presents a flowchart illustrating a processing method for the interactive MRI imaging system of this application, which may specifically include the following steps S301 to S303:

[0099] Step S301: The MRI scanner performs a routine MRI scan on the patient's brain and transmits the obtained MRI image data to the control system.

[0100] In step S302, when the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on MRI image data, the control system triggers the tactile feedback device to generate tactile stimulation to the corresponding part of the patient's body, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the patient's body part, and transmits them to the control system. On the other hand, the control system triggers the MRI scanner to collect the functional fMRI activation pattern state map of the brain and transmits it to the control system.

[0101] In step S303, the control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and brain functional fMRI activation pattern state map to perform sensory-motor dysfunction analysis and obtain corresponding sensory-motor dysfunction analysis results.

[0102] As an exemplary embodiment, the dynamic adjustment of the parameters of tactile stimulation specifically includes stimulation frequency, stimulation intensity, and stimulation duration, with a default stimulation frequency of 10Hz.

[0103] As another exemplary embodiment, the control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and functional fMRI activation pattern state maps of the brain to perform sensorimotor dysfunction analysis and obtain corresponding sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results, including:

[0104] Based on a pre-configured support vector machine or neural network model, the control system combines MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, and brain functional fMRI activation pattern state diagrams to perform sensory-motor dysfunction analysis and obtain corresponding sensory-motor dysfunction analysis results.

[0105] As yet another exemplary embodiment, the method further includes:

[0106] The control system displays MRI image data, tactile response data, muscle performance feedback data, brain functional fMRI activation pattern state diagram, and sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results through an interactive operating interface.

[0107] As another exemplary embodiment, the tactile feedback device includes a portable air compressor, a tactile actuator, and a sensor;

[0108] The airflow generated by the air compressor flows to the pressure regulator, which, in conjunction with the pneumatic solenoid valve, outputs a control air pressure at a specified pressure. Both the pressure regulator and the pneumatic solenoid valve are controlled by the pneumatic control circuit module. The specific stimulation intensity is adjusted using a single pressure regulator and a set of pneumatic solenoid valves.

[0109] Controlled air pressure is transmitted through a pneumatic tube through the radio frequency barrier wall into the MRI scanning chamber and output to a pressure actuator made of a flexible and non-magnetic material. The pressure actuator generates pressure stimulation on the patient's skin by controlling the air pressure.

[0110] Sensors are embedded in the structure of the tactile actuator to collect tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data.

[0111] As another exemplary embodiment, the patient's body parts specifically include at least one of the following selected according to the patient's condition: upper arm, forearm, areas of abnormal sensation in the calf and thigh, and areas of limb weakness.

[0112] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working process of the interactive MRI imaging system processing method described above can be found in, for example... Figure 1The description of the interactive MRI imaging system in the corresponding embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0113] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps in the various methods of the above embodiments can be performed by instructions, or by instructions controlling related hardware. These instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium and loaded and executed by a processor.

[0114] Therefore, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a plurality of instructions that can be loaded by a processor to execute the present application. Figure 3 The steps of the processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system in the corresponding embodiment can be referred to as follows for specific operations. Figure 3 The processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system in the corresponding embodiment will not be described again here.

[0115] The computer-readable storage medium may include: read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), disk or optical disk, etc.

[0116] Because of the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium, the present application can be executed as described above. Figure 3 The processing steps of the interactive MRI imaging system in the corresponding embodiment can therefore be implemented as described in this application. Figure 3 The beneficial effects that the processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system in the corresponding embodiment can achieve are detailed in the preceding description and will not be repeated here.

[0117] The interactive MRI imaging system, the processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system, and the computer-readable storage medium provided in this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. An interactive MRI imaging system, characterized in that: The interactive MRI imaging system includes a touch-pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner and a control system; The MRI scanner performs a conventional MRI scan on the patient's brain and transmits the scanned MRI image data to the control system; When the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on the MRI image data, the control system triggers the touch-pressure feedback device to generate touch-pressure stimulation to the corresponding body part of the patient, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the body part of the patient, and transmits the data to the control system, and triggers the MRI scanner to collect the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram, and transmits the data to the control system; The control system combines the MRI image data, the tactile response data, the muscle performance feedback data and the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram to carry out sensorimotor dysfunction analysis and processing to obtain corresponding sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results.

2. The interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The dynamic adjustment content of the touch-pressure stimulation parameters specifically includes stimulation frequency, stimulation intensity and stimulation duration, and the default stimulation frequency is 10 Hz.

3. The interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that: Based on the pre-configured support vector machine or neural network model, the control system combines the MRI image data, the tactile response data, the muscle performance feedback data and the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram to carry out the sensorimotor dysfunction analysis and processing to obtain the corresponding sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results.

4. The interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control system also displays the MRI image data, the tactile response data, the muscle performance feedback data, the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram and the sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results through an interactive operation interface.

5. The interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The touch-pressure feedback device comprises a portable air compressor, a touch-pressure actuator and a sensor; The air flow generated by the air compressor flows to the pressure regulator, and the pressure regulator is combined with the pneumatic electromagnetic valve to output the control air pressure of the specified pressure. The pressure regulator and the pneumatic electromagnetic valve are both controlled by a pneumatic control circuit module, and the stimulation intensity is specifically adjusted using a single pressure regulator and a group of pneumatic electromagnetic valves; The controlled air pressure passes through the radio frequency barrier wall through the pneumatic tube into the MRI scanning room, and is output to the touch-pressure actuator made of a flexible and non-magnetic material, and the touch-pressure actuator generates the touch-pressure stimulation on the patient's skin through the controlled air pressure; The sensor is embedded in the structure of the touch-pressure actuator to collect the tactile response data and the muscle performance feedback data.

6. The interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The patient's body part specifically includes at least one of an upper arm part, a forearm part, a part of abnormal sensation in the upper and lower legs, and a part of limb weakness selected according to the patient's condition.

7. A processing method for an interactive MRI imaging system, characterized in that: The processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system is applied to the interactive MRI imaging system, the interactive MRI imaging system includes a touch-pressure feedback device, an MRI scanner and a control system, and the processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system includes: The MRI scanner performs a conventional MRI scan on the patient's brain and transmits the scanned MRI image data to the control system; When the control system determines that the patient has an abnormality based on the MRI image data, the control system triggers the touch-pressure feedback device to generate touch-pressure stimulation to the corresponding body part of the patient, collects tactile response data and muscle performance feedback data of the body part of the patient, and transmits the data to the control system, and triggers the MRI scanner to collect the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram, and transmits the data to the control system; The control system combines the MRI image data, the tactile response data, the muscle performance feedback data and the brain functional fMRI activation mode state diagram to carry out sensorimotor dysfunction analysis and processing to obtain corresponding sensorimotor dysfunction analysis results.

8. The processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The touch-pressure feedback device comprises a portable air compressor, a touch-pressure actuator and a sensor; The air flow generated by the air compressor flows to the pressure regulator, and the pressure regulator is combined with the pneumatic electromagnetic valve to output the control air pressure of the specified pressure. The pressure regulator and the pneumatic electromagnetic valve are both controlled by a pneumatic control circuit module, and the stimulation intensity is specifically adjusted using a single pressure regulator and a group of pneumatic electromagnetic valves; The controlled air pressure passes through the radio frequency barrier wall through the pneumatic tube into the MRI scanning room, and is output to the touch-pressure actuator made of a flexible and non-magnetic material, and the touch-pressure actuator generates the touch-pressure stimulation on the patient's skin through the controlled air pressure; The sensor is embedded in the structure of the touch-pressure actuator to collect the tactile response data and the muscle performance feedback data.

9. The processing method of the interactive MRI imaging system according to claim 7, characterized in that: The patient's body part specifically includes at least one of an upper arm part, a forearm part, a part of abnormal sensation in the upper and lower legs, and a part of limb weakness selected according to the patient's condition.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that: The computer-readable storage medium stores a plurality of instructions, and the instructions are suitable for being loaded by a processor to execute the method according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

Images