Systems and methods for automatic detection of orientation and anatomy in imaging systems

Abstract

A method and system for controlling an imaging system includes positioning the imaging system into a first position, acquiring a first image at the first position, determining patient data from the first image, communicating the patient data to a user interface, displaying the patient data on a display, and acquiring a second image based on the patient data.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 458,697, filed April 12, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 458,694, filed April 12, 2023, and U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 18 / 608,449, filed March 18, 2024, the disclosure of each of the above applications of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to imaging a subject, and more particularly to a system for automatically determining a patient orientation to fill a menu system for subsequent images. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information in connection with this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] The procedure may be acceptable to the subject (such as a human patient). This procedure may include surgical procedures for correcting or enhancing the subject's anatomy. Enhancement of anatomy may include various procedures such as bone movement or reinforcement, insertion of implants (i.e., implantable devices), or other appropriate procedures.

[0006] When using an imager, various types of data are entered by the technician and used to capture image data. Data such as imager settings and patient settings are typically entered before image data capture. Completing an extensive list or entering settings can be very time-consuming and may extend surgical time and / or interoperative time. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and is not a full disclosure of the complete scope or all features of the disclosure.

[0008] According to various implementation schemes, the system used to acquire image data of a subject can be an imaging system using X-rays. The subject can be a living patient (e.g., a human patient). The subject can also be an inanimate object, such as a shell, enclosure, etc. Typically, the imaging system acquires image data of the subject's interior. The imaging system may include a movable source and / or detector that can move relative to the subject. Automated positioning and movement of the system are performed to reduce total imaging time and minimize X-ray exposure to the subject.

[0009] In various embodiments, the method and system for controlling an imaging system includes positioning the imaging system into a first position, acquiring a first image at the first position, determining patient data from the first image, communicating the patient data to a user interface, displaying the patient data on a display, and acquiring a second image based on the patient data.

[0010] In another aspect of the disclosure, a system for controlling an imaging system has a controller configured to execute instructions to acquire a first image at a first position, determine patient data from the first image, communicate the patient data to a user interface, and display the patient data on a display.

[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 DRAWINGS

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

[0013] Figure 1 is an environmental view of an imaging system in an operating room;

[0014] Figure 2 is a detailed schematic view of an imaging system having a source and detector configured to move around a subject, in accordance with various embodiments;

[0015] Figure 3 is a graphical block diagram of an imaging system.

[0016] Figure 4A is a representation of a sequence of vertebrae in a patient.

[0017] Figure 4B is a vertebrae image showing a sequence of vertebrae.

[0018] Figure 4C is a representation of a patient in a left lateral decubitus position with head elevated.

[0019] Figure 4D is a representation of a patient in a right lateral decubitus position with head elevated.

[0020] Figure 4E is an image of a left lateral position of a patient's head in a supine position.

[0021] Figure 4F is a right lateral position of a patient's head in a prone position.

[0022] Figure 5A is a representation of a patient data user interface.

[0023] Figure 5B is a representation of an image data user interface.

[0024] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for an operating system.

[0025] Corresponding reference numerals in the several figures indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] A subject can be imaged with an imaging system, as discussed further herein. The subject can be a living subject, such as a human patient. Image data of the human patient can be acquired and combined to provide an image of the human patient that is larger than any dimension of any single projection acquired with the imaging system. However, it should be understood that image data of a non-living subject can also be acquired, such non-living subjects including an enclosure, a housing, an interior of a superstructure, and the like. For example, image data of an aircraft body can be acquired for various purposes, such as diagnosing a problem and / or planning repair work.

[0028] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a schematic view of a procedure room 20 is shown. A user 24, such as a surgeon, can perform a procedure on a subject, such as a patient 28. The subject can be placed on a support, such as a table 32 for a selected portion of the procedure. The table 32 does not interfere with image data acquisition with an imaging system 36. While performing the procedure, the user 24 can use the imaging system 36 to acquire image data of the patient 28 to allow a selected system to generate or create an image to assist in performing the procedure. The image generated with the image data can be a two-dimensional (2D) image, a three-dimensional (3D) image, or an appropriate type of image, such as a model (such as a three-dimensional (3D) image), a long view, a single projection view, and the like, that can be generated using the image data and displayed as an image 40 on a display device 44. The display device 44 can be part of and / or connected to a processor system 48 that includes a user interface 52, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a stylus, a touch screen that is part of the display device 44, or a combination thereof. A processor 56 can include one or more processors, processor modules, and / or microprocessors in combination with the processing system 48 and a selected type of non-transitory and / or transitory memory 58. A connection 62 can be provided between the processor 56 and the display device 44 for data communication to allow the display device 44 to be driven to display or illustrate the image 40. The processor 56 can be any appropriate type of processor, such as a general purpose processor that executes instructions included in a program or a special purpose processor, such as an application specific integrated circuit, and the like.

[0029] Imaging system 36 can include, but is not limited to, an O-Arm® imaging system sold by Medtronic Navigation, Inc. having a place of business in Louisville, CO, USA. In various embodiments, imaging system 36 can include an O-Arm® imaging system, a C-Arm® imaging system, or other appropriate imaging system. ® Imaging system. The O-Arm® imaging system includes an O-Arm® imaging system ® Imaging system 36 or other appropriate imaging system can be used during a selected procedure, such as the imaging systems described in U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2012 / 0250822, 2012 / 0099772, and 2010 / 0290690, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0030] When, for example, including an O-Arm® imaging system ® Imaging system 36, when, for example, including an O-Arm® imaging system, can include a mobile cart 60 that includes a controller and / or control system 64. Control system 64 can include a processor and / or processor system 68 (similar to processor 56), a user interface 67 (such as a keyboard, mouse, touch screen), a memory 58 (e.g., non-transitory memory), and a display device 69. Memory system 66 can include various instructions executed by processor 68 functioning as a controller to control imaging system 36, including various portions of imaging system 36.

[0031] Imaging system 36 can include additional additional portions, such as an imaging gantry 70 in which a source unit (also referred to as a source assembly) 74 and a detector unit (also referred to as a detector assembly) 78 are positioned. In various embodiments, detector 78, alone and / or with source unit, can be referred to as an imaging head of imaging system 36. Gantry 70 is movably connected to mobile cart 60. Gantry 70 can be O-shaped or ring-shaped, where gantry 70 is substantially ring-shaped and includes a wall that forms a volume in which source unit 74 and detector 78 can move. Mobile cart 60 can also be mobile. In various embodiments, gantry 70 and / or cart 60 can be moved while acquiring image data, including moving both simultaneously. Also, imaging system 36, via mobile cart 60, can be moved from one operating room to another (e.g., another room). Gantry 70 can be moved relative to cart 60, as discussed further herein. This allows imaging system 36 to be mobile and movable relative to subject 28, allowing it to be used in multiple locations and with multiple procedures without the capital expenditure or space dedicated to a fixed imaging system.

[0032] The processor 68 can be a general purpose processor or a special purpose processor. The memory system 66 can be a non-transitory memory, such as a rotating disk or solid state non-volatile memory. In various embodiments, the memory system can include instructions to be executed by the processor 68 to perform functions and determine results, as discussed herein. The memory system 66 can be used to store images from the imaging system 36 to allow computations to be performed on the images. The memory system 66 can be used to store intermediate and final computation results, such as data for recognizing body structures, distances for the imaging system to travel, target positioning of the imaging system 36.

[0033] In various embodiments, the imaging system 36 can include an imaging system that acquires images and / or image data using emitting x-rays and detecting the x-rays after the x-rays interact with and / or are attenuated by the subject 28. X-ray imaging can be one imaging modality. It should be understood that other imaging modalities are also possible, such as other high energy beams, etc.

[0034] Thus, in the imaging system 36, the source unit 74 can be an x-ray emitter that can emit x-rays at and / or through the patient 28 to be detected by the detector 78. As understood by those skilled in the art, the x-rays emitted by the source 74 can be emitted in a cone 90 along a selected principal vector 94 and detected by the detector 78, as shown in Figure 2 The source 74 and the detector 78 can also be referred to together as a source / detector unit 98, particularly where the source 74 is generally diametrically opposed from the detector 78 within the gantry 70 (e.g., 180 degrees (°) apart).

[0035] The imaging system 36 can be moved in whole or in part relative to the subject 28. For example, the source 74 and the detector 78 can be moved around the patient 28, such as 360° motion, helical motion, partial circumferential motion, etc. The movement of the source / detector unit 98 within the gantry 70 can allow the source 74 to remain generally 180° opposed from the detector 78 (such as with a fixed interior gantry or rotor or moving system). Thus, the detector 78 can be said to move around (e.g., in a circumference or helix) the subject 28, and it should be understood that the source 74 remains opposed from the subject unless otherwise disclosed.

[0036] Also, the gantry 70 can be moved isometrically around an axis 102 in the direction of arrow 100 (also referred to as "swinging") relative to the subject 28, such as by the cart 60, as shown in Figure 1 The gantry 70 can also be tilted relative to the longitudinal axis 106 of the patient 28, as shown by arrow 110. When tilted, the plane of the gantry 70 can be tilted or form a non-orthogonal angle with the axis 106 of the subject 28.

[0037] The gantry 70 can also move longitudinally relative to the subject 28 and / or the cart 60 in the direction of arrow 114 along the axis 106. In addition, the cart 60 can be moved to move the gantry 70. Further, the gantry 70 can move up and down relative to the cart 60 and / or the subject 28 generally transverse to the axis 106 and parallel to the axis 102, generally in the Y-axis direction of arrow 118. The gantry can also move in the X-direction in the direction of arrow 116 by moving the wheels 117.

[0038] The overall or partial movement of the imaging system 36 is to allow positioning of the source / detector unit (SDU) 98 relative to the subject 28. The imaging system 36 can be precisely controlled to move the SDU 98 relative to the subject 28 to generate precise image data of the subject 28. The imaging system 36 can be connected to the processor 56 via a connection 120, which can include a wired or wireless connection or physical media transfer from the imaging system 36 to the processor 56. Thus, image data collected with the imaging system 36 can be transferred to the processing system 56 for navigation, display, reconstruction, etc.

[0039] As discussed herein, the source 74 can include one or more x-ray sources for imaging the subject 28. In various embodiments, the source 74 can include a single source, which can be powered by more than one power source to produce and / or emit x-rays having different energy characteristics. Further, more than one x-ray source can be the source 74 that can be powered to emit x-rays having different energy characteristics at selected times.

[0040] According to various embodiments, the imaging system 36 can be used with a non- navigation or navigation procedure. In a navigation procedure, a localizer and / or digitizer, including either or both of the optical localizer 130 and / or the electromagnetic localizer 138, can be used to produce a field and / or receive and / or transmit signals within a navigation space relative to the subject 28. The navigation space relative to the subject 28 can be registered with the image 40. As understood in the art, the registration allows for the registration of the navigation space defined within with the image space defined by the image 40. A patient tracker or dynamic reference frame 140 can be connected to the subject 28 to allow for dynamic registration and maintenance of the registration of the subject 28 with the image 40.

[0041] The patient tracking device or dynamic registration device 140 and instrument 144 can then be tracked relative to the subject 28 to allow for a navigation procedure. The instrument 144 can include a tracking device, such as an optical tracking device 148 and / or an electromagnetic tracking device 152, to allow for tracking of the instrument 144 with either or both of the optical positioner 130 or the electromagnetic positioner 138. A navigation / probe interface device 158 can be in communication (e.g., wired or wireless) with the instrument 144 (e.g., via a communication line 156), with the electromagnetic positioner 138 (e.g., via a communication line 162), and / or the optical positioner 130 (e.g., via a communication line 166). The interface 158 can also be in communication with the processor 56 by a communication line 168 and can communicate information (e.g., signals) regarding the various items connected to the interface 158. It should be understood that any communication lines can be wired, wireless, physical media transmission or mobile, or any other appropriate communication. However, an appropriate communication system can be equipped with a corresponding positioner to allow for tracking of the instrument 144 relative to the subject 28, allowing for a tracked position of the instrument 144 relative to the image 40 to be illustrated to perform a procedure.

[0042] It should be understood by one skilled in the art that the instrument 144 can be any appropriate instrument, such as a heart or blood vessel stent, a spinal implant, a nerve stent or stimulator, an ablation device, etc. The instrument 144 can be an interventional instrument, or can include or be an implantable device. Tracking the instrument 144 allows for viewing of the position of the instrument 144 (including x, y, z positioning and orientation) relative to the subject 28 using the registered image 40, without the need to directly view the instrument 144 within the subject 28.

[0043] Further, the imaging system 36, e.g., gantry 70, can include an optical tracking device 174 and / or an electromagnetic tracking device 178 to be tracked with a corresponding optical positioner 130 and / or electromagnetic positioner 138. Thus, the imaging system 36 can be tracked relative to the subject 28, and the instrument 144 can also be tracked, to allow for initial registration, automatic registration, or continued registration of the subject 28 relative to the image 40. Registration and navigation procedures are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 8,238,631, incorporated above, which is incorporated by reference herein. Upon registration and tracking of the instrument 144, an icon 180 can be displayed relative to the image 40, including overlaid on the image. The image 40 can be an appropriate image, and can include a 2D image, a 3D image, or any appropriate image as discussed herein.

[0044] With continued reference to Figure 2According to various embodiments, source 74 can include a single assembly that can include a single x-ray tube 190 that can be connected to a switch 194 that can interconnect a first power source 198 via a connection or power line 200. As discussed above, x-rays can be emitted from x-ray tube 190 generally in a cone 90 toward detector 78 and generally in a direction from x-ray tube 190 as indicated by arrow, beam arrow, beam, or vector 94. As understood by those skilled in the art, switch 194 can turn on or off tube 190 to emit x-rays having selected characteristics. Vector 94 can be a central vector or ray within x-ray cone 90. The x-ray beam can be emitted as a cone 90 or other suitable geometry. Vector 94 can include a selected line or axis related to further interactions with the beam, such as with a filter member, as further discussed herein.

[0045] Subject 28 can be positioned within x-ray cone 90 to allow image data of subject 28 to be acquired based on emission of x-rays in the direction of vector 94 toward detector 78. X-ray tube 190 can be used to generate two-dimensional (2D) x-ray projections of subject 28 from x-ray irradiation on or detected at a 2D or flat panel detector, such as detector 78, including selected portions of subject 28 or any region, area, or volume of interest. The 2D x-ray projections can be reconstructed as discussed herein to produce and / or display a three-dimensional (3D) volume model of subject 28, selected portions of subject 28, or any region, area, or volume of interest. As discussed herein, the 2D x-ray projections can be image data acquired with imaging system 36, while the 3D volume model can be generated or modeled to the image data.

[0046] To reconstruct or form 3D volume images, suitable techniques include expectation maximization (EM), ordered subset EM (OS-EM), simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique (SART), and total variation minimization (TVM), as generally understood by those skilled in the art. Various reconstruction techniques can also and alternatively include machine learning systems and algebraic techniques. Application of 3D volume reconstruction based on 2D projections allows for efficient and complete volume reconstruction. Generally, algebraic techniques can include iterative processes to perform reconstruction of subject 28 for display as image 40. For example, pure or theoretical image data projections, such as those generated based on or from a “theoretical” patient atlas or stylized model, can be iteratively altered until the theoretical projection images match the acquired 2D projection image data of subject 28. The stylized model can then be appropriately altered to a 3D volume reconstruction model of the acquired 2D projection image data of selected subject 28 and can be used for surgical treatment, such as navigation, diagnosis, or planning. The theoretical model can be associated with the theoretical image data to construct the theoretical model. In this manner, model or image data 40 can be constructed based on image data of subject 28 acquired with imaging system 36.

[0047] With continued reference to Figure 2 Source 74 can include various elements or features that can be moved relative to x-ray tube 190. In various embodiments, for example, collimator 220 can be positioned relative to x-ray tube 190 to help form cone 90 relative to subject 28. Collimator 220 can include various features, such as movable components that can help position one or more filters within cone 90 of x-rays prior to reaching subject 28. One or more movement systems 224 can be provided to move all and / or portions of collimator 220. Further, as discussed further herein, various filters can be used to shape the x-ray beam prior to reaching subject 28, such as shaping cone 90 into a selected shape. In various embodiments, as discussed herein, x-rays can be formed into thin fans or planes to reach and pass through subject 28 and be detected by detector 78.

[0048] Reference is now made to Figure 3An example of a controller 310 programmed to carry out instructions is set forth. The controller 310 can be one or both of the processors 56 and 68. The controller 310 is in communication with a user interface 312. The user interface 312 can be one or both of the user interfaces 52, 67. The user interface can also be used with a display device 314 that allows for selections and input of data. The display device 314 can also be referred to as a pendant. The controller 310 is also in communication with a display device 314, which can be one or both of the display devices 44, 69. In summary, the controller 310 can process various signals at the processor 56, the processor 68, or a combination thereof. Likewise, the user interface 312 can provide input to the controller 310 from the user interface 67 or 52. The display device 314 can display various features, images, or data at the display device, which can be 44 or 69 as described above.

[0049] The controller 310 includes a memory system 316, which can be one of the memory systems 66, 58, or a combination thereof. The memory system 316 is used to store various data, including but not limited to the data described above with respect to the memory systems 66, 58. In addition, the memory system 316 can also be used to store imaging system data, such as setup and patient data, both of which are described in further detail below.

[0050] A timer 318 is used to time various functions, including movement of the imaging system 316.

[0051] In the following example, the controller 310 is used to position the imaging system 36 having an O-arm. Of course, other variations of the imaging system 36 can be used. The imaging system 36 can have a position detector 320 associated therewith. The position detector 320 is used to determine the relative positioning of the O-arm or movable structure of the imaging system 36. The relative positioning can be obtained with respect to the subject 28. The position detector 320 can include an encoder for determining the amount of movement from a predetermined or initial position. The positioning of the various portions with respect to other portions can also be determined with any one or more appropriate position determination systems. As discussed herein, the positioning of one or more portions is used to help determine the appropriate setup (e.g., initial) of the imaging system.

[0052] The controller 310 can also include a patient data module 330. The patient data module 330 can be used to calculate or determine various patient data based on images from the imaging system 336. In this example, two-dimensional images can be used to determine various patient data.

[0053] The patient data module 330 includes a patient size module 330A. The patient size module 330A can include and / or be used to determine the size and / or geometry of the patient as a whole. For example, the patient size module 330A can be used to determine the patient's width from side to side, such as the shoulder width or the abdominal width. The patient size module 330A can further determine the patient's thickness from front to back. The patient size module 330A measures the patient's size from images from the imaging system.

[0054] A body structure identification module 330B can also be incorporated into the patient data module 330. The body structure identification module 330B can identify various structures within the body within the images from the imaging system 36. Examples of different types of body structures will be provided below. For example, the vertebrae and the orientation and order of the vertebrae can allow for the determination of various data about the positioning of the patient. That is, in 330C, a patient orientation module uses the body structures identified within the body structure identification module to determine the patient orientation. Examples of patient orientation are prone or supine. The patient orientation module 330C also identifies head first or feet first relative to the O-arm. A present device or implanted device module 330D can provide the location of one or more present devices within the body. For example, artificial knees, hips, shoulders, spinal implants, and pacemakers are some of the types of present devices that can be recognized and located relative to the patient. The implanted device module 330D can provide coordinates for the device without recognizing the present device. However, based on the images from the imaging system 36, the type of device can also be identified. The identified type can include neural networks and machine learning that form trained classifiers for determining the present type of device within the body. Other types of recognition can be used, including using atlas data, segmentation, tables, and databases of implantable shapes and geometries of implantable devices.

[0055] The controller 310 can also include an imaging system module 340. The imaging system module 340 provides data for the settings of a particular imager and the X-ray tube in that particular imager. That is, different imagers require different types of settings, and thus the exact type of data can vary. In this example, a voltage module 340A can determine the amount of voltage needed for the imaging system. Data from the patient data module 330 can be used in this calculation. How big the patient is in AP thickness, the type of body structure to be imaged (tissue, hard bone, soft bone), and the width allows the voltage module 340A to determine the amount of voltage to be used at the imaging system. For example, the X-ray tube amperage (e.g., milliamp (mA)) and / or voltage (e.g., kilovoltage or kilovoltage peak (kVp)) or X-ray beam filtration values can be determined. The imaging system module 340 can also include a tube current module 340B. The tube current module 340B can provide the tube current by which to obtain a sufficient image. The tube current module 340B depends on various body structures and the patient’s size, the type of body structure to be imaged, and can be calculated.

[0056] A pulse width module 340C is used to determine the pulse width of the beam generated from the imaging system. Again, various patient data, such as the patient’s size (width and thickness), body structures that will be changed in the procedure, and implantable devices can have an impact on the pulse width.

[0057] A collimation module 340D is used to determine the type of collimation of the imaging system. Again, the collimation module 340D can change the collimation of the imaging system 36 based on various patient data, including size, body structure to be modified, patient orientation, and any existing devices located in the patient’s body. Collimation changes the shape of the beam used for imaging. Collimation can be used to remove objects that are highly attenuating (metallic structures) or lightly attenuating (air) so that the technical factors (KVP, pulse width, mA, beam filtration) can be optimized to visualize the anatomy.

[0058] A region of interest module 340E is also provided within the imaging system module. The region of interest module 340E determines the region of interest to be scanned based on the body structures, patient size, and orientation determined at the patient data module 330. Thus, the region of interest module 340E provides the desired positioning of the detector and emitter of the imaging system to obtain the desired image of the body structure of interest.

[0059] Referring now to Figure 4A , an example of a body structure is shown. The body structure can include, but is not limited to, a vertebra, an endplate, a corner of an endplate, a full vertebra, a partial vertebra, a skull, a limb, or an organ. The patient’s vertebrae are in Figure 4AThe spinal body structure includes cervical vertebrae 410, thoracic vertebrae 412, lumbar vertebrae 414, intervertebral discs 416, sacrum 418, and coccyx 420. Because the vertebrae have a particular order and that order can be recognized by the body structure recognition module 330B, the orientation of the patient can be determined based on the known positioning of the imager. Spinal processes 430 extend from each vertebra and allow the controller 310 to recognize the orientation with respect to the supine and prone positions.

[0060] Referring now to Figure 4B , a representation of the vertebrae C1-T1 is shown. This type of image 440 will identify the body structure as a thoracic category in the body structure recognition module.

[0061] Referring now to Figure 4C and Figure 4D , a representative patient 28 is shown oriented with respect to the imaging system 36. In this example, Figure 4C the patient is shown in a left head up supine position. Figure 4D the head right supine position is shown. Figure 4C and Figure 4D The orientations shown in

[0062] Referring now to Figure 4E , the left head position or orientation of the patient 28 is shown based on the positioning of the spinal processes 430 and the order of the labeled vertebrae C1-T1.

[0063] Referring now to Figure 4F , the patient is shown in a right head position based on the order of the vertebrae. Again, by knowing the positioning of the gantry when the two-dimensional images are obtained by the imaging system 36, Figure 4E and Figure 4F show the supine and prone positions, respectively. That is, in Figure 4F the spinal processes 430 are in an upward position. If the gantry is in a LAT position, the patient is prone with respect to the detector. If the gantry is in an AP position, the patient is transverse with respect to the detector.

[0064] Referring now to Figure 5A , a patient data user interface showing patient data is shown displayed on one of the screen displays 44, 69. As described above, various types of patient data other than the patient data set forth in Figure 5A may be provided and displayed.

[0065] In this example, the user interface 508 has a patient width 510, a patient thickness 512, a patient orientation such as prone or supine 514 and head right or head left 516 and a location of existing devices 518 such as a previous implant. The region of interest 520 can also be a user interface selection.

[0066] Referring now to Figure 5B , the user interface 528 includes an image data user interface 528 that is a three-dimensional image user interface that includes data and / or settings for taking a three-dimensional image. As described above, a two-dimensional image can be obtained and patient data and final image data can be provided based on the patient data. In this example, the imaging system power 530, tube current 532, pulse width 534, collimation 536 and region of interest 538 are automatically determined based on the above. As described above, the region of interest includes the region of the body that will be imaged. The region of interest allows the detector and emitter of the imaging system to be properly aligned.

[0067] Referring now to Figure 6 , a method for operating an imaging system 36 is set forth. In this example, a two-dimensional image is obtained from the imaging system in block 610. In block 612, the imaging system positioning is also obtained from the imaging system. That is, the positioning of the detector and / or emitter is provided to the controller.

[0068] Block 614 obtains patient data from the two-dimensional image of block 610. Block 614 is broken down into a plurality of sub-blocks. In block 614A, the patient size is obtained. The patient size can include the width of the patient and the AP thickness of the patient. The patient size can be determined by evaluating the measurements determined from the image data in block 610. In block 614B, the patient body structure and the positioning of that body structure can be determined. That is, the positioning of the imaging system is relative to one or more specific body structures of the patient, such as by evaluating the image data from block 610 and the determined positioning of the imaging system from block 612. Figure 4AExamples are shown in FIG. 14. When the body structure is recognized in block 614B, the orientation of the body can be obtained in block 614C. That is, the positioning of the skull can be recognized in the images from block 610, and if the positioning of the skull is known or the positioning of the vertebrae and the order of the vertebrae are known, the patient orientation can be known. Likewise, when the spinous process is recognized, the prone or supine positioning of the patient can be determined. In block 614D, the location of existing devices can be obtained. That is, the location of existing devices can be determined in the image data from block 610, including but not limited to implants, plates, replacement joints, and pacemakers. Since the images obtained in block 610 can be used to recognize various features and parts in the images, and the positioning of the imaging system is determined in block 612, the relative positioning of the imaging system with respect to the patient can be determined, and the patient data in block 614 can be determined.

[0069] Finally, the patient data in block 614 is used to populate the patient data user interface. That is, the various patient data determined using the initial or test images in block 610 can be used to populate the various fields of the patient data user interface as described above. The user can then review the completed fields for various purposes, such as verification of the completed fields.

[0070] The patient data can also be used to determine various data for the imaging system in block 616 for taking the next (e.g., second) or diagnostic image at the controller, such as a three-dimensional image and / or multiple 2D images that can be reconstructed into a 3D image. Block 616 has various sub-blocks that determine the settings of the imaging system. In the various sub-blocks, parameters of the imaging system can be determined or invoked based on the patient data from block 614.

[0071] In block 616A, the imaging system voltage can be determined. That is, a voltage amount based on the patient data can be determined and obtained. For example, a larger patient can require more voltage to take a sufficient image with proper contrast. The voltage amount can be invoked and / or determined based on the determined patient size selected.

[0072] In block 616B, the imaging system tube current can be determined by the controller. The tube current can use the patient size data and orientation in a similar manner as described above with respect to the system power. The power of the system uses both the voltage and the current. In block 616C, the pulse width of the beam can be determined. The imaging system pulse width can vary depending on the contrast required.

[0073] In block 616D, imaging system collimation, in particular for collimating a beam, can be provided, which can include changing a beam, such as a beam of x-rays. Collimation of the beam can be used to remove objects that are highly attenuating (metallic structures) or slightly attenuating (air) so that technical factors (KVP, pulse width, mA, beam filtration) can be optimized to visualize anatomy. In other words, collimation can be performed, such as with a collimator, to shape and / or direct the beam. In doing so, the beam can be directed not to engage or pass through highly attenuating or slightly attenuating items to optimize or enhance image data acquired through a selected subject, also referred to as a field of interest.

[0074] In block 616E, an imaging system region of interest can be identified. The region of interest can be identified from the patient size data and body structure described above. The imaging system region of interest allows the detector and emitter of the imaging system to be oriented relative to the patient in a selected positioning (e.g., a direction for emitting x-rays) to acquire image data for these purposes. For example, the image data is used to reconstruct a three-dimensional image and / or acquire three-dimensional image data. The imaging system 36, including only portions of the imaging system, can be moved as described above.

[0075] In block 618, the patient data and imaging system data are communicated to a user interface. As Figure 5A and Figure 5B shown, two different user interfaces can be generated. However, the user interfaces can also be combined or in a list that can be scrolled to see various data. The user interface can also include menu and sub-menu display types and / or graphical displays that can include graphics of the imaging system 36 and / or the patient 28. The imaging system can use the patient data and imaging system data to acquire selected or desired subsequent image data. Thus, the patient data and imaging system data can be determined automatically and / or with little manual input as input for setting up the imaging system to acquire subsequent image data, such as diagnostic image data, as discussed herein.

[0076] In block 620, the patient data and imaging system data can be displayed in a user interface for subsequent image data acquisition, which can be a three-dimensional image. As described above, examples of three-dimensional image user interfaces are set forth in Figure 5A and Figure 5B . The user interface can be displayed on a screen display of the imager.

[0077] In block 622, a diagnostic image scan is performed with data as included in the user interface, which can be a three-dimensional scan. In block 622, imaging system data as well as patient data can be used to obtain three-dimensional images. The imaging system data and / or patient data allows the imaging system 36 to be set up and operated to generate selected image data of the patient 28. This can include the region of interest as well as regions of selected quality and / or contrast for analysis and / or diagnosis. However, as discussed above, the imaging system data and patient data can be obtained substantially automatically without manual intervention. This can increase consistency and / or reduce operating room time and / or radiation exposure.

[0078] In one or more examples, the described techniques can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions can be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. Computer-readable media can include non-transitory computer-readable media, which corresponds to a tangible medium such as data storage media (e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to

[0079] Instructions can be executed by one or more processors or processor modules, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry. Accordingly, the term "processor" as used herein can refer to any of the foregoing structure or any other physical structure suitable for implementation of the described techniques. Also, the techniques could be fully implemented in one or more circuits or logic elements.

Claims

1. A method of controlling an imaging system, the method comprising: positioning the imaging system into a first position; acquiring a first image at the first position; determining patient data from the first image; communicating patient data to a user interface; displaying the patient data on a display; and inputting the patient data configured for acquiring a second image.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining patient data comprises determining patient width and patient AP thickness from the first image.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein determining patient data comprises determining a first body structure from the first image.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein determining the first body structure comprises determining a vertebra.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein determining the first body structure comprises determining at least one of: an endplate, a corner of an endplate, a full vertebra, a partial vertebra, a skull, a limb, or an organ.

6. The method of claim 3, further comprising determining an orientation of the first body structure based on the first position and the first image.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the orientation comprises determining an orientation of a vertebra.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the orientation comprises determining a prone position or a supine position.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the orientation comprises determining a direction of a spinous process.

10. The method of claim 6, wherein determining the orientation comprises determining a transverse left orientation or a transverse right orientation.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein acquiring the first image comprises acquiring the first image comprising a first two-dimensional image.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the user interface is a three-dimensional image user interface, and the method further comprises using the data to acquire a three-dimensional image.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining imaging system data based on the patient data and the first image, communicating the imaging system data to the user interface, and displaying patient data and imaging system data on the display.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining an imaging system voltage.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining an imaging system tube current.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining an imaging system pulse width.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining an imaging system collimation.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining an imaging system region of interest.

19. The method of claim 13, wherein determining imaging system data comprises determining at least three of: an imaging system power, an imaging system tube current, an imaging system pulse width, an imaging system collimation, and an imaging system region of interest.

20. A system for controlling an imaging system, the system comprising: a controller configured to execute instructions to: acquire a first image at a first position; determine patient data from the first image; transfer patient data to a user interface; display the patient data on a display; and acquire a second image based on the patient data.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the patient data includes a patient width and a patient thickness from the first image.

22. The system of claim 20, wherein the patient data includes a first body structure from the first image.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the first body structure includes a vertebra.

24. The system of claim 22, wherein the first body structure includes at least one of an endplate, a corner of an endplate, a full vertebra, a partial vertebra, a skull, a limb, or an organ.

25. The system of claim 22, wherein the controller is configured to execute instructions to determine an orientation of the first body structure based on the first position and the first image.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the orientation includes an orientation of a vertebra.

27. The system of claim 25, wherein the orientation includes a prone position or a supine position.

28. The system of claim 25, wherein the orientation includes a direction of a spinous process.

29. The system of claim 25, wherein the orientation includes a transverse left orientation or a transverse right orientation.

30. The system of claim 20, wherein the first image includes a first two-dimensional image.

31. The system of claim 20, wherein the user interface is a three-dimensional image user interface, and wherein the controller is configured to execute instructions to acquire a three-dimensional image using the data.

32. The system of claim 20, wherein the controller is configured to execute instructions to determine imaging system data based on the patient data and the first image, transfer the imaging system data to the user interface, and display patient data and imaging system data on the display.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes an imaging system power.

34. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes an imaging system tube current.

35. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes an imaging system pulse width.

36. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes an imaging system collimation.

37. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes an imaging system region of interest.

38. The system of claim 32, wherein the imaging system data includes at least three of: an imaging system power, an imaging system tube current, an imaging system pulse width, an imaging system collimation, and an imaging system region of interest.

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