System for determining information related to cardiac deformations of cardiac anatomical features using deformational imaging

Abstract

Various systems (100) and methods (500) are provided for determining information related to cardiac deformation of a cardiac anatomical feature of a subject using deformation imaging and a plurality of overlapping segments extending along boundaries of the cardiac anatomical feature of the subject. Imaging data of a cardiac anatomical feature of a subject may be received (510). A boundary of a cardiac anatomical feature of a subject may be depicted (520). The anatomical feature may be divided into a plurality of overlapping segments (530) extending along boundaries of the cardiac anatomical feature of the subject. The deformation imaging and the plurality of overlap segments may be used to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical feature of the subject (540). Information related to cardiac deformations of the cardiac anatomical feature may be displayed (550).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a system and method for determining information related to cardiac deformation of one or more anatomical features of a subject's heart using deformable imaging and multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of a subject's cardiac anatomy. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a system and method for determining mechanical asynchrony by enhancing mechanical dispersion determination. Background Technology

[0002] Deformation imaging refers to imaging techniques used to assess myocardial deformation. Deformation, or "strain," refers to the change in heart length from end-diastole to end-systole. Deformation imaging can be used to assess myocardial mechanics. For example, it can be used to detect mechanical asynchrony, cardiomyopathy, heart disease, and myocardial dysfunction.

[0003] For deformable imaging, cardiac anatomy can be segmented into a set of segments. Deformable imaging techniques (e.g., template matching, image registration, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, etc.) can be used to track these segments during the cardiac cycle. The strain values ​​of this set of segments can be determined based on the tracked segments. For example, a strain curve or "strain trace" can be determined, which includes the strain values ​​of the segments over the cardiac cycle. Various associated strain values ​​(e.g., end-systolic strain, peak systolic strain, peak strain, etc.) can be determined from the strain curve.

[0004] Each segment may require a different amount of time to reach the maximum strain value. The standard deviation of these different time amounts to reach the maximum strain value can be called "mechanical dispersion." In other words, mechanical dispersion in the left atrium of the heart can refer to the variability in the timing of atrial contractions. In some cases, mechanical dispersion measurements can enhance the accuracy of determining cardiac mechanical asynchrony.

[0005] In some cases, deformable imaging systems may use a fixed number of non-overlapping segments of anatomical features when determining strain values, which can adversely affect the true value of mechanical dispersion. In this way, deformable imaging systems may inaccurately or erroneously determine the mechanical dispersion of anatomical features, and / or may inaccurately or erroneously determine cardiac mechanical asynchrony. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a more detailed description of concepts in specific embodiments. It should not be used to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor should it be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In one aspect, a system may include a memory configured to store instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to: receive imaging data of a subject's cardiac anatomical features; delineate the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; divide the anatomical features into a plurality of overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; use deformation imaging and the plurality of overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; and display information related to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features.

[0008] In another aspect, a method may include receiving imaging data of a subject's cardiac anatomical features; delineating the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; dividing the anatomical features into a plurality of overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; using deformation imaging and the plurality of overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; and displaying information related to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features.

[0009] In yet another aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may store instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receive imaging data of a subject's cardiac anatomical features; delineate the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; divide the anatomical features into a plurality of overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; use deformation imaging and the plurality of overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; and display information related to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagram of an example system for using deformation imaging and a plurality of overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of a subject's cardiac anatomical features to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the subject's cardiac anatomical features.

[0011] Figure 2 is a diagram of an example deformation imaging system for using deformation imaging and a plurality of overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of a subject's cardiac anatomical features to determine information related to cardiac deformation of the subject's cardiac anatomical features.

[0012] Figure 3 is a diagram of an example ultrasound system for acquiring ultrasound data of a subject's heart.

[0013] Figure 4 is a diagram of an example preoperative imaging system for acquiring preoperative imaging data of a subject's heart.

[0014] Figure 5This is a flowchart of an example process for determining information related to cardiac deformations in the subject's cardiac anatomy using deformable imaging and multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy.

[0015] Figure 6 This is an illustration of an example user interface that displays ultrasound images and anatomical features with depicted boundaries.

[0016] Figure 7 This is an illustration of an example user interface that displays ultrasound images, anatomical features with depicted boundaries, and multiple overlapping segments.

[0017] Figure 8 This is an illustration of an example user interface that displays strain traces and time graphs. The strain traces show the corresponding strain values ​​of a set of corresponding segments over time, and the time graphs show the time it takes to reach the maximum strain value of the set of corresponding segments.

[0018] Figure 9 This is an illustration of an example user interface that displays ultrasound images and corresponding tracking quality indicators for a set of segments, and shows strain traces that display the corresponding strain values ​​of a set of corresponding segments over time.

[0019] Figure 10 This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying an ultrasound image corresponding to the apical surface of the heart, depicting the endocardial boundary of the left atrium.

[0020] Figure 11 This is an illustration of an example user interface for a model that displays ultrasound images and shows cardiac anatomy features. The ultrasound images display corresponding markers for segments that are associated with the amount of time it takes for a maximum strain value to be greater than or less than a corresponding time threshold. The model displays these markers.

[0021] Figure 12 This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying an ultrasound image, showing corresponding markers for segments that indicate the time at which the corresponding segment reaches its peak strain value.

[0022] Figure 13 This is an illustration of an example user interface that displays an ultrasound image and a model showing multiple anatomical features of the heart.

[0023] Figure 14 This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying an ultrasound image with markers that highlight the area of ​​longest contraction or conduction delay in the heart. Detailed Implementation

[0024] As addressed above, deformable imaging systems can depict a fixed number of non-overlapping segments of anatomical features and determine the strain values ​​of this fixed number of non-overlapping segments. Furthermore, deformable imaging can determine mechanical dispersion values ​​based on the standard deviation of the strain values. Additionally, deformable imaging systems can determine cardiac mechanical asynchrony in the heart based on these mechanical dispersion values. However, because the myocardium is purely geometrically divided into a fixed number of non-overlapping segments, the mechanical dispersion values ​​may be inaccurate. This method may not accurately represent the boundaries of the underlying segments.

[0025] Some embodiments of this disclosure relate to a system configured to receive imaging data of cardiac anatomical features of a subject; delineate the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; divide the anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; use deformable imaging and the multiple overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformities of the subject's cardiac anatomical features; and display the information related to cardiac deformities of the cardiac anatomical features.

[0026] Compared to using predefined and fixed numbers of segments, this disclosure utilizes multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy. In this way, the disclosure improves the accuracy of mechanical dispersion determination, improves the accuracy of information related to cardiac deformity determination, makes noise-resistant measurements stable, provides improved localization of areas with contraction delay, and improves the reliability of mechanical dispersion determination. Furthermore, in this way, the disclosure can benefit patients by facilitating earlier diagnosis of cardiac pathology. Therefore, this disclosure provides an improvement in the field of cardiac deformity imaging technology and provides a technical improvement to cardiac deformity imaging systems by providing more accurate determination of mechanical dispersion and cardiac asynchrony, etc.

[0027] Figure 1 This is an illustration of an example system used to determine information related to cardiac deformations in a subject's cardiac anatomy by using deformable imaging and multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy. (See illustration.) Figure 1 As shown, system 100 may include deformable imaging system 110, ultrasound system 120, preoperative imaging system 130 and network 140.

[0028] The deformable imaging system 110 can be configured to receive imaging data of a subject's cardiac anatomy features, delineate the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy features, divide the anatomy features into multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy features, use deformable imaging and the multiple overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformities of the subject's cardiac anatomy features, and display information related to cardiac deformities of the cardiac anatomy features. For example, the deformable imaging system 110 can be a computer, server, medical device, etc.

[0029] The ultrasound system 120 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data of the region of interest in the heart of a subject. For example, the ultrasound system 120 can be a two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound system, a three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound system, a four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound system, a Doppler ultrasound system, etc. The subject can be a human, an animal, a phantom, etc.

[0030] The preoperative imaging system 130 can be configured to acquire preoperative imaging data of the patient's heart. For example, the preoperative imaging system 130 can be a computed tomography (CT) system, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, an ultrasound system, an X-ray system, a positron emission tomography (PET) device, etc.

[0031] Network 140 may allow communication between deformable imaging system 110, ultrasound system 120, and preoperative imaging system 130. For example, network 140 may be a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), cellular network, private network, ad hoc network, intranet, Internet, fiber-optic network, wired network, wireless network, and / or a combination of these or other types of networks.

[0032] The number and arrangement of systems 100 are provided as examples. In implementation, systems 100 may include additional systems, fewer systems, different systems, or systems related to... Figure 1 The systems shown are arranged differently. Additionally or alternatively, a group of systems of system 100 (e.g., one or more systems) may be integrated into a single system and / or perform one or more functions described as being performed by another system or another group of systems of system 100.

[0033] Figure 2 This is an illustration of an example deformability imaging system 110 used to determine information related to cardiac deformities in the subject's cardiac anatomy using deformability imaging and multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy. (See illustration.) Figure 2 As shown, the deformable imaging system 110 may include a bus 202, a processor 204, a memory 206, a storage component 208, an input component 210, an output component 212, and a communication interface 214.

[0034] Bus 202 includes components that allow communication between components of the deformable imaging system 110. Processor 204 can be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. Processor 204 can be a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), accelerated processing unit (APU), microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component.

[0035] Processor 204 may include one or more processors capable of being programmed to perform functions. Processor 204 may include one or more processors 204 configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, a single processor 204 may be configured to perform all the operations described herein. Alternatively, multiple processors 204 may be collectively configured to perform all the operations described herein, and each of the multiple processors 204 may be configured to perform a subgroup of operations described herein. For example, a first processor 204 may perform a first subgroup of operations described herein, a second processor 204 may be configured to perform a second subgroup of operations described herein, and so on.

[0036] Memory 206 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 204.

[0037] Storage component 208 may store information and / or software related to the operation and use of morphing imaging system 110. For example, storage component 208 may include hard disk (e.g., magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk and / or solid-state disk), compact disc (CD), digital multifunction disc (DVD), floppy disk, cassette, magnetic tape and / or another type of non-transitory computer-readable medium and corresponding drives.

[0038] Input component 210 may include components that allow the morphing imaging system 110 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a touchscreen display, keyboard, keypad, mouse, buttons, switches, camera, and / or microphone). Additionally or alternatively, input component 210 may include sensors for sensing information (e.g., a Global Positioning System (GPS) component, accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or actuator). Output component 212 may include components that provide output information from the morphing imaging system 110 (e.g., a display, a speaker for outputting sound at an output sound level, and / or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs)).

[0039] Communication interface 214 may include transceiver-like components (e.g., a transceiver and / or separate receiver and transmitter) that enable morphing imaging system 110 to communicate with other systems, such as via wired connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. Communication interface 214 may allow morphing imaging system 110 to receive information from and / or provide information to another system. For example, communication interface 214 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a cellular network interface, etc.

[0040] The deformable imaging system 110 can perform one or more of the processes described herein. The deformable imaging system 110 can perform these processes based on software instructions stored in non-transitory computer-readable media (such as memory 206 and / or storage components 208) executed by processor 204. Computer-readable media can be defined herein as non-transitory memory devices. Memory devices can include memory space within a single physical storage device or memory space distributed across multiple physical storage devices.

[0041] Software instructions can be read from another computer-readable medium or from another system into memory 206 and / or storage component 208 via communication interface 214. When executed, the software instructions stored in memory 206 and / or storage component 208 can cause processor 204 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Therefore, the specific implementations described herein are not limited to any particular combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0042] Figure 2 The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as examples. In practice, the deformable imaging system 110 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components with... Figure 2 The components shown are arranged differently. Additionally or alternatively, one set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the deformable imaging system 110 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the deformable imaging system 110.

[0043] Figure 3 This is an illustration of an example ultrasound system 120 used to acquire ultrasound data from a subject's heart. Figure 3 As shown, the ultrasound system 120 may include an ultrasound probe 302, a transmit beamformer 304, a transmitter 306, an element 308, a receiver 310, a receive beamformer 312, a user input device 314, a processor 316, a display 318, a memory 320, and a communication interface 322. The aforementioned components may be connected via wired or wireless connections.

[0044] The ultrasound probe 302 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data. For example, the ultrasound probe 302 can be a linear probe, a phased array probe, a curved linear probe coupled to a position tracking system, a mechanically manipulated linear array transducer, a phased array transducer, a curved linear array transducer, an electronically manipulated 2D transducer array, an electronic 3D (e3D) probe, an electronic 4D (e4D) probe, or a low-profile wearable patch version of any of the aforementioned probes. According to one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 302 can be configured to generate ultrasound signals, emit ultrasound signals toward the region of interest of the subject, receive echo ultrasound signals backscattered from the region of interest of the subject, generate ultrasound data based on the echo ultrasound signals, and output ultrasound data.

[0045] Transmit beamformer 304 can be configured to apply a delay time to the electrical signal provided to element 308 to focus the corresponding ultrasonic signal at the region of interest. Transmitter 306 can be configured to send an electrical signal to element 308 to drive element 308 to emit an ultrasonic signal toward the region of interest. Element 308 can be configured to receive the electrical signal from transmitter 306, convert the electrical signal into an ultrasonic signal, and emit the ultrasonic signal toward the region of interest. Element 308 can be configured to receive the echo ultrasonic signal backscattered from the region of interest, convert the echo ultrasonic signal into an electrical signal, and provide the electrical signal to receiver 310. Receiver 310 can be configured to receive the electrical signal from element 308 and provide the electrical signal to receiver beamformer 312. Receiver beamformer 312 can apply a delay time to the electrical signal received from element 308.

[0046] User input device 314 can be configured to receive user input and provide user input to processor 316. For example, user input device 314 can be a touchscreen display, keyboard, keypad, mouse, button, switch, microphone, etc. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 314 can be configured to sense information. For example, user input device 314 can sense information from an electromagnetic positioning system, inertial measurement system, accelerometer, gyroscope, actuator, etc.

[0047] Processor 316 may be configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, processor 316 may be a CPU, GPU, APU, microprocessor, microcontroller, DSP, FPGA, ASIC, or another type of processing component. Processor 316 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. Processor 316 may include one or more processors 316 configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, a single processor 316 may be configured to perform all the operations described herein. Alternatively, multiple processors 316 may be collectively configured to perform all the operations described herein, and each of the multiple processors 316 may be configured to perform a subgroup of operations described herein. For example, a first processor 316 may perform a first subgroup of operations described herein, a second processor 316 may be configured to perform a second subgroup of operations described herein, and so on.

[0048] Processor 316 can be configured to control ultrasound probe 302 to acquire ultrasound data. Processor 316 can be configured to control which elements in element 308 are active and to control the shape of the beam emitted from ultrasound probe 302. Processor 316 can generate ultrasound images for display. For example, processor 316 can generate B-mode images, color Doppler images, anatomical M-mode images, color M-mode images, etc. Ultrasound images can be 3D images, 2D images, single-plane images, dual-plane images, tri-plane images, multi-plane images, etc. Ultrasound images can correspond to various anatomical planes (e.g., sagittal, coronal, and transverse) of the region of interest.

[0049] The display 318 can be configured to display information. For example, the display 318 can be a monitor, LED display, cathode ray tube, projector display, touch screen, tablet computer, mobile phone, etc. The display 318 can display ultrasound images based on ultrasound data in real time. For example, the display 318 can display ultrasound images within one second, two seconds, five seconds, etc., of ultrasound data acquired by the ultrasound probe 302.

[0050] Memory 320 may be configured to store information and / or instructions for use by processor 316. Memory 320 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. For example, memory 320 may be random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory) for storing information and / or instructions for use by processor 316. Memory 320 may be configured to store instructions that, when executed by processor 316, cause processor 316 to perform the operations described herein.

[0051] The communication interface 322 can be configured to enable the processor 316 to communicate with other systems, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. For example, the communication interface 322 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, an RF interface, a USB interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a cellular network interface, etc.

[0052] Figure 3 The number and arrangement of components in the ultrasound system 120 shown are provided as an example. In practice, the ultrasound system 120 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components related to... Figure 3 The components shown are arranged differently. Additionally or alternatively, one set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the ultrasound system 120 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the ultrasound system 120.

[0053] Figure 4 This is an illustration of an example preoperative imaging system 130 used to acquire preoperative imaging data of a patient's heart. (See illustration.) Figure 4 As shown, the preoperative imaging system 130 may include a gantry 402, a rotating frame 404, an X-ray source 406, an X-ray detector 408, a worktable 410, a processor 412, a memory 414, a display 416, a user input device 418, a communication interface 420, a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) 422, and a server 424.

[0054] Processor 412 can be configured to control the operation of preoperative imaging system 130. For example, processor 412 can be a CPU, GPU, APU, microprocessor, microcontroller, DSP, FPGA, ASIC, etc. Processor 412 can be implemented using hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. Processor 412 may include one or more processors 412 configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, a single processor 412 can be configured to perform all the operations described herein. Alternatively, multiple processors 412 can be collectively configured to perform all the operations described herein, and each of the multiple processors 412 can be configured to perform a subgroup of operations described herein. For example, a first processor 412 can perform a first subgroup of operations described herein, a second processor 412 can be configured to perform a second subgroup of operations described herein, and so on.

[0055] The processor 412 can be configured to control the movement of the rack 402, the rotating frame 404, the X-ray source 406, the X-ray detector 408, and the stage 410.

[0056] Memory 414 may be configured to store information and / or instructions for use by processor 412. Memory 414 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. For example, memory 414 may be RAM, ROM, flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc. Memory 414 may be configured to store instructions that, when executed by processor 412, cause processor 412 to perform the operations described herein.

[0057] Display 416 can be configured to display information. For example, display 416 can be a monitor, LED display, cathode ray tube, projector display, touch screen, tablet computer, mobile phone, etc.

[0058] User input device 418 can be configured to receive user input and provide user input to processor 412. For example, user input device 418 can be a touchscreen display, keyboard, keypad, mouse, button, switch, microphone, etc. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 418 can be configured to sense information. For example, user input device 418 can sense information from an electromagnetic positioning system, inertial measurement system, accelerometer, gyroscope, actuator, etc.

[0059] Communication interface 420 can be configured to enable processor 412 to communicate with other devices, such as via wired connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. For example, communication interface 420 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, an RF interface, a USB interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a cellular network interface, etc. PACS 422 can be configured to communicate with external systems and / or networks to allow users to access medical images at various locations. Server 424 can be configured to store one or more models described herein. For example, server 424 may be a local server, a cloud server, a virtual machine, etc.

[0060] Figure 4 The number and arrangement of components of the preoperative imaging system 130 shown are provided as an example. In practice, the preoperative imaging system 130 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components related to... Figure 4 The components shown are arranged differently. Additionally or alternatively, one set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the preoperative imaging system 130 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the preoperative imaging system 130.

[0061] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of an example process 500 for using deformable imaging and multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy to determine information related to cardiac deformities of the subject's cardiac anatomy.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, process 500 may include receiving imaging data of the subject's cardiac anatomy (operation 510). For example, the deformable imaging system 110 may receive imaging data from the ultrasound system 120, preoperative imaging system 130, etc. The imaging data may be ultrasound data, CT data, MRI data, X-ray data, PET data, etc. The subject's cardiac anatomy may include the left atrium, right atrium, left ventricle, right ventricle, mitral valve, aortic valve, etc. The imaging data may be 2D medical images, 3D medical images, etc.

[0063] like Figure 5 As further shown, process 500 may include delineating the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy (operation 520). For example, the deformable imaging system 110 may use segmentation models, image processing techniques, artificial intelligence (AI) models, etc., to delineate the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy. The deformable imaging system 110 may be configured to delineate the boundaries of anatomical features based on detecting one or more parts of the cardiac anatomy. The one or more parts may be the myocardium, epicardial boundaries, endocardial boundaries, myocardial midline, etc.

[0064] like Figure 5 As further shown, process 500 may include dividing the anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy (operation 530). For example, the deformable imaging system 110 may automatically divide the anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy via user input or the like.

[0065] A segment of a cardiac anatomical feature can be any part of the cardiac anatomical feature. For example, a segment can represent the myocardium within a specific boundary. For example, the left atrium can include the left basal segment, left mid-segment, left apical segment, right apical segment, right mid-segment, right basal segment, etc. A segment can include any part of the aforementioned segments or a combination of the parts. The outline of a segment can be depicted by the boundaries of the anatomical feature. A segment can be a 2D segment or a 3D segment.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the deformable imaging system 110 can be configured to automatically segment anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments. The deformable imaging system 110 can be configured with segment information identifying the length of each segment, the number of segments, the amount of overlap between each segment, etc. Based on the segment information, the deformable imaging system 110 can segment anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments extending along the boundaries of the subject's cardiac anatomy.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the deformable imaging system 110 can divide an anatomical feature into multiple overlapping segments via a sliding mechanism configured to traverse the entire anatomical feature. For example, the deformable imaging system 110 can provide a segment window at an initial position and offset the segment window incrementally across the boundary of the anatomical feature. In this case, the initial position can be a base point of the anatomical feature. The segment window can define the position of the overlapping segments at each incremental offset of the segment window. For example, a first (or initial) position of the segment window can identify the position of a first segment, a second position of the segment window can identify the position of a second segment, a third position of the segment window can identify the position of a third segment, and so on. The offset of the segment window can define the amount of overlap between adjacent segments. For example, if the first segment includes a length of 4 centimeters (cm) and the segment window is offset by 2 cm to define the second segment, then the first segment and the second segment include a 2 cm overlap.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the deformable imaging system 110 can be configured to divide anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments based on user input received via a user interface. For example, the deformable imaging system 110 can receive one or more user inputs via a user interface, which describe multiple overlapping segments of cardiac anatomical features.

[0069] According to one implementation, one or more user inputs describing multiple overlapping segments of cardiac anatomical features can describe the number of overlapping segments, their respective sizes, their respective positions, the amount of overlap between them, etc. For example, a user can interact with a user interface to input one or more user inputs describing multiple overlapping segments related to cardiac anatomical features. In this case, the one or more user inputs can describe the number of overlapping segments, their sizes, their positions, the amount of overlap between them, etc.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively, a user may interact with the user interface to input one or more user inputs that manipulate a segment window on the user interface. For example, one or more user inputs may position the segment window along anatomical features, slide the segment window along anatomical features, lengthen or shorten the segment window, etc. In this case, the amount of user interaction may describe the number of overlapping segments, the size of the overlapping segments, the position of the overlapping segments, the amount of overlap between the overlapping segments, etc. Additionally or alternatively, a user may interact with the user interface to input one or more user inputs that describe the discrete number of overlapping segments, the discrete size of the overlapping segments, the discrete position of the overlapping segments, the discrete amount of overlap between the overlapping segments, etc.

[0071] like Figure 5 As further shown, process 500 may include using deformability imaging and multiple overlapping segments to determine information related to cardiac deformities in relation to the cardiac anatomy of the subject (operation 540). For example, deformability imaging system 110 may use deformability imaging to determine information related to cardiac deformities in relation to the cardiac anatomy of the subject.

[0072] The deformable imaging system 110 can be configured to perform deformable imaging using deformable imaging techniques such as template matching (e.g., speckle tracking), image registration, image segmentation, and AI. The deformable imaging system 110 can also be configured to perform deformable imaging using imaging data from the ultrasound system 120, preoperative imaging system 130, etc. The imaging data can be ultrasound data, CT data, MRI data, X-ray data, PET data, etc.

[0073] Information related to cardiac deformation in relation to the subject's cardiac anatomy can include strain values ​​of multiple overlapping segments, the time it takes to reach the maximum strain value of a corresponding segment, specific segments associated with time values ​​greater than or less than a corresponding threshold, mechanical dispersion values, cardiac mechanical asynchrony parameters, etc.

[0074] The deformable imaging system 110 can identify corresponding segments of cardiac anatomical features by dividing the anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments. Furthermore, the deformable imaging system 110 can use deformable imaging to track the corresponding segments over time based on the identification of multiple overlapping segments. Additionally, the deformable imaging system 110 can determine the corresponding strain values ​​of the multiple overlapping segments over time based on tracking the corresponding segments using deformable imaging. For example, the deformable imaging system 110 can determine the strain value based on the initial length and the final length of the segment. As an example, if the initial length of the segment is "10" and the final length of the segment is "8", the deformable imaging system 110 can determine a strain value of "-20%". As another example, if the initial length of the segment is "8" and the final length of the segment is "10", the deformable imaging system 110 can determine a strain value of "20%". Furthermore, the deformable imaging system 110 can determine the corresponding amount of time it takes for each segment in the segment to reach its maximum strain value. The deformable imaging system 110 can determine the mechanical dispersion value based on the corresponding amount of time it takes for each segment in the segment to reach its maximum strain value. For example, the deformable imaging system 110 can determine the mechanical dispersion value based on the standard deviation of the time quantity.

[0075] like Figure 5As further shown, process 500 may include displaying information related to cardiac deformation in relation to cardiac anatomy features (operation 550). For example, deformation imaging system 110 may display information related to cardiac deformation in relation to cardiac anatomy features, such as mechanical dispersion values, strain values ​​of the group of segments, the time amount to reach the maximum strain value of the corresponding segment, and specific segments associated with the time amount greater than or less than the corresponding threshold.

[0076] although Figure 5 The description describes the depiction of a single boundary of an individual anatomical feature and the determination of information related to cardiac deformation of that single anatomical feature. However, it should be understood that the deformation imaging system 110 can depict the corresponding boundaries of multiple anatomical features of the heart and determine information related to cardiac deformation of multiple anatomical features of the heart. For example, the deformation imaging system 110 can depict the boundaries of the left atrium, the left ventricle, the right atrium, the right ventricle, etc., and determine information related to cardiac deformation of multiple anatomical features of the heart.

[0077] Figure 6 This is an illustration of an example user interface 600 displaying ultrasound images and anatomical features. As shown, the user interface 600 can display an ultrasound image 610 of the heart and can display anatomical features 620 of the heart with depicted boundaries. The cardiac anatomical features 620 can represent regions of interest used to determine information related to cardiac deformities. It should be understood that the deformable imaging system 110 can depict multiple boundaries of multiple anatomical features. Furthermore, although an ultrasound image is shown, it should be understood that the deformable imaging system 110 can use other types of medical images associated with different imaging modalities.

[0078] Figure 7This is an illustration of an example user interface 700 that displays ultrasound images, anatomical features with depicted boundaries, and segment windows offset incrementally along the boundaries of the anatomical features. As shown, the user interface 700 can display an ultrasound image 702 including anatomical feature 704. The user interface 700 can also display a segment 706 associated with anatomical feature 704. The deformable imaging system 110 can offset the segment window along the boundaries of anatomical feature 704. In this case, the user interface 700 can iteratively display an ultrasound image 708 displaying segment 710, an ultrasound image 712 displaying segment 714, an ultrasound image 716 displaying segment 718, an ultrasound image 720 displaying segment 722, an ultrasound image 724 displaying segment 726, an ultrasound image 728 displaying segment 730, an ultrasound image 732 displaying segment 734, an ultrasound image 736 displaying segment 738, and an ultrasound image 740 displaying segment 742. The deformable imaging system 110 can divide anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments 706, 710, 714, 718, 722, 726, 730, 734, 738, and 742 based on one or more user inputs. Alternatively, the deformable imaging system 110 can automatically divide anatomical features into multiple overlapping segments 706, 710, 714, 718, 722, 726, 730, 734, 738, and 742 by incrementally shifting the segment window.

[0079] like Figure 7 As shown, segment 710 can overlap with segment 706, segment 714 can overlap with segment 710, segment 718 can overlap with segment 714, segment 722 can overlap with segment 718, segment 726 can overlap with segment 722, segment 730 can overlap with segment 726, segment 734 can overlap with segment 730, segment 738 can overlap with segment 734, and segment 742 can overlap with segment 738. According to another embodiment, the deformable imaging system 110 can display 3D medical images and 3D segments. For example, the 3D segments can be overlapping segments extending over anatomical features and can be manipulated around and over the anatomical features.

[0080] Figure 8This is an illustration of an example user interface 800 displaying strain traces and time graphs. The strain traces show the corresponding strain values ​​of a set of corresponding segments over time, and the time graphs show the time taken to reach the maximum strain value of the corresponding segments. As shown, the user interface 800 can: display a first strain trace 802, which displays the strain value of a first segment over time; display a second strain trace 804, which displays the strain value of a second segment over time; display a third strain trace 806, which displays the strain value of a third segment over time; display a fourth strain trace 808, which displays the strain value of a fourth segment over time; display a fifth strain trace 810, which displays the strain value of a fifth segment over time; and display a sixth strain trace 812, which displays the strain value of a sixth segment over time. In addition, the user interface 800 can display: a first time curve 814, which shows the time it takes for the first segment to reach the maximum strain value; a second time curve 816, which shows the time it takes for the second segment to reach the maximum strain value; a third time curve 818, which shows the time it takes for the third segment to reach the maximum strain value; a fourth time curve 820, which shows the time it takes for the fourth segment to reach the maximum strain value; a fifth time curve 822, which shows the time it takes for the fifth segment to reach the maximum strain value; and a sixth time curve 824, which shows the time it takes for the sixth segment to reach the maximum strain value.

[0081] Figure 9 This is an illustration of an example user interface 900 that displays ultrasound images and corresponding tracking quality indicators for a set of segments, and displays strain traces showing the corresponding strain values ​​of a set of corresponding segments over time. As shown, the user interface 900 can display an ultrasound image 902 and an anatomical feature 904, which has a defined boundary, an area 906 consisting of one or more segments whose tracking quality is greater than a tracking quality threshold, and an area 908 consisting of one or more segments whose tracking quality is less than a tracking quality threshold. The user interface 900 can visually distinguish the areas by using different image parameters (e.g., color, hue, opacity, pattern, etc.). Furthermore, as shown, the user interface 900 can display a strain trace graph 912 showing: a first strain trace 914 for a first segment, a second strain trace 916 for a second segment, a third strain trace 918 for a third segment, a fourth strain trace 920 for a fourth segment, a fifth strain trace 922 for a fifth segment, a sixth strain trace 924 for a sixth segment, and a seventh strain trace 926 for a seventh segment. Additionally, as... Figure 9As shown, the user interface 900 can display an icon 910 on the ultrasound image 902, which allows the user to select one or more specific segments or a portion of a segment. Based on the location of the icon 910, the user interface 900 can display an identifier 928 on the strain trace graph 912, which highlights the specific segment corresponding to the icon 910. The deformability imaging system 110 can determine the tracking quality of the segments used for speckle tracking echocardiography and display information identifying the tracking quality of the segments. The deformability imaging system 110 can allow the user to select specific strain traces and remove strain traces based on information determined to be associated with cardiac deformity. In this way, the user can identify segments associated with low tracking quality and exclude strain traces associated with those segments based on information used to determine their association with cardiac deformity. Alternatively, the user can override system decisions and approve rejected areas (segments), or vice versa.

[0082] According to another embodiment, the deformation imaging system 110 can display a bounding box that exemplifies sub-segments used to determine information related to cardiac deformation in the region including the segment. In this way, the deformation imaging system 110 can allow for a more detailed understanding of how strain values ​​are derived from specific regions within a larger segmented region.

[0083] Figure 10 This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying ultrasound images corresponding to the respective apical surfaces of the heart. As shown, the user interface 1000 can display: a first ultrasound image 1002 corresponding to a first apical surface 1004, a second ultrasound image 1006 corresponding to a second apical surface 1008, a third ultrasound image 1010 corresponding to a third apical surface 1012, a fourth ultrasound image 1014 corresponding to a fourth apical surface 1016, a fifth ultrasound image 1018 corresponding to a fifth apical surface 1020, and a sixth ultrasound image 1022 displaying the first apical surface 1004, the second apical surface 1008, the third apical surface 1012, the fourth apical surface 1016, and the fifth apical surface 1020. The deformable imaging system 110 can acquire ultrasound data for multiple apical surfaces and use the corresponding ultrasound data to determine information related to cardiac deformities associated with cardiac anatomical features at different apical surfaces.

[0084] Figure 11This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying an ultrasound image and a model of cardiac anatomy. The ultrasound image displays corresponding markers for segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value greater than or less than a corresponding threshold. As shown, the user interface 1100 can display: an ultrasound image 1102 of the heart; an ultrasound image 1104 displaying a first marker 1106, which identifies a segment of cardiac anatomy associated with the maximum time amount of time required to reach the maximum strain value; and an ultrasound image 1108 displaying a second marker 1110, which identifies a segment of cardiac anatomy associated with the minimum time amount of time required to reach the maximum strain value. Furthermore, as shown, the user interface 1100 can display a model 1112 of cardiac anatomy, which displays a first icon 1114 corresponding to the first marker 1106 and a second icon 1116 corresponding to the second marker 1110. The deformable imaging system 110 can identify segments including the time amount required to reach a maximum strain value greater than a threshold and display information identifying those segments. Additionally or alternatively, the deformation imaging system 110 may identify segments that include time intervals during which a maximum strain value less than a threshold is reached, and display information identifying those segments. For example, the deformation imaging system 110 may display segments in a specific color, highlight segments, or display segments within bounding boxes, etc.

[0085] Alternatively, the user can interact with the user interface 1100 to place markers relative to model 1112. The morphing imaging system 110 can highlight corresponding segments in the ultrasound image based on user input. Furthermore, the morphing imaging system 110 can display an indication of the time it takes for the segment to reach its maximum strain value. For example, the morphing imaging system 110 can display a time indication and allow adjustment of image parameters of the segment (e.g., color, brightness, hue, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the user can interact with the user interface 1100 to move markers relative to model 1112. The morphing imaging system 110 can highlight corresponding segments in the ultrasound image based on user input.

[0086] Figure 12This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying an ultrasound image showing corresponding markers for segments, each marker indicating the time at which a corresponding segment reaches its peak strain value. For example, the deformability imaging system 110 can determine the time at which each segment in a sequence reaches its peak (or maximum) strain value and can display markers indicating the time at which each segment in a sequence reaches its peak strain value. As shown, the user interface 1200 can display an ultrasound image 1202 depicting cardiac anatomy. The user interface 1200 can display a first region 1204, which includes one or more segments associated with the amount of time it takes to reach a peak (or maximum) strain value that is relatively lower than other segments. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 can display a second region 1206, which includes one or more segments associated with the amount of time it takes to reach a maximum strain value that is relatively greater than other segments. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 can display a third region 1208, which includes one or more segments associated with the amount of time it takes to reach a maximum strain value that is relatively lower than other segments. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 can display a fourth region 1210, which includes one or more segments associated with the amount of time it takes to reach a maximum strain value that is relatively greater than other segments. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 can display a fifth region 1212, which includes one or more segments associated with the amount of time it takes to reach their maximum strain value, which is relatively lower than that of other segments. Alternatively, the user interface 1200 can adjust the image parameters of the entire ultrasound image 1202 based on the time it takes for one or more segments to reach their maximum strain value. The user interface 1200 can use various coloring schemes with different color maps. Additionally or alternatively, the deformation imaging system 110 can determine the amount of time it takes for all segments to reach their peak (or maximum) strain value and place markers near those segments that take longer to reach their peak.

[0087] Alternatively, the user interface 1200 may display a first region 1204, which includes one or more segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value less than a time threshold. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 may display a second region 1206, which includes one or more segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value greater than a time threshold. Additionally, the user interface 1200 may display a third region 1208, which includes one or more segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value less than a time threshold. Furthermore, the user interface 1200 may display a fourth region 1210, which includes one or more segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value greater than a time threshold. Additionally, the user interface 1200 may display a fifth region 1212, which includes one or more segments associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value less than a time threshold. Alternatively, the user interface 1200 may adjust the image parameters of the entire ultrasound image 1202 based on the time it takes for one or more segments to reach their maximum strain values. The user interface 1200 may use various coloring schemes with different color maps.

[0088] Figure 13 This is an illustration of an example user interface displaying ultrasound images and models showing multiple anatomical features of the heart. As shown, the user interface 1300 can: display a first ultrasound image 1302 showing a first anatomical feature 1304 and a second anatomical feature 1306 of the heart; display a second ultrasound image 1308 showing a first anatomical feature 1310 and a second anatomical feature 1312 of the heart; and display a third ultrasound image 1314 showing a first anatomical feature 1316, a second anatomical feature 1318 of the heart, and a marker 1320 identifying a portion of the second anatomical feature 1318 associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value greater than a threshold. Furthermore, as shown, the user interface 1300 can display a model 1322 showing the first anatomical feature 1324, the second anatomical feature 1326, and a marker 1328 identifying a portion of the second anatomical feature 1326 associated with the time amount of time required to reach a maximum strain value greater than a threshold. The deformation imaging system 110 can determine information related to cardiac deformation of multiple anatomical features of the heart, and display information related to cardiac deformation of multiple anatomical features of the heart.

[0089] Figure 14This is an illustration of an example user interface 1400 displaying an ultrasound image with markers highlighting areas of the heart with the longest contraction or conduction delay. As shown, the user interface 1100 can display an ultrasound image 1410 showing markers 1420 and 1430 that highlight areas of the heart with the longest contraction or conduction delay. The deformability imaging system 110 can determine areas of the heart with the longest contraction or conduction delay based on information related to cardiac deformities, and display markers highlighting these areas. The deformability imaging system 110 can determine these areas based on measurements of one or more anatomical features of the heart (e.g., left ventricle, left atrium, right ventricle, right atrium, etc.).

[0090] According to one embodiment, the morphing imaging system 110 can display 3D ultrasound data that is color-coded based on the amount of time taken for a given segment to reach its peak contraction state. Therefore, in addition to 3D B-mode data, the morphing imaging system 110 can visualize 3D color-coded ultrasound data based on contraction time.

[0091] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings and described above are merely exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims, including any equivalents included within the scope of the claims. Various modifications are possible and will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any combination of non-mutually exclusive features described herein is intended to be within the scope of the invention. That is, features of the embodiments may be combined with any suitable aspect described above, and optional features of any aspect may be combined with any other suitable aspect. Similarly, features listed in dependent claims may be combined with non-mutually exclusive features of other dependent claims, particularly where the dependent claims are subordinate to the same independent claim. In some jurisdictions that claim a single dependent claim, such dependent claims may have been used in practice, but this should not be construed as meaning that features in dependent claims are mutually exclusive.

Claims

1. A system (100), the system comprising: A memory (206) configured to store instructions; as well as One or more processors (204), said one or more processors being configured to execute the instructions to: Receive imaging data of the patient's cardiac anatomy (510); Delineate the boundaries of the cardiac anatomy features of the subject (520); The anatomical features are divided into multiple overlapping segments (530) extending along the boundaries of the cardiac anatomical features of the subject; Deformation imaging and the multiple overlapping segments are used to determine information related to cardiac deformations in relation to the cardiac anatomy of the subject (540); and The information (550) is displayed in relation to cardiac deformities associated with the cardiac anatomical features.

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the information relating to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features includes mechanical dispersion values.

3. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the information relating to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features includes strain values ​​of the plurality of overlapping segments.

4. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors (204) are further configured to: The system receives one or more user inputs, which describe the number of the plurality of overlapping segments, the corresponding location of the plurality of overlapping segments relative to the cardiac anatomical features, or the corresponding amount of overlap between the plurality of overlapping segments.

5. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the boundary of the cardiac anatomy of the subject is defined by segmenting the anatomy of the subject.

6. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the information relating to cardiac deformities of the cardiac anatomy of the subject includes the corresponding time amounts of the plurality of overlapping segments reaching peak systolic state, and wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: Displays 3D ultrasound data, which is color-coded based on the time taken for the plurality of overlapping segments to reach peak contraction.

7. The system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors (204) are further configured to: Information related to cardiac deformities involving multiple anatomical features of the heart is determined.

8. A method (500), the method comprising: Receive imaging data of the patient's cardiac anatomy (510); Delineate the boundaries of the cardiac anatomy features of the subject (520); The anatomical features are divided into multiple overlapping segments (530) extending along the boundaries of the cardiac anatomical features of the subject; Deformation imaging and the multiple overlapping segments are used to determine information related to cardiac deformities in relation to the cardiac anatomy of the subject (540); and The information (550) is displayed in relation to cardiac deformities associated with the cardiac anatomical features.

9. The method (500) of claim 8, wherein the information relating to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomical features includes mechanical dispersion values.

10. The method (500) of claim 8, wherein the information relating to cardiac deformation of the cardiac anatomy features includes strain values ​​of the plurality of overlapping segments.

11. The method (500) according to claim 8, further comprising: Receive one or more user inputs, which describe the number of the plurality of overlapping segments, the corresponding location of the plurality of overlapping segments relative to the cardiac anatomical features, or the corresponding amount of overlap between the plurality of overlapping segments.

12. The method (500) of claim 8, wherein depicting the boundaries of the cardiac anatomy of the subject comprises depicting the boundaries of the cardiac anatomy of the subject by segmenting the anatomy.

13. The method (500) according to claim 8, further comprising: Display the strain traces of the multiple overlapping segments.

14. The method (500) according to claim 8, further comprising: Information related to cardiac deformities involving multiple anatomical features of the heart is determined.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium (206) storing instructions, said instructions causing said one or more processors (204) to: Receive imaging data of the patient's cardiac anatomy (510); Delineate the boundaries of the cardiac anatomy features of the subject (520); The anatomical features are divided into multiple overlapping segments (530) extending along the boundaries of the cardiac anatomical features of the subject; Deformation imaging and the multiple overlapping segments are used to determine information related to cardiac deformations in relation to the cardiac anatomy of the subject (540); and The information (550) is displayed in relation to cardiac deformities associated with the cardiac anatomical features.

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