System and method for imaging samples using an existing mammography imaging system

Abstract

An intraoperative imaging system (38) for sampling is provided. The intraoperative imaging system (38) for sampling includes a mammography imaging system (10, 40) configured to acquire imaging data. The intraoperative imaging system (38) for sampling also includes a sampling carrier system (52, 110) configured to carry a tissue sample (18, 58, 120), wherein the sampling carrier system (52, 110) is retroactively coupled to the mammography imaging system (10, 40), in which the intraoperative imaging system (38) for sampling is configured to acquire imaging data to generate three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: System and method for imaging samples using an existing mammography imaging system

[0001] BACKGROUND

[0002] The subject matter described herein relates to imaging of specimens and, more particularly, to the use of an existing mammography imaging system for imaging of specimens.

[0003] In breast lumpectomy surgery, a surgeon's goal is to remove the tumor while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible. In attempting to do this, tumor tissue is sometimes missed in the breast, or the distance between the tumor and the margin of the lumpectomy harvest is too small (i.e., positive margins). In the case of positive margins, additional surgery (re-excision) is often performed, at the cost of additional trauma and risk to the patient, as well as additional cost. The frequency of re-excision depends on the facility and the surgeon, ranging from 10 percent (for expert surgeons at facilities that perform many lumpectomies) to 50 percent or more (for surgeons with much less experience at smaller facilities).The current standard of care is to assess positive margins using histopathology, which takes more than a day before results are available. In some institutions, intraoperative assessment of lumpectomy is performed using a variety of approaches with varying levels of effectiveness. For example, a two-dimensional (2D) assessment of the specimen can be performed using a commercial "cabinet" imaging system in the operating room or by sending the specimen to the radiology department for imaging on a mammography imaging system. However, neither solution provides sufficient information to confidently detect or exclude positive margins. In addition, sending the specimen to the radiology department introduces a delay and can create scheduling challenges.If three-dimensional (3D) information were available during surgery to enable margin estimation that is as good as or better than that provided with histopathology, then the re-excision rate could potentially be reduced to zero. Ideally, 3D estimation capability would be available in the operating room.

[0004] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0005] A summary of certain embodiments described herein is set forth below. It should be understood that these aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a brief summary of these certain embodiments and that these aspects are not not intended to limit the scope of this description. Indeed, this description may encompass a variety of aspects which may not be set forth below.

[0006] According to one embodiment, there is provided an intraoperative specimen imaging system. The intraoperative specimen imaging system includes a mammography imaging system configured to acquire imaging data. The intraoperative specimen imaging system also includes a specimen carrier system configured to carry a tissue sample, wherein the specimen carrier system is retroactively coupled to the mammography imaging system, wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system is configured to acquire imaging data to generate three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample.

[0007] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method for intraoperative imaging of specimens. The method includes coupling a specimen carrying system to a mammography imaging system, wherein the specimen carrying system includes a specimen holder, a tether for coupling the specimen holder to the mammography imaging system, and a motor configured to rotate the specimen holder. The method also includes rotating the specimen holder to rotate a tissue sample to different angular positions over a specific angular range while emitting radiation from a radiation source of the mammography imaging system to acquire imaging data of the tissue sample at the different angular positions.The method further includes generating three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample from the imaging data acquired at different angular positions over the specific angular range.

[0008] According to another embodiment, there is provided a specimen carrying system. The specimen carrying system includes a specimen holder configured to carry a tissue sample, a tether configured to couple the specimen holder to a mammography imaging system, and a motor configured to rotate the specimen holder. The specimen carrying system is configured to retroactively couple to the mammography imaging system to form an intraoperative specimen imaging system configured to acquire imaging data of the tissue sample at different angular positions over an angular range of up to at least 360 degrees to generate three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0010] [Fig.l] is an embodiment of a digital X-ray system (e.g., a mammography imaging system), in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0011] [Fig.2] illustrates an embodiment of an intraoperative imaging system, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0012] [Fig. 3] illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a method for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0013] [Fig.4] illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of another method for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

[0014] [Fig.5A] and 5B illustrate an embodiment of a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system modified to operate in a magnification mode for imaging a specimen (e.g., at high magnification); and

[0015] [Fig.6A] and 6B illustrate an embodiment of a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system modified to operate in a magnification mode for imaging a specimen (e.g., at low magnification). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] One or more specific embodiments will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are described in the specification. It should be realized that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, many implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as conformance to system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from implementation to implementation. Furthermore, it should be realized that such a development effort could be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, implementation, and manufacture for those of average skill having the advantage of this disclosure.

[0017] When reciting elements of various embodiments of the present invention, it is intended that the items "a", "an", "the", and "said" means that there is one or more of the elements. It is intended that the terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the elements listed. Still further, it is intended that all numerical examples in the following discussion are non-limiting, and that the additional numerical values, ranges, and percentages are within the scope of the disclosed embodiments.

[0018] The present disclosure provides systems and methods for imaging specimens (e.g., intraoperative imaging of specimens) using an existing mammography imaging system for imaging specimens.In particular, an intraoperative specimen imaging system includes a specimen carrier system configured to carry a tissue sample, wherein the specimen carrier system is retrofitably coupled to an existing mammography imaging system, wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system is configured to acquire imaging data to generate 3D images of the tissue sample. In some embodiments, the specimen carrier system includes a specimen holder and a motor coupled to the specimen holder that rotates the specimen holder having the tissue sample between exposures. In some embodiments, rotation of the specimen may be performed continuously.In some embodiments, the existing mammography imaging system includes a full-field digital mammography imaging system configured to acquire 2D imaging data. In some embodiments, the existing mammography imaging system includes a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system that is configured to acquire 2D imaging data (e.g., projection data) over a limited angular range (e.g., 60 degrees or less) to generate 3D imaging data. The intraoperative specimen imaging system may acquire imaging data over an angular range of up to 360 degrees plus an additional angular range to ensure data completeness. In addition, the imaging data may be acquired at a higher resolution due to imaging in a magnification mode.The intraoperative specimen imaging system may be used within an operating room during a procedure (e.g., breast lumpectomy surgery, mastectomy, etc.) on a patient from whom the tissue sample was taken to provide enhanced intraoperative imaging (e.g., high-resolution 3D images) at lower costs for a facility (which may not normally have intraoperative specimen imaging available).

[0019] Turning now to the drawings, [Fig.l] schematically illustrates an imaging system 10 (e.g., a mammography imaging system) for acquiring and process image data of discrete pixels. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 is a digital X-ray system configured both to acquire original image data and to process the image data for display in accordance with the present technique. The imaging system 10 may be a stationary system disposed in a fixed X-ray imaging room or a mobile X-ray system. The imaging system 10 is a mammography imaging system. In some embodiments, the imaging system 10 is a full-field digital mammography imaging system configured to acquire 2D imaging data.In some embodiments, the imaging system 10 is a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system configured to acquire 2D imaging data (e.g., projection data) over a limited angular range (e.g., 60 degrees or less) to generate 3D imaging data. In particular, the imaging system 10 is an existing mammography imaging system with a retrofitted specimen carrier system that allows for acquiring 2D imaging data of a tissue sample (of a breast or any other tissue type) over an angular range of up to 360 degrees plus an additional angular range to ensure completeness of the data to enable generation of 3D images as described in more detail below.

[0020] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the imaging system 10 includes an X-ray radiation source 12 positioned adjacent a collimator 14. The collimator 14 allows a radiation flux 16 to pass into a region in which an object 18 (e.g., a tissue or biopsy sample) is positioned. A portion of the radiation 20 passes through or around the subject and impacts a digital X-ray detector, generally shown at reference numeral 22. In some embodiments, the detector 22 may convert X-ray photons incident on its surface into lower energy photons, and subsequently into electrical signals, which are acquired and processed to reconstruct an image of features within the object or subject.In other embodiments, such as in a direct conversion implementation, the incident radiation may itself be measured without an intermediate conversion process.

[0021] The source 12 is controlled by a power supply / control circuit 24 that provides both electrical power and control signals for examination sequences. Furthermore, the detector 22 includes a detector controller 26 (e.g., control circuitry) that governs the acquisition of signals generated in the detector 22. The detector controller 26 may also perform various signal processing and filtering functions, such as for initial adjustment of dynamic ranges, interleaving digital image data, and so on. Both the power supply / control circuit 24 and the detector controller 26 respond to signals from a system controller 28. Generally, the system controller 28 governs the operation of the imaging system to perform examination protocols and to process acquired image data. In the present context, the system controller 28 also includes signal processing circuitry and associated fabrications, such as optical memory devices, magnetic memory devices, or solid-state memory devices, for storing programs and routines executed by a processor to accomplish various functionalities (e.g., acquiring imaging data in magnification mode;reconstructing imaging data using cone beam computed tomography (CAT) reconstruction such as through-projection, iterative reconstruction, or other reconstruction method; a computer-aided detection (CAD) module for automatically detecting calcification, markings, and / or a mass in a tissue sample; rotating the tissue sample or specimen through the specimen carrier system in synchronization with exposures; adding a post-imaging electronic grid or other markers or indicators to an image that indicate a distance and location of a tissue sample relative to the patient from whom the sample was taken; and storing configuration parameters, and image data; interface protocols;and so on). In one embodiment, a programmed computer system may be provided with hardware, circuitry, firmware, and / or software to perform the functions assigned to one or more of the power supply / control circuit 24, the detector controller 26, and / or the system controller 28 as discussed herein. ;

[0022] In some embodiments, where the imaging system 10 is a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system, the system controller 28 is coupled to a rotation subsystem. The rotation subsystem allows rotation of the X-ray source 12 and the collimator 14, over a limited angular range (e.g., 60 degrees or less) about the object 18, such as rotation primarily in an x,y plane about the object 18. It should be noted that the rotation subsystem may include a gantry on which the respective X-ray emitting and detecting components are disposed. Thus, in such an embodiment, the system controller 28 may be used to operate the gantry.

[0023] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the control device system 28 is connected to at least one output device, such as a display or printer as indicated at reference numeral 30. In some embodiments, images may be displayed in a video loop (e.g., a kinematic mode) on the display for a radiologist or surgeon to view during a procedure (e.g., in the operating room). The output device may include standard or special monitors and associated processing circuitry. In some embodiments, one or more operator workstations 32 may be further connected within the system for outputting system parameters, requesting exams, viewing images, and so forth.In general, displays, printers, workstations, and similar devices provided within the system may be local to the data acquisition components, or may be remote from those components, such as elsewhere within a facility or hospital, or in an entirely different location, connected to the image acquisition system through one or more configurable networks, such as the Internet, virtual private networks, and so on.

[0024] It should further be noted that the operator workstation 32 may also be coupled to a picture archiving and communication system (PACS) 34 or other review workstation. The PACS 34 may operate a digital imaging and communication in medicine (DICOM) server to generate DICOM images of the tissue sample. The PACS 34 may in turn be coupled to a remote client 36, a radiology department information system (RIS), a hospital information system (HIS), or an internal or external network, so that others at different locations may have access to the raw or processed image data.

[0025] [Fig. 2] illustrates an imaging system 38. The imaging system 38 includes an apparatus (e.g., an existing mammography imaging system) for mammography imaging 40. The apparatus 40 includes an arm 42, which has a radiation source 44, such as an X-ray tube, at one end thereof, and which, at its other end, has an X-ray detector 48. The end of the arm 42 having the X-ray detector 48 may also include a support device 46, such as a breast support plate for supporting a breast for mammography imaging, which may be removable if desired. The arm 42 is mounted on a frame 50. In some embodiments, the radiation source and / or the X-ray detector 46 may be directly coupled to the frame 50. In some embodiments (e.g., for a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system as shown in FIGS.5A, 5B and 6A, 6B), the X-ray tube 44 can be pivoted or rotated over a limited angular range (e.g. . example, 60 degrees or less), particularly about a horizontal axis, for example, while the X-ray detector 46 remains stationary.

[0026] As shown, a specimen carrying system 52 is coupled to the apparatus 40. The specimen carrying system 52 includes a tether 54 for coupling the system 52 to the apparatus 40, a specimen holder 56 for carrying a tissue sample 58, and a motorized mechanism 60 for rotating the specimen holder 56 up to 360 degrees plus an additional angular range for data completeness about an axis 64 (e.g., the horizontal axis) as indicated by the arrow 62. The specimen carrying system 52 provides a greater angular range for acquiring imaging data than a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system. In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in [Fig.5A], 5B and 6A, 6B) where a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system is used, the specimen carrier system 52 may not include a motorized mechanism but may include a mechanism that couples the specimen holder 56 to the gantry that allows the specimen holder 56 to remain stationary as the radiation source 44 moves. In some embodiments the specimen holder 56 may move as the radiation source 44 moves to maintain projection of the X-ray source and the specimen onto the X-ray detector 46 and avoid edge effects and clipping. This allows the digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system to be used in a magnification mode when imaging the specimens.

[0027] The clip 54 may be inserted within a receptacle 66 normally configured to receive a compression paddle or a magnification stand. In some embodiments, insertion of the clip 54 into the receptacle 66 will bring (or induce) operation of the apparatus 40 into the magnification mode (e.g., for a geometric magnification > 1) as opposed to the contact mode (i.e., the mode used if a breast were placed in contact with the support device 46). In the magnification mode, an object (e.g., the tissue sample) will be closer to the X-ray source and further from the detector. In the magnification mode, geometric magnification may be limited by the system configuration to 1.5X to 2X. In some embodiments, the geometric magnification may be as high as 5X or even 10X.Additionally, the object field of view may be reduced in magnification mode (e.g., for 2X, from 300 mm to 150 mm) and the effective pixel size at the object will be reduced proportionally (e.g., for 2X, from 100 pm to 50 pm). It should be noted that, for magnification mode, one may need to reduce the focal spot size of the X-ray source in order to achieve the desired spatial resolution. This may reduce the maximum electrical power of the X-ray source and consequently require a longer scan time and a . higher radiation dose compared to a non-magnified mode; however, because this is a specimen scanner, these are acceptable compromises. This, in conjunction with no limits on radiation dose, allows for high-resolution images of the tissue sample 58. It should be noted that (whether the specimen is rotated or not) it remains in the field of view during image acquisition.

[0028] In some embodiments, the specimen carrier system 52 may include a hardware identifier 68 (e.g., a bar code or other readable marking) configured to be scanned or read by the apparatus 40. In some embodiments, the apparatus 40 may include an optical reader for scanning or reading the marking 68. In some embodiments, assuming the system allows for the introduction of new compression paddles and software, scanning or reading the marking 68 causes a special program to be accessed or obtained (e.g., from memory) by the apparatus 40 for imaging intraoperatively the tissue sample 58 (e.g., in a magnification mode).In particular, the apparatus 40 in response to reading the marking 68 causes the apparatus 40 (e.g., automatically) to acquire imaging data at different angular positions (over an angular range of up to at least 360 degrees) with a motorized mechanism 60 rotating the sample holder 56 (and the tissue sample 58). The motorized mechanism 60 rotates the tissue sample 58 in synchronization with the exposures if it is in a step and image mode.

[0029] In some embodiments, the system may not be open and the marking 68 used may be that normally used for a point compression pallet. In some systems without access to controls, a user uses a manual mode to establish the acquisition sequence or exposures. In this case, a lookup table of suggested exposures may be provided to the user.

[0030] As mentioned above, the motorized mechanism 60 can rotate the tissue sample 58 through an angular range of up to 360 degrees plus an additional angular range for data completeness. For an image acquisition sequence, between each exposure, the motorized mechanism 60 rotates the tissue sample by approximately 90 degrees or less. The angular rotation of the tissue sample 58 between exposures can range from approximately 0.1 to 90 degrees. Thus, the number of angular positions at which imaging data can be acquired (and, thus, the number of images acquired) can range from 4 to 3600. In a preferred embodiment, the tissue sample will have a rotation of 1 degree per image. In a system that allows for the modi In some systems, depending on the control software configuration, it may be sufficient to press the X-ray trigger once (and hold it there) for the image acquisition sequence. In other systems, it may be sufficient to press the X-ray trigger multiple times during the image acquisition sequence. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the sample may be rotated continuously.

[0031] In some embodiments, the specimen holder 56 may include a marker 70 (e.g., a radiopaque grid, an electronic grid, or other type of marker). The marker 70 provides a distance and location for the tissue sample 58 (e.g., via an alpha / numeric grid) in a subject or patient from whom the tissue sample 58 was obtained. The marker 70 appears on the acquired image. In some embodiments, via the processing circuitry, an electronic marker may be added as a post-exposure reference. Information from the marker 70 (e.g., the distance and location), if provided to the system, allows the image of the tissue sample 58 to be displayed to be verified relative to its pre-excision orientation and location in the patient.In some embodiments, a surgeon may place the tissue sample 58 on a locator marker in the operating room.

[0032] [Fig. 3] illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a method 72 for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample. One or more steps of the method 72 may be performed by a component of the intraoperative imaging system of [Figs. 1] and 2 or a processor-based system. The method 72 includes coupling a specimen-carrying system to an existing mammography imaging system (e.g., a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system or a full-field digital mammography imaging system) (block 74). For example, a clip of a specimen-carrying system may be inserted within a receptacle normally configured to receive a compression paddle or a magnification stand of the existing mammography imaging system.

[0033] The method 72 also includes establishing or obtaining an image acquisition sequence (block 76). In an open system, a marking may be read or scanned on the specimen-carrying system (e.g., upon coupling the specimen-carrying system) which obtains a special program for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample that has been stored within a memory of the mammography imaging system. In other systems, a user may have to manually establish the imaging system (e.g., using a provision of a look-up table of suggested exposures).

[0034] The method 72 further includes initiating the image acquisition sequence. (block 78) (e.g., by pressing an X-ray trigger). Method 72 still further includes rotating the tissue sample in synchronization with the exposures (block 80). In some embodiments (e.g., in an open system), the system automatically alternates between an exposure and rotating the tissue sample to a different angular position over the angular range (e.g., up to 360 degrees). In other embodiments, a user may have to manually trigger an exposure between each rotation of the tissue sample. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, rotation of the sample may be performed continuously.

[0035] The method 72 still further includes generating 3D images (block 82) from the imaging data acquired over an angular range greater than 2 degrees (and up to 360 degrees plus an additional angular range for data completeness). Reconstruction of the imaging data into 3D images may occur via cone beam computed tomography (CAT) reconstruction such as see-through projection, iterative reconstruction, and a deep learning-based or other reconstruction method. The imaging data may be sent to a process-based system operating a DICOM server for reconstruction. In some embodiments, the method 72 includes detecting objects in images of the tissue sample (block 84). For example, a CAD module may automatically detect calcifications, markings, and / or a mass in images.

[0036] The method 72 also includes displaying the 3D images (block 86). For example, the images may be displayed on a display (e.g., on a workstation) in an operating room for viewing by a surgeon or radiologist. In some embodiments, the images may be displayed on a PACS system in the operating room. In some embodiments, the images may be displayed in a video loop (e.g., a Cine mode) on a display in the operating room. The images may include a grid or other landmark information related to a distance as well as a location relative to the location and orientation of the specimen prior to excision of the patient. As mentioned above, this information may be provided to the system to enable a preview of the patient and an orientation of the specimen image to be displayed during verification.

[0037] [Fig. 4] illustrates a flowchart of one embodiment of a method 88 for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample. One or more steps of the method 88 may be performed by a component of the intraoperative imaging system of [Figs. 1] and 2 or a processor-based system. One or more of the steps of the method 88 may be performed in a different order or simultaneously. The method 88 includes reading or scanning a marking associated with a system specimen carrier when coupling the specimen carrier system to an existing mammography imaging system (e.g., a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system or a full-field digital mammography imaging system) (block 90). For example, a clip of a specimen carrier system may be inserted within a receptacle normally configured to receive a compression paddle or magnification stand of the existing mammography imaging system. The method 88 includes switching to a magnification mode (block 92) and a specimen imaging mode (e.g., the intraoperative imaging mode) (block 94) when reading or scanning the marking. In the magnification mode, a geometric magnification of typically up to 1.5X to 2X may be used during the image acquisition sequence.Switching to the sample imaging mode includes obtaining from the memory of the mammography imaging system a special program for intraoperative imaging of a tissue sample that includes a specific image acquisition sequence. In some embodiments, a user may be able to choose a desired number of images and / or an angular range for acquiring the imaging data or choose from different specific image acquisition sequences.

[0038] Method 88 further includes initiating the image acquisition sequence (block 96) (e.g., by pressing an X-ray trigger). Method 88 still further includes rotating the tissue sample in synchronization with the exposures (block 100). The system automatically alternates between an exposure and rotating the tissue sample to a different angular position over the angular range (e.g., up to at least 360 degrees). It should be noted that, in some embodiments, rotation of the sample may be performed continuously.

[0039] The method 88 still further includes generating 3D images (block 102) from the imaging data acquired over an angular range greater than 60 degrees (and up to 360 degrees). The reconstruction of the imaging data into 3D images may occur via cone beam computed tomography (CAT) reconstruction such as through-projection, iterative reconstruction, or another reconstruction method. The imaging data may be sent to a process-based system operating a DICOM server for reconstruction. In some embodiments, the method 88 includes detecting objects in images of the tissue sample (block 104). For example, a CAD module may automatically detect calcifications, markings, and / or a mass in images.

[0040] Method 88 also includes displaying the 3D images (block 106). For example, The images may be displayed on a display (e.g., on a workstation) in an operating room for viewing by a surgeon or radiologist. In some embodiments, the images may be displayed on a PACS system in the operating room. In some embodiments, the images may be displayed in a video loop (e.g., a Cine mode) on a display in the operating room. The images may include landmark information related to distance as well as location in a patient. As mentioned above, this information may be provided to the system to enable a patient preview and orientation of the specimen image to be displayed during verification.

[0041] [Fig. 5A] and 5B illustrate one embodiment of a digital breast imaging system 108 modified to operate in a magnification mode for imaging a specimen (e.g., at high magnification). As illustrated, a specimen carrying system 110 includes a non-motorized mechanical apparatus 112 (e.g., which uses passive mechanical specimen positioning) attached between the X-ray source 114 (e.g., an X-ray tube) and the detector 116 of the digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system 108. The specimen carrying system 100 also includes a specimen holder 118 attached to the apparatus that carries the specimen 120 (which includes a feature 121 (e.g., a tumor)) away from the detector 116 to enable magnification.As the X-ray source 114 automatically moves to different angular positions 122 between X-ray exposures to acquire projections (e.g., projection 124 of the specimen 120 and projection 126 of the feature 121) over an angular range suitable for digital tomosynthesis. In doing so, the attached non-motorized apparatus 112 is moved to the same angle as the X-ray source 114, thereby positioning the specimen 120 in consistent alignment between the X-ray source 114 and the detector 116, i.e., a consistent lateral position relative to the X-ray source and the detector, a consistent rotational orientation relative to the detector, and at a consistent geometric magnification. In [Fig.5A], the position 122 of the X-ray source 114 is a central position 128. In [Fig.5B], the position 122 of the X-ray source 114 is an end position 130.Appropriate geometric calibration and reconstruction are used in conjunction with the use of the sample carrier system 110 to acquire imaging data for the sample 120. Typically, the TMN imaging system 108 cannot operate in a magnification mode because the projections would miss the detector. However, the sample carrier system 110 in [Fig. 5A] and 5B allows the TMN imaging system 108 to operate in a magnification mode. [Fig. 6A] and 6B illustrate the TMN imaging system 108 modified to operate in a magnification mode for . imaging a specimen similarly to [Fig.5A] and 5B except that the specimen carrying system 100 is configured for lower constant magnification and to carry a larger specimen.

[0042] The techniques described above will provide a moderate level of 3D estimation capability to an operating room by retroactively installing into a pre-existing mammography imaging system not capable of acquiring 3D images over a larger angular range (greater than 25 degrees and up to 360 degrees). These high-resolution images can provide sufficient information to confidently detect or exclude positive margins in a timely manner, which can result in margin estimation as good as or better than with histopathology, and reduce the need for additional surgery (e.g., re-excision). In some embodiments, the described techniques can help locate tumor tissue, calcifications, or markings within breast lumpectomy specimens during surgery or during a mastectomy.

[0043] Technical effects of the disclosed subject matter include providing systems and methods for specimen imaging (e.g., intraoperative specimen imaging) utilizing an existing mammography imaging system for specimen imaging. In particular, an intraoperative specimen imaging system includes a specimen carrier system configured to carry a tissue sample, wherein the specimen carrier system is retrofitably coupled to an existing mammography imaging system, wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system is configured to acquire imaging data to generate 3D images of the tissue sample. The intraoperative specimen imaging system may be used in an operating room during a procedure (e.g., breast lumpectomy surgery, mastectomy, etc.) on a patient from whom the tissue sample was taken to provide enhanced intraoperative imaging (e.g., high-resolution 3D images) at lower costs to an institution (which may not normally have intraoperative imaging of specimens available).

[0044] The techniques disclosed and claimed herein are incorporated by reference and applied to tangible objects and concrete examples of a practical nature that manifestly improve the present technical field and, as such, are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Furthermore, if any of the claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] [a function]..." or "step for [performing] [a function]...", it is intended that such elements be construed under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claims containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements are not to be construed under Section 112(f) of Title 35 of the United States Code.

[0045] This written description uses examples to describe the present subject matter, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the subject matter, including making and using any devices or systems and carrying out any methods incorporated therein. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that will occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal wording of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with negligible differences from the literal wording of the claims.

Claims

Claims

1. An intraoperative imaging system (38) for specimens, comprising: a mammography imaging system (10, 40) configured to acquire imaging data;and a specimen carrying system (52, 110) configured to carry a tissue sample (18, 58, 120), wherein the specimen carrying system (52, 110) is retroactively coupled to the mammography imaging system (10, 40), wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system (38) is configured to acquire imaging data to generate three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120), the specimen carrying system (52, 110) comprising a specimen holder (56, 118) and a tether (54) configured to couple the specimen holder (56, 118) to the mammography imaging system (10, 40), characterized in that the specimen carrying system (52, 110) comprises a motor (60) configured to rotate the sampling holder (56, 118).;

2. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system (38) is configured to acquire imaging data over an angular range that is greater than 2 degrees.

3. The system (38) of claim 2, wherein the angular range extends to at least 360 degrees.

4. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the mammography imaging system (10, 40) comprises a full-field digital mammography imaging system configured to acquire two-dimensional (2D) imaging data.

5. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the mammography imaging system (10, 40) comprises a digital breast tomosynthesis imaging system (108) that is configured to acquire projection data while operating in a magnification mode.

6. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the tether (54) comprises a marking (68) configured to be scanned or read by the mammography imaging system (10, 40), wherein scanning or reading the marking (68) is configured to cause the system mammography imaging system (10, 40) to automatically acquire imaging data at different angular positions (122) with the motor (60) rotating the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) between each angular position (122).

7. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the tether (54) is configured to couple the specimen carrying system (52, 110) to a portion of the mammography imaging system (10, 40) where a compression paddle or magnification stand is configured to couple to the mammography imaging system (10, 40).

8. The system (38) of claim 7, wherein when the tether (54) is coupled to the portion of the mammography imaging system (10, 40), the mammography imaging system (10, 40) is configured to transition to a magnification mode.

9. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the sample holder (56, 118) includes a radiopaque marker (70) to provide a distance and location of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) in a subject from whom the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) was obtained.

10. The system (38) of claim 1, wherein the intraoperative specimen imaging system (38) is configured to add an electronic marker (70) to an image of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) following acquisition of the imaging data.

11. A method (72, 88) for intraoperative imaging of specimens, comprising: coupling a specimen carrying system (52, 110) to a mammography imaging system (10, 40), wherein the specimen carrying system (52, 110) comprises a specimen holder (56, 118), a tether (54) for coupling the specimen holder (56, 118) to the mammography imaging system (10, 40), and a motor (60) configured to rotate the specimen holder (52, 110); rotating the sample holder (52, 110) to rotate a tissue sample (18, 58, 120) to different angular positions (122) over a specific angular range while emitting radiation (16) from a radiation source (12, 44, 114) of the mammography imaging system (10, 40) to acquire imaging data of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) at the different angular positions (122);and generating three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) from the imaging data acquired at different; angular positions (122) over the specific angular range.

12. The method (72, 88) of claim 11, comprising alternating over the specific angular range between: emitting the radiation (16) from the radiation source (12, 44, 114) to acquire the imaging data; and rotating the specimen holder (56, 118) to rotate the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) to the different angular positions (122) after emitting the radiation (16), wherein the alternation between emitting the radiation (16) and rotating the specimen holder (56, 118) occurs automatically in a synchronous manner.

13. A specimen carrier system (52, 110), comprising: a specimen holder (56, 118) configured to carry a tissue sample (18, 58, 120); a tether (54) configured to couple the specimen holder (56, 118) to a mammography imaging system (10, 40); and a motor (60) configured to rotate the specimen holder (56, 118);wherein the specimen carrier system (52, 110) is configured to retroactively couple to the mammography imaging system (10, 40) to form an intraoperative specimen imaging system (38) configured to acquire imaging data of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) at different angular positions (122) over an angular range of up to at least 360 degrees to generate three-dimensional (3D) images of the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) characterized in that the tether (54) comprises a marking (68) configured to be scanned or read by the mammography imaging system (10, 40), scanning or reading the marking (68) being configured to cause the mammography imaging system (10, 40) to automatically acquire imaging data at different angular positions (122) with the motor (60) rotating the tissue sample (18, 58, 120) between each angular position (122).;

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