Systems, methods and computer readable media for detecting and displaying endovascular features

Abstract

To provide a method for identifying regions of interest in a blood vessel.SOLUTION: The method includes the steps of: providing OCT image data of the blood vessel; applying a plurality of different edge detection filters to the OCT image data to generate a filter response for each edge detection filter; identifying any response maxima in each edge detection filter response; combining the response maxima for each edge detection filter response while maintaining the spatial relationship of the response maxima to thereby create edge filtered OCT data; and analyzing the edge filtered OCT data to identify a region of interest, the region of interest defined as a local cluster of response maxima. In one embodiment, one or more indicia are positioned in one or more panels to emphasize a reference vessel profile as part of a user interface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates, in part, to a method for detecting features and regions of interest, such as calcified regions, within a blood vessel. and methods for displaying these regions to a user.

[0002] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 091,236, filed December 12, 2014. and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 153,816, filed April 28, 2015. No. 6,113,795, the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Interventional cardiologists are specialists in the treatment of Use various diagnostic tools during the catheterization procedure to plan, guide, and evaluate Fluoroscopy is commonly used to perform angiographic imaging of blood vessels. Such vascular imaging can then be used to guide interventions such as bypass surgery or stent placement. to diagnose, locate, and treat vascular disease during interventions It is used by doctors to Intravascular imaging techniques such as optical computed tomography (OCT) provide insight into the vascular status of a given subject. Can be used instead of or in combination with fluoroscopy to obtain high-resolution data It's also a valuable tool.

[0004] Intravascular optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a method for penetrating the coronary artery wall and capturing images for study. Coherence imaging is a catheter-based imaging modality that uses light to generate coherence. Using optical current, interferometry, and micro-optics, OCT can measure micrometer-level images. Video-rate in-vivo tomography in diseased vessels with high resolution Fiber optic probes can be used to provide subsurface structure. Observing surface structures with high resolution makes OCT a minimally invasive method for examining internal tissues and organs. The level of detail possible with OCT makes it particularly useful for imaging coronary artery disease. This makes it possible to diagnose and monitor the progression of the disease.

[0005] Calcium plaques in blood vessels are a major cause of heart disease. The deposition of calcium leads to a narrowing of the diameter of blood vessels and also makes the blood vessel walls stiff, which reduces the performance of blood vessels. Therefore, calcium plaque is a key factor in cardiovascular intervention. Although one of the main targets, it remains difficult to detect in OCT images.

[0006] The present disclosure provides an improved detection method for automatically identifying calcified regions within intravascular tissue. Addressing the need. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure is based, in part, on the discovery that calcified regions of intravascular tissue can be visualized using optical coherence tomography (OCT). The findings are based on the discovery that intravascular imaging, such as T) images, shows distinctive patterns. The calcified regions appear as discrete dark areas against the brighter vascular tissue background in the OCT images. Furthermore, the calcified areas may appear as irregular or irregular shapes on one or more sides or on one side. In this embodiment, the surface is bounded by prominent edges on all sides. These patterns are generated by an automatic computer trained to detect edges. A computer program was used to separate the calcified tissue from other intraluminal features (e.g., lipid plaques). In addition, many OCT methods can be used to distinguish between vascular endothelial cells (vascular endothelial cells) and normal thickening. Data from the frames is combined to assist the user in rapid disease diagnosis and treatment planning. The data can be displayed in a graphical user interface dashboard.

[0008] In one embodiment, the OCT image data is filtered through multiple edge detection filters (e.g., outer, inner The image is processed using edge filters (side, left, and / or right). Calcification areas are prominent. It has edges and responds to both vertical and horizontal edge detection filters, but it does not detect lipid plaques and Normal stenosis usually responds only to horizontal edge detection filters. Lines run left, right, left - - High intensity transitions to low intensity. Therefore, vertical edge detection (e.g. left and right edges) , can be used to distinguish calcium plaque from other plaque types. In addition, filter responses from multiple adjacent frames can be resolved from a single OCT frame. can be combined to resolve large calcifications that cannot be visualized do.

[0009] In part, the present disclosure relates to a method for identifying a region of interest within a blood vessel. The method includes: providing OCT image data; and applying a plurality of different edge detection filters to the OCT image data. A step of applying the image data to generate a filter response for each edge detection filter. and identifying any response maxima in each edge detection filter response. The spatial relationship between the step and the response maximum represents the edge where the local response maximum is detected. The response maximum for each edge detection filter response is calculated while maintaining the combining to create filtered OCT data; analyzing the edge-filtered OCT data to identify regions of interest; is defined as a local cluster of response maxima. , the relative extrema are used instead of the response maxima.

[0010] In one embodiment, the edge detection filter is a Gaussian derivative In one embodiment, the OCT image data is based on polar space. In one embodiment, the OCT image is formatted as a polar image. The image data is formatted in Cartesian space or includes cross-sectional images. The plurality of different edge detection filters include a horizontal edge detection filter and a vertical edge detection filter. In one embodiment, the horizontal edge detection filter includes a top edge filter and a bottom edge filter. Includes a filter.

[0011] In one embodiment, the vertical edge detection filter is a left edge detection filter and a right edge detection filter. In one embodiment, the method includes: In one embodiment, the method includes repeating steps of: Based on the meta-data and region of interest, multiple OCT image frames are used to visualize the vessels in two or more dimensions. In one embodiment, the local maxima are The filter response is determined by comparing the filter response to a predetermined threshold. The filter consists of at least a top edge filter, a left edge filter, and a right edge filter. This includes data.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method further comprises: if the region of interest includes at least one vertical edge response maximum; If so, the method includes identifying the region of interest as a calcified region. Identify the region of interest as a non-calcified region if the cardiac region does not contain a vertical edge response maximum. In one embodiment, the model includes a three-dimensional longitudinal cross-sectional rendering ( It is a three-dimensional longitudinal rendering, and the model is the arc length (ar c length), the graphic showing the vessel extending through the ring. , a ring coaxial with the blood vessel, the ring having a first colored portion proportional to the arc length of healthy tissue and and a second colored portion proportional to the arc length of the region of interest. and second, in place of the colored portion, colors, shapes, and other graphic elements or overlays. First and second indicia are used which may include:

[0013] In part, the present disclosure relates to a system for identifying a region of interest within a blood vessel, the system comprising: The processor includes a processor in communication with a memory, the memory, when executed, transmitting to the processor: Acquire OCT image data of the tube; apply several different edge detection filters to the OCT image data to generate a filter response for each filter; The local response maxima represent the detected edges; The maximum response value for each filter response is calculated by preserving the spatial relationship of the values. Combine to create a filter OCT data; Edge filters are used to identify regions of interest, defined as local clusters of large values. In one embodiment, the OCT image data includes multiple scanlines. In one embodiment, the OCT image data is a polar coordinate image.

[0014] In part, one embodiment of the present disclosure is an intravascular data acquisition system, as described herein. One or more software-based graphics devices that perform one or more detection and display processes. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a visual user interface and software modules. In one embodiment, the intravascular data is acquired while the angiographic data is simultaneously acquired. The present disclosure relates to angiography or optical coherence tomography images (or other intravascular images). In one embodiment, the present invention relates to the display of information regarding calcified portions of blood vessels for one or more of the following: , the present disclosure relates to angiography or optical coherence tomography images (or other intravascular images) a bioresorbable vascular scaffold for one or more of the blood vessels; bioresorbable scaffolds (BVS) or bioresorbable scaffolds In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the display of information regarding bioabsorbable skin. Guide the expansion of bioabsorbable vascular scaffold (BRS) / bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) Display of information about the BVS or BRS that will help [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed generally on illustrative principles. The drawings are to be considered in all respects as illustrative.

[0016] [Figure 1A] 1 shows a schematic diagram of an intravascular imaging and data acquisition system. [Figure 1B] 1 is a cross-sectional OCT image frame of an arterial vessel. [Figure 1C] 1B is the OCT image from FIG. 1A shown in polar coordinate space, with the x-axis being angle and the y-axis being depth. [Figure 2] Figures 2A-D are edge detection filters. Figure 2A is an outer edge filter that detects high (top) to low (bottom) horizontal edges. Figure 2B is an inner edge filter that detects low (top) to high (bottom) horizontal edges. Figure 2C is a left edge filter that detects high (left) to low (right) vertical edges. Figure 2D is a right edge filter that detects low (left) to high (right) vertical edges. [Figure 3] 3A-D show the responses of the directional edge filters shown in FIGS. 2A-D, respectively. FIG. 3A is the outer edge detection response. FIG. 3B is the inner edge detection response. FIG. 3C is the left edge detection response. FIG. 3D is the right edge detection response. [Figure 4A] 10 is a legend for distinguishing local maxima in the edge detection response. [Figure 4B] 1 is an OCT image frame shown in polar coordinate space with the local maxima for each detection filter overlaid. [Figure 5] Figure 5A is an OCT image frame showing a small calcified region in polar coordinate space, and Figures 5B-E are the filter responses in each direction for the image in Figure 5A. [Figure 6]Figures 6A-D are OCT image frames shown in polar coordinate space. Figures 6A-C are adjacent frames showing calcified areas. Figures 6B and D are discriminatory frames comparing non-plaque data showing non-calcified tissue controls. [Figure 7] Figures 7A-C are adjacent OCT image frames shown in polar coordinate space of the calcified region, and Figures 7D-F are adjacent OCT image frames shown in polar coordinate space of the non-calcified tissue control. [Figure 8] Figures 8A-C are OCT image frames showing the calcified area in polar coordinate space. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a composite of OCT cross-sectional and polar coordinate images of a calcified region of a blood vessel. Figures 9A-C are adjacent cross-sectional images, and Figures 9D-F are the corresponding polar coordinate images. [Figure 10] Schematic integration of data from multiple OCT frames. [Figure 11A] 1 is an L-mode image showing calcified areas demarcated by healthy areas. [Figure 11B] 11B is a three-dimensional volume rendering of FIG. 11A. [Figure 12A] This is a 3D volume rendering of a blood vessel highlighting areas of calcification. [Figure 12B] 1 is a cross-sectional OCT image with the inner boundary of the calcified area demarcated by a thick line. [Figure 13A] 1 is a 3D rendering of a blood vessel with calcified areas rendered. [Figure 13B] 1 is a cross-sectional OCT image with the inner and outer boundaries of the calcified area demarcated by thick lines. [Figure 13C] This is an L-mode image showing the boundaries of calcified regions demarcated by thick lines. [Figure 14] 14A, 14B, and 14C show a graphical user interface including a left panel or screen (FIG. 14A), a right panel or screen (FIG. 14B), and a bottom panel or screen (FIG. 14C). [Figure 15]15A and 15B show a graphical user interface: Fig. 15A graphically depicts the arc length of the calcification; Fig. 15B is a stylized diagram depicting the lumen diameter along the pullback zone. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B show a graphical user interface: Fig. 16A graphically depicts the arc length of the calcification; Fig. 16B is a stylized diagram depicting the lumen diameter along the pullback zone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Intravascular optical coherence tomography (OCT) images are useful for assessing coronary artery morphology. In part, this disclosure provides high-resolution visualization of intracoronary projections (i.e., coronary morphology). Automated detection and / or classification of markers (calcium, lipids, fibrosis, and thrombus). The lateral and lateral calcification boundaries are also detected and displayed in one embodiment. Such processes can improve the interpretation of OCT images and provide targeted information to the diagnostician. In part, this disclosure applies to intravascular data sets. Present the results of data analysis to users in a clear, easy-to-interpret, and diagnostically useful manner In part, this disclosure relates to a system and method for displaying a given User interfaces that may be applied to one or more plaque types and other regions or conditions of blood vessels. Graphical user interface (GUI) that provides a graphical user interface and graphical data representation In one embodiment, the calcified area is identified by CR in the specification and drawings. It is referred to as:

[0018] In part, this disclosure relates to a catheter-based imaging system, such as an optical coherence tomography system. Data acquisition systems, such as intravascular data acquisition systems suitable for use in the cath lab, In part, this disclosure relates to a process suitable for displaying intravascular image data. The displayed image data is based on the depth measurement. In one embodiment, the image data includes data or images generated by optical coherence tomography. The system also collects data such as data on intravascular plaque. It is also possible to display a user interface for displaying various intravascular information.

[0019] The calcified areas have clear edges in the OCT images, and the calcified areas are surrounded by lighter blood vessels. They appear as discrete dark shapes against a background of vascular tissue. The contrast between healthy tissue allows for automatic edge detection using directional edge filters. Calcified areas can be detected in as little as one OCT image frame, More generally, multiple adjacent OCT frames are filtered and filtered By combining the data into 2D or 3D renderings of the blood vessels Improved user interface for defining calcified regions in 2D and 3D renderings. A user interface is also disclosed.

[0020] Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a method for imaging blood vessels or objects placed within them. Imaging modalities that use interferometry to obtain distance measurements on samples such as The blood vessels are imaged using an intravascular data acquisition probe. A guidewire can be used to introduce the probe into the blood vessel. .

[0021] The data acquisition probe can be placed along the length of the blood vessel and retracted during data acquisition. The torque wire may be part of a probe and may include optical transmission and reception such as optical fibers. The torque wire can be used to rotate the probe. As the optical fiber is retracted (pulled back) along the length of the blood vessel, multiple A number of scans or OCT data sets are taken as the probe or a portion thereof is rotated. This is called pullback in one embodiment. The dataset can be used to identify regions of interest such as stenosis or physiological signs of stenosis. The dataset may include areas of calcification, stroke, and other features, as described in more detail herein. It can be used to identify tents and other features within the vessel. The display related features described herein may be used to and other detectable and displayable intravascular features.

[0022] In one embodiment, the data collection probe is an OCT probe including an interferometer and a data processing system. The OCT probe is configured for use with the system. A light source, such as a photodetector (PDT) or a photodetector laser, is in optical communication with the interferometer and directs light into the sample arm and The OCT probe can be used to transmit the light to the reference arm of the interferometer. Distance measurements collected using the CT scanner are taken from cross-sectional or longitudinal cross-sectional views (L-mode views) of the vessel. These images can be processed to generate frames of image data such as , one or more image data processing steps, or any other method or step described herein. A data processing system can be processed using one or more processors. The data processing system may include a processor and one or more memory storage devices. or for polar coordinate images generated using intravascular data such as ultrasound data. Multiple edge detection filters can be generated.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1A, a data acquisition system 30 used to acquire intravascular data includes a blood The guidewire includes a data collection probe 17 that can be used to image the vessel. The data collection probe 17 can be used to introduce the probe 17 into the blood vessel. It can be introduced and pulled back along the length of the blood vessel 7 while collecting data. Multiple scans or OCs are taken as the probe is retracted (pulled back) along the length of the vessel. T data sets are collected as the probe or a portion thereof rotates. Collection of data sets, or frames of image data, to identify regions of interest, such as calcified regions can be used to

[0024] In one embodiment, the data collection probe 17 includes an interferometer and a data processing system. The OCT probe is configured for use with the CT system 10. Distance measurements collected using probe 17 are taken in cross-sectional or longitudinal cross-sections (L-mode) of the vessel. The image data can be processed to generate frames of image data such as a video or audio. For ease of understanding, cross-sectional views include, but are not limited to, longitudinal cross-sectional views. These images can be processed using one or more image data processing modules or stages. can be processed as follows.

[0025] The probe 17 is in optical communication with the OCT system 10 via an optical fiber 15. The OCT system or subsystem 10 connected to the lobe 17 may include a light source such as a laser, a sub- Interferometer with sample and reference arms, various optical paths, clock generator, photodiode The OCT system may include a power supply, a power amplifier ...

[0026] In one embodiment, a balanced photodiode-based system A light receiver 31, such as a hologram receiver, can receive the light collected by the probe 17. Computing equipment such as a computer, processor, ASIC, or other device The imaging device 40 can be part of the OCT system 10 or can be an OCT system 10. The system may be included as a separate subsystem in electrical or optical communication with the system. The computing device 40 processes the data and identifies the characteristics (e.g., calcification). ) software such as image data processing stages configured for detection, analysis, and visualization; The hardware may include memory, storage, buses, and other components suitable for the software.

[0027] In one embodiment, the computing device 40 may be configured to measure plaque (e.g., calcium plaque). h) Detection module 42a, display module, and stent detection or other Other software modules 42b, such as the detection and display module Contains or has access to modules 42 or programs. The sensor device 40 is a calcification detection monitor for detecting the presence of calcium plaque in a blood vessel. The software also allows you to turn the view on and off. and various display modes such as stent planning, fly-through and other display modes. A user interface display for displaying and switching between various user interface display modes. may include a user interface software component or A software module or process can communicate with a software component. The program is an image data processing pipeline or its component modules, and one or more The system may include multiple graphical user interfaces (GUIs). The image processing pipeline divides the collected OCT data into two parts: the blood vessel, the stent, and the calcified area. Used to convert 3D and 4D views. Image data processing pipeline or Any of the methods described herein may be stored in a memory and executed by a processor, device, or It may be implemented using one or more computing devices, such as other integrated circuits.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1A, the display 45 also uses the collected OCT data to The system is configured to display information such as cross-sectional and longitudinal cross-sections of the vessels generated by the The system 10 may be part of the system 10. The system 10 may be configured to detect one or more calcium deposits detected in a blood vessel. In one embodiment, one or Multiple steps to navigate automatically or for one or more images Entering information can be performed without user input other than the initial user input of You can select inputs like controllers or user interface components. capable of inputting or interacting with the same or in other ways with one or more systems In one embodiment, the calcium plaque view can display the blood vessel and Facilitates review of two-dimensional or three-dimensional views of one or more calcium plaque indications. In response to user input, one or more view modes are presented as options for the user to select. Switching between these steps can be performed for various steps described herein. A similar view can also be used to display stent information.

[0029] OCT-based information is presented through one or more graphic user interfaces (GUIs). Additionally, this information can be displayed using, but not limited to, cross-sectional scan data. data, longitudinal scan, diameter graph, image mask, lumen boundary, plaque size, plaque circumference, visual indicia of plaque location, and other features of the vessel. Images or representations of or on the basis of data obtained using an OCT system and data collection probe The distance measurement may include:

[0030] The computing device 40 may also include text, arrows, color coding, highlighting, contours, etc. such as by using lines or other suitable human or machine readable markings. one or more memory devices configured to identify calcium plaque and other vascular features; The software may include software or programs that can be stored on a device.

[0031] The display 45 shows various views of the blood vessels, according to one embodiment. a menu for selecting vascular features to display, and a virtual camera angle for the display. menus for showing or hiding various features, such as the menu for selecting a The user can switch between multiple viewing angles on the user display. In addition, the user can select specific side branches. and / or by selecting views associated with specific side branches. In one embodiment, the user can switch between different side branches on the user display. The image processing pipeline and associated software modules were collected during the pullback. The data is used to detect the imaged luminal border and calcium plaques.

[0032] Once the OCT data is acquired by the probe and stored in memory, the pullback region or its subregion is information such as cross-sectional, longitudinal, and / or three-dimensional views of the vessel along the length of the section; These views can be processed to generate information such as the As shown, it can be displayed as part of the user interface. Images of blood vessels generated using distance measurements from the system provide information about the vessels. Provide.

[0033] Thus, in part, the present disclosure provides a method for obtaining information about a vessel of interest or other vessel information. Software-based methods and related systems suitable for assessing and describing OCT data are available prior to initial stent deployment or revision stent-related procedures. This can then be used to generate 2D views such as cross-sectional and longitudinal sections of the vessel. Using data collection probes and various data processing software modules, The OCT data obtained may include the stent and / or the stent and / or the stent in place. used to identify, characterize, and visualize one or more properties of the lumen being examined. It can be done.

[0034] Figure 1B is a cross-sectional OCT image frame of an arterial vessel. The dark circular shadow in the center of the image indicates The blood vessel lumen 110 is surrounded by a blood vessel wall 120. The catheter guidewire leaves a shadow 130 obscuring part of the OCT image. Backscatter markers on the sheath assist in orienting the image and defining the lumen direction. A series of concentric rings 140 are created in the center of the vessel lumen. Markers 150 delineate the lumen boundary. It is added to

[0035] With continued reference to FIG. 1B, a calcified area or calcium plaque 160 is shown at the right of the image. The edges of calcified areas are clearly visible as discrete dark areas on the lateral vessel wall. The calcified area is located at the surface of the vessel wall where most of the calcification begins. Although an arterial vessel is shown, the methods, devices and The system can also be used to detect calcified areas in other blood vessels, such as veins. It can be done.

[0036] FIG. 1C shows the collection scan lines obtained with the data collection probe in polar coordinate space. The OCT image frame in Figure 1B is shown in polar coordinates in Figure 1C. The OCT image frame is a cross-sectional view generated from the scanned lines. In all polar coordinate images shown here, x The x-axis is an angle measurement and the y-axis is a distance measurement. Depth is relative to the radial thickness of the vessel wall. In FIG. 1C, the lumen 110 is at the top of the image and the vessel wall 120 is at the bottom of the image. The shadow of the guidewire 130 appears on the left side. The calcified area 160 is located in the image near the lumen. can be seen in the center of

[0037] In various embodiments, calcified regions can be identified by processing the OCT image with an edge detection filter. 2A-2D show four exemplary edge detection filters. Each filter detects a different boundary direction. In one embodiment, the edge detection filters are: Includes top-bottom filters, bottom-top filters, right-left filters, and left-right filters Other orientations showing the transition from the first orientation to the second orientation may be used without restriction. A change in intensity, such as from low to high, can be used to classify filters or Alternatively, it can also be used to specify the respective filter response. In one embodiment, these directional edge detectors detect edges that are aligned with the ridge direction ( lines up with) region gives the maximum response or the relative extreme response.

[0038] FIG. 2A shows an outer edge filter that detects high (top) to low (bottom) horizontal edges. Because polar coordinate OCT images typically orient the endothelium at the top of the image, The outer edge filters can also be called top filters. (bottom) is an inner edge filter that detects horizontal edges. Polar coordinate OCT images are typically The inner edge filter is also called the bottom edge filter because it orients the intimal layer at the bottom of the image. Figure 2C shows a left edge filter that detects high (left) to low (right) vertical edges. Figure 2D shows a right edge filter that detects low (left) to high (right) vertical edges. is.

[0039] In one embodiment, the filter may be oriented in another direction, such as a diagonal or tilted orientation, relative to the origin of the filter. In one embodiment, a filter with such an orientation can be used. Complementary and / or complementary to provide additional data to improve and / or increase confidence levels. Or an additional filter with the opposite orientation can be added. The filter uses an operator or matrix ( using one or more processors and instructions to generate a filter such as a matrix It can be implemented.

[0040] The terms "outer" and "inner" refer to the position of the edge relative to the underlying vascular tissue; The apical edge lies closer to the endothelium, and the medial edge lies closer to the underlying vascular smooth muscle. The inner and outer edges correspond to the radial depth or penetration of the calcified area. The terms "left" and "right" refer to the relative positions of the edges in the polar coordinate image. The left and right edges correspond to the arc length or width of the calcified region within the blood vessel. handle.

[0041] In one embodiment, the edge detection filter is based on a derivative of a Gaussian function and is wavelet-based. These and other Gaussian functions or other edge detection filters are similar to the Bett transform. It can be used in a variety of embodiments.

[0042] The OCT polar image frames are processed using one or more edge detection filters. For example, the outer edge detection filter in Figure 2A typically detects the calcified region adjacent to the vessel lumen. Detect horizontal edges that step from high signal strength to low signal strength, which are outer edges. Figure 2 The inner edge detection filter in B detects the low signal intensity of the inner edge of the calcified region in the vessel wall. For large calcifications, the inner edge is It may not be visible in the OCT image.

[0043] Similarly, the left edge detection filter in Figure 2C detects high-resolution images, which are usually the left edge of calcified regions. Detect the vertical edge that steps from high signal strength to low signal strength. Finally, the right edge of Figure 2D The edge detection filter detects the area from low to high signal intensity, which is usually the right edge of the calcified region. Detect vertical edges by stepping.

[0044] Preferably, calcified regions respond to a horizontal edge detection filter, while lipid plaques and positive Normal features usually do not respond strongly to horizontal edge detection filters. OCT image data, such as OCT polar coordinate images, are processed using at least two horizontal edge detection filters. Therefore, horizontal edge detection separates the stones from other vascular features. Allows differentiation of accreted areas, which in turn allows for selection of treatment options such as stent type For example, calcified areas consist of sclerotic tissue and therefore are more sensitive to other types of A stent with a higher elasticity than the stenosis is required.

[0045] In various embodiments, the OCT image data is filtered through multiple edge detection filters (e.g., outer , inner, left and / or right edge filters). At least two different edge detection filters are used, and more preferably at least three Different edge detection filters are used, most preferably four different edge detection filters. The calcified regions have prominent edges, and vertical and horizontal edge detection filters are used. Although lipid plaques and normal stenoses respond to both, they usually respond only to horizontal edge detection filters. Lipid plaques have a single gradient, which corresponds to a single horizontal edge. Therefore, vertical edge detection (e.g., left edge and right edge) can identify non-calcium plaques. In addition, the calcified regions can be used to distinguish them from the calcified tissue features. Non-calcified areas show more numerous and stronger filter responses.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the polar coordinate image shown in FIG. 1B is processed for edge detection. Figures 3A-3D show the response of the directional edge filters shown in Figures 2A-2D, respectively. Figure 3A shows the top horizontal edge detection response. Figure 3B shows the bottom horizontal edge detection response. Figure 3C shows the left vertical edge detection response. Figure 3D shows the right vertical edge detection response. Longer wavelengths, darker areas indicate a stronger filter response, and shorter wavelengths, , brighter areas indicate lower strength filter responses. Asterisks indicate the In certain embodiments, responses above a predetermined threshold are considered to be local maxima. will be done.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 4B, the local maxima of the filter response (FIGS. 3A-3D) are located at the edges of the calcified regions. The polar coordinate image is overlaid to show edge detection. The cluster of maximum responses from all four directional filters ( The shadow of the guidewire 430 is clearly visible on the left side of the image. The maximum value associated with the shadow of the guidewire is ignored as spurious. In Figure 4B, the CA region is indicated by region 420. The lumen of blood vessel 410 is also , the edge detection filtered polar image in Figure 4B ) appears as black.

[0048] FIG. 5A shows a polar coordinate image frame with a small calcified area 560 visible near the center of the image. The image shown in Figure 5A shows the calcified area. Process using all four edge detection filters to resolve the boundaries of the image. 5B-5E are filter responses: FIG. 5B is the outer edge horizontal filter; FIG. 5C is an inner edge horizontal filter, and FIG. 5D is a left edge vertical filter. 5E is the right edge vertical filter. Local maxima are marked with white asterisks. do.

[0049] FIG. 6A illustrates a filter response on a polar image containing a sequence of scan lines in one embodiment. (Figure 5B-E) show the polar coordinate image (Figure 5A) overlaid with the filter response of OC are presented on different views of the data and, in one embodiment, scored to identify regions of interest. The top, bottom, and left edges of the calcified region are shown in Figure 6A. The edge detection or edge detection of adjacent frames (Figure 6B) was performed. Other filtering also detects the three edges of the calcified region; however, The left edge is detected instead of the right edge, thus detecting all boundaries of the calcified region. It is necessary to combine filter responses from multiple adjacent OCT frames to obtain The use of cross-frame data and results may be The accuracy of detecting calcified regions in morphology can be improved.

[0050] Figures 6C and 6D show normal intima-media thickening and non-calcified plaque. The control shows the intravascular area, and the normal intima-media hypertrophy. In the intima media thickening (Fig. 6C), the horizontal edge maximum - medial edge and Similarly, non-calcified plaques (Figure 6D) are detected with fewer minimal Generates a maximum value and does not generate a vertical edge maximum.

[0051] Figures 7A-F show the flow diagrams for calcified (Figures 7A-C) and normal (Figures 7D-F) intravascular tissue. Further examples of filter overlays are shown in Figures 7A-C. The maximum value is obtained for the four filter directions. All of the images are present in each frame. Figures 7D-F show normal tissue with thickened intima-media. These images contain only the inner and outer maxima. In Figure 7E, a pillar feature 770 triggers a vertical edge detection maximum. The features have a large irregular surface area due to their regular columnar shape and the calcified areas Feature 770 is likely a calcium plaque. , bubbles or other features that create image artifacts.

[0052] 8A-8C are adjacent frames showing large calcified regions 860a, b, c. Calcification regions produce multiple maxima for all four directional filters in each frame. In addition, a smaller calcified area 865 is visible on the right, which is part of the same calcification. The calcified region 865 lacks inner edge maxima, but the number and The dense clustering indicates that this is likely a calcification. If a filter with If it extends deeper into the vessel wall – for example, deeper than the OCT scan – the medial maximum may not be detected. In some embodiments, the filter responses from multiple adjacent OCT frames may be to resolve large calcium deposits that cannot be resolved from a single OCT frame. The shadow of the guidewire is visible on the right and has been edited out in the image.

[0053] FIG. 9 is a composite of an OCT cross-sectional image and a polar coordinate image of a calcified region in a blood vessel, which illustrates the present disclosure. Figures 9A-9C are cross-sectional images from the same neighborhood. 9D-E are the corresponding polar coordinate images. The calcified region 96 visible at the top of FIG. 9A 0 produces the edge detection maximum in all four directions, as shown in FIG. 9D. A second calcified region 965 at the bottom of FIG. 9A is shown in response to multiple directional edge detection filters. , generating edge detection maxima in three directions. A second calcification region 965 is shown in a later frame, The second calcified area remains prominent in Figures 9B and 9E. 9C and 9F show that the medial maximum is greater than 100%; therefore, no medial maximum is observed. The natural constriction 980 on the right side of the image is shown. This constriction produces only a few edge detection maxima. And since the maximum value is only in two directions, it can be excluded as a calcified region. The shadow 930 of the wire is evident except in FIG. 9D, where it has been edited out. There are.

[0054] In various embodiments, a computer, processor, or other system or device but using multiple edge detection filters to identify clusters of local maxima or extrema. It is programmed to filter consecutive OCT frames. The process flow shown in the coordinate images (Figures 9D, 9E, and 9F) shows several maxima The edges are then processed with an appropriate edge detection filter to determine whether they are detected and their direction. The sufficiency of maxima and orientation with a suitable maximum value can be used to identify calcified regions. This can be done.

[0055] Non-calcified regions generally do not respond to vertical edge detection filters, so calcified regions are considered to be vertical Edge detection can be used to distinguish large calcifications from non-calcified regions. The inner edge may be too deep to be resolved by a standard OCT scan. Therefore, at least the outer, left, and right edges in a given OCT frame are maximized. The cluster of values ​​defines a region of interest (ROI) corresponding to the calcified region. The directional filter response is then applied to a cluster of filter responses corresponding to one or preferably all four directional filters. It is derived by setting a bounding box.

[0056] The process of defining or determining a region of interest (ROI) is carried out to indicate the depth of the calcium nodule. To do this, several filter responses from one or more tissue depths are used. A bounding box, ellipse, or a set of filter responses that contains one or more or all of the set. The circle, sphere, or other boundary may be the back edge or other edge of a calcium nodule or region. It can be used with the dimensions of a sphere, box, ellipse, or other boundary to determine the edge. Calcium acts like a hard area in the blood vessels, and in relation to this, calcification Compaction due to expanding the stent near the area is a concern.

[0057] As a result, it is important to identify these regions. Regions of interest are those that define the filter response. generating a boundary around the identified region using the Or, find a common point such as a centroid or other point and get a distance measurement between the points. This process can be found by connecting the dots on the boundary. It can be used to measure the depth of the ashed area.

[0058] The ROI of the filter response is then calculated based on the size and / or mass of the calcified tissue in each OCT frame. These can be used to define the region of interest. The point fitting and measurement process for a given boundary is selected. In some embodiments, the ROI can be determined by using the exact location of the calcified area. It does not define precise boundaries but instead provides an estimate of the calcified area. After confirmation with the CT frame, the frame is displayed as a 3D volume rendering of the vessel, a 2D cross-section, and The images are combined for user analysis in planar and longitudinal cross-sectional views. 1 is a schematic diagram showing cross-frame information regarding the lumen diameter of a portion of FIG.

[0059] Also shown are exemplary processing steps or stages where CR is detected. Calcium-containing lumen / tissue is detectable / visible on both sides of the CR. The three frames showing calcified stenosis are located between the healthy frames. It is bounded on the left and right by two healthy (non-stenotic) luminal frames. Calcification reduces the diameter of blood vessels by approximately 33%. This frame tracking of the frames is used to select the region of the vessel for stent placement. Interpolation between the healthy lumen frame and the CR can be used to identify the CR999. A calcium region 999 is identified, which has an outer boundary 999o and an inner boundary 999o. The circles shown are placed between the 999i.

[0060] In another embodiment, FIG. 11A shows the two-dimensional length of a calcified region bounded by a healthy region. This is an L-mode image showing a hand-direction cross-sectional rendering. The thick line indicates the inside of the calcified region 1166. and the outer 1168 boundary.

[0061] In another embodiment, FIG. 11B shows the same image as in FIG. 11A, where the calcified areas are highlighted with a bold line. 3D volume rendering of the same data shown. Bold lines indicate the interior of the calcified region. 1166 and outer 1168 boundaries. In addition, circumferential markers r) 1190 provides a visual aid to help the user quickly assess the size of the calcification. The circumferential markers graphically depict the arc length of the calcified area as a percentage of the vessel circumference (graphically d The arc length of the calcified region is measured by a first marking (e.g., a first color and / or pattern) 11 90a, and adjacent non-calcified tissue is distinguished by a second marking (e.g., a second color and / or As the markers indicate, the calcified areas are vascular It spans about half the circumference.

[0062] FIG. 12A shows a three-dimensional image of a blood vessel highlighting the inner boundary of a calcified region 1260 along the luminal surface. Rendering 1292 shows a location marker 1292 to facilitate quick image interpretation by the user. circumferential marker 1290 (top) and circumferential marker 1295 (bottom) are added below In FIG. 12B, the top and bottom of the circumferential markers 1290 and 1295 are These correspond to the upper line segment 1290 and the lower line segment 1295, respectively. The circumferential and / or positional markers allow the user to define the exact cross-sectional area drawn. It is movable and interactive, allowing the selection of different cross sections and / or different viewpoints. It is possible.

[0063] In FIG. 12A, a first calcified region endoframe and a second calcified region endoframe are shown. are designated as CR Frame 1 and CR Frame N. Both of these frames are lime. The frame can be considered as the start frame or end frame of the CR. In this case, N can be 2 to indicate the second frame, or N can be the first frame of the CR. Therefore, if a CR has 100 frames of image data, In this case, the boundary frames can be CR frame 1 and CR frame 100.

[0064] In another embodiment, FIG. 12B shows a cross section corresponding to the location of the position marker shown in FIG. 12A. The image shows the outer edge of the calcification as a thick line to help the user assess the stenosis. It is divided by 1268.

[0065] Figure 13A shows the calcified area in volume to provide a better estimation of plaque size. 10 shows a further embodiment of a three-dimensional rendering of a rendered vessel lumen. Frame 1 and CR Frame N may also be drawn using overlays or other graphic elements. Various types of overlays and graphic elements can be used as shown in the figure. and can be used as described herein. As shown in Figure 13C, the outer 1366 and inner 1368 boundaries of the calcified region are indicated by thick lines. , L-mode image showing the inner 1366 and outer 1368 bordered calcified regions delimited by a thick line. Boundary line segment 1368 is the lumen boundary. As shown in FIG. 13B, The lumen boundary 1368 is adjacent to the calcified region CR and is the lumen boundary defined by the line segment 1268. The outer boundary of CR 1366 is also highlighted by line segment 1366. In 13C, the inner boundary IB and outer boundary OB of the CR are also shown as computer-generated line segments. It is being done.

[0066] In Figure 14A, intravascular and angiographic data for a blood vessel are displayed. The panel or screen (Fig. 14A) shows an angiographic image of the blood vessels. The upper right panel (Fig. 14B) B) Optical coherence tomography showing a cross section of a blood vessel with markings 1420 for calcified portions of the vessel. The bottom panel (FIG. 14C) also shows a calcified area 1425. Figure 1 shows an OCT image showing a longitudinal section of a blood vessel undergoing induced dilation. The dotted line 143 corresponds to the reference vessel profile for 0 is also shown. A graphical representation of the expansion guide is shown by the mark 1440. These The indicia can be colors, lines, curves, symbols, and other suitable indicia.

[0067] Figures 14A-14C show the lesion subtype by drawing attention to the calcified vessel segment. Suitable for providing additional information to the user during lesion preparation. The AC interface also provides a reference vascular profile to guide device expansion 1440. By providing a file 1430, sizing (sizing) of a stent or other device can be performed. In addition, the interface of FIG. 14 facilitates angio synchronization. ) 1410 and scaffold juxtaposition map (scaffold By generating an apposition map, it is possible to accurately predict the location of the BVS or other stents or scaffolds. This makes it easier to deploy the field.

[0068] FIG. 15A shows an exemplary plaque display graphical user interface (GUI). Calcification regions are identified using the image processing-based approach described above. As shown, calcium-containing materials are detected and classified using the It extends from approximately 6 to 10 o'clock in the OCT B-mode or cross-sectional images shown in the bottom panel. The plaque display GUI shows the area on the OCT B-mode image that corresponds to the circumferential extent of calcium. The rings may be segments of circles or ellipses or other curves. or other visible display element, symbol or icon. The radial position is determined by the OCT signal intensity, which is then filtered out to a noise level such that there is no information content in the B-mode image. Dynamically set to imaging distance falling below threshold It is possible.

[0069] In one embodiment, the use of this indicia or other indicator elements to enhance the visibility of calcified areas. The use of such marks also reduces screen clutter. Plaque indicators relatively close to the plaque itself without obscuring the OCT image features Alternatively, the radial position may be fixed at the end of the scan range 1512. These display techniques provide a perfectly segmented image around the lesion. The location of the plaque can be clearly indicated without the need to draw enclosed or enclosed polygons. Perfect segmentation has the advantage that OCT signals are typically used in intravascular applications. If the catheter does not extend completely behind the underlying plaque, it can be technically difficult. and size information may also be displayed in the lumen profile section of the screen.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 15B, as shown in longitudinal cross section, a vertical bar 1516 The mark is placed on the lumen profile at a position corresponding to the detected cross-sectional frame. As shown, in FIG. 15B, the sequence of bars is In FIG. 15B, the bar 1516 a is the thickest bar and b is the thinnest. The bars are shown symmetrically on both sides of the lumen. However, other representations such as showing only the bars above or below the lumen, as well as others, are possible.

[0071] In one embodiment, the height of the bars is such that the plaque covering a larger circumference in cross section is larger than the luminal plaque. The circumferential extent of the plaque is shown as a tall vertical bar on the profile display. In addition, vertical line segments 1514 or bars or other marks may be used to represent the cross-section of FIG. This can be used to indicate the longitudinal position of the image shown in FIG. 15A relative to the plan view. This design allows the user to easily identify the plaque circle by simple inspection of the lumen profile display. It allows for rapid assessment of both circumferential and longitudinal extent.

[0072] FIG. 16A shows an example of a different frame for the same pullback shown in FIG. 15A. In this frame, the calcium lesion extends only from approximately 9 to 10 o'clock. 1614 to show the frame in FIG. 16B corresponding to the frame shown above in FIG. 16A. Therefore, the partial ring 1610 on the B-mode image is used for the ring of the previous frame. The vertical bar 1616 is correspondingly smaller than the swatch 1610. Lean elements of interest for angiography and optical coherence tomography data To improve the on-screen display of diagnostic information, some diagnostic information may be generated using a GUI. This can be done.

[0073] The following description is of a device hardware suitable for carrying out the methods of the present invention described herein. This description is intended to provide an overview of the hardware and other operating components of the present invention. The present invention is not intended to limit the applicable environment or the scope of the present invention. and other operating components may be suitable as part of the above-described device. Computers, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable electronic devices, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, etc. The present invention can be implemented in other system configurations, including:

[0074] Some parts of the detailed description are algorithms for operations on data bits in computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are presented in terms of rhythms and symbolic expressions. In one embodiment, the method may be used by anyone skilled in the related fields of computers and software. An algorithm, as used herein, is generally a self-consistent sequence of operations leading to a desired result. The method steps or sequences described herein are considered to be self-consistent sequences. Alternatively, the operations described are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities are stored, transferred, combined, converted, compared, and The information may take the form of electrical or magnetic signals that can be manipulated or otherwise manipulated.

[0075] Unless otherwise specified, as will become apparent from the following description, the term "processing" is used throughout this description. "to calculate" or "to compute" or "to calculate" or "to interpolate" or "compare" or "filter" or "detect" or "show" or "overlap" "match" or "sample" or "operate" or "generate" or "determine" The discussion of using terms such as "display" or "display" is based on the register of a computer system. The data represented as physical (electron) quantities in the master and memory of a computer system is called the memory. As a physical quantity in a memory or register or other such information storage, transmission or display device A computer system or similar electronic device that manipulates and converts data into other data similarly represented. It is understood to refer to the operation and processing of a computing device.

[0076] The present invention, in some embodiments, also relates to apparatus for performing the operations herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes or may be computer-installed. A general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored therein. It may include data.

[0077] The algorithms and displays presented herein are essentially computer programs. Various general-purpose systems may be programmed in accordance with the teachings herein. may be used in conjunction with a system or more specialized system to perform the required method steps. It may prove advantageous to build a system that is The required structure for this system will appear from the description below.

[0078] Embodiments of the present invention may include a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, for use with a computer (such as a digital signal processor, computer-programmed logic, programmable logic devices (e.g., field programmable logic devices) Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs or other PLDs), discrete components, integrated circuits circuits (e.g., application specific integrated circuits (ASICs)), or any combination thereof. The present invention may be implemented in many different forms, including, but not limited to, any other means including In certain exemplary embodiments, OCT probes, FFR probes, angiography systems, and Using other imaging and subject monitoring devices and processor-based systems Some or all of the processing of the collected data and storing it as such on a computer readable medium converted into a computer-executable format and manipulated under the control of an operating system. implemented as a set of computer program instructions executed by a microprocessor Thus, for example, pullback or co-registration requests User interface commands and triggers based on completion of OCT data generation, calcification area and performing image processing using various and other features and embodiments described herein. into processor-understandable instructions suitable for will be done.

[0079] Computer program logic that implements all or part of the functionality previously described herein The Software may be provided in source code form, computer executable form, and various intermediate forms (e.g., assembly generated by a compiler, linker, or locator), but never Source code may be embodied in a variety of forms, including but not limited to the following: Various programming languages ​​for use in rating systems or operating environments language (e.g., object code, assembly language, or Fortran, C, C++, Implemented in either Java or a high-level language such as HTML The source code may include various data structures and a series of computer program instructions. The source code may define and use communication messages (e.g., via an interpreter). The source code may be in computer executable form (e.g., converted into a computer-executable form (through a programmable translator, assembler, or compiler) That's fine.

[0080] Computer programs are stored in semiconductor memory devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, PRO M, EEPROM, or flash programmable RAM), magnetic memory devices (e.g. diskette or fixed disk), optical memory device (e.g., CD-ROM), A PC card (e.g., a PCMCIA card) or other memory device in any form (e.g. source code form, The computer program may be fixed in a computer executable form or in an intermediate form. Analog technology, digital technology, optical technology, wireless technology (e.g., Bluetooth ), networking technologies, and internetworking technologies, but by no means Signals that can be transmitted to a computer using any of a variety of communication technologies, including but not limited to A computer program may be fixed in any form, including printed or electronic documentation. Distributed on removable storage media with accompanying software (such as shrink-wrapped software) Preloaded into the computer system (e.g., on the system ROM or fixed disk) may be downloaded to a server or communication system (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web). It may be distributed through electronic bulletin boards via the World Wide Web.

[0081] Hardware logic (processor) that implements all or part of the functionality previously described herein. (including programmable logic for use with programmable logic devices) , can be designed using traditional manual methods or by computer-aided design (CAD) , hardware description language (e.g., VHDL or AHDL), or PLD programming Use various tools such as languages ​​(e.g., PALASM, ABEL, or CUPL) can be electronically designed, captured, simulated, or documented using .

[0082] Programmable logic is a semiconductor memory device (e.g., RAM, ROM, PRO M, EEPROM, or flash programmable RAM), magnetic memory devices (e.g. diskette or fixed disk), optical memory device (e.g., CD-ROM), or other memory devices, either permanently or temporarily on a tangible storage medium. Programmable logic can be implemented using analog, digital, optical, or wireless technologies. Wiring technologies (e.g., Bluetooth), networking technologies, and internet Any of various communications technologies, including but by no means limited to networking technologies The programmable logic may be fixed to a signal that can be transmitted to a computer using programmable logic. The license includes links that come with printed or electronic documentation (such as shrink-wrapped software). A computer system (e.g., a system ROI) that may be distributed as a removable storage medium. It can be preloaded onto a hard disk (e.g., a hard disk drive or fixed disk) or onto a server or communication system (e.g., The present invention may be distributed through electronic postings on the Internet or World Wide Web.

[0083] Various examples of suitable processing modules are discussed in more detail below. When configured, the module uses a In one embodiment, the module A module is a software routine, program, or other program that receives, transforms, filters, , overlays, marks, lines, and other graphic elements and overlay generation, other memory-resident applications suitable for processing the OCT data and instructions. data, OCT polar coordinate image data, ROI measurement values, cross-sectional images, polar coordinate images, IVUS data , shading, calcification region frame or image data, boundary data, filter response data, pixel various information such as the time signature, intensity pattern, and other information of interest as described herein. refers to a type of data.

[0084] The computers and computer systems described herein are used to acquire, process, and , a memory for storing software applications used for storage and / or communication; Such memory may include a computer-readable medium, such as a memory stick, operatively associated therewith. With respect to the computer or computer system with which it is operatively associated, It can be understood that it can be internal, external, remote or local.

[0085] Memory may also include, for example, but not limited to, hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks (registered Recorded trademark) disc, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), CD (Compact Disc) memory stick, flash memory, ROM (read-only memory), RAM ( Random Access Memory), DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), PRO M (Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Extended Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and / or other any computer-readable medium for storing software or other instructions, including The method may include the steps of:

[0086] Generally, computer readable media applied in connection with the embodiments of the invention described herein The memory medium is any medium capable of storing instructions that are executed by a programmable device. Where applicable, the method steps described herein may include a computer-implemented method. It may be embodied or executed as instructions stored on a computer-readable memory medium or memory media. These instructions are available in various programming languages ​​such as C++, C, and Java. languages, and / or various other languages ​​that may be adapted to create instructions according to embodiments of the present invention. The software may be embodied in any of a variety of software programming languages.

[0087] The term "machine-readable medium" refers to any medium that stores, encodes, or The method may be carried out by a machine that performs any one or more of the methodologies of the present disclosure. The machine-readable medium may be a single medium in an exemplary embodiment. Although shown as such, the term "machine-readable medium" refers to a single medium that stores one or more sets of instructions. a medium or media (e.g., a database, one or more centralized databases or distribution distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) is.

[0088] The drawings and description of the present disclosure are simplified to illustrate elements relevant to a clear understanding of the disclosure. However, it should be understood that other elements have been omitted for clarity. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these and other factors may be desirable. However, such elements are well known in the art and will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from a more complete understanding of this disclosure. A discussion of such elements is not provided herein because it does not facilitate easy understanding. It should be understood that the drawings are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not intended as structural diagrams. The omitted details and modifications or alternative embodiments are within the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0089] The use of headings and paragraphs in this application is not meant to limit the disclosure. Each paragraph may apply to any aspect, embodiment, or feature of the disclosure.

[0090] Throughout the application, compositions are described as having, containing, or comprising specific ingredients. or the process has, includes or comprises certain process steps. When a composition of the present teachings is described as consisting essentially of or consisting of the listed components, The process of the teachings herein also consists essentially of the recited process steps. It is conceivable that the term "contextual entity" refers to a word that is a combination of the following:

[0091] In an application, an element or component is included in an enumerated list of elements or components, and When it is said to be selected from and / or from the listed elements or components, it is understood that the elements or components may be selected from the listed elements or components. It can be any one of the elements and more than one of the listed elements or elements. It should be understood that the compound may be selected from the group consisting of: The elements and / or features of the compositions, devices, or methods described herein may be used interchangeably with those expressly set forth herein. may be used in various ways, whether explicitly or implicitly, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present teachings. It should be understood that the above-mentioned expressions can be combined in various ways.

[0092] The terms "include," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or "having The use of "is generally understood to be open-ended and non-limiting unless otherwise specified. It should be.

[0093] The use of the singular herein includes the plural (and vice versa) unless otherwise specified. Additionally, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are , including the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, the use of the term "about" is intended to When preceded by a value, the present teachings also include the specific quantitative value itself, unless otherwise taught. As used herein, the terms "about" or "substantially" mean ±10% from the nominal value. This refers to fluctuations in

[0094] The sequence of steps for performing a particular operation may be omitted so long as the teachings of the present invention remain operable. It should be understood that the order or sequence is not important. Actions may be performed simultaneously.

[0095] If a range or list of values ​​is provided, the value between the upper and lower limits of that range or list of values Each intervening value is considered individually and is treated as if each value were specifically listed herein. In addition, any range between the upper and lower limits of a given range and between those limits is encompassed within this disclosure. Smaller ranges including the above are contemplated and encompassed within the present disclosure. A list of ranges excludes other values ​​or ranges between and including the upper and lower limits of a given range. isn't it.

Claims

1. 1. A method for identifying a vascular region of interest, the method comprising: providing OCT image data of the blood vessel; A plurality of different edge detection filters are applied to the OCT image data, and each of the edge detection filters applying the filter response to the filter; identifying any response maxima in each edge detection filter response; the local response maximum represents the detected edge; for each of the edge detection filter responses while maintaining the spatial relationship of the response maxima. The response maxima are combined to thereby produce edge-filtered OCT data. combining; and analyzing the edge-filtered OCT data to identify the region of interest. wherein the region of interest is defined as a local cluster of the response maxima. P; A method comprising:

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the edge detection filter is based on a derivative of a Gaussian function.

3. the OCT image data is formatted in polar coordinate space or comprises a polar coordinate image. The method according to claim 1.

4. the OCT image data is formatted in Cartesian space or includes cross-sectional images. The method according to claim 1.

5. The plurality of different edge detection filters include a horizontal edge detection filter and a vertical edge detection filter. The method of claim 1 including a filter.

6. The horizontal edge detection filter includes a top edge filter and a bottom edge filter. The method according to claim 5 .

7. The vertical edge detection filter has a left edge detection filter and a right edge detection filter. The method according to claim 5 .

8. 10. The method of claim 1, further comprising repeating the steps for a plurality of OCT image frames. The method described below.

9. generating the plurality of OCT images based on the edge-filtered OCT data and the region of interest; Rendering a two-dimensional or three-dimensional model of the blood vessel using the frames. The method of claim 8 .

10. The local maximum is determined by comparing the filter response to a predetermined threshold. The method of claim 1 .

11. The plurality of filters includes at least a top edge filter, a left edge filter, and a right edge filter. The method of claim 1 , further comprising a side edge filter.

12. The region of interest is identified if it contains at least one vertical edge response maximum. The method of claim 7, further comprising identifying the area as an ashed area.

13. If the region of interest does not contain a vertical edge response maximum, the region of interest is considered a non-calcified region.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising the step of identifying the

14. The model is a three-dimensional longitudinal cross-sectional rendering of the blood vessel, the model being a graphic showing the arc length of the region of interest, the graphic showing the state of the blood vessel extending through the ring; and the ring is concentric with the vessel at a distance proportional to the arc length of healthy tissue.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising a first marking and a second marking proportional to the arc length of the region of interest. Law.

15. 1. A system for identifying a region of interest in a blood vessel, the system comprising: a processor in communication with a memory, the memory being operable when executed by the processor; to: acquiring OCT image data of the blood vessel; A plurality of different edge detection filters are applied to the OCT image data, and a to generate a filter response that: In each of the filter responses, any response maxima are identified and local response maxima are detected. represents the edge; the response for each of the filter responses while maintaining the spatial relationship of the response maxima The maximum values ​​are combined to thereby create edge-filtered OCT data; and defined as the local cluster of response maxima that includes the OCT image data analyzing the edge-filtered OCT data to identify the region of interest; Including instructions, system.

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the OCT image data is a plurality of scan lines.

17. The system of claim 15 , wherein the OCT image data is a polar coordinate image.

18. the instructions cause the processor to display an inner boundary and an outer boundary of a calcified region. The system of claim 15.

19. the instructions cause the processor to display an inner boundary and an outer boundary of a calcified region. The system of claim 15.

20. 1. An intravascular data display system, comprising: A system in communication with a graphical user interface and a processor configured to send commands to the The graphical user interface displays images from an optical coherence tomography procedure. configured to display the image data on a first panel corresponding to a cross-sectional view of the blood vessel; The graphical user interface displays images from an optical coherence tomography procedure. configured to display the image data on a second panel corresponding to a longitudinal cross-section of the blood vessel; The graphical user interface displays angiographic data corresponding to the view of the blood vessel. configured to display the data in a third panel; One or more indicia are overlaid on one or more of the first, second and third panels. selectable by the processor for placement or inclusion; Intravascular data display system.

21. The first panel displays a cross-sectional image of the blood vessel, and the second panel displays a cross-sectional image of the blood vessel.

21. The system of claim 20, which displays longitudinal cross-sectional images.

22. The one or more marks may be one or more marks to highlight the location of the calcified portion of the blood vessel.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the plurality of panels are arranged within the plurality of panels.

23. The one or more markings may be one or more to highlight the location of the stent or scaffold. The system of claim 20 disposed within a plurality of said panels.

24. The one or more indicia may be obtained by angiographic imaging of the blood vessel and optical coherence tomography of the blood vessel. and a stent positioned within one or more of said panels to highlight the position of the stent relative to the radiographic image. The system of claim 20.

25. The one or more marks may be positioned on one or more of the panels to highlight a reference vessel profile.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the system is disposed within a building.

26. The one or more markings guide the expansion of a stent, such as an ABS / AVS device.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the system is disposed within one or more of the panels for:

27. The indicia may be a curve, a line, a dotted line, a color, an arc of an ellipse or circle, a color, an icon, or other script. selected from the group consisting of visible elements on the 21. The system of claim 20.

Images