Remote medical imaging system processing

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a modular data acquisition and processing system for acquiring intravascular data, such as image data, about a patient. The modular system includes acquisition components in a patient treatment environment that communicate with a processing engine in a remote environment. The remote processing engine can be used with various types of data acquisition systems. The modular system further includes a hub in the patient treatment environment that enables fast and reliable connections to the data acquisition components while maintaining a persistent connection with the remote processing engine.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 424,636, filed November 11, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Interventional cardiologists incorporate a variety of diagnostic tools during catheterization procedures to plan, guide, and evaluate therapy. Consequently, there are many systems used in hospital catheterization laboratories to diagnose and treat vascular problems, primarily in the coronary and peripheral arteries. These tools typically include optical coherence tomography (OCT), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), fractional flow reserve (FFR), and angiography. Intravascular OCT, IVUS, and FFR are invasive, catheter-based systems that measure the physical characteristics of blood vessels using optical signals (OCT) or ultrasound signals (IVUS) or gather physiological responses from those vessels using pressure data (FFR) at a region of interest. Chief among these are angiography systems, which allow for minimally invasive insertion of a catheter through the radial or femoral arteries and use x-rays and a puff of contrast solution to guide the catheter to the area of ​​interest. Angiography is a non-invasive x-ray imaging method that collects data from outside the body during the injection of a radiopaque contrast fluid.

[0003] During the data acquisition procedure, a guide catheter is inserted into the patient to the area of ​​interest in the patient's vascular system. Once the guide catheter is in place, other catheters may be inserted concentrically to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. For example, an intravascular imaging system may use an optical or ultrasound catheter to map the area of ​​interest and use OCT or IVUS to determine the level of stenosis and tissue composition of the artery.

[0004] To perform a procedure, the catheter must be connected to a series of peripheral devices and processing engines. These peripheral devices and processing engines tend to be complex and expensive. Furthermore, space is extremely limited in catheterization labs, especially at the patient's bed, yet high data rate requirements dictate designs in which the data acquisition system is directly connected to a high-speed internal computer bus. For example, in the application of OCT to intravascular imaging, the time available for data acquisition is limited by blood clearance requirements. This limited time, combined with the large amount of data collected at one time to create a 3D image, results in extremely high data acquisition rates. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of devices suitable for use in the field of medical treatment and diagnosis, and more particularly to system architectures in catheterization laboratories. The present disclosure relates to an intravascular modular image acquisition and processing system in which a high-speed data acquisition system and a processing unit are in different housings and connected by a high-speed digital network. Additionally, the present disclosure relates to a modular configuration that reduces clutter in the patient treatment environment and provides interchangeability of the imaging system.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure includes a portable digital imager for processing intravascular diagnostic data, the portable digital imager comprising: a first interface connecting the digital imager to a set of imaging peripherals; an analog imager configured to receive analog image data from the imaging peripherals; a digitizer in communication with the analog imager and converting the analog image data into digital image data; a controller in communication with the digitizer, the controller adapted to convert the digital image data into serial communication data; and a second interface connecting the digital imager to a communication link configured to transmit the serial communication data to a remote processing engine.

[0007] Furthermore, the portable digital imager may further include a housing, wherein the analog imager, the digitizer, and the controller are located within the housing. At least some of the set of imaging peripherals may be located outside the housing. The imaging peripherals may be further connected to the imaging tool. The portable digital imager may be removably connected to a processing engine. A second interface connecting the portable digital imager to the remote processing engine provides high-speed serial communication.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a modular image acquisition and processing system comprising: a remote processing engine located outside a patient treatment environment; a user interface located within the patient treatment environment and adapted to receive operational commands from a user; and a hub located within the patient treatment environment. The hub can comprise a first connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to the remote processing engine located outside the patient treatment environment and a further connection port configured for connection to a portable digital imager in the patient treatment environment. The system further comprises a set of imaging peripherals; a portable digital imager comprising: a first interface connecting the portable digital imager to the set of imaging peripherals; an analog imager configured to receive analog image data from the imaging peripherals; a digitizer in communication with the analog imager and converting the analog image data into digital image data; a controller in communication with the digitizer adapted to convert the digital image data into serial communication data; and a second interface connecting the digital imager to a communication link configured to transmit the serial communication data to the remote processing engine.

[0009] The hub may further comprise at least one second connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to one or more monitors and controls in the patient treatment environment. The system may further comprise at least one light indicator on at least the remote processing engine, the hub, the portable digital imager, or the set of imaging peripherals. The light indicator may provide at least a connection status or a power status of at least the remote processing engine, the hub, the portable digital imager, or the set of imaging peripherals. The user interface may comprise a monitor on the mobile cart, the monitor adapted to display at least the intravascular image data, the monitor communicating with the processing engine through the same controller that interfaces with the digitizer. The user interface may further comprise a keyboard and a mouse connected to the monitor. The monitor may be a touch screen. The set of imaging peripherals may be disposed on the mobile cart. The set of imaging peripherals and the digital imager may be disposed on the mobile cart. The set of imaging peripherals, the digital imager, and the monitor may be disposed on the mobile cart. The set of imaging peripherals may be disposed on a support. The set of imaging peripherals and the digital imager may be disposed on a support.

[0010] The hub can be disposed on the support. The hub can be disposed below the support. A second interface of the digital imager is connected to a further connection port of the hub. The hub can receive power from the processing engine through the first connection port.

[0011] The set of imaging peripherals may include at least one of an imaging system engine, a light source, or an interferometer. The set of imaging peripherals may include at least one of an ultrasound imaging system, an ultrasound source, or an ultrasound transducer. The set of imaging peripherals may include at least one of a blood pressure sensor, a blood temperature sensor, and a blood flow sensor.

[0012] The hub may further include a power control, the power control being capable of detecting a connection at the additional connection port. The system may further include a hub extender. The hub extender may further include a power control, the power control being capable of detecting a connection at the additional connection port.

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a hub located within a patient treatment environment, the hub comprising: a first connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to a remote processing engine located outside the patient treatment environment, at least one second connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to one or more monitors or controls in the patient treatment environment, and a third connection port configured for connection to a portable digital imager in the patient treatment environment, the third connection port being capable of housing a power control configured to detect a connection at the third connection port. The hub may further comprise a communications control.

[0014] The hub can receive power from the remote processing engine through the first connection port. The hub can be disposed on a support in a patient treatment environment. The hub can be removably attached to a hub mount on the support. The hub can be disposed below a treatment table in the patient treatment environment. The hub can further comprise a hub extender. The third connection port is configured for fixed connection to the hub extender, and the hub extender can include a removably connection to the portable digital imager. The hub extender can be disposed on a support in the patient treatment environment. The hub can be removably attached to a hub mount on the support. The hub can be disposed below the support in the patient treatment environment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary configuration of a modular image acquisition and processing system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary imaging system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary modular image acquisition and processing system having an integrated hub and digital imager device, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a diagram of the system of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B is another view of the system of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary modular image acquisition and processing system having integrated imaging peripherals and digital imager devices, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a diagram of the system of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4B is another view of the system of FIG. 4A. [Figure 5A] 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating an exemplary modular image acquisition and processing system having a mobile device, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a diagram of the system of FIG. 5A. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B is another view of the system of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6] 1A-1C are diagrams of possible configurations of a system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A-1C are diagrams of possible configurations of a system according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram illustrating the contents and connections of a hub according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary plug portion of an exemplary hub connection system, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary socket portion of a hub connection system according to aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present disclosure relates to various systems and components thereof for use in a catheterization lab or other procedure room environment to facilitate the collection of vascular data from a patient. The vascular data may be related to the patient's cardiovascular system or peripheral vascular system and may include image data, pressure data, and / or other types of data as described herein. The present disclosure provides a modular system in which some components may be permanently connected and other components may be temporarily connected during a procedure. The modularity of the system allows for easy component movement and component interchangeability. Furthermore, multiple types of data acquisition may be performed by the system, such as by replacing some components of the system while retaining others. For example, to accommodate different types of data acquisition, such as different types of imaging, a first type of data acquisition component may be replaced with a second type of data acquisition component while retaining the processing component.

[0017] 1 shows the components and connections of a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 100. The modular imaging acquisition and processing system 100 can include a user interface 110, a processing engine 120, a digital imager 130, a hub 150, a hub extender 151 including a plug 160 and a socket 170, an imaging peripheral 140, and a holster 180 for the imaging peripheral 140.

[0018] System 100 can be used to collect vascular data from a patient. For example, system 100 can be part of an intravascular imaging system that further includes an image acquisition device, such as an optical coherence tomography (OCT) probe, an intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) probe, a micro-OCT probe, a near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) device, or any of a variety of other intravascular data acquisition devices. Various elements of system 100 can be located near or proximal to a patient in a patient treatment environment, such as a catheterization lab. In some examples, certain components of system 100 can be located remotely from the patient, such as in a remote portion of the patient treatment environment that is not near the patient, or in a different room relative to the patient. For example, processing engine 120 can be located in a remote room, such as a control room, an instrument closet, or other separate location, while other components of the system are located in the patient treatment environment. The ability to locate the processing engine 120 separately from the other components of the system 100 provides convenience and flexibility in fitting complex data acquisition equipment into limited space around a patient table or bed in a patient treatment environment.

[0019] The user interface 110 can be used to receive operator commands, such as those for controlling a data acquisition system, and to display information, such as information about acquired vascular data. To that end, the user interface 110 can include input / output interfaces, such as a touchscreen, display, microphone, keyboard, mouse, joystick, control panel, etc. According to some examples, the user interface 110 can include one or more gesture recognition devices, such as a camera, accelerometer, or gyroscope, for recognizing hand gestures by an operator. While FIG. 1 depicts the user interface 110 as a display, it should be understood that the user interface 110 can also include input devices, such as, but not limited to, a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, and joystick, multiple displays, or other input / output devices. There can also be multiple user interfaces supporting a single system. The user interface 110 can be directly or indirectly connected to the processing engine 120 and the digital imager 130. The user interface 110 can be located near or proximal to a patient or patient support. When configured as a system, the user interface 110 can be located within the sterile field of a patient treatment environment. Alternatively, the user interface 110 can be located outside the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. In some embodiments, the user interface 110 can be docked onto a mobile device, such as a wheeled cart, that also includes other components, such as the imaging peripheral 140 and the digital imager 130.

[0020] The modular system can be configured with multiple user interfaces for use by one or more users. For example, while one user interface 110 is shown in FIG. 1 , the modular system can be configured with two, three, or more user interfaces. By way of example, a first user interface can include a sterile environment user interface within the sterile field of a patient treatment room. Such a sterile environment user interface can be operated by a physician within the sterile field of the patient treatment room, such as to control an intravascular imaging tool or other data acquisition instrument. A second user interface can include a remote user interface. The remote user interface can be in an area separate from the patient treatment environment, such as in a remote room. In some examples, the remote user interface can be in the same remote area as the processing engine and / or angiography system. The remote user interface can be operated, for example, by a technician. In some examples, the system can feature a single power control button within the remote area. The power button can also be located on the processing engine. A third user interface can include a cart user interface, for example, within a patient treatment room. The cart user interfaces can be connected to digital imagers and / or imaging peripherals. The cart user interfaces can be docked onto a mobile cart as depicted in FIGS. 5A-5C, which are sequentially described in more detail below. Each user interface can include any one or more of various types of input / output devices adapted to receive user input and provide output, such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, joystick, etc. The user interfaces can be communicatively connected to one another. The user interfaces can display the same images and information to different users, or each user interface can display different information, such as different images, different input options, etc.Although a few examples of various types of user interfaces are described herein, it should be understood that other types of user interfaces for operation by different types of users or for facilitating different types of input and output may additionally or alternatively be included in the modular system.

[0021] The processing engine 120 may include one or more processors in communication with memory, buses, controllers, and other components suitable for processing data. The processing engine 120 may comprise a software implementation, computer program instructions, or a plurality of instructions configured to process and calculate physical, anatomical, and physiological data. For example, the processing engine may receive raw data from a data acquisition system and convert the raw data into images, graphs, measurements, tissue properties, or other outputs. The raw data may include signals received from the data acquisition system, such as optical signals, ultrasound signals, etc. According to some examples, the processing engine may be connected to a hospital network and receive data from other systems, such as angiography data from an angiography system.

[0022] The processing engine 120 can be connected to the user interface 110 and / or other components of the system 100 via one or more communication links. The one or more communication links can be configured to transmit data, commands, or other types of signals. According to some examples, the one or more communication links can include an optical communication link. The communication link can be configured to transmit data at a high bandwidth, such as 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) to 60 Gbps or more. This high speed allows data to be transmitted from the imager to the processing engine in real time as it is acquired, without the need for compression or preprocessing at the patient site. Because the processing engine 120 can be located in a separate control room remote from the catheter patient treatment environment where other components of the system are located, the communication link can extend over a significant distance, such as several meters (tens of feet) or tens to hundreds of meters (hundreds of feet).

[0023] The processing engine 120 may be permanently connected to one or more components in the patient treatment environment, such as the hub 150. In this regard, the communication link may be permanently secured underground, under the floor, along beams or other structures between the remote room in which the processing engine 120 is housed and the patient treatment environment. In this regard, the communication link is less likely to be damaged by movement, contact, or other interaction, which may occur if the communication link is largely exposed, thus preserving the quality of the signals transmitted through the communication link. Similarly, maintaining a permanent connection between the processing engine 120 and the hub 150 reduces the likelihood of an interrupted signal or an improper connection, compared to a system in which the communication link is connected before each procedure and disconnected thereafter. Furthermore, considerable time can be saved by maintaining connections between the processing engine 120 and other system 100 components in the patient treatment environment, as opposed to reconnecting all components before each procedure. In addition to communicating with the hub 150 and peripheral devices as described, the processing engine 120 may also provide power to the peripheral devices, eliminating the need for a separate power source in the patient treatment area.

[0024] Although processing engine 120 is illustrated in FIG. 1 with respect to a single system 100, in some examples, processing engine 120 can be used with multiple data acquisition systems at different times or simultaneously. For example, processing engine 120 can be located in a remote room and communicate with a first hub in a first patient treatment environment and also with a second hub in a second patient treatment environment. According to some examples, each patient treatment environment can be used for different types of treatments. For example, each of the first and second treatment environments can be adapted to obtain vascular data using IVUS, OCT, angiography, or other types of data acquisition. As such, processing engine 120 can be configured to process various types of signals, including optical signals, ultrasound signals, etc.

[0025] According to some examples, the system may be used in conjunction with pressure measurements, such as for calculating fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements, using a pressure measurement device, such as a guidewire having one or more pressure and / or temperature sensors thereon. The pressure and / or temperature measurement device may be connected to processing engine 120 through one or more other components of system 100, either wired or wirelessly.

[0026] According to some examples, the processing engine 120 may be configured to perform comparison and co-registration of multiple different data acquisition types, such as OCT and / or IVUS images with angiography images, etc. For example, the data acquisition system may be configured to interface with an angiography machine or a hospital data network on which angiography data is stored.

[0027] The digital imager 130 can be a modular component that receives analog image data from the imaging catheter through the imaging peripheral 140. The digital imager transmits image data between the imaging system and the processing engine 120. The content and functionality of the digital imager are described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 2. In some configurations, there can be multiple digital imagers to receive data from various imaging modalities. For example, one digital imager can be configured to receive data from an OCT modality, and a second digital imager can be configured to receive data from an IVUS modality. A first OCT digital imager can be replaced with a second digital imager in this modular system. In some examples, the first and second digital imagers can be used simultaneously.

[0028] The imaging peripheral 140 can include any of a variety of electronic components, which can vary based on the type of imaging being performed. The imaging peripheral 140 can be a system configured to route signals to the catheter to control its movement. In the case of an OCT system, these systems can be a fiber optic rotary junction, a motor controller, and a catheter loading mechanism. In the case of an IVUS system, these systems can be a rotating catheter head. Typically, the imaging peripheral is in a separate housing from the digital imager, allowing the imaging peripheral to be moved to the sterile field to perform the procedure. In some examples, the imaging peripheral can include various elements, such as an electro-optic rotary coupler, a rotary motor, a linear translation stage, an ultrasound controller, and a motion controller. The imaging peripheral can include at least one blood pressure sensor, a blood temperature sensor, or a blood flow sensor. The imaging peripheral can be connected to the imaging catheter and its controls in a patient treatment environment. In some examples, the imaging peripheral can be secured in a holster 180 within the patient treatment environment, as described in more detail below. 1 as being within a housing adapted to fit within holster 180. Such a housing may also include other features such as connections for an imaging probe, controls for operating the imaging probe, etc. In other examples not shown, imaging peripheral 140 may be housed within the same housing as other components such as digital imager 130.

[0029] The system can be adapted to handle multiple imaging modalities. For OCT, which uses interferometry to determine distance and other related measurements, the imaging peripherals can include an optical interferometer in communication with a light source, such as a laser, and an optical-to-electrical (O / E) converter. In some exemplary systems, the imaging peripherals can include a reference arm optical path and a sample arm switch path. In some examples, the system can further include a set of catheter controls, such as a series of motors that rotate and translate the catheter across the region of interest and back. In some examples, the system can include a computer that uses specialized algorithms and transformation routines to reconstruct the arterial shape and tissue properties.

[0030] For IVUS, which uses ultrasound to determine distance and other related measurements, the peripherals may be piezoelectric or capacitive micromachined transducers and associated signal processing elements, and in some instances motors for rotating and translating the catheter or electrical drivers for engaging the transducers at various angles within the catheter.

[0031] Hub 150 may be a connection device adapted to communicatively connect multiple modular components. Hub 150 may be located within a patient treatment environment to facilitate connection to modules, such as processing engine 120, located outside the patient treatment environment. In some examples, hub 150 connects processing engine 120 and digital imager 130. Hub 150 may transmit power and data signals between processing engine 120 and digital imager 130. Hub 150 is described in further detail below in connection with FIGS. 3-5. Plug 160 and socket 170 are components of a hub connection system. The hub connection system may facilitate connection between hub 150 and digital imager 130. Plug 160 may connect to digital imager 130, and socket 170 extends from hub 150. Plug 160 and socket 170 may each include a mating surface, with the mating surface of plug 160 adapted to engage the mating surface of socket 170. The hub connection system is described in further detail below in connection with FIG.

[0032] Hub 150 may be connected to hub extender 151. Hub extender 151 may function to facilitate connections at locations remote from hub 150. Hub extender 151 may include socket 170 configured to connect with plug 160, as described above. Hub extender 151 is described in further detail below in connection with Figures 5B and 5C.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows details of a digital imager, referred to herein as digital imager 230. Digital imager 230 can include an analog imager 211, a digitizer 212, a controller 213, an analog and / or digital link 214 connecting to imaging peripheral 240, and a digital communication link 215 capable of carrying power connecting to remote processing engine 220. In some embodiments, analog imager 211, digitizer 212, and controller 213 can be contained within a single housing. Analog imager 211 can be a system that converts images acquired from the catheter into analog electrical signals. Analog imager 211 can include one or more of a tunable laser, a fiber optic interferometer, a polarization controller, an optical-to-electrical converter, an electronic-to-optical converter, an optical switch, an electrical receiver and signal conditioner, and / or a control system for controlling these components. Imaging peripheral 240 can be a system configured to route signals to the catheter to control its movement. In the case of an OCT system, these systems can be a fiber optic rotary junction, a motor controller, and a catheter loading mechanism. In the case of an IVUS system, these systems can be a rotating catheter head. The imaging peripherals can be in a housing separate from the digital imager, allowing the imaging peripherals to be moved into the sterile field to perform the procedure. In another example, the imaging peripherals can be split, with some of the imaging peripherals in the same housing as the digital imager and others not. In another example, the imaging peripherals can be in a housing external to the digital imager. If the digital imager 230 is linked to the processing engine 220, the processing engine 220 can be located in a separate control room.

[0034] In some embodiments, digital imager 230 can be configured to be connected to imaging peripheral 240 via analog and / or digital link 214. Imaging peripheral 240 can be further connected to an imaging catheter and a separate catheter control. The imaging catheter can be inserted into the patient during the data acquisition procedure. The imaging catheter can be controlled by imaging peripheral 240 and / or a separate catheter control. The imaging catheter obtains image data from the patient's blood vessels. The image data can be transmitted through imaging peripheral 240 via link 214 to digital imager 230. The image data can be transmitted from the imaging catheter as an analog signal.

[0035] Digital imager 230 can house components for receiving and converting analog image data transmitted from the imaging catheter. The analog signals can be received by analog imager 211. The analog signals can be transmitted to digitizer 212 within the housing of digital imager 230.

[0036] The digitizer 212 can digitize the analog signal within the digital imager. The digitizer 212 can sample the analog signal and convert it to a digital signal. In one example, the digitizer 212 can be configured to perform a fast Fourier transform (FFT) on the OCT image data and / or ultrasound image data using a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processing (DSP) chip, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other digital logic elements. Additional signal processing functions, such as logarithmic scale compression and digital filtering, can also be incorporated into the digitizer to reduce the burden on the processing engine. In another example, the digitized signal can be sent to the processing engine 220 without conversion. The size of the digital imager can range from 15 inches long to 8 inches deep to 12 inches wide. The size of this digitizer allows the digital imager to be compact, one advantage of which is that it allows for portability, facilitating easy interchangeability within a patient treatment environment.

[0037] The digitized data may be further processed by controller 213. The controller may be configured to convert the digital image signals into a format compatible with a high-speed communication connection, such as communication link 215. The formatted image data is transmitted over communication link 215 to communication controller 216 of remote processing engine 220. Due to the high-speed digital communication, the image data does not need to be compressed prior to transmission to processing engine 220.

[0038] In some examples, communication link 215 may use Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or Thunderbolt protocols, hi some examples, communication link 215 may enable high-speed serial communication between digital imager 230 and processing engine 220.

[0039] Communications controller 216 may be housed within processing engine 220. The communications controller may be configured to receive formatted digitized data from communications link 215. The communications controller may be further configured to convert the digitized signals into any of the appropriate protocols for transmission. In addition, the communications controller may control the flow of power to digital imager 230 from other components of the modular system, such as hub 150 or hub extender 151 (FIG. 1) or processing engine 220. The communications controller may also send and receive other signals to and from processing engine 220, such as control and video information for analog imager 211, imaging peripheral 240, in addition to the output from digitizer 212, as described further below.

[0040] In conventional systems, the processing engine and imager must reside in the same housing due to the difficulty of transmitting low-level analog signals over long distances without losing signal strength or distorting the data. Image acquisition tools generate large amounts of image data, such as at speeds of 10 Gbps or more per second. This data rate typically requires that the analog image data be sent to the processing engine and digitized within the processing engine. Digitization within the processing engine forces the processing engine and digital imager to be co-located. Therefore, the processing engine must remain within the patient treatment room, or the analog imager signal must travel a long distance to reach the processing engine located outside the patient treatment room. In the example described above, the digital imager 230 communicates with the processing engine 220 in real time through a digital communication link, and digitization of the image data or image signals occurs within the digital imager prior to transfer to the processing engine. Digitizing the image data within the digital imager allows the processing engine to be located remotely, reducing clutter in the treatment room.

[0041] 3A-3C illustrate an example in which a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 300 can include a processing engine 320, a digital imaging engine 330, an imaging peripheral 340, and a hub 350. Such modular components can be used with an imaging catheter 311 or the like to acquire data from a patient 321. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 371, a first link 314 between the imaging peripheral 340 and the digital imaging engine 330, a second link 315 between the hub 350 and the remote processing engine 320, a sterile environment user interface 381, a network system 316, an angiography system 317, light indicators 361-363, etc. The system 300 of FIG. 3B is configured to enable similar remote and proximal positioning of different system components, as otherwise described herein in different embodiments. When configured as a system, the processing engine 320, the angiography system 317, and the network system 316 may be located in separate control rooms.

[0042] 3B, the imaging peripheral 340 can be mounted to a patient support 371 or other location using a holster 380. The patient support 371 may include a bed, operating table, or other equipment suitable for positioning a patient during a data collection procedure.

[0043] The processing engine 320, digital imaging engine 330, imaging peripherals 340, hub 350, etc. may be compared to similar components described above in connection with FIGS.

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C , system 300 has various features related to the positioning of various components relative to patient 321 during the data acquisition procedure. Given that patient 321 may be on support 371 during the data acquisition procedure, support 371 may serve as a frame of reference. In this example, the patient treatment environment may be divided into a sterile field and a non-sterile field. Patient 321 may sit or lie on a portion of support 371 in the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The data acquisition procedure may be performed largely within the sterile field. Additionally, imaging catheter 311 and sterile environment user interface 381 may also be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. In some other examples, sterile environment user interface 381 may be located in the non-sterile field. During the data acquisition procedure, imaging catheter 311 may be inserted into patient 321. Imaging catheter 311 may be connected to imaging peripherals 340 and / or a separate catheter control unit. During this procedure, as depicted in FIG. 3A, the imaging peripheral 340 can be removed from the holster 380 and brought into the sterile environment of the patient treatment environment for connection to the imaging tool.

[0045] The processing engine 320 and the angiography system 317 may be located outside the patient treatment environment. The processing engine 320 may be connected to a hospital network 316. The hospital network 316 may include one or more data exchange connections, which may be wired, optical, wireless, etc. Various network topologies, cabling configurations, and data routing techniques may be used to facilitate operation of the modular system. The hospital network 316 may be configured to interconnect computing systems to enable the exchange of data between authorized physicians, such as reviewing patient files, transmitting patient images for second opinions, etc.

[0046] The processing engine 320 is connected to the angiography system 317 and can receive data from the angiography system 317 without requiring a remote power source near the angiography system. Although these connections are depicted as wired connections, the connections can also be wireless. The processing engine 320 can remain connected to a power source.

[0047] The sterile environment user interface 381 can be directly or indirectly connected to the processing engine 320, such as by one or more communication links and other components. In the illustrated example, the sterile environment user interface 381 is directly connected to the hub 350, which is further connected to the processing engine 320. The communication link can be a high-bandwidth connection, such as an optical connection, a copper connection, or any other type of connection. Input / output devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, can provide an interface for an operator to input commands to the image acquisition tool, the processing engine 320, or other components of the modular system. For example, a physician in the sterile environment may manipulate input controls on the sterile environment user interface 381 to adjust data acquisition parameters, adjust patient parameters, execute workflow steps, etc. The physician may observe output from the sterile environment user interface 381, such as audible or visual cues, image data, etc., that guide the image acquisition workflow. The sterile environment user interface 381 is illustrated as a hand-operated manual input device, but may additionally or alternatively include a microphone for receiving voice commands, an image / object recognition unit for recognizing gestures, a display or speaker for outputting information, etc.

[0048] Although only the sterile environment user interface 381 is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, it should be understood that other types of user interfaces can be included in the modular system. For example, the modular system can be configured with two or three user interfaces for use by two or three separate users. In some examples, a physician may be located within the sterile field of a patient treatment room. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the physician may use the sterile environment user interface 381 within the sterile field of the patient treatment room to control an intravascular imaging tool. In addition, there may be at least one technician who can use at least one remote user interface. For example, there may be a technician using a remote user interface connected to a processing engine or an angiography system. The remote user interface may be located in a separate room along with the processing engine and angiography system. As another example, there may be a technician in a patient treatment room using a cart user interface connected to a digital imager and / or imaging peripherals. The cart user interface may be docked on a mobile cart. Each user interface can include any one or more of various types of input / output devices, such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, touch screen, joystick, etc. The user interfaces can communicate with each other. In addition, the user interfaces can display the same images and information to different users, or each user interface can display different information, such as different images, different input options, etc.

[0049] The hub 350, digital imager 330, and imaging peripherals 340 can be outside the sterile field. The hub 350 and digital imager 330 can be positioned under a support. The hub 350 is connected to the processing engine 320 via a communication and power link 315. The link 315 can be routed outside the patient treatment environment through the treatment room floor, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C. The link 315 can transmit data and power signals between the processing engine 320 and the hub 350. The hub 350 is configured to transmit data and power signals to other components of the modular image acquisition and processing system 300, such that the processing engine 320 can transmit power signals to components within the patient treatment environment between data acquisition procedures. This nearly constant power signal allows the operator to quickly prepare the system 300 for use without having to power on between procedures. As depicted in FIG. 3C , hub 350 can be connected to a secondary hub 351 outside the processing environment through link 315. In some examples, additional processing can occur at secondary hub 351. In some examples, secondary hub 351 can be connected to the processing engine through a separate link other than link 315. Secondary hub 351 can be used to connect modular components to processing engine 320. In some examples, secondary hub 351 can be utilized when processing engine 320 is in a remote closet. For example, secondary hub 351 can be used to connect a remote user interface, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc., to the processing engine.

[0050] To more efficiently set up the catheterization lab, in one embodiment, the digital imager 330 can be integrated into a hub 350 located below the support 371. The integrated digital imager 330 and hub 350 reduce clutter in the patient treatment environment. Additionally, a single link 314 can route analog and digital data and power signals between the digital imager 330 and the imaging peripheral 340. In one embodiment, the imaging peripheral 340 can be placed on the support 371 by a holster 380 when not in use, as shown in FIG. 3B . In another example, the imaging peripheral 340 can be connected to the holster 380 while still connected to the imaging catheter. The imaging peripheral 340 is connected to the holster 380 by a mechanical fit. For example, the holster 380 can form a receptacle sized and shaped to accommodate the housing for the imaging peripheral 340, such that the imaging peripheral 340 can be inserted into the holster 380 and retained therein until removed to perform a procedure. Engaging the imaging peripheral with the holster can be aided by the use of a mounting mechanism such as a magnet, an interlocking mechanical feature, or a sliding rail system. For example, one or more magnets having a first polarity can be secured to an inner surface of the holster, and one or more corresponding magnets having an opposite polarity can be secured to an outer surface of the imaging peripheral, such that the magnets on the imaging peripheral engage with the magnets on the holster to help hold the imaging peripheral in place within the holster. In another example, the holster can have a groove, and the housing of the imaging peripheral can have a retractable arm that engages with the groove when placed in the holster. In yet another example, the holster can have a track, and the imaging peripheral can have a rail configured to slide into the track.

[0051] Connecting the imaging peripheral to the digital imager using a single link 314 allows the user to quickly set up the imaging peripheral 340 without having to connect multiple additional cables. This therefore provides a quick and reliable connection, shortening setup time and reducing the chance of communication errors. The holster 380 provides for secure and precise placement of the imaging peripheral, thereby saving space in the procedure environment and reducing the chance of damage to the peripheral.

[0052] The modular components may also have light indicators 361-363 on them. The light indicators 361-363 may communicate the status of each component to a user so that the user can quickly and efficiently identify the status of each component and troubleshoot any problems. Although light indicators 361-363 are depicted on hub 350, digital imager 330, and imaging peripheral 340, all components of modular imaging acquisition and processing system 300 may have individual light indicators. Furthermore, while light indicators are depicted in this example, other types of indicators may be used in other examples. For example, such other indicators may provide audible feedback or tactile feedback, such as vibration.

[0053] 4A-4C, a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 400 can include a processing engine 420, a digital imaging engine 430, a holster 480, an imaging peripheral 440, and a hub 450. Such modular components can be used with an imaging catheter 411. The imaging peripheral 440 is removed from the holster 480 and placed in a sterile field to guide the catheter into the body and acquire data from a patient 421. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 471, a first link 414, a second link 415, a sterile environment user interface 481, a network system 416, an angiography system 417, and light indicators 461-463. The system 400 of FIGS. 4A-4C is configured to enable similar remote and proximal positioning of different system components, as otherwise described herein in different embodiments. When configured as a system, the processing engine 420, the angiography system 417, and the network system 416 may be located in separate control rooms.

[0054] 4B is another depiction of a modular image acquisition and processing system 400 similar to that shown in FIG. 4A. As shown, in some examples, the modular image acquisition and processing system 400 can include a sterile environment user interface 481, a digital imaging engine 430, imaging peripherals 440, a hub 450, and a holster 480. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 471, a first link 414, a second link 415, and light indicator(s) 461.

[0055] As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C , system 400 has various features related to the positioning of various components relative to patient 421 during a procedure. Given that patient 421 may be on support 471 during a data collection procedure, support 471 may serve as a frame of reference. In this example, the patient treatment environment may be divided into a sterile field and a non-sterile field. Patient 421 may be on a portion of support 471 that is in the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The data collection procedure may be performed largely within the sterile field. In addition, imaging catheter 411, imaging peripheral 440, and sterile environment user interface 481 may also be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. Alternatively, sterile environment user interface 481 may be located in the non-sterile field. During a data collection procedure, imaging catheter 411 may be inserted into patient 421. Imaging catheter 411 may be connected to imaging peripheral 440. In this example, imaging peripheral 440 is removed from holster 480, brought into the sterile field of the patient treatment environment, and connected to imaging catheter 411. In another example, imaging peripheral 440 may remain connected to imaging catheter 411 and secured to holster 480. Imaging peripheral 440 may include an input interface that communicates with, for example, a motor, a rotation mechanism, a retraction mechanism, a manipulation mechanism, or other mechanism for moving the catheter through a vessel. Such an interface may include manual controls and / or digital controls. In some examples, imaging peripheral 440 may include functionality for operating the imaging probe and / or for preparing the vessel for imaging. By way of example only, such functionality may include a beam splitter, a purge port, an optical switch, an electrical receiver, etc.

[0056] The modular system can be configured with multiple user interfaces for use by multiple users. For example, the modular system can be configured with two or three user interfaces for use by two or three separate users. In some examples, a physician may be located within the sterile field of a patient treatment room. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the physician may use a sterile environment user interface 481 within the sterile field of the patient treatment room to control an intravascular imaging tool. In addition, as depicted in FIG. 4C, there may be at least one technician who can use at least one remote user interface 410. For example, the technician may use a remote user interface 410 connected to a processing engine 420 or an angiography system 417. The remote user interface 410 may be located in a separate room along with the processing engine and the angiography system. As another example, a technician may be located in a patient treatment room using a cart user interface connected to a digital imager and / or imaging peripherals. The cart user interface may be docked on a mobile cart. Each user interface can include any one or more of various types of input / output devices, such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, touch screen, joystick, etc. The user interfaces can be communicatively connected to one another. The user interfaces can display the same images and information to different users, or each user interface can display different information, such as different images, different input options, etc.

[0057] The processing engine 420 and the angiography system 417 can be located outside the procedure room environment. The processing engine 420 can be connected to the angiography system and can send both data and power signals to the angiography system 417. The processing engine 420 can be connected to a network system 416. The hospital network 416 can include one or more data exchange connections, which can be wired, optical, wireless, etc. Various network topologies, cabling configurations, and data routing techniques can be used to facilitate the operation of the modular system. The hospital network 416 can be configured to interconnect computing systems to enable the exchange of data between authorized physicians for reviewing patient files, transmitting patient images for second opinions, etc. The processing engine 420 can be connected to the angiography system 417 and receive data from the angiography system 417 without requiring a remote power source near the angiography equipment. While these connections are depicted as wired connections, the connections can also be wireless. The processing engine 420 can remain connected to a power source.

[0058] Control signals from the processing engine may be sent to a remote user interface over a communications link 415, such as an optical link. Input / output devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, may provide an interface for an operator to enter commands to the processing engine 420.

[0059] The sterile environment user interface 481 can be directly or indirectly connected to the processing engine 420, such as by one or more communication links and other components. In the illustrated example, the sterile environment user interface is directly connected to the hub 450, which is further connected to the processing engine 420. The communication link can be, for example, a high-bandwidth connection such as an optical link, or any other type of connection. Input / output devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor can provide an interface for an operator to input commands to the image acquisition tool, the processing engine 420, or other components of the modular system. For example, a physician in the sterile environment may manipulate input controls on the sterile environment user interface 481 to adjust data acquisition parameters, adjust patient parameters, execute workflow steps, etc. The physician can observe output from the sterile environment user interface 481, such as audible or visual cues, image data, etc., that guide the image acquisition workflow. The sterile environment user interface 481 is illustrated as a hand-operated manual input device, but may additionally or alternatively include a microphone for receiving voice commands, an image / object recognition unit for recognizing gestures, a display or speaker for outputting information, etc.

[0060] The hub 450, digital imager 430, and imaging peripheral 440 can be outside the sterile field. As described above, the imaging peripheral 440 can be moved into the sterile field when a procedure is performed. The hub 450 and digital imager 430 can be positioned under a support. The hub 450 is connected to the processing engine 420 via a link 415. The link 415 can be routed outside the patient treatment environment through the treatment room floor, as shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C. The link 415 can transmit data and power signals between the processing engine 420 and the hub 450. The hub 450 is configured to transmit data and power signals to other components of the modular imaging acquisition and processing system 400 so that the processing engine 420 can transmit power signals to components within the patient treatment environment between data acquisition procedures. This nearly constant power signal allows a user to quickly prepare the system 400 for use without having to power it on between procedures.

[0061] To more efficiently set up the catheterization lab, in one embodiment, the digital imager 430 can be integrated with the imaging peripheral 440 on the support 471. The integrated digital imager 430 and imaging peripheral 440 reduces clutter in the patient treatment environment. Additionally, a single link 414 can route data and power signals between the digital imager 430 and the imaging peripheral 440. In one embodiment, the imaging peripheral 440 and the digital imager 430 can be located on the support 471 by a holster 480. In another example, the holster 480 can be located below the support 471. In yet another example, the holster 480 can be located at a location remote from the support 471, such as next to the support 471, on an IV pole 472, on a wall of the patient treatment environment, on a boom monitor within the patient treatment environment, or elsewhere in the patient treatment room.

[0062] The imaging peripheral 440 can engage with the holster 480 through a mechanical fit. For example, the holster 480 can form a receptacle sized and shaped to correspond to a housing for the imaging peripheral 440 such that the imaging peripheral 440 can be inserted into the holster 480 and retained therein until removed. According to some examples, electronic ports within the holster 480 can be used to communicatively connect the imaging peripheral 440 to other components of the system, such as the digital imager 430, the hub 450, etc. For example, a port on the holster 480 can engage with a port on the housing of the imaging peripheral 440 when the imaging peripheral 440 is inserted into the holster 480. The interconnection of such ports can establish an electrical connection capable of transmitting power and / or data between the components. The holster 480 can be connected to additional components, such as through ports, cables, or other electrical connections, thereby establishing a connection between the imaging peripheral 440 and such additional components. Engaging the imaging peripheral with the holster can be aided by the use of a mounting mechanism, such as a magnet, interlocking mechanical features, or a sliding rail system. For example, there can be a magnet with one polarity on the holster and a magnet with the opposite polarity on the imaging peripheral. In another example, the holster can have a groove, and the imaging peripheral can have a retractable arm that engages with the groove when placed in the holster. In yet another example, the holster can have tracks, and the imaging peripheral can have a rail configured to slide into the tracks. This process allows a user to quickly set up the imaging peripheral 440 and digital imager without having to connect multiple additional cables. Additionally, the holster 480 facilitates proper placement, allowing the user to spend less time orienting the imaging peripheral 440. In some examples, when not in use, the imaging peripheral 440 can be secured in the holster 480, as depicted in FIGS. 4B and 4C .During this procedure, the imaging peripheral 440 can be removed from the holster 480 and connected to the imaging tool in a sterile environment, as depicted in FIG. 4A.

[0063] The modular components may include one or more indicators, such as light indicators 461-463. The light indicators 461-463 may communicate the status of the components to a user so that the user can quickly and efficiently identify the status of each component and troubleshoot any problems. Although light indicators 461-463 are depicted on the hub 450, the digital imager 430, and the imaging peripheral 440, all components of the modular imaging acquisition and processing system 400 may be provided with individual light indicators. Furthermore, while light indicators are depicted in this example, other types of indicators may be used in other examples. For example, such other indicators may provide audible feedback, tactile feedback such as vibration, or the like.

[0064] 5A , in one example, a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 500 can include a processing engine 520, a digital imaging engine 530, an imaging peripheral 540, and a hub 550. Such modular components can be used with an imaging catheter 511 and imaging peripheral 540 to acquire data from a patient 521. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 571, a first link 515, a second link 516, at least one light indicator 561, a network system 516, an angiography system 517, the imaging catheter 511, the imaging peripheral 540, a boom monitor 590, sterile environment user interfaces 581 and 582, a cart user interface 583, and a patient 521. The system 500 of FIG. 5 is configured to enable similar remote and proximal positioning of different system components as otherwise described herein in different embodiments. When configured as a system, the processing engine 520, the angiography system 517, and the network system 516 may be located in separate control rooms.

[0065] 5B is another depiction of a modular image acquisition and processing system 500 similar to that shown in FIG. 5A. As shown, in some examples, the modular image acquisition and processing system 500 can include a remote user interface unit 510, a digital imaging engine 530, imaging peripherals 540, a hub 550, a hub extender 551, and a holster 580. The modular system can be located relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 571, a first link 515, at least one light indicator 561, a boom monitor 590, a sterile environment user interface 581, and a cart user interface 583. The processing engine 520 and the remote user interface 510 can be in separate rooms separated by a structure, such as a wall 522.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, system 500 has various features related to the positioning of various components relative to patient 521 during a procedure. Given that patient 521 may be on support 571 during a data acquisition procedure, support 571 may serve as a frame of reference. In this example, the patient treatment environment may be divided into a sterile field and a non-sterile field by a dividing structure, such as wall 522. Patient 521 may be on the portion of support 571 that is in the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The data acquisition procedure may be performed largely within the sterile field. Imaging catheter 511, imaging peripheral 540, user interface modules 581 and 582, and hub 550 may also be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. Alternatively, sterile environment user interface modules 581 and 582 and hub 550 may be located in the non-sterile field. During the data acquisition procedure, imaging catheter 511 may be inserted into patient 521. The imaging catheter 511 can be connected to imaging peripheral 540, which can include a catheter control unit. During the procedure, the imaging peripheral can remain connected to the imaging catheter 511 and remain on the cart 584. In another example, the imaging peripheral 540 can be moved into a sterile field of the patient treatment environment and connected to the imaging catheter 511. In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 5B , the imaging peripheral 540 can be separated into multiple housings, with some of the imaging peripheral being moved into the sterile field and connected to the imaging catheter 511, and the remainder of the imaging peripheral remaining on the cart 584.

[0067] The processing engine 520 and the angiography system 517 can be located outside the patient treatment environment. The processing engine 520 can be connected to the angiography system and receive data signals from the angiography system 517 without requiring a remote power source near the angiography device. The processing engine 520 can be connected to a network system 516. The hospital network 516 can include one or more data exchange connections, which can be wired, optical, wireless, etc. The hospital network 516 can be configured to interconnect computing systems to enable data exchange between authorized physicians for review of patient files, transmission of patient images for second opinions, etc. The processing engine 520 can be electrically and / or communicatively connected to the angiography system 517. According to some examples, the processing engine 520 can send data and / or power signals to the angiography system 517. While these connections are depicted as wired connections, the connections can also be wireless. For example, the connection may be established through a wireless local area network or other type of network using WiFi, Bluetooth, ultra-wideband, or any other type of wireless communication technology. The processing engine 520 may remain connected to a power source.

[0068] Control signals from the processing engine are sent over a communications link, such as an optical link, to a remote user interface 510. Input / output devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, may provide an interface for an operator to enter commands to the processing engine 520.

[0069] The modular system can be configured with multiple user interfaces for use by multiple users. For example, the modular system can be configured with two or three user interfaces for use by two or three separate users. In some examples, a physician may be located within the sterile field of a patient treatment room. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the physician may use sterile environment user interface 581 or 582 within the sterile field of the patient treatment room to control an intravascular imaging tool. The sterile environment user interface may send signals to a boom monitor 590 within the sterile field of the patient treatment room. In addition, there may be at least one technician who may use at least one other user interface. For example, there may be a technician using remote user interface 510 connected to processing engine 520 or angiography system 517. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, remote user interface 510 may be located in a separate room along with processing engine 520 and angiography system 517. As another example, a technician may be in a patient treatment room using a cart user interface 583 connected to a digital imager 530 and / or imaging peripheral device 540. The cart user interface may be docked on a mobile cart 584. Additionally, the cart user interface 583 may share a link that transmits serial communications between the digital imager 530 and / or imaging peripheral device 540. Each user interface device may include any one or more of various types of input / output devices, such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, joystick, etc. The user interfaces may be communicatively connected to each other. The user interfaces may display the same images and information to different users, or each user interface may display different information, such as different images, different input options, etc.

[0070] The digital imager 530, cart user interface 583, and imaging peripherals 540 can be outside the sterile field. The digital imager 530, cart user interface 583, and imaging peripherals 540 can be located on a mobile device, such as a cart 584, that can be quickly swapped between various catheterization labs. The cart user interface can communicate with the processing engine through the same controller that interfaces with the digitizer. The cart 584 can remain outside the sterile field of the patient treatment environment and can connect to other components of the modular system 500 via a removable connection to the hub 550. The hub 550 can be located on or below the support 571. The hub 550 can be permanently fixed to the support 571. In some examples, the hub 550 can be removably mounted on the support 571, below the support 571, or anywhere else in the patient treatment environment. The hub 550 can be connected to the hub mount by a mechanical fit. For example, the hub mount can form a receptacle sized and shaped to correspond to the housing for the hub 550 so that the hub 550 can be inserted into the hub mount and retained therein until removed. Additionally, the docking process can be aided by the use of mounting mechanisms such as magnets, interlocking mechanical features, or sliding rail systems. For example, there can be a magnet with one polarity on the hub mount and a magnet with the opposite polarity on the hub. In another example, the hub mount can have a groove, and the hub can have a retractable arm that engages with the groove when placed in the hub mount. In yet another example, the hub mount can have a track, and the hub can have a rail configured to slide into the track.

[0071] Hub 550 can have one or more connection ports, such as a first connection port, a second connection port, and a third connection port. Hub 550 is configured to transmit data and power signals to other components of modular image acquisition and processing system 500 so that processing engine 520 can transmit power signals to components in the patient treatment environment between and during data acquisition procedures. This substantially constant power signal allows a user to quickly prepare system 500 for use without having to power it on between procedures. Additionally, hub 550 can be configured to accept a single link 593 from a mobile device through the third connection port. Link 593 can transmit data and power between hub 550 and digital imager 530 and imaging peripheral device 540.

[0072] Hub 550 can be communicatively connected to processing engine 520 at a first connection port via links 515 and 516. Link 515 can transmit data signals between processing engine 520 and hub 550. Link 516 can transmit power between processing engine 520 and hub 550. Hub 550 can maintain a persistent connection with processing engine 520 at the first connection port, such that power signals can be transmitted to hub 550 through the persistent connection of link 516 between and during treatments. Hub 550 can be communicatively connected to sterile environment user interfaces 581 and 582 through second connection ports. Sterile environment user interfaces 581 and 582 can transmit data input signals to other components of the modular system, such as processing engine 520, digital imager 530, and imaging peripherals 540, through the second connection ports of hub 550. The hub can maintain a persistent power connection between the sterile environment user interfaces 581 and 582 and the hub 550 through the second connection port, thereby transmitting power signals through the hub to the sterile environment user interfaces 581 and 582 between data acquisition procedures. Alternatively, links 515 and 516 can be transmitted through one or more cables between the processing engine 520 and the hub. According to another example, a hub extender can be used to establish a connection between the hub 550 and the digital imager 530 and imaging peripherals 540. According to a further example, the hub extender can be used in place of the hub 550. For example, the hub extender can have a fixed connection to the processing engine 520, such that the hub extender completes the connection between the processing engine 520 and the imaging peripherals 540 and the digital imager 530 when a plug and a socket on the hub extender are engaged.

[0073] Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the hub 550 can be connected to a hub extender 551. In this configuration, the hub 550 is connected to a remote processing engine, and another connection method links the hub to a separate housing. The separate housing can be the hub extender 551. The hub extender can have a socket configured to receive a plug from the digital imager 530 inserted into the socket. Both power and data signals are transmitted between the digital imager 530 and the hub extender 551, as described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 9A and 9B. The hub extender 551 allows the hub 550 to be located remotely from the digital imager 530 and imaging peripherals 540, creating a more organized patient treatment environment. The hub extender 551 can also be connected directly to the processing engine 520 without the need for the hub 550.

[0074] There may also be light indicators 561 on the hub 550 and / or hub extender 551. The light indicators 561 may communicate the status of each component to a user so that the user can quickly and efficiently identify the status of each component and troubleshoot any problems. Although the light indicators 561 are depicted on the hub 550, all components of the modular image acquisition and processing system 500 may be individually equipped with light indicators.

[0075] Traditionally, imaging peripherals and processing engines can be packaged in the form of a mobile cart that can be transported from one procedure room to another within a hospital as the need arises. In this traditional configuration, numerous connections are made to the cart prior to the imaging procedure. The cart must be plugged into a power source within the procedure room. The cart must be connected to the hospital network to import patient-specific data, such as the patient's name, attending physician, and other parameters necessary to uniquely identify the procedure. The cart must be connected to an angiography system to correlate results from the intravascular imaging procedure with simultaneously captured angiography images. Using the current configuration, the mobile cart is not within the sterile field of the procedure room; therefore, the cart must be attached to a user interface device, such as a joystick and / or touch screen, to allow the user to control the imaging tools. Thus, when a mobile imaging cart is brought into a procedure room to perform an intravascular diagnostic procedure, the technician must spend time independently connecting the cart to a power outlet, an angiography video feed, the hospital LAN, a bed monitor, and any user interface devices in use. This is a time-consuming task that can lead to delays and errors. Specifically, after the system is delivered, the cart must be plugged into a power outlet, and the technician must wait until the system is powered on before they can begin setting up the system for the procedure. This results in a delay of several minutes before the procedure can begin. Furthermore, power outlets are often difficult to access in the procedure room and may be located far from the procedure table, creating a tripping hazard for procedure room personnel. Additionally, connections to the angiography machine, boom monitor, hospital network, and user interface devices all require separate cables and demand attention to detail. In the pressure to speed up the procedure, technicians often forget to make connections, resulting in further delays while the system attempts to diagnose the problem.

[0076] The exemplary modular system described herein offers advantages over conventional mobile cart configurations because it facilitates seamless connectivity and expedites pre-treatment setup, thereby reducing the time from entering the treatment room until the system is ready for treatment. For example, the system described in the example of FIG. 5 may incorporate a compact, rugged connection system, such as a hub or hub extender, that is conveniently installed within the treatment room. The connection system can be located at the edge of the bed or elsewhere in the treatment environment. In this configuration, the imaging mobile cart can be connected to the entire modular system upon being brought into the treatment room by inserting a single cable into the connection system. This connection system carries both power and data communication between components. Thus, the connection of the connection system allows the imaging engine to be ready for use within seconds. Furthermore, it enables reliable connection of the digital imager and peripherals with the rest of the modular system, reducing the possibility of errors or failures due to improper connections. The hub and / or hub extender can maintain a continuous connection to power through the processing engine, thereby reducing the time required to start up the modular system. This persistent connection can be useful in emergency situations where time and space are limited in the patient treatment room, and also provides a more reliable connection because the persistent connection can be maintained between treatments, thereby reducing the likelihood of misconnection or mishandling of the connection.

[0077] 6, in one example, a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 600 can include a processing engine 620, a digital imaging engine 630, and imaging peripherals 640. In some configurations, the hub can be internal to the processing engine 620. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 671, a first link 615, imaging peripherals 640, a boom monitor 690, a cart user interface 681, and a cart monitor 683. The system 600 of FIG. 6 is configured to allow for similar remote and proximal positioning of the different system components, as otherwise described herein in different embodiments.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 6 , system 600 can include a cart 684 equipped with a processing engine 620, a hub, a digital imaging engine 630, a cart user interface 681, a cart monitor 683, and a holster 680. Holster 680 can be configured to receive imaging peripherals 640, similar to the holster described with respect to FIG. 5B . One advantage of a fully portable approach such as that shown in FIG. 6 is that it allows a user to perform OCT cases in a treatment room where the OCT components are not installed. In some examples, cart 684 and all components can be communicatively connected to a treatment room via support interface 673. The support interface can connect the components on cart 684, including processing engine 620, a hub, a digital imaging engine 630, a cart user interface 681, a cart monitor 683, and holster 680. Support interface 673 can send and receive signals between the connected components and the treatment room. In some examples, additional processing can be performed in support interface 673. In the described modular system, where the processing engines can be disposed on a cart, as depicted in FIG. 6, a remote processing room may not be required.

[0079] 7, in yet another example, a modular imaging acquisition and processing system 700 can include a processing engine 720, a digital imaging engine 730, a holster 780, and imaging peripherals 740. The modular system can be positioned relative to other components in a patient treatment environment, such as a support 771, a sterile environment user interface 781, a link 715, and a remote user interface 710. The system 700 of FIG. 7 is configured to allow for similar remote and proximal positioning of different system components as otherwise described herein in different embodiments. When configured as a system, the processing engine 720 and the remote user interface 710 can be located in separate control rooms and connected to the patient treatment environment through link 715.

[0080] As depicted in FIG. 7 , the digital imaging engine 730, holster 780, and imaging peripherals 740 can be located remotely from the patient support 771. In some examples, the digital imaging engine 730, holster 780, and imaging peripherals 740 can be connected to the rest of the system 700 via a ceiling-mounted arm 772. In some embodiments, the ceiling-mounted arm can include wired connections within the arm that facilitate connecting the imaging engine 730 and imaging peripherals 740 to the system 700. By hiding the wires and cords that facilitate connecting the imaging engine 730 and imaging peripherals 740 to the modular components of the system 700, clutter in the patient treatment environment is reduced. In some embodiments, the imaging engine 730 and imaging peripherals can be connected to the modular components of the system 700 via wireless connections.

[0081] In some examples, a hub may be mounted on arm 772. The hub may enable connections between the mounted component and components inside or outside the treatment room. For example, the hub may enable connections between the digital imaging engine 730 and imaging peripherals 740 and components inside the treatment room, such as the sterile environment user interface 781. In addition, the hub may enable connections between the digital imaging engine 730 and imaging peripherals 740 and components outside the treatment room, such as the processing engine 720.

[0082] 8 , in one embodiment, hub 850 can include controller 851, lighting control module 852, at least one indicator 864, first input 853, and second input 854. Hub 850 can have a single housing that houses controller 851, lighting control module 852, at least one indicator 864, first input 853, and second input 854. The hub can be connected to digital imager 830. Digital imager 830 can be connected to imaging peripheral 840. Digital imager 830 can be connected to imaging peripheral 840 by link 814. Alternatively, digital imager 830 can be connected to imaging peripheral 840 by a wired or wireless connection. Additionally, in some embodiments, hub 850 can be connected to user interface modules 881 and 882.

[0083] Hub 850 is configured to facilitate efficient connection between digital imager 830 and imaging peripherals 840. Hub 850 is connected to a remote processing engine via links 815 and 816. Link 815 can transmit data signals between processing engine 820 and hub 850. Link 816 can transmit power signals between processing engine 820 and hub 850. Between procedures and between procedures, link 816 can allow power signals to be transmitted to hub 850 between data acquisition procedures. Alternatively, links 815 and 816 can be transmitted through one or more cables between processing engine 820 and hub 850.

[0084] Hub 850 and digital imager 830 may be connected through a data interface 853 and a power switch 854. Data interface 853 transmits data signals between digital imager 830 and hub 850. Power switch 854 transmits power signals between digital imager 830 and hub 850. Alternatively, in some examples, the connection between digital imager 830 and hub 850 may be through a single cable.

[0085] Hub 850 houses power control 855, which can detect connection to digital imager 830 and activate power switch 854, or vice versa. Power control 855 can prevent the routing of power signals to power switch 854 when not in use, so that no current flows through power switch 854 when no plug is inserted into power switch 854. This feature provides an additional safety precaution by preventing power surges and sparks.

[0086] Hub 850 remains connected to the remote processing engine via data link 815. For example, link 815 may establish a persistent connection between hub 850 and the remote processing engine, preventing link 815 from being disconnected between procedures. Hub 850 houses a communications controller 851 that can transfer signals received from the remote processing engine and digital imager 830.

[0087] Hub 850 can be connected to user interface modules 881 and 882 via a wired connection. The wired connection can be USB, Thunderbolt, or other cables for power and data transmission known in the art. Hub 850 receives commands and data from user interface modules 881 and 882 and then routes the data through a communications controller to other components of the modular system via a processing engine or digital imager 830. A user interface module can be any data input device, such as a touchscreen, joystick, control panel, monitor with keyboard or mouse, etc. Alternatively, in some examples, there can be one or more user interface modules through which a user inputs commands into the modular system.

[0088] In another example, there may be a hub extender between hub 850 and digital imager 830. The hub extender may facilitate serial communication between digital imager 830 and the processing engine.

[0089] Alternatively, in some examples, hub 850 may not be present, and the components of hub 850 as described in FIG. 8 may be housed and connected within a hub extender. For example, hub extender may include controller 851, lighting control module 852, at least one indicator 884, first input 853, and second input 854. The hub extender may have a single housing that houses controller 851, lighting control module 852, at least one indicator 884, first input 853, and second input 854. The hub extender may be connected to digital imager 830. Digital imager 830 may be connected to imaging peripheral 840. Digital imager 830 may be connected to imaging peripheral 840 by link 814. Alternatively, digital imager 830 may be connected to imaging peripheral 840 by a wired or wireless connection. Additionally, in some embodiments, a hub extender can be connected to user interface modules 881 and 882. The hub extender is configured to facilitate efficient connection between the digital imager 830 and the imaging peripherals 840. The hub extender is connected to the remote processing engine via links 815 and 816. Link 815 can transmit data signals between the processing engine 820 and the hub extender. Link 816 can transmit power signals between the processing engine 820 and the hub extender. Link 816 can enable power signals to be transmitted to the hub extender during data acquisition procedures. Link 816 can be fixed to the hub extender and also fixed to the remote processing engine 820. This allows for faster preparation of the treatment environment compared to systems that require such connections to be established prior to each treatment.

[0090] The hub extender and digital imager 830 can be connected through a data interface 853 and a power switch 854. The data interface 853 transmits data signals between the digital imager 830 and the hub extender. The power switch 854 transmits power signals between the digital imager 830 and the hub extender. The connection between the digital imager 830 and the hub extender can be established through one or more cables.

[0091] The hub extender can house a power control 855. The power control 855 can detect a connection to the digital imager 830 and activate the power switch 854, or vice versa. The power control 855 can prevent the routing of power signals to the power switch 854 when not in use, so that no current flows through the power switch 854 when no plug is inserted into the power switch 854. This feature provides an additional safety precaution by preventing power surges and sparks.

[0092] The hub extender can remain connected to the remote processing engine via a data link 815. For example, the link 815 can establish a persistent connection between the hub extender and the remote processing engine, preventing the link 815 from being disconnected between procedures. The hub extender can house a communications controller 851 that can forward signals received from the remote processing engine and the digital imager 830.

[0093] The hub extender can connect to the user interface modules 881 and 882 via a wired connection. The wired connection can be a USB, Thunderbolt, or other data transmission cable. The hub extender receives commands and data from the user interface modules 881 and 882 and then routes the data through a communications controller to other components of the modular system via the processing engine or digital imager 830. The user interface module can be any data input device, such as a touchscreen, joystick, control panel, monitor with keyboard or mouse, etc. Alternatively, in some examples, there can be one or more user interface modules through which a user inputs commands into the modular system.

[0094] 9A and 9B , the digital imager can include a plug 960 having a first mating face including a power interface 992 and a data interface 991, and a cable 993 to the digital imaging engine. The system can also include a socket 970 having a second mating face including a power receptacle 995 and a data receptacle 994 configured to mate with the power interface 992 and the data interface 991, and cables 996 and 997 to the processing engine. The socket 970 can be an integral part of a hub. In an alternative example, the socket 970 can be an integral part of a hub extender. When mated together, the plug 960 and the socket 970 form a hub connection system. The hub connection system functions to connect the hub of the modular system to the digital imager and imaging peripherals.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 9A , in some examples, plug 960 can facilitate connection between a digital imager and a hub of the modular system via cable 993. Cable 993 extends from the digital imager. Cable 993 transmits both data and power signals between the digital imager and the hub. Referring to FIG. 9B , in some examples, socket 970 can facilitate connection between a digital imager and a hub of the modular system via cables 996 and 997. In another example, socket 970 can facilitate connection between a digital imager and a hub extender. Cables 996 and 997 can connect the hub to a processing engine. Cables 996 and 997 can transmit data and power signals independently from a remote processing engine. Alternatively, in some examples, data and power signals between a hub and a remote processing engine can be transmitted by one or more cables.

[0096] In some examples, the hub connection system is configured to transmit power signals through a power interface 992. The power interface 992 connects to a socket at a power receptacle 995. Similarly, the hub connection system is configured to transmit data signals through a data interface 991. The data interface 991 connects to a socket at a data receptacle 994. This connection can support Thunderbolt, Ethernet, USB, or other serial communication protocols.

[0097] The plug 960 can have a first mating surface configured to connect to a second mating surface of the socket 970. The mating surface can enable a tight mechanical fit between the plug 960 and the socket 970. For example, the socket 970 can form a receptacle sized and shaped to accommodate the plug 960 so that the plug 960 can be inserted into the socket 970 and retained therein until removed. Additionally, the mating surface can facilitate proper orientation of the power interface 992 with the power receptacle 995 and the data interface 991 with the data receptacle 994. The mechanical fit between the plug and socket can be facilitated by magnets, interlocking mechanical features, or a sliding rail system. For example, there can be a magnet with one polarity on the socket and a magnet with the opposite polarity on the plug. In another example, the socket can have a groove and the plug can have a retractable arm that interlocks with the groove when placed into the socket. In yet another example, the socket can have tracks and the plug can have rails configured to slide into the tracks. Although the faces of the plug 960 and socket 970 are shown as having particular sizes, shapes, and orientations, the connection may be established through first and second mating faces, including interfaces not shown.

[0098] In another example, the hub can be removable. The hub can be secured within a hub mount. The hub can be removably docked to the support, below the support, or anywhere else in the patient treatment environment. The hub can be connected to the hub mount by a mechanical fit. For example, the hub mount can form a receptacle sized and shaped to accommodate the hub so that the hub can be inserted into the hub mount and retained therein until removed. Engagement of the hub mount with the hub can be aided by the use of a mounting mechanism, such as a magnet, interlocking mechanical features, or a sliding rail system. For example, there can be a magnet with one polarity on the hub mount and a magnet with the opposite polarity on the hub. In another example, the hub mount can have a groove, and the hub can have a retractable arm that engages with the groove when placed in the hub mount. In yet another example, the hub mount can have a track, and the hub can have a rail configured to slide within the track.

[0099] In some examples, the hub connection system can be connected to a hub extender, where the hub is separate from the plug and socket described above. In this configuration, the hub is connected to a remote processing engine, and another connection method links the hub to a separate housing. The separate housing can be a hub extender with a socket. A plug from the digital imager is inserted into the socket. As described above, power and data signals are transmitted between the digital imager and the hub through power interface 992 and data interface 991, respectively. The hub extender allows the hub to be located remotely from the digital imager and imaging peripherals. This configuration provides a more organized patient treatment environment.

[0100] In another example, the hub extender can be removable. The hub extender can be secured within the hub mount. The hub extender can be removably attached to the support, below the support, or anywhere else in the patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be connected to the hub mount by a mechanical fit. For example, the hub mount can form a receptacle sized and shaped to accommodate the hub so that the hub can be inserted into the hub mount and retained therein until removed. Engagement of the hub mount and hub extender can be assisted using an arrangement mechanism such as magnets, interlocking mechanical features, a sliding rail system, or the like. For example, there can be a magnet with one polarity on the hub mount and a magnet with the opposite polarity on the hub extender. In another example, the hub mount can have a groove and the hub extender can have a retractable arm that engages with the groove when placed in the hub mount. In yet another example, the hub mount can have a track and the hub extender can have a rail configured to slide within the track.

[0101] While several exemplary configurations have been described above, many other configurations of the modular system are possible. By way of example, the digital imager can be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The digital imager can include a digitizer. The digital imager can be connected to a remote processing engine that resides outside the patient treatment environment. The digital imager can be outside the patient treatment room. The digital imager can be located on a mobile cart. The digital imager can be located on a support. The digital imager can be located on a bed. The digital imager can be located below the support. The digital imager can be located below the bed. The digital imager can be attached to a boom monitor. The digital imager can be in the same housing as imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be in the same housing as at least some of a set of imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be in a separate housing from the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be docked in a holster along with the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be docked separately from the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a user interface. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a monitor. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a touchscreen. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a user interface on a mobile cart. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a patient-side user interface. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a remote user interface. The digital imager can be connected to the modular system with or without a hub.

[0102] The digital imager can be connected to the modular system via a hub. The digital imager can be connected to the hub through a single plug. The digital imager can be connected to the hub through multiple plugs. The digital imager can be connected to the hub through a detachable connection. The digital imager can be connected to the hub through a fixed connection. The hub can be located on a support. The hub can be located on a bed. The hub can be located under the support. The hub can be located under the bed. The hub can be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The hub can be outside the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The digital imager can be connected to the modular system via a hub extender, which can be used in addition to or instead of the hub. The digital imager can be connected to the hub extender through a single plug. The digital imager can be connected to the hub extender through multiple plugs. The digital imager can be connected to the hub extender through a detachable connection. The digital imager can be connected to the hub extender through a fixed connection. The hub extender can be located on a support. The hub extender can be placed on the bed. The hub extender can be located under the support. The hub extender can be located on the bed. The hub extender can be located under the bed. The hub extender can be located within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be located outside the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. In any of these examples, the digital imager can include a digitizer. The digital imager can be connected to a remote processing engine that is outside the patient treatment environment. The digital imager can be outside the patient treatment room. The digital imager can be located on a mobile cart. The digital imager can be located on the support. The digital imager can be located on the bed. The digital imager can be located under the support. The digital imager can be located under the bed.The digital imager can be attached to the boom monitor. The digital imager can be in the same housing as the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be in the same housing as at least some of the set of imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be in a separate housing from the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be docked in a holster with the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be docked separately from the imaging peripherals. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a user interface. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a monitor. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a touchscreen. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a user interface on a mobile cart. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a patient-side user interface. The digital imager can be communicatively connected to a remote user interface. The digital imager can be connected to the modular system with or without a hub.

[0103] In some configurations, a hub can be used to interconnect components of the modular system, such that some components maintain a fixed connection to the hub and other components can be quickly connected to the hub prior to a procedure. The hub can be on a cart. The hub can be on a support. The hub can be on a bed. The hub can be below the support. The hub can be below the bed. The hub can be within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The hub can be outside the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The hub can be attached to a boom monitor. The hub can have one connection port. The hub can have two connection ports. The hub can have three connection ports. The hub can have four connection ports. The hub can have multiple connection ports. The hub can be connected to a processing engine. The hub can be connected to the processing engine by a detachable connection. The hub can be connected to the processing engine by a fixed connection. The processing engine can be outside the patient treatment environment. The hub can be connected to the processing engine by a detachable connection. The hub can be connected to the processing engine by a fixed connection. The processing engine can be connected to the hub via a single cable. The processing engine can be connected to the hub via two cables. The processing engine can be connected to the hub via multiple plugs. The hub can be connected to a user interface within the sterile field of the patient treatment environment. The hub can be connected to the user interface by a detachable connection. The hub can be connected to the user interface by a fixed connection. The hub can be connected to the user interface via a single cable. The hub can be connected to the user interface via two cables. The hub can be connected to the user interface via multiple cables. The hub can be connected to a digital imager via a single plug. The hub can be connected to a digital imager and imaging peripherals.The hub can connect to a digital imager, imaging peripherals, and a user interface.

[0104] The hub can be connected to a hub extender. The hub extender can include a plug and socket configuration or other configuration with a mating connection. The hub can be connected to a digital imager through a hub extender. The hub can be connected to a hub extender through a fixed connection. The hub can be connected to a hub extender through a detachable connection. The hub extender can be connected to the modular system through a hub. The hub extender can be connected to the modular system without a connection to a hub. The hub extender can be on a mobile cart. The hub extender can be located on a support. The hub extender can be located on a bed. The hub extender can be located under the support. The hub extender can be located under the bed. The hub extender can be within a sterile field of a patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be outside a sterile field of a patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be attached to a boom monitor. The hub extender can have one connection port. The hub extender can have two connection ports. The hub extender can have multiple connection ports. The hub extender can connect the digital imager to the rest of the modular system. The hub extender can connect the digital imager and imaging peripherals to the rest of the modular system. The hub extender can connect the digital imager, imaging peripherals, and user interface to the rest of the modular system.

[0105] The hub extender can also be used without a hub. The hub extender can include a plug and socket configuration or other configuration with a mating connection. One end of the mating connection can connect to a remote processor and the other end of the mating connection can connect to the digital imager. The hub extender can be on a mobile cart. The hub extender can be located on a support. The hub extender can be located on a bed. The hub extender can be located under the support. The hub extender can be located under the bed. The hub extender can be within a sterile field of a patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be outside a sterile field of a patient treatment environment. The hub extender can be attached to a boom monitor. The hub extender can have one connection port. The hub extender can have two connection ports. The hub extender can have multiple connection ports. The hub extender can connect the digital imager to the rest of the modular system. The hub extender can connect the digital imager and imaging peripherals to the rest of the modular system.The hub extender can connect the digital imager, imaging peripherals, and user interface to the rest of the modular system.

[0106] While this disclosure describes a modular data acquisition system with reference to particular examples, it should be understood that these examples are merely illustrative and not limiting. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications can be made to the illustrative embodiments and other configurations can be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A portable digital imager for processing intravascular diagnostic data, comprising: a first interface for connecting the portable digital imager to a set of imaging peripherals; an analog imager configured to receive analog image data from the imaging peripheral; a digitizer in communication with the analog imager for converting the analog image data into digital image data; a controller in communication with the digitizer, the controller adapted to convert the digital image data into serial communication data; a second interface connecting the digital imager to a communications link configured to transmit the serial communications data to a remote processing engine; A portable digital imaging device comprising:

2. the portable digital imager further comprises a housing; 2. The portable digital imager of claim 1, wherein the analog imager, the digitizer, and the controller are within the housing.

3. 3. The portable digital imager of claim 2, wherein at least some of the set of imaging peripherals are not within the housing.

4. The portable digital imager of claim 3 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals is connected to an imaging tool.

5. 5. The portable digital imager of claim 4, wherein the portable digital imager is removably connected to the processing engine.

6. 10. The portable digital imager of claim 1, wherein the portable digital imager receives power and data communications from the processing engine.

7. 10. The portable digital imager of claim 1, wherein the second interface connecting the portable digital imager to the remote processing engine provides high speed serial communications.

8. 1. A modular image acquisition and processing system, comprising: a remote processing engine located outside the patient treatment environment; a user interface disposed within the patient treatment environment and adapted to receive operational commands from a user; a hub located within the patient treatment environment, the hub comprising a first connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to the remote processing engine located outside the patient treatment environment, and a further connection port configured for connection to a portable digital imager in the patient treatment environment; A set of imaging peripherals, the portable digital imager comprising: a first interface connecting the digital imager to the set of imaging peripherals; an analog imager configured to receive analog image data from the imaging peripherals; a digitizer in communication with the analog imager and converting the analog image data into digital image data; a controller in communication with the digitizer adapted to convert the digital image data into serial communication data; and a second interface connecting the digital imager to a communication link configured to transmit the serial communication data to the remote processing engine; 1. A modular image acquisition and processing system comprising:

9. 10. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, wherein the hub further comprises at least one second connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to one or more monitors and controls in the patient treatment environment.

10. 9. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, further comprising at least one light indicator on at least the remote processing engine, the hub, the portable digital imager, or the set of imaging peripherals.

11. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 10 , wherein the light indicators provide at least a connection or power status of at least the remote processing engine, the hub, the portable digital imager, or the set of imaging peripherals.

12. 9. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, wherein the further connection port is configured for fixed connection to a hub extender, the hub extender including a removable connection to the portable digital imager.

13. 9. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, wherein the user interface comprises a monitor on a mobile cart, the monitor adapted to display at least intravascular image data, the monitor communicating with the processing engine via the same controller that interfaces with the digitizer.

14. 14. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 13, wherein the user interface further comprises a keyboard and a mouse connected to the monitor.

15. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 13 , wherein the monitor is a touch screen.

16. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals is arranged on a mobile cart.

17. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals and the digital imager are arranged on a mobile cart.

18. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals, the digital imager, and the monitor are arranged on a mobile cart.

19. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals is arranged on a support.

20. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals and the digital imager are arranged on a support.

21. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the hub is disposed on a support.

22. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the hub is positioned below a support.

23. 9. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, wherein the second interface of the digital imager connects to the further connection port of the hub.

24. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the hub receives power from the processing engine through the first connection port.

25. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals comprises at least one of an imaging system engine, a light source, or an interferometer.

26. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of peripherals comprises at least one of an ultrasound imaging system, an ultrasound source, or an ultrasound transducer.

27. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , wherein the set of imaging peripherals comprises at least one of a blood pressure sensor, a blood temperature sensor, and a blood flow sensor.

28. 9. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8, wherein the hub further comprises a power control, the power control being capable of detecting a connection at the further connection port.

29. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 8 , further comprising a hub extender.

30. 30. The modular image acquisition and processing system of claim 29, wherein the hub extender further comprises a power control, the power control capable of detecting a connection at the further connection port.

31. a hub disposed within a patient treatment environment, a first connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to a remote processing engine located outside the patient treatment environment; at least one second connection port configured to maintain a persistent connection to one or more monitors or controls in the patient treatment environment; a third connection port configured for connection to a portable digital imager in the patient treatment environment, the third connection port housing a power control, the power control configured to detect a connection at the third connection port; Communication control unit and A hub comprising:

32. 32. The hub of claim 31, wherein the hub receives power from the remote processing engine through the first connection port.

33. 32. The hub of claim 31, wherein the hub is positioned on a support in the patient treatment environment.

34. 34. The hub of claim 33, wherein the hub is removably attached to a hub mount on the support.

35. 32. The hub of claim 31, wherein the hub is positioned below a treatment table in the patient treatment environment.

36. 32. The hub of claim 31, further comprising a hub extender.

37. 37. The hub of claim 36, wherein the third connection port is configured for a fixed connection to the hub extender, the hub extender including a removable connection to the portable digital imager.

38. 38. The hub of claim 37, wherein the hub extender is positioned on a support in the patient treatment environment.

39. 39. The hub of claim 38, wherein the hub is removably attached to a hub mount on the support.

40. 32. The hub of claim 31, wherein the hub is positioned below a support in the patient treatment environment.

Images