3D Transducer Layout Planning for Tumor Treating Fields
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional treatment planning for tumor treating fields (TTFields) lacks the capability to provide multiple layouts based on medical images, failing to consider dose distribution and subject comfort, which affects treatment effectiveness and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating multiple transducer layouts using MRI and CT medical images to create a 3D model, considering tissue conductivity and dose distribution, allowing for selective implementation of layouts to optimize treatment and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional treatment planning uses a single transducer layout based on basic MRI measurements, then the treatment planning process is simple, but the treatment effectiveness and patient comfort are compromised due to lack of customization and dose distribution optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the treatment planning process into multiple stages: importing medical images, segmenting tumor regions, calculating dose distribution, generating multiple transducer layouts, and selecting optimal layouts. This segmentation allows comprehensive treatment optimization while maintaining manageable process complexity through structured workflow division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating dose distribution maps and pre-generating multiple transducer layouts before actual treatment delivery. This allows treatment planners to evaluate different options in advance and select the optimal layout, improving treatment effectiveness without adding complexity during the actual treatment delivery phase.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transducer layouts are generated based on detailed medical images and dose distribution, then treatment effectiveness and patient comfort improve, but the treatment planning process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates multiple copies of transducer layouts with different configurations and positions. These layout copies can be evaluated against the dose distribution map, allowing selection of the optimal layout without requiring complete redesigns. This copying approach enables versatility while reducing the time needed to evaluate multiple options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic layout generation where transducer positions and orientations can be adjusted based on tumor location, size, and shape. The system dynamically adapts layouts to match the specific patient anatomy and tumor characteristics, providing customization without requiring manual redesign of each layout from scratch.
3Manufacturing precision
If transducer layouts are optimized for maximum tumor targeting, then dose delivery to the tumor is improved, but patient comfort may be reduced due to less flexible positioning options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by optimizing transducer layouts specifically for the tumor region while allowing flexibility in other areas. The dose distribution calculation focuses on achieving precise tumor targeting at the local level, while the generation of multiple layout options provides flexibility for selecting configurations that also consider patient comfort and ease of application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent generates multiple transducer layouts beyond the single optimal configuration, providing partial optimization solutions that balance tumor targeting precision with patient comfort. This allows selection of a layout that achieves adequate tumor coverage while prioritizing patient comfort, rather than forcing maximum precision at the cost of comfort.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves treatment effectiveness by providing customizable transducer layouts that enhance tumor targeting and patient comfort through varied positioning options, ensuring adequate dosage and better coverage.
Implementation Method 1
TTFields are low intensity alternating electric fields within the intermediate frequency range (for example, 50 kHz to 1 MHz), which may be used to treat tumors
Implementation Method 2
TTFields are induced non-invasively into the region of interest by transducers placed on the patient's body and applying AC voltages between the transducers
Data Source
AI summary
A method for generating a transducer layout for delivering tumor treating fields includes storing medical images of a subject, identifying one of the medical images as an anchor medical image, and registering computed tomography medical images with magnetic resonance imaging medical images. The method further includes segmenting abnormal tissue in the medical images from other tissue types and defining a region of interest (ROI) in the medical images. The method further includes creating a 3D model of the subject. The method further includes generating a plurality of transducer layouts for application of tumor treating fields to the subject, selecting at least two of the transducer layouts as recommended transducer layouts, presenting the recommended transducer layouts, receiving a user selection of at least one recommended transducer layout, and providing a report for the selected recommended transducer layout(s).