3D Vessel Image Overlay Calibration for Fluoroscopy Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of aligning and superimposing X-ray images with three-dimensional images during medical procedures, such as stent graft indwelling, is exacerbated by gaps due to vessel stretching and potential X-ray exposure issues, which can hinder precise catheter navigation.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device adjusts relative sizes and positions of X-ray and three-dimensional images using calibration operations and stored mark positions to ensure accurate alignment and overlap, reducing gaps and minimizing X-ray exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a three-dimensional CT image is merged with a DSA image to assist catheter operation, then detailed vessel shape and real-time state can be simultaneously confirmed, but a large gap appears between the images when the blood vessel is stretched by a hard guidewire or catheter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the three-dimensional image movable and adjustable in real-time during the procedure. The system allows dynamic modification of the 3D image position, orientation, and scaling to match the actual deformed vessel configuration observed in fluoroscopy, enabling continuous adaptation to vessel stretching and movement throughout the catheterization procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting multiple parameters of the three-dimensional image including position coordinates, orientation angles, and scaling factors. These parameters are modified in real-time based on comparison with fluoroscopic images to maintain accurate alignment despite vessel deformation, allowing the system to compensate for changes in vessel geometry during the procedure.
2Loss of information
If a three-dimensional CT image is captured before surgery to assist catheter operation, then detailed vessel structure can be visualized, but X-ray exposure during imaging becomes a problem
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring the three-dimensional vessel structure information before the procedure using low-radiation or alternative imaging methods. This pre-acquired 3D data is then reused and adjusted throughout the procedure, eliminating the need for repeated high-radiation CT imaging while maintaining access to detailed vessel structure information for navigation and decision-making.
3Ease of operation
If the three-dimensional image is displayed without calibration, then the display is simple, but the viewpoint does not match the radiation direction of the X-ray
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by implementing calibration only when needed or on-demand rather than continuously. The system allows operators to perform viewpoint calibration selectively based on procedural requirements, balancing the need for precise alignment with the desire to maintain simple, quick operation. The calibration function is available but not mandatory for every display update.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing device receives a calibration operation of adjusting a viewpoint when a three-dimensional image obtained by imaging a three-dimensional structure of a biological tissue based on the basis of tomographic information obtained by a sensor that moves in a lumen of the biological tissue is displayed on a display in accordance with a radiation direction of an X-ray, adjusts relative sizes and positions of an acquired X-ray image and the three-dimensional image on the basis of ratio information and position information each time an X-ray image obtained by fluoroscopically viewing the biological tissue is acquired, and causes the display to display the acquired X-ray image and the three-dimensional image so as to overlap each other as viewed from a viewpoint based on the viewpoint information.