Adjustable Collimator X-ray CT for Breast Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional x-ray breast imaging techniques face limitations due to radiation scatter, noise, and anatomical overlap, with digital breast tomosynthesis systems having limited depth resolution and associated artifacts.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray computed tomography (CT) system with a rotating gantry, adjustable collimator, and controller to dynamically control the x-ray beam focus and intensity, allowing for region-of-interest (ROI) collimation and sensitive organ power modulation during scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional x-ray projection imaging is used, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but radiation scatter, noise and overlapping anatomical structures reduce image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging process is segmented into multiple angularly offset projection images acquired at different angles, which are then reconstructed into three-dimensional image datasets. This segmentation approach reduces anatomical overlap and improves image quality by separating overlapping structures in the depth dimension.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional projection imaging to three-dimensional volumetric imaging by acquiring data at multiple angles and reconstructing depth information. This dimensional enhancement resolves overlapping anatomical structures by distributing them across different depth planes in the 3D dataset.
2Measurement precision
If digital breast tomosynthesis systems are used, then anatomical overlap is reduced, but depth resolution remains limited and artifacts persist
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the imaging parameters by acquiring a larger number of projection images at closely spaced angular intervals compared to conventional DBT. This increased sampling density improves depth resolution and reduces artifacts by providing more complete tomographic data for reconstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses iterative reconstruction algorithms that incorporate feedback from the acquired projection data to refine the 3D image dataset. This feedback mechanism reduces artifacts by continuously adjusting the reconstruction to minimize inconsistencies in the tomographic data.
3Area of stationary object
If full-field x-ray imaging is used, then complete breast coverage is achieved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality enhancement by acquiring multiple angular views that provide different perspectives of the same anatomical region. This allows for localized improvement of image quality in specific areas of interest without increasing the total imaged area or radiation exposure to the entire breast.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses partial action by acquiring projection images only at specific angular intervals necessary to achieve the desired depth resolution, rather than continuously sampling all angles. This reduces the total radiation exposure while still obtaining sufficient data for high-quality 3D reconstruction of the breast tissue.
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
Enables high-resolution breast imaging with reduced radiation exposure and improved image quality by focusing the x-ray beam on the ROI and modulating beam intensity based on gantry angles, effectively addressing the limitations of conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source coupled to the gantry for generating an x-ray beam
Implementation Method 2
an adjustable collimator coupled to the x-ray source and configured to adjust a focus of the x-ray beam generated by the x-ray source
Implementation Method 3
an x-ray detector coupled to the gantry for detecting x-rays of the x-ray beam
Implementation Method 4
x-ray computed tomography (CT) system is provided that includes a rotating gantry
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for breast imaging using x-ray computed tomography (CT) are provided. One system includes a rotating gantry, an x-ray source coupled to the gantry for generating an x-ray beam and an x-ray detector coupled to the gantry for detecting x-rays of the x-ray beam. The system further includes an adjustable collimator coupled to the x-ray source and configured to adjust a focus of the x-ray beam generated by the x-ray source. The x system also includes a controller configured to control the collimator to adjust the focus on a region of interest (ROI) and to control a beam intensity for the x-ray beam generated by the x-ray source during a scan.