2D X-Ray Scatter Correction Using Auxiliary Collimator Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 2D X-ray imaging technologies face challenges in effectively correcting scattered radiation, which degrades image quality and introduces artifacts, particularly in interventional procedures like fluoroscopy and DSA, due to the lack of efficient scatter correction methods that do not require significant hardware changes or additional X-ray dose.
Innovation Solution
A method involving rapid collimation adjustments to acquire auxiliary X-ray images with small sub-regions, allowing for subtraction-based scattered-radiation correction, which can be applied to both individual and series of X-ray images without additional hardware, using algorithms or machine learning for precise correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If scatter correction is performed using traditional methods (scatter kernels, supervised AI training, unsharp masking), then scattered radiation can be reduced, but the method becomes time-consuming, complex, or requires additional hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary scatter estimation by acquiring auxiliary images at different collimator settings before the actual imaging. This preliminary action captures scatter patterns that can be subtracted from the main images, enabling rapid correction without time-consuming post-processing calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic collimator adjustments to acquire auxiliary images at different settings. By periodically varying the collimator configuration and acquiring images at each setting, the method builds up scatter information that can be used for correction, transforming a static problem into a dynamic periodic process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If scatter correction is performed using traditional methods (scatter kernels, supervised AI training), then scattered radiation can be reduced, but the device complexity and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses itself to generate the correction data. By acquiring auxiliary images through its own collimator and detector system, the X-ray device creates the scatter information needed for correction without requiring external calibration data, additional sensors, or complex external systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The collimator and detector serve multiple functions: they perform both the primary imaging function and the scatter measurement function. By using the same hardware components for dual purposes, the system avoids adding dedicated scatter detection hardware, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If scatter correction is performed using image data from collimator shadow regions, then scattered radiation can be estimated, but the method only works when the collimator shadow is sufficiently large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the collimator settings to create auxiliary images with different field-of-view configurations. By making the collimator configuration variable and adaptive, the system can generate sufficient collimator shadow regions even when the primary imaging field is large, thereby maintaining method applicability across different imaging scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the correction approach by acquiring images at multiple collimator settings, effectively adding a temporal dimension to the scatter estimation process. This multi-setting approach creates additional shadow regions across different configurations, ensuring sufficient data for correction regardless of the primary imaging field size.
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
This approach provides rapid, low-effort, and precise scattered-radiation correction, improving image quality with minimal additional X-ray dose and enabling seamless integration into live imaging processes, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and procedural implementation.
Implementation Method 1
an acquisition system having an X-ray source, an X-ray detector, and a collimator that shapes the primary X-ray radiation
Implementation Method 2
a collimator that shapes the primary X-ray radiation
Implementation Method 3
an X-ray detector... determining a scattered-radiation correction using image data from the X-ray detector
Data Source
AI summary
For particularly rapid and effective scattered-radiation correction of 2D X-ray images, a method is provided for scattered-radiation correction for an X-ray image or a series of X-ray images, which images may be acquired by an acquisition system having an X-ray source, an X-ray detector, and a collimator that shapes the primary X-ray radiation. The method includes: providing the X-ray image acquired in a first setting of the collimator in which setting the object under examination is illuminated; providing an auxiliary X-ray image acquired in a second setting of the collimator in which second setting are illuminated, in particular solely one or more sub-regions of the X-ray detector; subtracting the auxiliary X-ray image from the X-ray image; determining a scattered-radiation correction using image data from the X-ray detector obtained from the subtraction at least in the region of the sub-regions; and correcting the X-ray image using the determined scattered-radiation correction.