Medical Blood-Flow Analysis with CFD Reliability Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical diagnostic systems lack the ability to accurately calculate and present reliable index values for blood flow, such as Wall Shear Stress (WSS) and Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR), which are crucial for heart and blood vessel disease diagnosis and treatment planning.
Innovation Solution
A medical information processing apparatus and system that calculates WSS and FFR using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and machine learning, while assessing the reliability of these calculations based on various factors like mesh size, shape, and fluid characteristics, and displays the results for medical professionals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If WSS and FFR calculations are performed using CFD methods, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but calculation reliability assessment capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback mechanism where calculation reliability is assessed based on mesh characteristics and other parameters, then this reliability information is fed back to guide further calculations or alert users. The processing circuitry continuously monitors calculation conditions and adjusts based on reliability assessments, creating a closed-loop system that improves both precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary reliability assessment mechanism that mediates between the CFD calculation process and the final diagnostic results. This intermediary layer evaluates mesh size, shape quality, and other computational parameters to determine calculation reliability, acting as a bridge that connects raw computational data with clinically actionable insights.
2Reliability
If multiple parameters (mesh size, shape, fluid characteristics) are considered for reliability assessment, then calculation reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reliability assessment system is segmented into distinct evaluation modules, each responsible for specific parameters such as mesh size assessment, mesh shape quality evaluation, and fluid characteristics analysis. This segmentation allows the complex multi-parameter assessment to be broken down into manageable, independent components that can be processed separately and then integrated.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing circuitry is designed with multi-functionality to handle diverse assessment parameters within a unified framework. The same processing unit evaluates mesh characteristics, fluid properties, and calculation conditions using consistent reliability criteria, reducing system complexity by avoiding separate dedicated systems for each parameter type.
3Measurement precision
If CFD-based calculations are performed, then index value accuracy is improved, but computational resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by performing CFD calculations only when and where necessary, rather than universally across all diagnostic scenarios. The reliability assessment identifies regions or cases where simplified methods may suffice, reserving computationally intensive CFD analysis for situations where high accuracy is critical, thus optimizing resource utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical information processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a memory configured to store therein a plurality of settings about at least one of a calculation condition, a shape, a characteristic, and a fluid; and a processing circuitry configured to select at least one of the plurality of settings, to determine the selected setting as an analysis condition, and to calculate a reliability with respect to an index value that is related to a blood flow and is calculated under the analysis condition.