3D Blood Vessel Modeling via X-ray Absorption Similarity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for generating 3D models of blood vessels from X-ray images captured in two directions are insufficient, particularly for vessels with complex bifurcations, as they struggle to accurately map and represent the shape of blood vessels with multiple branches.
Innovation Solution
An image region mapping device and method that acquires X-ray images from blood vessels at different angles, calculates similarity degrees of X-ray absorption properties between corresponding image regions, and determines corresponding regions to generate accurate 3D models of blood vessels, even in cases with multiple candidate points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional techniques are used to generate 3D models from two X-ray images, then the process is simple, but the accuracy of mapping blood vessels with complex bifurcations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the blood vessel image into multiple candidate regions and processes each region individually to determine correspondence. Instead of treating the entire image as a single unit, the method divides it into manageable segments (candidate regions) that can be evaluated separately based on absorption properties, thereby improving mapping accuracy for complex bifurcations while maintaining a systematic approach
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces absorption property parameters (absorbed X-ray amounts) as additional criteria for determining corresponding regions. By changing from simple geometric matching to parameter-based matching using absorption properties, the method achieves higher accuracy in identifying corresponding blood vessel regions across different viewing angles, especially in complex bifurcation areas
2Measurement precision
If multiple candidate points are considered for correspondence, then the accuracy improves, but the calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality assessment by evaluating absorption properties specifically within candidate regions rather than the entire image. Each candidate region is assessed based on its local absorption characteristics, allowing the method to handle multiple candidates efficiently by focusing computational resources on relevant local areas with bifurcations or complex structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent calculates absorption properties for multiple candidate regions (excessive action) to ensure accurate correspondence determination. By computing absorption values for all potential candidate regions and comparing them, the method guarantees finding the correct correspondence even in complex scenarios, accepting the additional calculation load as necessary for high accuracy
3Manufacturing precision
If X-ray absorption properties are calculated for multiple candidate regions, then the mapping precision improves, but the time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation of absorption properties for all candidate regions before determining correspondence. By pre-computing absorption values and storing them, the method avoids redundant calculations during the correspondence matching phase, thereby reducing overall processing time while maintaining high accuracy in 3D model generation
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
The solution enables precise mapping and 3D modeling of blood vessels, including those with complex bifurcations, by accurately determining corresponding image regions based on absorption properties, thereby improving the understanding of vascular structures.
Implementation Method 1
a first X-ray absorption property acquiring unit configured to acquire, as an absorption property, an absorbed X-ray amount in a first image region corresponding to a portion of the blood vessel in the first X-ray image, from brightness of the contrast medium
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray image acquiring unit, by irradiating a blood vessel through which contrast medium is passing with X-rays of equal intensity at first and second photographing angles, acquires first and second X-ray images. An absorption property acquiring unit acquires, from brightness of the contrast medium, an X-ray absorption property in a first image region corresponding to a portion of the blood vessel in the first X-ray image. An absorption property acquiring unit acquires, from brightness of the contrast medium, an X-ray absorption property of each of plural second image regions corresponding to a portion of the blood vessel in the second X-ray image as candidate corresponding image regions of the first image region. A similarity degree calculator calculates a similarity degree between the acquired absorption properties. A corresponding region determiner determines the second image region having the maximum similarity degree as a corresponding region of the first image region.