Brain Atrophy Estimation Using Segmented Gyri Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medical image processing apparatuses face challenges in accurately diagnosing brain atrophy caused by disease versus aging due to imprecise non-linear position alignment using a generic standard brain model.
Innovation Solution
A medical image processing apparatus that generates estimation data by applying an atrophy parameter based on age information, dividing imaged data into cerebral gyri sections, and performing an atrophying process to create a display image highlighting differences between actual and estimated brain images, thereby improving precision in distinguishing atrophy caused by disease from that caused by aging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a generic standard brain model is used for non-linear position alignment, then the processing can be performed with a simple model, but the diagnostic accuracy deteriorates due to imprecise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the brain into multiple regions of interest (ROIs) such as cerebral gyri, sulci, and other anatomical structures. By segmenting the brain into these distinct regions, the system can perform alignment and atrophy analysis locally in each region rather than treating the entire brain as a homogeneous structure. This segmentation allows for more precise detection of atrophy patterns in specific brain areas while maintaining computational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different processing characteristics to different brain regions. By identifying and analyzing specific ROIs with distinct atrophy patterns, the system can tailor the alignment and analysis parameters to each region's specific anatomical characteristics. This local quality approach enables more accurate differentiation between age-related and disease-related atrophy in each brain region.
2Device complexity
If conventional alignment methods are used, then the processing is simpler, but the ability to distinguish disease-related atrophy from aging atrophy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary extraction of atrophy parameters for each brain region before final diagnosis. By pre-calculating atrophy parameters and storing them in a database, the system prepares reference data that can be quickly compared against patient measurements. This preliminary action enables reliable differentiation between aging and disease-related atrophy without requiring complex real-time processing during diagnosis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by comparing extracted atrophy parameters against stored reference data and providing diagnostic feedback. The feedback unit analyzes the extracted parameters and provides diagnostic information about the degree and pattern of atrophy, enabling reliable distinction between aging and disease-related changes through iterative comparison and analysis.
3Measurement precision
If individual brain shape variations are accounted for, then the diagnostic precision improves, but the processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the brain into standardized ROIs, the patent creates a framework that can accommodate individual variations within each region while maintaining overall processing efficiency. The segmentation allows the system to focus computational resources on analyzing atrophy patterns within defined regions rather than processing the entire brain volume, reducing processing time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and analyzes specific atrophy parameters (such as volume, surface area, or shape descriptors) for each brain region. By changing the focus from raw image data to extracted parameters, the system can efficiently compare individual variations against reference data. This parameter transformation enables precise atrophy detection while maintaining acceptable processing speeds through efficient parameter extraction and comparison algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry and a display. The processing circuitry obtains first imaged data taken of a subject and second imaged data taken of the subject on a date/time different from the date/time on which the first imaged data was taken. The processing circuitry generates estimation data by performing an image processing process that changes the first imaged data on the basis of a predetermined change model. The processing circuitry generates a display image indicating the difference between the estimation data and the second imaged data. The display displays the display image.