Breast Density Quantification via In-Image Reference Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical imaging systems face challenges in accurately interpreting breast tissue density due to errors and unknown values in imaging physics data, particularly in radiography, which can lead to increased time and cost for diagnosis and potential reader oversight, even with the aid of CAD systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that quantifies breast composition by comparing energy imparted to a detector under the breast to energy imparted to a directly exposed region, allowing for the determination of a reference point and enabling early assessment of breast density using low-dose images, thereby optimizing clinical workflow and reducing radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If absolute physics model with assumed properties is used to quantify breast tissue density, then quantification can be performed, but accuracy deteriorates due to errors and unknown values in imaging physics data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an in-image reference value as an intermediary element that mediates between the imaging system and the breast tissue being measured. This reference value, derived from a directly exposed region of the detector, serves as a calibration standard within the image itself, allowing accurate density quantification without relying on potentially erroneous external physics data about photon flux, tube voltage, or pixel area.
2Loss of information
If multiple images with variation in aspect or timing are used, then more diagnostic information can be obtained, but processing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary segmentation to identify the breast region and locate an in-image reference value before proceeding with density quantification. This preliminary action on the primary image establishes a reliable reference that can then be used for rapid processing of additional comparative images, reducing the overall processing time while maintaining diagnostic information completeness.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If low-dose X-ray imaging is used for early breast assessment, then radiation risk to younger subjects is reduced, but detector signal saturation may occur affecting measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of X-ray dose from high to low levels, enabling early breast assessment with minimal radiation risk to younger subjects. By using an in-image reference value derived from directly exposed regions, the system maintains measurement precision despite the reduced detector signal intensity that results from low-dose imaging.
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 method enables early detection of breast density, facilitating early cancer detection and minimizing radiation risk to younger subjects by providing a reliable and efficient means to classify breasts as fatty or dense, improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing clinical workflow time.
Implementation Method 1
A mammogram is created by sending x-ray photons towards the breast and detecting how many x-ray photons pass through. The smaller the number of x-ray photons that pass through, the denser the breast tissue.
Implementation Method 2
quantification of a feature or region of an image via a comparison of energy imparted to a detector under an object
Data Source
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AI summary
A method comprises receiving image data representative of an X-ray image of at least part of a subject comprising tissue, wherein a first part of the X-ray image is directly 5 exposed and a second part of the X-ray image is representative of tissue in a region of the subject; and determining a measure of attenuation in dependence on an energy measure obtained from the first part of the X-ray image and an energy measure obtained from the second part of the X-ray image.