Calcification Distribution Imaging for Low-Visibility Mammograms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques struggle to accurately determine the distribution of faint calcifications in radiographic images due to their low visibility and small size, making it difficult to assess their morphology and potential malignancy.
Innovation Solution
An image processing device and method that detects and displays a calcification distribution image, utilizing a processor to identify faint calcifications in radiographic images, with options for gray scale or binary representation, and includes features like pseudo-mammary gland lines to enhance visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional image processing techniques are used to display calcifications in radiographic images, then clearly visible calcifications can be identified, but faint calcifications with low visibility cannot be accurately detected or distributed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color mapping to represent different calcification densities and characteristics. By assigning different colors or grayscale values to calcifications based on their density, size, and distribution patterns, faint calcifications that are visually indistinct in conventional images become distinguishable through color differentiation, thereby improving detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent generates three-dimensional virtual images from multiple two-dimensional radiographic images taken at different angles. This dimensional transformation allows faint calcifications to be visualized in 3D space, separating them from overlapping tissue structures and enhancing their visibility and detectability
2Measurement precision
If multiple image processing techniques are applied to enhance calcification visibility, then detection capability improves, but processing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing task into distinct functional modules: image acquisition from multiple angles, 3D reconstruction, calcification detection, characterization analysis, and result visualization. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex overall process to be managed through modular design, reducing system complexity while maintaining high detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary 3D reconstruction and virtual image generation before detailed calcification analysis. By pre-processing the images to create three-dimensional representations and identify potential calcification regions in advance, the subsequent detection and characterization steps become more efficient, reducing overall processing time and complexity
3Measurement precision
If detailed analysis of all calcifications is performed, then interpretation accuracy improves, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different levels of analysis detail to different calcification regions based on their characteristics. High-priority regions such as dense clusters or areas with suspicious patterns receive detailed multi-parameter analysis, while isolated or clearly benign calcifications receive streamlined processing. This localized quality adjustment maintains interpretation accuracy for critical cases while reducing processing time for routine cases
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an image processing device, an image processing method, and an image processing program that can easily determine a distribution of a faint calcification having low visible in a radiographic image.An image processing device includes at least one processor. The processor detects a faint calcification from a radiographic image captured by irradiating a breast with radiation and displays a calcification distribution image showing a distribution of the faint calcification in the breast in the radiographic image.