In-Vivo Capsule Processor for Real-Time Varix Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-vivo imaging devices require a significant amount of time for physicians to review acquired images, as they often capture hundreds or thousands of images over several hours, leading to a lengthy process for analysis.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous in-vivo imaging system, such as a swallowable capsule with an imager and processor, automatically detects varices in real-time by analyzing images of the GI tract and transmitting data for immediate display, allowing for continuous image acquisition and analysis without the need for external wires or cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If an in-vivo imaging device captures a large number of images (hundreds or thousands) over several hours, then the quantity and quality of diagnostic data is improved, but the time required for a physician to review the images increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic detection and analysis of varices during the imaging process itself, before the physician needs to review the images. The processor continuously analyzes images as they are captured, identifying potential varices in real-time, so that the physician receives pre-screened results rather than having to manually review hundreds or thousands of images.
Solution Approach 2:
An automatic detection system acts as an intermediary between the imaging device and the physician. This intermediate processing layer automatically screens the large volume of captured images, filtering out normal areas and highlighting only those containing potential varices, thereby reducing the physician's review burden while maintaining diagnostic quality.
2Loss of time
If an autonomous in-vivo imaging device with automatic varix detection is implemented, then the time required for image review is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous imaging device integrates multiple functions into a single system: image capture, real-time processing, automatic varix detection, and result transmission. The processor serves multiple purposes by both capturing images and automatically analyzing them for varices, eliminating the need for separate review equipment and reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service by automatically detecting and analyzing varices without requiring external processing equipment or manual intervention during the imaging process. The embedded processor handles image analysis autonomously, making the system self-sufficient and reducing the complexity of external infrastructure needed.
3Productivity
If real-time automatic detection of varices is implemented during the imaging process, then diagnostic efficiency is improved, but the processing requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automatic detection and analysis of varices during the imaging process itself, before the physician needs to review the images. The processor continuously analyzes images as they are captured, identifying potential varices in real-time, so that the physician receives pre-screened results rather than having to manually review hundreds or thousands of images.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods of in-vivo varix detection. For example, a system may include a processor to automatically detect a varix in an in-vivo image. The processor may automatically identify a protrusion into a lumen of a gastro-intestinal tract. The processor may automatically identify substantially blue areas of the protrusion. The processor may generate an indication to a user that a varix was detected in an in-vivo image.