Cardiac Valve Index Calculation from 3D Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack a quantitative evaluation technique for the behavior of cardiac valves in treating valvular diseases, relying on visual estimation which is inefficient and inaccurate for decision-making in treatment planning.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that includes a storage unit, specifying unit, calculation unit, and display unit, which processes three-dimensional cardiac images to calculate and display index values indicating the open/close degrees of cardiac valves, enabling precise evaluation and diagnosis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visual estimation method is used to evaluate valvular orifice area, then the doctor can make treatment decisions, but the operation efficiency and diagnosis accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual estimation method with an automated image processing system that uses computer algorithms to quantify valve behavior. The system automatically calculates index values from three-dimensional image data, eliminating the need for doctors to manually measure and estimate valvular orifice areas, thereby improving both accuracy and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces new quantitative parameters (index values) to characterize cardiac valve behavior. Instead of relying on visual estimation of orifice area, the system calculates specific index values that objectively measure valve opening and closing behavior, enabling precise quantitative evaluation for treatment decisions
2Measurement precision
If quantitative evaluation technique is implemented, then diagnosis accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a unified image processing apparatus. The same system performs image acquisition, three-dimensional reconstruction, automatic measurement, index value calculation, and display functions. This multi-functional integration achieves quantitative evaluation capabilities while managing system complexity through a single coordinated apparatus rather than multiple separate devices
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus comprises a storage unit, a specifying unit, a calculation unit, and a display unit. The storage unit stores a three-dimensional image associated with a cardiac region of a subject. The specifying unit specifies a plurality of cardiac valves from a vascular region included in the three-dimensional image by image processing. The calculation unit calculates index values indicating open/close degrees of the cardiac valves. The display unit displays the index values.