Combined Imaging Sequence Planning for PET-CT
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Solution Overview
Problem
The planning of combined examinations using hybrid imaging modalities such as PET-CT or PET-MR is complex due to sequential recording requirements, which can compromise user-friendliness and the quality of result data, especially when trying to optimize the measurement sequence for simultaneous acquisition by two modalities.
Innovation Solution
A method for planning a combined examination that allows simultaneous acquisition by two modalities by automatically producing a combined measuring sequence, which minimizes time spent on modality preparations and optimizes the execution of measurements that can be performed in parallel, thereby simplifying the planning process and reducing the number of patient couch movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If sequential recording by both modalities is used, then the planning process is simplified, but the examination time and modality preparation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary planning of the combined measuring sequence before actual examination, automatically arranging measurements in an optimized sequence that identifies parallel execution opportunities. This advance planning resolves the contradiction by preparing the optimal schedule beforehand, allowing sequential simplicity in planning while enabling parallel execution to reduce actual examination time.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring sequence is dynamically optimized by automatically arranging measurements based on modality preparation requirements and parallel execution possibilities. The system adapts the sequence dynamically rather than using fixed sequential ordering, allowing measurements to be executed in parallel when possible while maintaining operational simplicity through automated sequence management.
2Loss of time
If simultaneous acquisition by two modalities is implemented, then examination time is reduced, but the planning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating the optimized combined measuring sequence without requiring complex manual planning. The automated sequence generation identifies parallel execution opportunities and arranges measurements optimally, reducing planning complexity while enabling simultaneous acquisition to reduce examination time.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual planning process is replaced by an automated computational system that algorithmsically determines the optimal measuring sequence. This substitution of mechanical/manual planning with automated sequence generation reduces planning complexity while enabling complex simultaneous acquisitions that would be difficult to plan manually.
3Productivity
If measurements are arranged to execute in parallel, then productivity increases, but the coordination complexity and preparation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary arrangement of the combined measuring sequence, identifying which measurements can be executed in parallel and coordinating modality preparations in advance. This advance coordination resolves the contradiction by preparing the optimal parallel execution schedule beforehand, increasing productivity while managing coordination complexity through automated preliminary planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring sequence is segmented into individual measurements that can be independently arranged and executed. By breaking down the examination into discrete measurable units, the system can identify parallel execution opportunities and coordinate preparations for each segment, increasing productivity while managing coordination complexity through systematic segmentation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for planning a combined examination of an examination object using two imaging modalities is disclosed, with measurements being taken in at least two regions of the examination object. In at least one embodiment, the method includes planning of at least one measuring protocol of the first modality, which includes at least one measurement in a first of the regions and at least one measurement in a second of the regions; planning of at least one measuring protocol of the second modality, which comprises at least one measurement in the first region; and automatic production of a combined measuring sequence by arranging the measurements in such a manner that carrying out the measuring sequence taking into account modality preparations to be carried out between measurements takes as little time as possible.In at least one embodiment, the automated production of the actual measuring sequence allows the measuring protocols of the individual modalities to be planned in a simple manner for a number of regions. The focus can therefore be on diagnostic questions at the measurement planning stage.