Compact CT-PET Imaging for Ex-Vivo Tissue Resection Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices combining CT and PET modules are bulky, complex, and difficult to operate intraoperatively for assessing resection accuracy of ex-vivo tissue specimens, often requiring lesion markers and lacking sufficient spatial resolution for small specimens.
Innovation Solution
A compact, modular imaging apparatus with a PET module above a CT module, featuring a motion system for vertical specimen movement and high-resolution detectors, allowing intraoperative evaluation with reduced radiation exposure and rapid image reconstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CT and PET imaging modules are combined to improve imaging accuracy, then the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a horizontal arrangement of CT and PET modules to a vertical stacking configuration. The CT table moves vertically to bring the specimen into the PET detection ring, utilizing the vertical dimension to resolve the spatial conflict between two imaging modalities. This dimensional change allows both modules to coexist in a compact footprint while maintaining their imaging functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the PET detection ring within the vertical space above the CT table, creating a nested configuration where the PET module is positioned within the vertical envelope of the CT module. This nesting allows the PET detectors to surround the specimen from above while the CT scanners operate below, maximizing space utilization and reducing overall device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If CT and PET imaging modules are combined to improve imaging accuracy, then the device becomes voluminous and difficult to place in operating room
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking to reduce the horizontal footprint of the combined imaging system. By arranging CT and PET modules in the vertical dimension rather than horizontally, the overall device volume occupying operating room space is significantly reduced, making it feasible for intraoperative use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamically movable CT table that can vertically translate to position specimens within the PET detection ring. This dynamic positioning mechanism allows the system to adapt its configuration during operation, enabling compact spatial arrangement while maintaining imaging capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If conventional CT and PET devices are used to image small specimens, then spatial resolution is insufficient for accurate tumor visualization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dedicated high-resolution micro-CT and small-animal PET detectors specifically optimized for small specimen imaging. These specialized detectors provide enhanced spatial resolution and sensitivity for small specimens, with local quality tailored to the specific imaging requirements rather than general-purpose imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the imaging system into specialized modular components: high-resolution CT detectors for morphological detail and PET detectors for functional information. Each module is independently optimized for its specific detection function, allowing high spatial resolution imaging of small specimens while maintaining system modularity.
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
Enables accurate, rapid intraoperative assessment of resection margins with high spatial resolution and reduced device complexity, facilitating efficient use in operating rooms.
Implementation Method 1
a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging module including at least one pair of PET detectors
Implementation Method 2
PET imaging module can detect the distribution of a positron-emitting radiotracer
Implementation Method 3
a computed tomography (CT) imaging module including an X-ray source and an X-ray detector
Implementation Method 4
CT imaging module can for example detect differences in tissue densities in a tissue specimen
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus for imaging ex-vivo tissue specimens includes a positron emission tomography imaging module having at least one pair of PET detectors; a computed tomography imaging module including an X-ray source and an X-ray detector; a tissue specimen receiving element configured to receive the tissue specimen to be imaged.