Concurrent Dual-Breast Molecular Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional molecular breast imaging (MBI) using nuclear medicine is time-consuming and uncomfortable for patients due to the need for prolonged gamma photon counting in multiple positions, which can take longer than X-ray mammography and causes patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A nuclear medicine mammography system employing two pairs of articulatable gamma photon detectors that can image both breasts concurrently in multiple orientations, allowing for simultaneous imaging in cranio-caudal and mediolateral-oblique positions, reducing the overall examination time and patient discomfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MBI workflow using one pair of detectors is used, then image quality can be obtained, but examination time is prolonged and patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent detector pairs, each capable of imaging one or both breasts. This segmentation allows parallel imaging operations to occur simultaneously, reducing total examination time while maintaining image quality through distributed detection capabilities across multiple detector units.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detector pairs are merged into a single integrated system that can operate concurrently on both breasts. The combining of multiple detection resources enables simultaneous data acquisition from different breast regions, fundamentally reducing the sequential imaging time while preserving diagnostic image quality through integrated reconstruction algorithms.
2Reliability
If conventional MBI workflow using one pair of detectors is used, then complete breast imaging can be achieved, but patient discomfort increases due to prolonged positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging task is segmented across multiple detector pairs that can operate independently and simultaneously. Each detector pair handles specific imaging responsibilities, allowing the complete breast imaging task to be distributed and executed in parallel, thereby reducing the duration of patient positioning and discomfort while ensuring comprehensive coverage through coordinated detection.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detector pairs enable continuous and simultaneous imaging action on both breasts without interruption or sequential waiting. The system maintains continuous useful action by having all detectors operate concurrently throughout the examination, eliminating idle time and reducing overall procedure duration, thereby minimizing patient discomfort while ensuring complete imaging coverage.
3Productivity
If multiple detector pairs are used for concurrent imaging, then examination time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent detector pairs, each functioning as a relatively autonomous imaging unit. This segmentation allows concurrent imaging operations with reduced interdependence, simplifying control logic while improving productivity. Each detector pair can be independently positioned and operated, reducing the overall system complexity compared to a fully integrated single-detector system attempting the same parallel operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple detector pairs are designed with universal capabilities to image either one or both breasts depending on configuration needs. This multi-functionality allows the system to adapt to different imaging scenarios without requiring specialized detectors for each function, thereby managing device complexity while maintaining high productivity through flexible, concurrent imaging operations.
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
The system significantly reduces the time required for MBI procedures by enabling concurrent imaging of both breasts in various orientations, thereby minimizing patient discomfort and improving examination efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the radiotracer is carried by the bloodstream throughout the patient's body while emitting high-energy gamma photons which can be detected by a detection and imaging system
Data Source
AI summary
A nuclear medicine mammography system and method for conducting concurrent examinations of both breasts of a patient, thereby reducing examination time in molecular breast imaging. The system comprises first and second pairs of generally opposed articulatable gamma photon detectors, wherein each pair of detectors can be arranged to image a respective breast independently from the other pair of detectors. In one or more embodiments, each pair of detectors can be arranged in at least two imaging orientations, such as cranio-caudal and mediolateral-oblique.