Contrast Agent Map Generation via Local Quality Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating contrast agent concentration maps in Computed Tomography, such as iodine maps, face challenges including inaccurate volumetric spatial registration, increased complexity and time in two-scan protocols, and degradation of spatial resolution due to noise reduction, especially in low-dose scans.
Innovation Solution
A method that generates secondary contrast agent concentration maps by combining primary maps from non-contrast and contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography scans with spectral data, using local quality analysis and volumetric weights to improve spatial registration accuracy and reduce noise, while maintaining high spatial resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-scan subtraction method is used, then contrast to noise ratio is improved, but spatial resolution is degraded due to filtering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pre-contrast and post-contrast CT scans with spectral information to generate a contrast agent map. By merging multiple data sources (two scans plus spectral data), the method achieves improved contrast-to-noise ratio while preserving spatial resolution through intelligent data fusion rather than relying on aggressive filtering of a single map
2Manufacturing precision
If spectral Computed Tomography is used, then spatial resolution is maintained, but contrast to noise ratio is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges spectral CT data with conventional two-scan subtraction data. The spectral information provides accurate spatial resolution and material differentiation, while the conventional subtraction method contributes higher contrast-to-noise ratio. The combination leverages the complementary strengths of both approaches
3Measurement precision
If two-scan protocol is used, then accurate bone and calcium identification is achieved, but clinical workflow complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional processing system that handles both conventional two-scan data and spectral CT data through a unified algorithmic framework. This allows the system to perform multiple functions (contrast agent mapping, bone/calcium identification, artifact reduction) using the same infrastructure, reducing the operational complexity despite the sophisticated processing requirements
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
This approach enhances the accuracy and quality of contrast agent concentration maps by improving spatial registration and reducing artifacts, providing better diagnostic images, especially in low-dose scans, by leveraging both registration-subtraction and spectral analysis techniques.
Implementation Method 1
Computed Tomography scanner that acquires a non-contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan, a contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan and corresponding spectral data
Implementation Method 2
Spectral Computed Tomography, such as dual-energy or photon-counting based, has the ability to quantitatively differentiate contrast agents from biological materials
Data Source
AI summary
Method for generating contrast agent concentration map from a non-contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan, a contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan and corresponding spectral Computed Tomography data, comprising: a. Generating at least two different primary contrast agent concentration maps out of the non-contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan, the contrast enhanced Computed Tomography scan and the spectral Computed Tomography data, b. Performing a local quality analysis of each primary contrast agent concentration map c. Determining local volumetric weights for each primary contrast agent concentration map based on the local quality analysis, and d. Generating a secondary contrast agent concentration map based on the two primary contrast agent concentration maps and on their corresponding local volumetric weights.