Contrast Agent Reference Insert for Breast Imaging Quantification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current contrast-enhanced breast imaging techniques face limitations in providing accurate and precise quantification of enhancement for breast lesion risk assessment and follow-up, due to qualitative assessments and inaccuracies in reproducing clinical imaging conditions.
Innovation Solution
A thin film reference insert with known concentrations of a contrast agent is used simultaneously with the breast during imaging, allowing for precise quantification of enhancement by minimizing distortion and enabling accurate comparison and calibration of contrast-enhanced breast images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a phantom image made with a contrast agent insert is used as a reference to quantify contrast enhanced breast images, then quantification of enhancement is attempted, but the phantom cannot reproduce accurately all clinical imaging conditions (breast thickness, glandularity, scatter conditions), leading to imprecise or inaccurate quantification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a reference image by copying the actual clinical breast image conditions, including the specific breast thickness, glandularity, and scatter conditions present in the patient's image. This reference image is then used for quantification, ensuring that the comparison is made under identical imaging conditions rather than using a generic phantom that cannot reproduce specific clinical scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If a contrast agent insert is used for reference imaging, then quantification of enhancement is enabled, but the insert may introduce distortion or artifacts to the contrast enhanced breast image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reference measurement function from a physical contrast agent insert and implements it through software-based reference images. The quantification is performed by comparing the contrast enhanced breast image against a reference image generated from the same clinical data, eliminating the need for a physical insert that would introduce distortion or artifacts to the actual breast image.
3Ease of operation
If qualitative assessment of contrast enhancement is performed, then diagnostic information is obtained, but the assessment is insufficiently precise for accurate risk evaluation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the contrast enhanced breast image is compared against a reference image, and the difference in enhancement is quantified and fed back to provide precise numerical data about lesion enhancement. This quantitative feedback enables accurate risk assessment while maintaining the simplicity of the diagnostic workflow, as the system automatically performs the complex calculations.
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 method provides accurate and precise quantification of contrast agent enhancement, improving breast lesion risk assessment and monitoring therapeutic response, while minimizing image artifacts and distortion, enabling more reliable differential diagnosis and quality control of imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
imaging at the same time both said breast and a reference insert containing at least one known concentration of said contrast agent
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of contrast enhanced breast imaging, comprising injecting a contrast agent in a breast of a patient, imaging at the same time both said breast and a reference insert containing at least one known concentration of said contrast agent, quantifying enhancement of contrast enhanced breast image by comparing said breast image and reference insert image.