Patient-Specific Contrast Injection Protocol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging procedures rely on standard, fixed protocols for contrast media delivery, which can result in varying image quality and contrast due to individual patient differences, and existing fluid injection systems face challenges in accurately controlling pressure and flexibility, leading to potential hazards and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A fluid injection apparatus with a pressurizing mechanism, multiple fluid containers, and a controller that allows for programming of injection protocols with multiple phases, including the option for patient-specific parameters and pressure modeling to ensure safe and optimal fluid delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard fixed protocols are used for contrast media delivery, then the procedure is simplified and easier to operate, but image quality and contrast vary due to individual patient differences
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed protocols to dynamic patient-specific protocols. The controller automatically adjusts injection parameters (flow rate, volume, timing) based on real-time patient data such as body weight, height, and physiological characteristics, enabling the system to adapt to individual variations while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system modifies injection parameters (volumetric flow rate, volume, timing) based on patient-specific characteristics. The controller calculates optimal parameters by processing patient data and adjusting protocol parameters dynamically, thereby achieving consistent image quality across different patients without requiring manual intervention
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual parameter entry is used for each procedure and patient, then patient-specific customization is achieved, but the procedure becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-calibration and automatic parameter determination. The controller automatically processes patient data (weight, height, physiological parameters) and calculates optimal injection parameters without requiring manual programming by the operator. The system serves itself by autonomously generating patient-specific protocols based on input data
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary data collection and processing before the actual injection procedure. Patient characteristics are entered and processed in advance, and the controller pre-calculates optimal injection parameters, thereby eliminating the need for complex manual programming during the procedure itself
3Manufacturing precision
If higher flow rates and volumes are used to improve image contrast, then contrast enhancement is improved, but pressure control becomes more challenging and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates pressure feedback control mechanisms. Pressure sensors monitor injection pressure in real-time, and the controller continuously adjusts flow rate and volume parameters to maintain pressure within safe limits while achieving optimal contrast enhancement. The feedback loop ensures that safety constraints are met dynamically during the injection process
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts injection parameters (flow rate, volume, timing) based on patient-specific physiological data and real-time pressure feedback. By optimizing parameter combinations rather than simply increasing flow rate and volume, the system achieves improved contrast enhancement while maintaining pressure control within safe operational limits
Data Source
AI summary
A system for enabling delivery of fluid in an injection procedure to be performed on a patient in connection with a diagnostic imaging procedure is disclosed. The system includes a controller operably associated with at least one pressurizing mechanism though which at least one of a first and a second fluid contained within at least one fluid container is injectable into the patient. The first fluid includes a contrast enhancing agent while the second fluid does not. The controller includes a programming system for programming an injection protocol having a plurality of phases to effect enhancement of at least one region of interest of the patient over a scan duration of the diagnostic imaging procedure. The programming system includes an algorithm that enables computation of a ratio of the first and second fluids based on at least a peak enhancement that occurs in at least one region of interest.