Contrast Scan Interface with Automated Bolus Triggering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current MRI systems face challenges in accurately timing the start of contrast-enhanced MRI scans due to operator reliance on live 2D images and manual triggering, which can lead to timing errors and missed scans.
Innovation Solution
A scan interface is designed to display live 2D images and a contrast plot simultaneously, allowing operators to visualize the arrival of the contrast bolus and providing automated triggering options based on contrast intensity thresholds or time since injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If operators rely on manual triggering based on live 2D images, then the system maintains simplicity in operation, but timing accuracy deteriorates leading to operator errors and missed scans
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated triggering based on contrast intensity thresholds and timing parameters without requiring continuous manual operator intervention. The scan controller automatically detects contrast bolus arrival and initiates post-contrast imaging sequences, allowing the system to service itself in terms of timing control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors contrast intensity in real-time during the scan and uses this feedback to automatically trigger post-contrast imaging when predefined thresholds are met. This closed-loop feedback mechanism replaces manual visual assessment with automated detection, improving timing accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If automated triggering based on contrast intensity thresholds is implemented, then timing accuracy improves, but the system may fail to capture scans when contrast levels do not reach traditional thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides multiple triggering mechanisms that can function independently or in combination: automated contrast intensity threshold triggering, manual operator triggering, and hybrid modes. This multi-functionality ensures that if one method fails (e.g., contrast doesn't reach threshold), alternative methods are available to capture the scan.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows flexible adjustment of contrast intensity thresholds and timing parameters to adapt to different contrast agents, injection rates, and patient physiology. By changing these parameters, the system can reliably capture scans even when contrast levels vary and don't reach traditional thresholds.
3Loss of information
If the scan interface displays multiple parameters and live images simultaneously, then information completeness improves, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scan interface is divided into distinct functional zones: contrast intensity display area, timing parameter controls, live image viewing area, and trigger control buttons. This segmentation allows operators to access comprehensive information without being overwhelmed by a cluttered interface, as each parameter is presented in its own dedicated space.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual triggering is used to allow operator discretion, then adaptability to varying contrast kinetics is maintained, but productivity decreases due to operator errors and missed scans
Solution Approach 1:
The automated triggering system handles the time-critical detection and initiation of post-contrast scans, improving productivity by eliminating operator reaction time delays and missed scans. Operators can focus on higher-level decision-making while the system manages the critical timing execution.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for contrast scans. In one example, a computing device is configured to display, on a screen, a scan interface including a scan prescription display panel in a timeline view including an editable version of a timeline, the scan prescription display panel in the timeline view configured to receive user input to enable a scan prescription of a contrast scan of an imaging subject to be set while displaying each step of the scan prescription via the timeline as that step is set, and additionally being configured to display on the screen a button that can be reached directly from the scan interface, wherein the button is selectable to initiate the contrast scan and launch a scanning view of the scan prescription display panel that enables each step of the scan prescription to be seen via the timeline as the contrast scan is carried out.