Medical Imaging Contrast Timing Signaling Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging techniques face challenges in achieving consistent contrast enhancement in blood vessels using contrast agents, which can be harmful and costly, especially when manually administered without controlled injectors, leading to inefficient use and increased patient risk.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that signal the start and end of manual contrast administration relative to the data-acquisition scan, using a signaling unit to optimize the timing and amount of contrast agent administration, reducing the need for automated injectors and improving image quality and patient safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual contrast administration is performed without controlled injectors, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision and reliability of contrast enhancement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time feedback to the operator through visual and acoustic signals indicating the optimal timing for contrast administration. The signaling unit monitors scan progress and communicates back to the operator when to start and stop contrast injection, enabling manual administration to achieve precision comparable to automated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and signaling the optimal timing for contrast administration before the actual injection occurs. The signaling unit provides advance notice of when contrast should be administered based on predetermined protocols and real-time scan status, allowing the operator to prepare and execute the injection at the precise moment.
2Device complexity
If manual contrast administration is performed without timing signals, then device complexity is reduced, but loss of information about optimal timing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The signaling unit acts as an intermediary between the complex scan timing system and the operator. It translates complex scan progress data into simple, clear visual and acoustic signals that indicate when to administer contrast, preserving critical timing information without requiring the operator to understand or manage the underlying system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service by automatically generating and displaying timing information without requiring external assistance or complex operator calculations. The signaling unit autonomously monitors scan progress and provides timing guidance based on predetermined protocols, enabling the operator to make informed decisions independently.
3Ease of operation
If contrast agent is administered without precise timing control, then ease of operation is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The signaling unit provides continuous feedback to the operator about scan progress and optimal timing, enabling precise control of contrast administration. This feedback mechanism ensures contrast is administered at the correct moment to maximize diagnostic value while minimizing the amount needed, thereby reducing patient exposure to harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts administration parameters based on real-time scan conditions and predetermined protocols. By signaling optimal timing points, it enables the operator to adjust the timing and duration of contrast injection to match the specific diagnostic requirements, minimizing contrast用量 while maintaining image quality and reducing patient risk.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for recording medical images of the human body or that of an animal. The method includes scanning for acquiring data and signaling the start and/or end of a manual administration of a contrast medium in temporal relation to the scan for acquiring data.