CT Image Energy Selection for Dynamic Lesion Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
In dynamic contrast CT imaging, the large number of virtual monochromatic X-ray images generated at various energy levels increases the burden on radiologists, and existing methods fail to consider the temporal change in lesion visibility, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that acquires and processes CT images at multiple timings, derives visibility information, and determines an optimal image interpretation energy level based on visibility changes over time, sequentially displaying these images to enhance temporal change visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If virtual monochromatic X-ray images having various energy levels are generated in each of the plurality of contrast phases, then the diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the size of the image and the burden on the doctor become enormous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the enormous set of images by selecting only specific energy levels that are most suitable for interpreting each contrast phase. Instead of presenting all possible energy levels, the system divides the energy level range into multiple bands and selects representative energy levels from each band, thereby reducing the total number of images while preserving diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of energy level selection based on the contrast phase. By dynamically adjusting which energy levels are selected according to the specific contrast phase being viewed, the system optimizes the balance between diagnostic accuracy and interpretation burden, presenting only the most relevant energy level information for each phase.
2Reliability
If virtual monochromatic X-ray images having various energy levels are generated in each of the plurality of contrast phases, then the visibility of the lesion can be comprehensively checked, but the number of images to be interpreted becomes enormous
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the energy level spectrum into multiple bands and selects one or more representative energy levels from each band. This segmentation approach ensures comprehensive coverage of different energy characteristics while limiting the total number of images to a manageable quantity that maintains interpretation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by selecting only the necessary portion of energy levels required for accurate lesion assessment. Rather than presenting all possible energy levels (excessive action), the system carefully selects a subset that provides sufficient information for comprehensive lesion visibility evaluation while maintaining interpretation efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If a map image including spatial information about a region of interest and information representing a change in an analysis target value is generated, then the burden on the doctor is reduced, but the change over time which is important for the discrimination of the lesion is not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of both approaches by combining the simplified presentation of map images with the temporal change information. The system generates map images that not only show spatial distribution and analysis target value changes but also incorporate temporal dynamics, thereby reducing doctor burden while preserving crucial temporal information for lesion discrimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary representation that bridges between detailed temporal images and simplified map images. This intermediary format presents temporal change information in a condensed visual form that maintains the essential dynamic characteristics while reducing the complexity burden on the interpreting doctor.
Data Source
AI summary
A processor is configured to acquire a plurality of CT images derived by reconstructing a plurality of pieces of projection data having different energy levels, which are acquired by imaging a subject at a plurality of timings, at a plurality of predetermined energy levels, derive visibility information related to visibility of a target region included in each of the plurality of CT images, and determine an image interpretation energy level for interpreting the CT image among the plurality of energy levels based on the visibility information.