Virtual Baseline Image Generation in CT Perfusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT perfusion measurements require additional baseline acquisitions, increasing X-ray dose and workflow complexity, and prolonging the overall acquisition time due to the need for separate native image acquisitions before contrast agent arrival.
Innovation Solution
A CT perfusion data determination method using spectral or multi-energy CT image acquisition to record raw X-ray data affected by contrast agent, where a virtual baseline image is calculated through material decomposition, allowing for the determination of contrast agent concentration without separate baseline acquisitions, thereby reducing acquisition time and X-ray dose.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate baseline acquisitions are performed before contrast agent arrival, then native images without contrast agent are obtained, but X-ray dose increases and acquisition time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the acquisition of native images and contrast-enhanced images into a single continuous perfusion measurement sequence. By using spectral or multi-energy CT to acquire data at multiple energy levels simultaneously during the perfusion scan, the system eliminates the need for separate baseline acquisitions while still providing the necessary native image information for accurate perfusion calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy parameter of X-ray acquisition by using spectral or multi-energy CT technology. This allows the system to acquire images at different energy levels (e.g., 80 kV and 140 kV) during the same perfusion measurement, enabling virtual non-contrast image generation through material decomposition without requiring separate baseline scans.
2Measurement precision
If separate baseline acquisitions are performed before contrast agent arrival, then native images without contrast agent are obtained, but workflow complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the baseline acquisition and perfusion measurement into a single integrated workflow. The spectral or multi-energy CT system acquires data at multiple energy levels throughout the perfusion scan, automatically generating both native and contrast-enhanced images without requiring separate acquisition protocols or additional test boluses.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating virtual non-contrast images from the contrast-enhanced perfusion data through material decomposition. This eliminates the need for manual coordination of separate baseline scans and automatically provides the native image reference needed for perfusion calculation.
3Measurement precision
If fixed time span delay is defined between contrast agent injection and first image acquisition, then contrast-free first image is ensured, but overall acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses spectral or multi-energy CT to acquire images at multiple energy levels simultaneously, allowing immediate generation of virtual non-contrast images without requiring a time delay. The material decomposition technique separates contrast agent signal from tissue signal in real-time, eliminating the need for fixed time span delays while maintaining image quality.
4Measurement precision
If test bolus is used to determine contrast agent arrival time, then timing accuracy is improved, but workflow complexity and acquisition time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines contrast agent arrival time automatically from the perfusion measurement data itself, without requiring a separate test bolus. The spectral or multi-energy CT system continuously monitors contrast concentration in the region of interest and automatically identifies the arrival time, integrating timing determination into the main perfusion protocol.
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 enables CT perfusion measurements to be performed with reduced effort and time, using existing CT systems with software updates, and provides precise temporal coordination of contrast agent bolus and perfusion measurement, reducing statistical errors and radiation exposure.
Implementation Method 1
raw X-ray data affected by contrast agent has been generated by way of a spectral or multi-energy CT image acquisition method
Implementation Method 2
a virtual baseline image is determined by calculating virtual native image data through the application of a material decomposition
Data Source
AI summary
A CT perfusion data determination method is described. In the CT perfusion data determination method, raw X-ray data affected by contrast agent and generated by way of a spectral or multi-energy CT image acquisition method is recorded from an examination region, a plurality of images having been acquired from the examination region at successive time instants. Based on the recorded raw X-ray data, a virtual baseline image is determined by calculating virtual native image data through the application of a material decomposition. Finally a temporal course of a contrast agent concentration in the examination region is determined based upon the raw X-ray data affected by contrast agent and the virtual baseline image. A CT perfusion measurement method is also described. Furthermore, a CT perfusion data determination facility is described. Moreover, a computed tomography system is described.