X-ray CT Scanner Contrast Agent Timing Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional CT scanners face challenges in accurately determining the time when a contrast agent reaches a test region during 4D dynamic scans, leading to extensive image data and prolonged processing times from examination to diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray CT scanner and image creation method that utilize a CT value change curve to set the image creation time zone before scanning, allowing for automatic post-processing after the scan, by generating and fitting the CT value change curve to specify the optimal image creation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If operator manually estimates contrast agent arrival time and creates images, then image quality can be optimized, but enormous amount of image data is generated and processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically determining the optimal image creation time zone before actual image creation based on contrast agent concentration time courses. This preliminary determination eliminates the need for manual estimation and subsequent iterative image creation, directly reducing processing time while maintaining image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary automated determination mechanism that uses contrast agent concentration time courses as intermediate data to identify optimal imaging timing. This intermediary process replaces manual operator estimation, providing objective, data-driven timing selection that reduces both data volume and processing time while preserving image quality.
2Measurement precision
If manual image creation process is used, then image quality can be controlled, but the process from examination to diagnosis requires large time
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling automatic determination of optimal image creation time zones based on contrast agent concentration data. The system serves itself by using its own acquired data (contrast agent concentration time courses) to automatically identify imaging timing, eliminating dependence on manual operator judgment and significantly improving examination-to-diagnosis efficiency while maintaining image quality control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies feedback by using contrast agent concentration time courses as feedback data to automatically determine optimal imaging timing. This feedback mechanism allows the system to continuously monitor contrast agent distribution and automatically adjust image creation timing, improving both efficiency and consistency of image quality without manual intervention.
3Productivity
If automatic image creation is implemented, then processing efficiency improves, but accurate determination of contrast agent arrival time becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical/manual system of operator estimation with an automated computational system that objectively analyzes contrast agent concentration time courses. This substitution of mechanical judgment with automated data analysis maintains high processing efficiency while improving the accuracy of contrast agent arrival time determination through systematic, data-driven methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies parameter changes by transforming the subjective parameter of operator estimation into objective parameters based on contrast agent concentration measurements. By changing from manual time estimation to automated analysis of concentration time course data, the system achieves both high processing efficiency and accurate determination of contrast agent arrival timing.
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
Enables efficient image creation in the desired time zone, reducing the amount of image data and simplifying post-processing, thereby shortening the time from examination to diagnosis and improving workflow efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray detector which detects the X-ray passed through the subject and converts the detected X-ray into an electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
In an X-ray CT scanner having an X-ray tube which applies an X-ray spreading in a body axis direction of a subject, and an X-ray detector having a wide imaging range which detects the X-ray passed through the subject and converts the detected X-ray into an electric signal, a desired image creation time is set by use of a specific CT value curve in a console input unit before scanning with the X-ray. After the scanning, data of the CT value change curve is generated based on the obtained projection data. An image creation range in the generated change curve is determined based on an image creation range set in the console input unit, and the image creation is performed in the image creation unit based on the determined image creation time.