CT X-ray Tube Voltage Selection Using Patient Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for reducing x-ray radiation dose in computer tomography scans do not adequately consider individual patient information, such as medical history and physical constitution, which can lead to unnecessary exposure.
Innovation Solution
A method to select the voltage for the x-ray tube based on both a topogram and patient-specific information from an electronic patient file, allowing for a tailored reduction in x-ray radiation dose by adjusting the voltage according to the patient's specific conditions and examination type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the voltage is reduced to lower x-ray radiation dose, then the radiation dose to patient is reduced, but the image quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adjusting the voltage setting specifically for patients with contrast agent intolerance or poor vein conditions, rather than applying a uniform voltage reduction to all patients. The system identifies specific patient subgroups through analysis of patient data and topograms, then applies optimized voltage settings tailored to their particular needs, thereby maintaining image quality for contrast-sensitive examinations while reducing radiation dose where appropriate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter dynamically based on patient-specific factors. Instead of using fixed voltage settings or simple automatic exposure control, the system modifies the tube voltage (kV) based on patient weight, body habitus, examination type, and contrast agent considerations. This parameter adaptation allows optimization of both radiation dose and image quality for specific clinical scenarios.
2Measurement precision
If the voltage is increased to maintain image quality, then the image quality is maintained, but the x-ray radiation dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of patient data, including review of patient history for contrast agent intolerance, assessment of vein conditions, and evaluation of body habitus from topograms, before setting the voltage. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-determine optimized voltage settings that balance image quality requirements with radiation dose reduction, particularly for patients who may require lower doses due to contrast agent limitations or poor vein access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic voltage selection that adapts to individual patient characteristics and examination requirements. The system dynamically adjusts the tube voltage based on real-time assessment of patient factors (weight, body habitus, contrast agent status) and examination parameters, rather than using static voltage settings. This dynamic approach enables optimal balancing of image quality and radiation dose for each specific clinical scenario.
3Device complexity
If standard voltage settings are used for all patients, then the device complexity is low, but the radiation dose cannot be optimized for individual patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service approach where the system automatically analyzes patient data, evaluates topograms, determines patient-specific factors (including contrast agent intolerance and vein conditions), and selects optimized voltage settings without requiring manual intervention. The automatic exposure control system performs these assessments and voltage selections autonomously, reducing the complexity burden on operators while achieving personalized radiation dose optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously evaluates patient responses and image quality outcomes to refine voltage settings. The automatic exposure control system uses feedback from detected x-ray transmission, patient characteristics, and examination results to adjust and optimize voltage selections for subsequent scans, enabling progressive refinement of radiation dose while maintaining image quality standards.
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 approach effectively reduces the x-ray radiation dose while maintaining image quality, particularly for patients with poor vein conditions or contrast agent intolerance, by optimizing voltage and contrast agent flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray tube (6) and an x-ray detector unit (7)
Implementation Method 2
acquisition of x-ray projections of a body region of the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided to select a value of a voltage to be set at an x-ray tube of a computer tomography for scanning a patient before an acquisition of x-ray projections of a body region of the patient so as to reduce the dose of x-ray radiation to be applied to the patient in the course of the scan. According to the method, the selection of the value of the voltage takes place under consideration of at least one item of information that can be learned from a topogram of the patient and at least one item of information about the patient that can be learned from a patient file of the patient. The invention also encompasses a computer tomography apparatus with a computer for the execution of the method, as well as a data medium on which is stored a computer program that can be executed on a computer device to perform the method.