Curved-Layer Breast Tomosynthesis Reconstruction for Tissue Coverage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast tomosynthesis reconstruction methods using planar sections result in suboptimal representation of breast tissue when curved compression paddles are used, leading to incomplete imaging of breast regions.
Innovation Solution
Generate a result image based on a tomosynthesis dataset by defining curved layers that follow the curvature of the compression plate and detector, reconstructing layer images on these layers, and stacking them to form a non-planar image stack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If planar sections are used for breast tomosynthesis reconstruction, then the reconstruction process is simple and standardized, but the representation of breast tissue is suboptimal and outer regions are incompletely imaged when curved compression paddles are used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by defining and reconstructing images on curved layers that follow the natural convex curvature of the breast tissue. Instead of using flat planar sections, the reconstruction process adapts to the curved geometry by creating layers with varying radii of curvature, which accurately represent the breast's natural shape and improve imaging of outer regions while maintaining manageable reconstruction complexity through systematic coordinate transformation methods
2Loss of information
If curved layers are used to follow breast curvature, then complete representation of breast tissue including outer regions is achieved, but the reconstruction process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar reconstruction to three-dimensional curved layer reconstruction by introducing radial distance as an additional dimension. Curved layers are defined by varying radial distances from a center point, allowing comprehensive coverage of the breast volume including outer regions. This dimensional approach systematically organizes the complex reconstruction process into manageable layers with different curvature radii
3Measurement precision
If planar reconstruction is used, then the processing method is straightforward, but excessively short layers are created resulting in poor visibility of microcalcifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating curved layers with locally adapted curvature radii that match the breast tissue geometry at different positions. Outer regions use larger curvature radii while inner regions use smaller radii, ensuring optimal layer thickness and microcalcification visibility throughout the entire breast volume. This localized adaptation maintains processing systematicity while dramatically improving measurement precision for detecting microcalcifications in all regions
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 provides a more comprehensive and accurate representation of breast tissue by avoiding excessively short layers, enhancing visibility of microcalcifications, and improving image quality.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray source (4) and a detector (5), wherein the X-ray source (4) is opposite the detector (5) and is designed such that the detector (5) detects the X-ray radiation (R) emitted by it after at least part of the X-ray radiation (R) has penetrated the breast (O)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for generating a result image (E) based on a tomosynthesis image dataset (T) of a breast (O) which has been fixed to a detector (5) by a compression plate (6), wherein the contact surface of the compression plate (6) and/or detector (5) facing the breast (O) has a concave curvature, the method comprising the steps of: - defining curved layers (S) between the compression plate (6) and the detector (5), the shape of which follows the curvature of the compression plate (6) and/or detector (5) or represents a transition between these curvatures, - reconstructing layer images (B) that lie on the curved layers (S), - generating the result image (E) as a layer stack of the layer images (B), - outputting the result image (E). The invention further relates to a corresponding device and a mammography system.