Deep Learning Reconstruction for Limited-Angle CBCT Perfusion Imaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing perfusion imaging methods face challenges in improving sampling count, temporal resolution, and image quality in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) perfusion imaging, particularly in the reconstruction of limited-angle images, which are prone to artifacts.

Innovation Solution

A medical imaging method utilizing a deep learning model with a series of primary and secondary feature extraction blocks to process limited-angle reconstructed images, enhancing image quality by iteratively optimizing features and removing artifacts through a reverse-order processing approach.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional CBCT reconstruction methods are used for limited-angle imaging, then the reconstruction process is simple and fast, but image quality deteriorates due to artifacts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidreconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A deep learning model is introduced as an intermediary between the limited-angle projection data and the final reconstructed image. The model processes the initial reconstruction and removes artifacts, thereby improving image quality without requiring changes to the basic CBCT hardware or reconstruction pipeline

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional iterative reconstruction algorithms (which are computationally intensive and complex) with a trained deep learning model. Once trained, the model provides fast artifact removal with simpler computational requirements during inference, trading off training complexity for operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If more projection data is collected to improve image quality, then image quality improves, but scanning time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidscanning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by collecting limited-angle projection data (less than a full 360-degree scan) and using a deep learning model to compensate for the missing data. This approach achieves acceptable image quality with reduced scanning time by not requiring complete projection data coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes artifacts from the reconstructed image using a deep learning model. By specifically targeting and eliminating artifact components rather than requiring complete raw data, the system achieves improved image quality without the time penalty of extended scanning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If artifact removal techniques are applied to improve image quality, then image quality improves, but processing time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The deep learning model is trained in advance on a large dataset of paired images (with and without artifacts). This preliminary training phase allows the model to learn artifact patterns and removal strategies, so that during actual operation, artifact removal occurs rapidly during the inference phase without significant processing delays

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20260074056A1Systems and methods for medical imaging
Publication Date: 2026.03.12 SHANGHAI UNITED IMAGING HEALTHCARE
  • US20260074056A1 patent drawing
  • US20260074056A1 patent drawing
  • US20260074056A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a system and method for medical imaging. The method includes obtaining a first reconstructed image of a target subject; and generating a target reconstructed image of the target subject by inputting the first reconstructed image into a trained deep learning model. An image quality of the target reconstructed image is higher than that of the first reconstructed image.