Automatic DSA Image Synchronization via Contrast Agent Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual selection of synchronization points in medical image sequences, such as Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), is a slow, burdensome, and error-prone process, especially when comparing pre- and post-treatment image sequences acquired at different times.
Innovation Solution
A system automatically determines and synchronizes the display of adjacent medical image sequences by identifying the first image frame containing a contrast agent in both sequences, using a contrast agent detector and display processor to align and present them for user comparison, allowing synchronous increment through frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual selection of synchronization points is used, then the comparison of pre- and post-treatment image sequences can be performed, but the process is slow, burdensome, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects contrast agent introduction in image sequences and selects synchronization points without user intervention. The processor analyzes image data to identify when contrast agent enters vessels, autonomously determining the synchronization point for comparing pre- and post-treatment sequences, eliminating manual selection errors and time consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical selection of synchronization points with automated computational image analysis. The system uses processors to detect contrast agent presence through image processing algorithms, substituting human operator actions with automated digital detection and selection mechanisms
2Ease of operation
If manual synchronization point selection is used, then flexibility in choosing comparison points is maintained, but the process becomes burdensome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system autonomously detects contrast agent introduction and selects synchronization points without requiring user intervention. The processor automatically analyzes image sequences, identifies when contrast agent enters vessels, and determines synchronization points, eliminating manual selection errors while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying synchronized image sequences with clear indicators of the selected synchronization point. The display shows pre- and post-treatment images aligned at the detected contrast agent introduction moment, allowing users to verify the automatic selection and ensuring both ease of operation and high reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A system automatically synchronizes display of adjacent different medical image sequences of an anatomical portion derived for use in Angiography or another medical procedure. The system includes an imaging system for acquiring first and second sets of data at different stages of a treatment procedure representing corresponding first and second image sequences individually comprising multiple temporally sequential individual images of vessels of a portion of patient anatomy. The sequential individual images encompass introduction of a contrast agent into patient vessels. A display presents the first and second image sequences in substantially adjacent display areas to facilitate user comparison. A contrast agent detector automatically analyzes the first and second image sequences to identify a first image frame in both the first image sequence and the second image sequence indicating presence of a contrast agent. A display processor automatically synchronizes presentation of the first image sequence and the second image sequence in respective areas of the substantially adjacent display areas in response to identification of the first image frame and relative to introduction of contrast agent and enables a user to synchronously increment through image frames of both the first image sequence and the second image sequence, one frame at a time.