DSA Segmentation for AVM Vessel Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital subtraction angiography methods find it difficult to accurately identify the arteries supplying and veins draining arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the brain, which is crucial for effective treatment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving X-ray imaging with dual contrast agent injections (intravenous and intraarterial) to produce subtraction image data, where pixels or voxels are segmented into intensity classes based on their values, allowing clear differentiation of draining veins and supplying arteries, enhancing the representation of the cerebral vascular system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional DSA methods are used to represent the cerebral vascular system, then a comprehensive image of the vascular system is obtained, but it becomes difficult to detect the arteries supplying and veins draining the AVM from the many arteries represented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the vascular system into different intensity classes based on contrast enhancement patterns. Subtraction images are segmented into multiple intensity classes (e.g., first, second, third intensity classes) that differentiate between arteries, AVM nidus, and draining veins. This segmentation allows clear identification of AVM-related vessels by separating them from other vascular structures based on their distinct contrast agent dynamics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different intensity characteristics to different vascular regions. Arteries, AVM nidus, and veins are assigned different intensity classes based on their local contrast enhancement properties. This allows each vascular component to be visually distinguished with appropriate intensity weighting, making AVM-related vessels detectable despite being part of a comprehensive vascular image.
2Measurement precision
If multiple contrast agent injections are performed to improve vascular system representation, then identification of draining veins and supplying arteries is enabled, but the complexity of the examination procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a first intravenous contrast agent injection before the second intraarterial injection. The first injection serves as a preparatory step that enhances venous structures and provides a baseline for subtraction. This preliminary action enables the subsequent intraarterial injection to specifically highlight arterial and AVM structures, facilitating clear differentiation of AVM-related vessels through the combined subtraction images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using multiple sequential contrast agent injections at different time points. The first intravenous injection and second intraarterial injection are performed at different times, with each injection followed by image acquisition at specific time intervals. This periodic injection protocol allows temporal separation of contrast enhancement in different vascular compartments, enabling precise identification of AVM vessels through time-resolved subtraction imaging.
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 comprehensive and clear image of the vascular system, enabling precise identification of AVM-related vessels, thus facilitating safer and more accurate treatment procedures.
Implementation Method 1
providing mask image data recorded by an X-ray device; providing at least first fill image data recorded by the X-ray device
Implementation Method 2
which has been recorded during an at least partial filling of the hollow organ system with a contrast agent
Data Source
AI summary
For a particularly comprehensive identification of hollow organ systems, a method is provided for producing a digital subtraction angiography of a hollow organ system of a patient. The method includes: providing mask image data recorded by an X-ray device; providing at least first fill image data recorded by the X-ray device, which has been recorded during an at least partial filling of the hollow organ system with a contrast agent; starting from a first intravenous and a second intraarterial contrast agent injection following in time; ascertaining at least first subtraction image data by subtracting the mask image data from the at least first fill image data; ascertaining final subtraction image data from the at least first subtraction image data; and segmenting the final subtraction image data and assigning the pixels or voxels of the final subtraction image data to at least two different intensity classes based on their respective intensity value.