Dual-Mode 3D Breast Imaging for Structural-Functional Tumor Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breast tumor examination methods, such as mammography, MRI, PET, and ultrasound, face challenges in early detection, specificity, radiation exposure, and inability to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors, limiting their effectiveness in large-scale screening.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode 3D breast imaging device combining dynamic diffuse optical tomography (DOT) and ultrasound technologies to provide both functional and structural imaging, using near-infrared light and ultrasound to detect early tumors and determine their nature through integrated image analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mammography is used for breast imaging, then structural images can be obtained, but radiation exposure occurs and specificity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the radiation-based mammography system with a non-radiation-based dual-mode imaging system combining ultrasound (acoustic waves) and DOT (optical waves). This substitution eliminates radiation exposure while maintaining or improving diagnostic capability through complementary imaging mechanisms that do not rely on ionizing radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite imaging approach by integrating ultrasound imaging and DOT imaging into a single dual-mode system. This composite approach combines the structural imaging advantages of ultrasound with the functional imaging capabilities of DOT, achieving improved specificity and eliminating radiation exposure through the synergistic combination of non-radiation-based techniques.
2Measurement precision
If ultrasound is used for breast imaging, then structural information is obtained, but small calcification points cannot be detected and benign/malignant differentiation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges ultrasound imaging and DOT imaging into a dual-mode system that simultaneously provides both structural and functional information. The ultrasound component detects structural details including calcification points, while the DOT component provides functional information about tumor vascularity and metabolism, enabling both improved detection capability and benign/malignant differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-mode imaging system performs multiple functions within a single integrated platform: it provides structural imaging (ultrasound), functional imaging (DOT), and diagnostic support (image fusion and AI analysis). This multi-functionality allows the system to address both detection capability and functional information needs simultaneously.
3Measurement precision
If MRI and PET are used for breast imaging, then functional information is obtained, but examination cost is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cost-effective imaging technologies (ultrasound and DOT) that are more economical than MRI and PET. These technologies use readily available equipment and non-expensive consumables, making the system financially sustainable for widespread screening while maintaining functional imaging capability through the DOT component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters and equipment requirements by using ultrasound and DOT technologies instead of expensive MRI and PET systems. This parameter change in the imaging modality selection maintains functional imaging capability while significantly reducing examination cost through the use of more economical, accessible technologies.
4Measurement precision
If DOT is used for breast imaging, then functional information is obtained with high sensitivity and specificity, but structural information is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges ultrasound structural imaging with DOT functional imaging in a dual-mode system. The ultrasound component provides detailed structural information about tissue architecture and morphology, while the DOT component provides functional information about blood flow and oxygenation, achieving both high functional imaging accuracy and comprehensive structural information through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-mode imaging system provides multiple imaging functions simultaneously: structural imaging (ultrasound), functional imaging (DOT), and integrated analysis. This multi-functionality ensures that both functional imaging accuracy and structural information are obtained without requiring separate examinations, as the system integrates both capabilities in a single operational framework.
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
Enhances the efficiency and accuracy of breast cancer screening by providing simultaneous structural and functional imaging, enabling early detection and differentiation of benign and malignant tumors with improved reliability and reduced radiation exposure.
Implementation Method 1
uses ultrasonic wave, visible red light or near-infrared light synchronous scanning
Implementation Method 2
applying specific pressure to the breast tissue and scanning the breast using near-infrared light
Implementation Method 3
dynamic DOT breast tumor detection techniques are targeting the tumor angiogenesis, by applying specific pressure to the breast tissue and scanning the breast using near-infrared light, obtaining the spatial information of the breast through image reconstruction technology
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for dual mode imaging uses an ultrasonic detection device, a diffuse optical tomography (DOT) detection device for imaging a breast. The DOT detection device is configured to detect changes of tissue blood oxygen. A host machine in communication with the ultrasonic detection device and the DOT detection device is used for imaging the breast by simultaneously generating functional images and structural information images of the breast based on the imaging.