Dual-Sided Compression Paddle System for Synchronized X-Ray and Ultrasound Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current breast imaging systems face challenges in integrating high-quality x-ray and ultrasound imaging due to discrepancies in positioning and image registration, leading to potential unnecessary biopsies and degraded image quality, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
Innovation Solution
A dual-sided compression paddle system integrated with a gantry and ultrasound probes positioned on both sides of the breast allows for synchronized movement with the x-ray detector, enabling simultaneous x-ray and ultrasound imaging with minimal breast repositioning, using mesh material and ultrasound gel bladders for optimal contact and image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultrasound gel is applied to the breast prior to x-ray imaging, then ultrasound coupling is improved, but x-ray image quality degrades due to artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the imaging process into separate temporal phases: x-ray imaging is performed first without gel, then ultrasound imaging is performed after gel application. This segmentation allows each modality to operate under optimal conditions without interference from the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary x-ray imaging before applying ultrasound gel to the breast. This preliminary action ensures that high-quality x-ray images are captured before the gel is introduced, which would otherwise cause artifacts in the x-ray images.
2Manufacturing precision
If the breast is compressed for x-ray imaging, then x-ray image quality is improved, but ultrasound penetration depth decreases due to increased tissue density
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the compression force applied to the breast between the two imaging modalities. Higher compression is applied during x-ray imaging to improve image quality, while reduced or no compression is applied during ultrasound imaging to maintain adequate penetration depth through the tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic action by alternating between compression and non-compression states. Compression is applied during x-ray imaging phases and released during ultrasound imaging phases, allowing each modality to operate under optimal mechanical conditions.
3Manufacturing precision
If the x-ray detector is positioned close to the breast, then x-ray image quality is improved, but ultrasound probe positioning becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes the x-ray detector dynamic by enabling it to move away from the breast during ultrasound imaging. This allows the ultrasound probe to be positioned and operated with sufficient space while maintaining the ability to achieve close detector-to-breast distance when performing x-ray imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic positioning of the x-ray detector, placing it close to the breast during x-ray imaging phases and moving it away during ultrasound imaging phases. This periodic adjustment allows both modalities to access their optimal operating configurations.
4Measurement precision
If ultrasound frequency is increased to improve resolution, then imaging resolution is improved, but penetration depth decreases due to sound attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by using different ultrasound frequencies for different imaging needs. Higher frequencies are used when imaging superficial structures where resolution is critical, while lower frequencies are used for deeper structures where penetration is the primary concern. The compression state is also adjusted locally to facilitate the appropriate frequency selection.
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 solution enhances image registration and quality by maintaining consistent breast positioning during both imaging modalities, reducing the need for separate systems and minimizing patient discomfort, while allowing for more accurate diagnosis and potentially fewer biopsies.
Implementation Method 1
breast imaging systems including ultrasound and x-ray
Implementation Method 2
ultrasound imaging is often performed in a supine position
Data Source
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AI summary
An imaging assembly 100;200;300 includes a compression system 112;306 configured to receive and compress an object to be imaged. The compression system includes a first compression paddle 114;312;500;600 and a second compression paddle 118;318;500;600. The imaging assembly further includes an ultrasound system 122;304 including a first ultrasound probe 126;314 coupled to the first compression paddle. The first ultrasound probe is configured to acquire a first portion of the ultrasound image information of the object. The ultrasound system also includes a second ultrasound probe 146;320 coupled to the second compression paddle. The second ultrasound probe is configured to acquire a second portion of the ultrasound image information of the object.