DWI-FLAIR Mismatch Evaluation Using Segmentation and Dice Registration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Evaluating DWI-FLAIR mismatch in medical images is time-consuming and labor-intensive, hindering efficient determination of whether diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) are matched, which is crucial for guiding thrombolytic treatment in acute ischemic stroke.

Innovation Solution

A method using a deep learning-based U-Net framework for image segmentation models to automatically segment DWI and FLAIR images, register the results, and apply a Dice metric to evaluate mismatch, improving efficiency and accuracy in determining DWI-FLAIR matching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual analysis and interpretation of medical images is used to determine DWI-FLAIR matching, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained, but evaluation efficiency is reduced and time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidevaluation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical analysis process with an automated deep learning system. The U-Net based image segmentation model automatically processes DWI and FLAIR images to identify lesion areas and determine matching status, eliminating the need for manual radiological interpretation while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through algorithmic precision

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary automated evaluation system that acts as a bridge between raw medical images and clinical decision-making. The deep learning model serves as an intermediary tool that processes images, extracts relevant features, and provides objective matching assessment, reducing direct human workload while preserving diagnostic quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If automated deep learning-based image segmentation is used, then evaluation efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveevaluation efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a universal U-Net deep learning architecture that can process both DWI and FLAIR image types through the same framework. This multi-functional model handles different MRI sequences, performs lesion segmentation, and enables matching assessment, reducing the need for separate specialized systems for each imaging modality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the complex medical image analysis task into distinct computational stages: image preprocessing, separate segmentation of DWI and FLAIR images using the U-Net model, registration of segmented regions, and final matching evaluation. This segmentation of the processing pipeline manages complexity by breaking down the overall task into manageable, modular steps

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12505546B2Method for evaluating DWI-flair mismatch, apparatus, medium, and product
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 BEIJING TIANTAN HOSPITAL AFFILIATED TO CAPITAL MEDICAL UNIV
  • US12505546B2 patent drawing
  • US12505546B2 patent drawing
  • US12505546B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This application relates to the technical field of image recognition, and provides a method for evaluating a diffusion weighted imaging (DWI)-fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) mismatch, an apparatus, a medium, and a product. The method includes: obtaining a DWI image and a FLAIR image of a target object; applying a first image segmentation model to segment the DWI image to obtain a first image segmentation result; applying a second image segmentation model to segment the FLAIR image to obtain a second image segmentation result; registering the second image segmentation result onto the first image segmentation result to obtain a registered second image segmentation result; and applying a Dice metric to evaluate a degree of mismatch between the first image segmentation result and the registered second image segmentation result. This application can improve efficiency of determining whether DWI and FLAIR are matched.