Dynamic Perfusion Imaging System for Patient-Specific X-Ray Protocols

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current perfusion imaging systems rely on fixed recording protocols, which may not adequately capture dynamic changes in perfusion rates, limiting their ability to assess and monitor the effectiveness of interventions for blood vessel blockages, such as those caused by atherosclerosis.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that measures physiological characteristics of a patient using a computer to compute imaging parameter values for various imaging modalities, acquiring projection images with an X-ray device, and determining perfusion rates based on these images, allowing for dynamic adjustment of imaging parameters to optimize perfusion assessment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed, predefined recording protocols are used for perfusion imaging, then the imaging process is simple and standardized, but the system cannot adequately capture dynamic changes in perfusion rates or adapt to individual patient conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to individual patient conditionsVSAvoidcomplexity of imaging protocol
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed, static recording protocols to dynamic protocols that can adapt in real-time. The system continuously monitors physiological characteristics and adjusts imaging parameters (such as timing, duration, and contrast agent injection rates) dynamically based on measured perfusion rates and patient-specific physiological variations, enabling the imaging process to respond to changing conditions during the procedure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by modifying imaging parameters based on measured physiological characteristics. The system measures parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, and perfusion rates, then uses these measurements to adjust imaging parameters including exposure timing, contrast agent dosage, and acquisition duration, thereby optimizing image quality and perfusion assessment accuracy for each individual patient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If contrast agent injection is done directly into the affected vessel, then the perfusion assessment is targeted and precise, but the timing and amount of contrast agent must be precisely controlled to capture dynamic perfusion changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of perfusion assessmentVSAvoidautomation of contrast agent injection and imaging timing
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies feedback by continuously measuring physiological characteristics during the procedure and using these measurements to control the contrast agent injection and imaging timing. The system monitors perfusion rates in real-time and adjusts the contrast agent delivery and image acquisition timing based on these feedback signals, ensuring optimal capture of perfusion dynamics without requiring manual intervention for timing adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by measuring physiological characteristics before initiating the contrast agent injection and imaging sequence. This preliminary measurement allows the system to pre-calculate optimal imaging parameters and contrast agent dosage based on the patient's specific physiological state, ensuring that the subsequent imaging protocol is precisely tailored to capture the expected perfusion dynamics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If projection-based perfusion techniques are used, then intervention success can be determined and treatment can be supplemented or changed in the same session, but the system requires real-time measurement and analysis capabilities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of treatment planning and monitoringVSAvoiddifficulty of real-time perfusion measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the imaging system to automatically perform perfusion measurement, analysis, and interpretation without requiring external reference methods or additional equipment. The system processes the projection images internally, automatically calculates perfusion parameters, and provides real-time assessment of intervention success, allowing clinicians to make immediate treatment decisions based on the system's own measurements and analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables more accurate and responsive assessment of perfusion rates, facilitating better planning and monitoring of therapeutic interventions by adapting imaging protocols to individual patient conditions.

Implementation Method 1

an X-ray device (116) that acquires one or more projection images, such as by using angiography

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray: X-Ray

Data Source

PatentUS8553832B2Device for obtaining perfusion images
Publication Date: 2013.10.08 SIEMENS HEALTHINEERS AG
  • US8553832B2 patent drawing
  • US8553832B2 patent drawing
  • US8553832B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for obtaining perfusion images is disclosed. The system and method includes hardware and software for determining physiological characteristics of a patient and determining imaging parameter values for an imaging modality based on the patient's physiological characteristics. The system also includes a controller operative to receive the imaging parameter values for controlling an X-ray device. The X-ray device is coupled with the controller and acquires projection images of the patient, and outputs the projection images to a perfusion evaluation computer for evaluating the perfusion of an region of interest represented in the projection images. The perfusion rate of the region of interest is then output to an output device, such as a display or printer.