Synchronizing Image Capture with Pre-operative Data via ECG Triggering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging techniques require manual and time-consuming synchronization of 2D and 3D image data sets during interventions, leading to potential errors and increased radiation exposure, especially when imaging moving organs like the heart.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that automatically synchronize image capture devices by deriving a triggering instant from periodic physiological signals like ECG, allowing for synchronized image data acquisition without manual intervention, reducing radiation exposure and minimizing motion artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual synchronization of image data sets is performed, then synchronization accuracy can be adjusted, but time consumption and potential for errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically derives triggering instants from current periodic information (ECG signals) and stored recording instants without requiring manual intervention. The computer automatically calculates when to activate the image capture device based on the formula: triggering instant = current periodic phase reference + (stored recording instant - stored periodic phase reference), thereby eliminating manual synchronization while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from periodic physiological signals (ECG) to continuously adjust and maintain synchronization. By comparing current ECG phase with stored ECG phase from pre-operative imaging, the system dynamically determines the correct triggering instant for image acquisition, ensuring accurate synchronization without manual input
2Productivity
If continuous image recording is performed during intervention, then real-time control is improved, but radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous recording, the system performs periodic image acquisition triggered by specific phases of the cardiac cycle. The image capture device is activated only at calculated triggering instants that correspond to the same cardiac phase as the pre-operative images, eliminating unnecessary radiation exposure while maintaining real-time synchronization
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates triggering instants based on stored recording instant information and current periodic information before image acquisition. By deriving the exact moment when the organ returns to the reference position and preparing the trigger in advance, the system minimizes the duration of image recording while ensuring synchronized capture
3Speed
If image data is recorded during movement phases, then acquisition speed is improved, but motion artifacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors periodic physiological signals (ECG) to detect the precise phase of organ movement. By using the ECG waveform as feedback, the system identifies when the organ is at the reference position or returning to it, ensuring images are captured at the optimal moment for minimal motion artifacts
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates the triggering instant by comparing current periodic phase with stored reference phase, determining in advance when the organ will be in the correct position for imaging. This preliminary calculation ensures the image capture device is activated at the precise moment when motion artifacts are minimized
4Loss of time
If automated synchronization is implemented, then time efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a general-purpose computer with standard software to perform the synchronization function, rather than requiring specialized dedicated hardware. The computer executes stored programs that automatically derive triggering instants from periodic information and stored recording instants, making the synchronization capability universal and adaptable to different imaging scenarios without increasing physical system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and a method for synchronizing an image capture device with a first image data set. The image capture device is used for recording a second image data set of a periodically moving area or object. Each first image data set contains information as to the point in time, relative to the periodically moving area or object, when recording took place. The device additionally acquires periodically recurring, current information of the area as well as information concerning the recording instant of the first image data set. From the periodically recurring information and the recording instant of the first image data set, a triggering instant is derived which controls at least one recording of the second image data set by the image capture device in such a way that the second image data set contains image data synchronized to the first image data set.