X-ray Image Subtraction for Embolization Agent Quantification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image processing methods for monitoring embolization procedures in interventional X-Ray procedures are cumbersome and inefficient, particularly in visualizing the deposition of embolization agents due to radiation opacity and the need for expensive additional equipment to estimate material distribution.
Innovation Solution
An image processing system that combines and subtracts multiple X-ray images to visualize the deposition of substances over defined time intervals without requiring a specific mask image, allowing for motion compensation and quantitative measurement of the embolization agent using X-ray absorption characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If subtraction techniques are used to visualize embolization agent deposition, then visibility of deposited material is improved, but operation complexity increases due to mask image selection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically selecting and storing multiple candidate mask images at different time points during the embolization procedure. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for manual mask selection during critical moments, reducing operational complexity while maintaining visualization quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically selecting optimal mask images and generating subtraction images without requiring manual intervention. The automated algorithm evaluates multiple candidate images and selects the most appropriate ones, freeing the operator from tedious manual mask selection tasks.
2Productivity
If traditional subtraction techniques with single mask images are used, then processing speed is maintained, but measurement precision of deposited material volume is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the embolization procedure into multiple time intervals, with each interval having its own optimized mask image. By dividing the procedure into segments and applying subtraction techniques to each segment individually, the system achieves both processing efficiency and accurate measurement of material deposition at different stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial action by processing only the most relevant time intervals with high-resolution subtraction, rather than processing all frames uniformly. This selective approach maintains processing speed while achieving sufficient measurement precision for critical deposition phases.
3Measurement precision
If multiple mask images are processed to improve deposition visualization, then measurement precision improves, but loss of time increases due to additional processing
Solution Approach 1:
Candidate mask images are selected and prepared in advance during the embolization procedure, before final analysis is required. This preliminary selection reduces the computational burden during critical moments, allowing multiple images to be processed without significant time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system processes only a select few key mask images that provide the most valuable information, rather than processing all available images. This partial processing approach achieves sufficient measurement precision while minimizing time loss.
4Measurement precision
If expensive additional equipment is used to estimate deposited material amount, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary approach by employing standard X-ray imaging equipment combined with advanced image processing algorithms to estimate material distribution. This intermediary solution bridges the gap between simple imaging and complex specialized equipment, achieving accurate measurements without additional expensive hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical/physical measurement equipment with computational methods. By using image processing algorithms to analyze X-ray absorption characteristics, the system substitutes expensive physical measurement devices with software-based solutions that achieve comparable or superior precision.
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 detailed visualization and quantification of embolization agent deposition, reducing the need for additional equipment and improving the accuracy of clinical outcomes by providing real-time injection information and alert signals for discrepancies.
Implementation Method 1
based on a given X-ray absorption characteristic of the X-ray absorbent substance
Data Source
AI summary
Image processing methods and related systems (IPS) to process imagery (F) acquired during deposition of a substance at a region of interest, ROI The methods and systems allow visualizing in a graphics display (GD) various aspects of the deposited substance and/or determining, based on the imagery, the amount of said substance deposited at the ROI.