Fluorescence Image Processing for Photodynamic Therapy Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image processing systems for fluorescence imaging in medical treatments, such as photodynamic therapy, face challenges in accurately determining the application region and effectiveness of therapeutic light, leading to inefficiencies in lesion treatment and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that receives fluorescence image information and therapeutic light position data, specifies the application region, extracts luminance values, and calculates a ratio of these values to determine the effectiveness of the therapeutic light application, enabling precise monitoring of treatment progress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fluorescence imaging is performed to monitor therapeutic light application, then treatment monitoring capability is improved, but measurement precision of application region and effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging process into two distinct modes: fluorescence imaging mode and reflectance imaging mode. The image pickup section captures images in these separate modes, allowing the system to segment the measurement functions. By switching between modes rather than attempting to simultaneously perform both fluorescence detection and precise application region measurement, the system resolves the contradiction between monitoring capability and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third imaging mode (reflectance imaging) as an intermediary between fluorescence imaging and direct therapeutic light application monitoring. This intermediate reflectance image provides structural information about the application region, while fluorescence images provide effectiveness information. The combination of these intermediate measurements achieves both monitoring capability and measurement precision without the direct conflict present in single-mode systems.
2Reliability
If multiple imaging modes are used to improve monitoring accuracy, then treatment monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single image pickup section multi-functional by enabling it to operate in multiple imaging modes (fluorescence mode and reflectance mode). Rather than employing separate imaging devices for each mode, the same image pickup section is used for both functions by switching its operational state. This universal approach improves monitoring capability through multiple imaging modes while avoiding the device complexity that would result from having separate dedicated devices for each mode.
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 allows for accurate monitoring of therapeutic light application and treatment progress, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of photodynamic therapy by providing real-time feedback on treatment areas and completion.
Implementation Method 1
a fluorescence image generation section configured to generate fluorescence image data based on an image pickup signal from the image pickup section
Implementation Method 2
an image processing section configured to perform image processing on the fluorescence image data generated by the fluorescence image generation section
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus includes an input section, a specification section, an extraction section, and a calculation section. The input section receives fluorescence image information obtained by picking up an image of fluorescence based on application of excitation light to a subject provided with a fluorescent substance with a specific effect on a living tissue and therapeutic light position image information including an application position of therapeutic light. The specification section specifies an application region of the therapeutic light. The extraction section extracts a luminance value corresponding to the application region of the therapeutic light and a luminance value corresponding to a region other than the application region of the therapeutic light. The calculation section calculates and outputs a ratio of the extracted luminance value corresponding to the application region to the luminance value corresponding to the region other than the application region.