Fluorescence Image Peak Mapping for Lymphatic Transport Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing and treating lymphedema, a lymphatic dysfunction, lack precision and rely heavily on subjective physician inspections, and existing fluorescence imaging techniques struggle to accurately interpret time-intensity curves for lymphatic function.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the capture of fluorescence and visible light images over time, analysis of peak frequency maps, and simultaneous processing to generate precise diagnostic and therapeutic insights, utilizing advanced image capturing and processing devices, endoscopes, and AI models for risk prediction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection and traditional imaging techniques are used for diagnosing lymphedema, then the diagnostic process is simple and accessible, but the diagnostic accuracy and objectivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluorescent agent as an intermediary substance that binds to lymphatic fluid, enabling objective detection of lymphatic function through fluorescence imaging. This mediator transforms the invisible lymphatic flow into detectable optical signals, resolving the contradiction between diagnostic simplicity and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces subjective manual inspection with automated fluorescence imaging technology. The system uses optical detection and AI-based image analysis to objectively quantify lymphatic transport, substituting human sensory evaluation with precise instrumental measurement while maintaining clinical accessibility.
2Measurement precision
If fluorescence imaging is used to measure lymphatic transport, then objective quantitative data can be obtained, but the interpretation of time-intensity curves remains challenging and imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the fluorescence signal intensity over time provides continuous information about lymphatic transport dynamics. The system analyzes the temporal pattern of fluorescence accumulation and clearance to automatically determine transport function, creating a closed-loop measurement system that transforms complex time-intensity data into clear diagnostic categories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the complex time-intensity curve analysis into simplified parameter-based assessment by identifying key temporal characteristics (such as time to peak intensity, area under curve, and rate of change). This parameter transformation converts difficult-to-interpret continuous data into discrete, clinically actionable metrics that maintain measurement precision while reducing analytical complexity.
3Measurement precision
If detailed fluorescence signal analysis is performed to improve diagnosis, then diagnostic accuracy increases, but the time required for analysis and treatment planning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of fluorescence signals during the imaging acquisition phase itself, extracting key diagnostic parameters in real-time rather than requiring separate post-processing steps. The system pre-calculates transport function metrics from the time-intensity data as images are captured, enabling immediate diagnostic interpretation without delaying treatment planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial analysis by focusing on the most diagnostically relevant features of the fluorescence signal rather than performing exhaustive analysis of all image parameters. The system identifies and analyzes only the critical temporal characteristics of fluorescence intensity that directly correlate with lymphatic function, achieving sufficient diagnostic precision with reduced computational overhead and faster processing time.
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
Provides enhanced diagnostic accuracy and tailored treatments for lymphedema by quantifying lymphatic transport through peak frequency mapping and risk prediction, reducing reliance on subjective assessments.
Implementation Method 1
a fluorescent agent has been added... illuminating the tissue with excitation light having a wavelength suitable to generate emitted light by excited emission of the fluorescent agent
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing and processing device to measure a fluorescence signal in tissue and image a surface of a body part. The device includes a fluorescence image sensor to capture a fluorescence image. The fluorescence image sensor captures time sequence of fluorescence images A peak frequency map unit determines a peak frequency map for an area of interest in the fluorescence images by analyzing the time sequence of fluorescence images. The analyzing includes: determining a time-dependent intensity curve, identifying peaks in the time-dependent intensity curve and determining one or more of a frequency of the identified peaks and a maximum high of the identified peaks, generating a graphic representation of one or more of the determined frequency and maximum high and including the same in the peak frequency map. The peak frequency map together with one or more of the visible light image and the fluorescence image are outputted.