Fluorescence Perfusion Imaging With Pixel-Wise Temporal Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluorescence-based medical imaging techniques require physician intervention for signal normalization and are prone to artifacts due to environmental light changes and patient movement, leading to biased calculations and misinterpretation of perfusion dynamics.
Innovation Solution
A method for tracking the diffusion of a fluorescent marker within biological tissue, enabling automatic pixel-by-pixel comparison of images at different time points to visualize perfusion dynamics, and a device comprising an excitation source, camera, computer for image processing, and display screen to facilitate interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automatic pixel-by-pixel comparison method is implemented, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic pixel-by-pixel comparison of fluorescence images across multiple time points without requiring physician intervention for signal normalization. The computer automatically processes images, compares them temporally, and generates perfusion dynamics visualizations, enabling the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual expert analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-processes fluorescence images by normalizing signals and registering anatomical landmarks before comparison. By preparing images in advance with automated normalization algorithms and storing them for subsequent temporal comparison, the system eliminates the need for manual physician intervention during the analysis phase.
2Measurement precision
If manual signal normalization by physician is performed, then measurement precision can be maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computer system automatically performs signal normalization and image comparison tasks that previously required manual physician intervention. The system self-corrects for environmental light changes and patient movement artifacts through automated algorithms, eliminating the time-consuming manual analysis process while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of physician-based signal normalization and image analysis is replaced with an automated computer-based image processing system. The computer uses algorithms to normalize fluorescence signals, register images, and detect perfusion dynamics automatically, substituting human manual work with automated computational processes.
3Device complexity
If environmental light changes and patient movement are not compensated, then device complexity remains low, but reliability of measurement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors fluorescence images across multiple time points and uses feedback from temporal comparisons to detect and compensate for artifacts. By comparing images taken at different times and identifying consistent patterns versus transient artifacts, the system automatically corrects for environmental light changes and patient movement, improving measurement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image registration and artifact compensation before final perfusion analysis. By pre-processing images to correct for movement and light changes using automated algorithms, the system establishes a reliable baseline for subsequent perfusion dynamics measurement without requiring complex real-time intervention.
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 direct visualization of perfusion dynamics, reducing the need for physician intervention and minimizing artifacts, allowing for accurate and rapid identification of perfusion issues in biological tissues.
Implementation Method 1
an excitation source adapted to emit excitation radiation from a fluorescence marker, a camera including a sensor of the fluorescence light emitted on the surface of the biological tissue under the effect of the excitation radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention concerns a method for monitoring the diffusion over time of a fluorescent marker within a biological tissue. This method involves carrying out an operation allowing the pixel-by-pixel comparison of two fluorescence images obtained after different periods have elapsed since the injection of a fluorophore, and displaying an image representative of the result of the comparison operation. The invention also relates to a device for implementing the method.