Imaging Protocol Adjustment Using Localizer-Guided Slice Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging protocols for acquiring image data of body regions, particularly in dental or jaw regions, often fail to consider patient-specific laterality and symmetry, leading to errors and inefficiencies due to the need for extensive user training and duplication of instructions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for determining an imaging protocol that involves acquiring information about the body region, performing an initial examination, providing input options for adjusting the imaging area, and assisting in parameter adjustments based on the body region's information to dynamically adapt the imaging protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If predefined instructions for slice orientation are used at the protocol level, then the imaging protocol can be established quickly, but errors occur when the laterality of the diagnostically relevant body region is not considered (e.g., indicating slice positioning for the left hip when the right hip is diagnostically relevant)
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs an initial imaging examination (localizer scan) before the main imaging protocol to pre-determine the correct laterality and anatomical orientation of the patient's body region. This preliminary action provides accurate reference information that guides the subsequent imaging protocol, ensuring both speed and accuracy by avoiding the need for users to manually verify orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the image data from the initial imaging examination to automatically adjust and adapt the imaging protocol parameters. The feedback loop compares the pre-defined instructions with the actual patient anatomy visualized in the localizer scan, and automatically corrects any discrepancies in slice orientation, positioning, or laterality before executing the main imaging protocol.
2Measurement precision
If users receive extensive training to ensure error-free acquisition of image data, then measurement accuracy improves, but the complexity of operation increases and requires more time for user preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device automatically performs the functions that previously required trained user intervention. The system self-determines the correct imaging parameters, slice orientation, and positioning by analyzing the patient's anatomy in the initial imaging examination, eliminating the need for users to have extensive training in anatomical orientation and protocol selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts imaging parameters based on the specific patient anatomy detected in the localizer scan. Rather than requiring users to manually configure complex parameters, the system automatically modifies slice thickness, orientation angles, and field-of-view parameters to match the patient's unique anatomical characteristics, ensuring accurate imaging with minimal user input.
3Adaptability or versatility
If various parameters or scenarios are preset for the user with each layer orientation, then comprehensive coverage of use cases is achieved, but duplication of instructions, workflows, and imaging protocols occurs which is undesirable
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing static, pre-duplicated instructions for each possible scenario, the system dynamically generates the appropriate imaging protocol based on the actual patient anatomy detected in the initial examination. The protocol adapts in real-time to the patient's specific needs, eliminating the need for multiple pre-configured protocol variants while maintaining comprehensive coverage of all use cases.
Solution Approach 2:
The initial imaging examination serves multiple functions: it determines laterality, identifies the diagnostically relevant body region, establishes slice orientation, and guides the main imaging protocol. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for separate pre-configured protocols for each scenario, reducing duplication while maintaining versatility across all imaging use cases.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for determining an imaging protocol for acquiring image data of a patient's body region using an imaging device, comprising the steps: acquiring (S1) information about the body region, performing (S2) a first imaging examination depending on the information about the body region and acquiring image data of the body region, providing (S3) the image data and an input option for adjusting a parameter of an imaging area, providing (S4) assistance for adjusting the imaging area depending on the information about the body region, acquiring (S5) an adjusted imaging area, and determining (S6) the imaging protocol for a second imaging examination depending on the adjusted imaging area.The invention further relates to an imaging device for acquiring image data of a body region of a patient and a computer program product which can be directly loaded into a storage unit of a computing unit (28) of an imaging device according to the invention, with program code means to execute a computer-implemented method according to the invention.