Integrated X-ray and OCT Imaging System for Tissue Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies require separate systems for X-ray and microscopic imaging, limiting their integration and efficiency in obtaining comprehensive images of samples, especially in medical diagnostics where simultaneous macroscopic and microscopic views are necessary.
Innovation Solution
An integrated system that combines X-ray and microscopic imaging capabilities, using an X-ray apparatus and a microscopic imaging apparatus like OCT, with a processing unit to control and co-register images, allowing for the acquisition of both X-ray and microscopic images of a sample, and determining regions of interest for focused microscopic scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate imaging systems are used for X-ray and microscopic imaging, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the device complexity increases and data acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines X-ray imaging apparatus and optical imaging apparatus (such as OCT) into a single integrated system. The X-ray source and detector are positioned in conjunction with optical components within a common imaging chamber, allowing simultaneous acquisition of both macroscopic X-ray images and microscopic optical images of the same sample without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated imaging system performs multiple imaging functions using a single device. The system can acquire both X-ray transmission images and optical coherence tomography images, as well as reflectance mode optical images, providing universal imaging capability for different tissue depths and contrast requirements through shared hardware components.
2Reliability
If separate imaging systems are used for X-ray and microscopic imaging, then each system operates independently, but the data acquisition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system enables continuous acquisition of both X-ray and optical images simultaneously. The X-ray source and optical light source operate concurrently, and their detectors capture images at the same time, eliminating the need to sequentially operate separate imaging systems and thereby reducing total data acquisition time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary X-ray imaging to identify regions of interest (such as calcifications or dense tissue areas) before guiding subsequent focused optical imaging of those specific regions. This preliminary action allows the optical imaging to be concentrated on areas needing detailed examination, reducing overall scanning time.
3Length of stationary object
If X-ray imaging is used to obtain macroscopic views, then deep tissue structures are visible, but soft tissue contrast and resolution are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses X-ray imaging for macroscopic overview and deep structure visualization, then applies optical imaging (OCT) specifically to regions of interest identified in the X-ray images. This local quality approach ensures that high-resolution soft tissue contrast is obtained only where needed, while maintaining the ability to see deep structures via X-ray.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-ray image serves as an intermediary that guides the optical imaging process. Regions of interest such as calcifications or abnormal tissue areas are first identified in the low-resolution X-ray image, then these specific regions are targeted for high-resolution optical imaging, creating a two-stage imaging workflow that combines the strengths of both modalities.
4Measurement precision
If OCT imaging is used to obtain high-resolution microscopic images, then soft tissue contrast is improved, but the imaging depth is limited to approximately 2 mm
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary X-ray imaging to identify regions of interest and their depths within the tissue. This preliminary action allows the OCT system to be guided to image only those specific regions that are within its 2 mm depth range, maximizing the utility of high-resolution optical imaging while avoiding wasted scanning of areas beyond its capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system applies different imaging modalities to different depth zones: X-ray imaging provides information from deeper tissue structures beyond 2 mm, while OCT provides high-resolution images of superficial structures within 2 mm. This local quality differentiation ensures optimal imaging quality at each depth level.
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 the generation of comprehensive images that provide both macroscopic and microscopic views of a sample, reducing data acquisition time and improving diagnostic accuracy by identifying regions of interest through X-ray imaging before detailed OCT scanning.
Implementation Method 1
As the X-ray beam passes through the object, parts of the object may absorb the X-ray beam to various extents, thereby resulting in attenuation of different portions of the X-ray beam
Implementation Method 2
OCT imaging uses electro-magnetic radiation to produce high-resolution images of an object such as, but not limited to, tissue, for example. When OCT imaging is performed on an object, optical interferometry is used for depth ranging to obtain topographical and subsurface information for the object
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are described herein for a system and method of integrated X-ray imaging and microscopic imaging of an imaging area having a sample on a sample stage. An X-ray apparatus may be disposed within the imaging area and be configured to acquire X-ray image data of at least a portion of the sample. A microscopic imaging apparatus may be disposed within the imaging area and be configured to acquire microscopic image data of the at least a portion of the sample. In some embodiments, a processing unit may then control the X-ray apparatus to acquire X-ray image data of the at least the portion of the sample, and generate one or more corresponding X-ray images; determine a region of interest (ROI) of the sample based on the one or more X-ray images; and control the microscopic imaging apparatus to obtain at least one microscopic image based on the ROI.