3D Surface Projection of Internal Anatomy for X-Ray Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for positioning objects within X-ray imaging systems are inefficient, often requiring manual palpation and repeated imaging, which increases patient dose and hampers workflow.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray imaging system equipped with a depth sensor and processor that generates depth sensor data to identify internal structures, computes a surface projection of these structures from the perspective of the X-ray source, and overlays this projection onto the object's surface for accurate positioning, reducing the need for re-takes and associated radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional positioning methods (eye, monitor, light field, markings) are used, then the operator can position the object with respect to the X-ray imaging system, but the positions of internal structures such as skeletal features are hidden and positioning accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy of the internal structures (skeletal features) by registering 3D anatomical models with the patient's anatomy. This virtual model is then projected onto the patient's surface to create a visual representation of internal structures that are normally hidden, allowing the operator to see where bones and joints are located without exposing the patient to additional radiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from 2D surface visualization (conventional light field and markings) to 3D visualization by incorporating depth information from depth sensors and 3D anatomical models. This allows the operator to view internal structures in three dimensions and accurately position the patient in 3D space relative to the X-ray imaging system.
2Measurement precision
If the operator palpates the patient to confirm locations of skeletal features, then positioning accuracy improves, but workflow is hampered and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical action of manual palpation with an automated computational process. Depth sensors capture the patient's surface geometry, 3D anatomical models are registered to this geometry, and the system automatically computes the positions of internal structures. This eliminates the need for manual palpation while maintaining positioning accuracy, thereby improving workflow efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If the operator acquires an initial X-ray image to determine optimal positioning, then positioning accuracy improves, but the X-ray dose to the patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning using non-ionizing depth sensing technology to capture the patient's surface geometry and register 3D anatomical models. This preliminary action provides accurate visualization of internal structures and enables precise positioning before the actual X-ray imaging is performed. By establishing accurate positioning in advance using safe depth sensing, the system eliminates the need for additional diagnostic X-ray images that would be required to verify positioning, thereby preventing unnecessary radiation exposure.
4Measurement precision
If repeat X-ray images are acquired to correct positioning errors, then positioning accuracy improves, but the X-ray dose to the patient increases and time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time visual feedback by projecting the virtual model of internal structures onto the patient's surface. This feedback allows the operator to immediately see whether the patient is correctly positioned relative to the X-ray imaging system's field of view and collimation window. The operator can make adjustments based on this visual feedback before acquiring the X-ray image, eliminating the need for repeat images and the associated time loss and radiation exposure.
Data Source
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AI summary
An X-ray imaging system (100) includes an X-ray source (110) and an X-ray detector (120) that are separated by an examination region (150) for performing an X-ray imaging operation on an object (160). A processor (140) is configured to identify (S120) one or more internal structures (180) within the object (160), based on a comparison of depth sensor data representing a three-dimensional surface (170) of the object (160), with an anatomical model comprising the one or more internal structures (180). The processor (140) is also configured to compute (S130), using the depth sensor data and the identified one or more internal structures (180), a surface projection (190) of the one or more internal structures, on the surface (170) of the object (160), from a perspective of the X-ray source (110); and to output (S140) an image representation of the surface projection (190) for displaying as an overlay on the surface (170) of the object (160).