Laser Microdissection Region Definition via Live Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser microdissection methods require significant time and effort due to the need to capture and align images of tissue samples under different microscopic examination methods, often necessitating the repositioning of samples and extensive image processing.
Innovation Solution
A method that captures and overlays live digital images of a specimen under multiple microscopic examination methods in real-time, allowing for immediate marking and dissection of a region without the need for external databases or extensive image processing, thereby reducing the need for sample repositioning and image stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If images of tissue samples are captured and aligned under different microscopic examination methods, then the dissection region can be accurately defined, but significant time and effort are required due to sample repositioning and extensive image processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple microscopic examination methods (e.g., bright-field and fluorescence microscopy) into a single integrated imaging system that captures images of the same specimen region simultaneously or in rapid sequence without requiring physical sample repositioning. This merging of examination methods eliminates the time-consuming process of capturing and aligning separate images while maintaining accurate dissection region definition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image capture and overlay processing automatically as part of the specimen examination workflow, before the actual dissection marking step. By pre-aligning and merging images from different examination methods in advance, the system eliminates the need for extensive real-time image processing during dissection region definition, thereby reducing overall processing time.
2Loss of information
If multiple digital images are captured and overlaid under different microscopic examination methods, then comprehensive specimen information is obtained, but the device complexity and operational effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple microscopic examination methods (bright-field, fluorescence, phase-contrast, etc.) using a single integrated platform. The system automatically switches between examination modes and handles image merging, allowing comprehensive specimen information acquisition without requiring separate devices or complex manual operations for each examination method.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic image alignment, overlay, and merging operations without requiring manual intervention for sample repositioning or image registration. The control unit automatically coordinates the imaging processes and processes the captured images to generate the composite view, thereby maintaining complete specimen information while simplifying operator tasks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sample repositioning is performed to capture images under different examination methods, then different specimen properties can be visualized, but the process requires extensive time and work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple examination capabilities into a single fixed imaging position, allowing the specimen to remain stationary while the system switches between different microscopic examination methods. This eliminates the need for sample repositioning while maintaining the ability to visualize different specimen properties, thereby improving dissection preparation efficiency without sacrificing examination flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic switching between different examination methods and imaging modes while the specimen remains in a fixed position. The control unit dynamically adjusts imaging parameters and combines data from multiple examination methods in real-time, providing versatile specimen examination capability without the time loss associated with physical sample repositioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for laser microdissection of a laser microdissection region of a prepared specimen includes driving a holder for the specimen into a holding position using a control device. First and second digital images are captured that depict a same portion of the prepared specimen, with the first image depicting the portion under at least one first microscopic examination method and the second image depicting the portion under at least a second microscopic examination method. A live overlay image is generated of the portion of the prepared image in a live mode. The live overlay is presented on a display area with the images overlaid onto one another. A marking is generated and captured on the live overlay image so as to define the laser microdissection region.