Mammography Image Parameter Validation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mammography techniques face challenges in accurately validating image parameters, particularly breast thickness and composition, which affect radiation dose and image quality, leading to inconsistencies and errors in breast density measurements, and the need for improved methods to assess changes over time for early cancer detection.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for validating native image parameters by analyzing them with reference data to determine plausibility, transforming images into tissue composition maps, and adjusting parameters to ensure accuracy, using pixel values and additional images for validation, and applying computer-aided detection to improve image quality and risk assessment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If breast thickness is measured from mammography images, then image parameters can be obtained for analysis, but measurement errors and inconsistencies occur affecting validation accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary validation process that uses multiple image parameters (breast thickness, breast volume, projected area) and reference data to cross-check and validate each other. This intermediary validation layer mediates between raw measurements and final conclusions, identifying inconsistent or erroneous data through plausibility checks before analysis proceeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where measured parameters are continuously validated against reference data and other measured parameters. When inconsistencies are detected (e.g., breast thickness that doesn't match expected values given the projected area), the system flags these for review or rejection, creating a feedback loop that improves overall measurement reliability.
2Illumination intensity
If radiation dose is increased to improve image quality in thicker breasts, then image quality improves, but patient exposure to radiation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by adjusting x-ray energy (kV) based on measured breast thickness. For thicker breasts, the system automatically increases kV to maintain image quality without proportionally increasing dose. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between image quality and radiation exposure based on actual patient anatomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts imaging parameters based on real-time measurements of breast thickness and composition. Rather than using fixed protocols, the imaging system adapts parameters such as kV and mAs based on the specific patient's breast characteristics, creating a dynamic optimization process that responds to each individual case.
3Illumination intensity
If x-ray energy is decreased to improve contrast, then image contrast improves, but radiation dose must be increased as more x-rays are absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes multiple parameters simultaneously rather than adjusting a single parameter. When lower kV is selected for improved contrast, the system compensates by adjusting other parameters such as exposure time or detector sensitivity to maintain overall image quality while minimizing the dose increase that would result from lower energy x-rays.
4Measurement precision
If double reading is implemented to improve sensitivity, then detection accuracy improves, but labor intensity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces computer-aided detection and validation systems as intermediaries between the imaging process and radiologist interpretation. Automated algorithms pre-screen images, validate parameters, and flag suspicious findings, serving as an intermediary layer that prepares and prioritizes cases for human review, thereby reducing the burden on radiologists while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically validating image parameters, checking for errors, and pre-processing images before they reach the radiologist. This preliminary validation and preparation work reduces the time and effort required during the actual reading process, making double reading or enhanced review more efficient.
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
This approach enhances the accuracy of image parameters, reduces errors in breast density measurements, and enables more reliable assessment of breast composition changes over time, improving early cancer detection and patient risk evaluation.
Implementation Method 1
X-ray penetration is an exponentially decreasing function of patient or body part thickness
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~3B
Figure 4A~4D
AI summary
This invention relates generally a system and method for validating the accuracy of image parameters, especially for images used in the medical field. The system and method may be used for validating a native parameter from a source image of a source object, wherein: one or more native parameters from the source image is analysed with a reference data to determine whether the native parameter(s) is/are plausible.