MDCT Angiography Perfusion Imaging via Arterial Input Function
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) systems are limited in their ability to provide both atherosclerosis and perfusion imaging in a single exam, as they require higher radiation doses and imperfect co-registration of datasets, and lack the capability to accurately characterize the arterial input function (AIF) essential for quantitative myocardial perfusion imaging.
Innovation Solution
The system combines dynamic bolus tracking and time-registered helical MDCT image data sets to reconstruct the AIF, allowing for the construction of a time-attenuation curve and enabling accurate myocardial perfusion imaging without the need for additional imaging modalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid imaging strategies combine radionuclide MPI with MDCTA, then both atherosclerosis and perfusion imaging are achieved, but radiation dose increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines atherosclerosis imaging and perfusion imaging into a single MDCTA examination by utilizing the arterial input function (AIF) data already acquired during the angiography phase. This merging eliminates the need for separate radionuclide MPI, thereby maintaining dual imaging capability while reducing radiation exposure.
Solution Approach 2:
The MDCTA system is made multi-functional by extracting both atherosclerosis visualization and perfusion quantification from the same imaging dataset. The AIF derived from contrast enhancement kinetics enables perfusion calculation without requiring additional imaging modalities, thus achieving universal functionality within a single system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid imaging strategies combine radionuclide MPI with MDCTA, then both atherosclerosis and perfusion imaging are achieved, but co-registration of datasets becomes imperfect
Solution Approach 1:
By merging atherosclerosis and perfusion imaging into a single MDCTA examination, the patent eliminates the co-registration problem entirely. Both datasets are inherently aligned since they are acquired simultaneously in the same coordinate system, ensuring precise spatial correspondence without requiring post-processing registration algorithms.
3Measurement precision
If dynamic CT imaging is used to characterize AIF, then accurate myocardial perfusion quantification is achieved, but imaging time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by extracting the arterial input function (AIF) from the contrast enhancement data already acquired during routine MDCTA angiography. No separate dynamic imaging protocol is required—the existing bolus tracking and time-series attenuation data from the angiography phase are repurposed to calculate perfusion parameters, thereby avoiding additional imaging time.
Solution Approach 2:
The MDCTA examination serves dual purposes: visualizing coronary anatomy and quantifying myocardial perfusion. The same imaging data acquired for angiography is universally utilized to derive the AIF and calculate perfusion metrics, eliminating the need for dedicated dynamic imaging sequences.
4Reliability
If separate imaging modalities are used for atherosclerosis and perfusion, then comprehensive diagnosis is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of separate angiography and perfusion imaging systems into a single MDCTA protocol. By utilizing the AIF from contrast-enhanced angiography data, comprehensive diagnostic information is obtained without requiring additional imaging equipment or modalities, thereby reducing system complexity and cost.
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 allows for accurate semi-quantitative assessment of myocardial perfusion, correlating well with microsphere-derived myocardial blood flow measurements, and provides a cost-effective and radiation-efficient method for diagnosing coronary artery disease by integrating atherosclerosis and perfusion imaging into a single exam.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray illumination system arranged proximate the support stage to illuminate the subject with x-rays, an x-ray detection system arranged proximate the support stage to detect x-rays after they pass through the subject
Data Source
AI summary
A computed tomography system has a support stage constructed and arranged to support a subject while under observation, an x-ray illumination system arranged proximate the support stage to illuminate the subject with x-rays, an x-ray detection system arranged proximate the support stage to detect x-rays after they pass through the subject and to provide signals based on the detected x-rays, and a data processing system in communication with the x-ray detection system to receive the signals from the x-ray detection system. The computed tomography system has a dynamic mode of operation and a scanning mode of operation. The data processing system extracts information concerning a dynamic process of the subject based on signals from both the dynamic mode and the scanning mode of operation.