Medical Image Processing Apparatus Iterative Reconstruction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
X-ray CT imaging systems face challenges in maintaining image quality due to data loss from issues like X-ray tube discharge, detector failures, and communication errors, where interpolation from neighboring data is insufficient to prevent significant image degradation, especially with wide-ranging data loss.
Innovation Solution
A medical image processing apparatus that acquires information on missing data, generates interpolated projection data, reconstructs images, performs forward projection, and updates projection data to improve image quality by iteratively refining the reconstruction process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If interpolation with neighboring normal data is used to fill missing projection data, then the processing is simple and fast, but the image quality degradation cannot be prevented when there is wide range of data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an iterative feedback mechanism where the reconstructed image is used to generate synthetic projection data that is fed back to correct the original missing data. This feedback loop continues for multiple iterations to progressively improve image quality while maintaining processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by first reconstructing the image from available projection data, then using this preliminary reconstruction to generate corrected projection data through forward projection. This preliminary reconstruction serves as the basis for subsequent iterative improvements.
2Measurement precision
If iterative reconstruction with forward projection is performed to improve image quality, then the image quality is enhanced, but the processing time and computational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by performing forward projection only in the angular range where data loss occurred, rather than recomputing the entire projection. This selective approach maintains image quality improvement while significantly reducing computational time and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent focuses the iterative refinement process locally on the regions affected by data loss. By identifying the specific angular ranges with missing data and applying corrections only there, the system improves image quality without the computational burden of processing the entire dataset.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional interpolation methods are used for data loss, then the processing is straightforward, but unnatural artifacts remain in the reconstructed image
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback mechanism allows the system to iteratively refine the reconstructed image by comparing it with synthetic projections generated from the reconstruction itself. This feedback loop eliminates unnatural artifacts by continuously correcting inconsistencies until the image appears natural.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action through multiple iterative cycles where the reconstruction is continuously refined. Each iteration builds upon the previous one, progressively eliminating artifacts and improving naturalness while maintaining processing simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical image processing apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry acquires information on missing data based on first projection data obtained by scanning a subject. The processing circuitry generates second projection data by interpolating missing data in the first projection data based on the information on missing data. The processing circuitry generates a first reconstructed image by reconstructing the second projection data. The processing circuitry generates third projection data by performing forward projection on the first reconstructed image. The processing circuitry generates fourth projection data by updating the second projection data based on the third projection data. The processing circuitry generates a second reconstructed image based on the fourth projection data.