3D Medical Image Segmentation Interface with Cross-Sectional Matrix
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical image segmentation in 3D images is a time-consuming process due to limited visibility and complexity in defining boundaries, especially in three-dimensional medical images generated by CT and MR scans, where users face challenges in accurately outlining regions of interest.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface for medical imaging systems that includes a framing tool for selecting a region of interest, a matrix of cross-sectional images with reference indicia, and tools for editing contours, allowing users to iteratively manipulate and refine boundaries, reducing processing time and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If boundary-based segmentation methods are used to outline boundaries in 3D medical images, then segmentation accuracy can be improved, but the process becomes extremely time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the 3D medical image into multiple 2D cross-sectional slices that can be displayed and edited simultaneously in a matrix layout. This segmentation allows users to work on multiple sections in parallel, reducing the overall time required for boundary definition while maintaining segmentation accuracy through precise control of each slice's boundaries
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the 3D segmentation problem into a 2D visualization space by displaying multiple cross-sectional slices in a matrix arrangement on the screen. This dimensional transformation allows users to perceive and edit three-dimensional boundaries through two-dimensional representations, improving both visibility and editing efficiency without sacrificing accuracy
2Area of stationary object
If the entire volume image is displayed for segmentation, then complete visibility of the region of interest is achieved, but the interface complexity and difficulty of defining boundaries increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large 3D volume into multiple smaller 2D cross-sectional slices that are displayed in a matrix grid. This segmentation reduces the complexity of individual display elements while collectively providing comprehensive coverage of the entire region of interest, making boundary definition more manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reference indicia as intermediary visual elements that connect corresponding locations across multiple cross-sectional slices. These indicia serve as mediators that help users understand spatial relationships and maintain consistency when defining boundaries across different slices, reducing interface complexity
3Measurement precision
If multiple cross-sectional slices are displayed simultaneously, then segmentation precision is improved, but the amount of information to process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent displays multiple copied representations of cross-sectional slices in a matrix layout, where each slice is a 2D copy of the 3D volume at a different position. These copies allow users to define boundaries precisely in each slice while the system manages the information processing load through efficient rendering and update mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A user interface for display or editing of a three dimensional medical image is provided on a display and is responsive to user inputs in a medical imaging system. The user interface includes a framing tool for defining a region of interest on the medical image. An image matrix is then provided on the user interface, which includes a plurality of cross-sectional images each corresponding to a cross-section of the medical image at one of a plurality of cut planes within the region of interest. One or more reference views of the medical image are also displayed, which each include a plurality of reference indicia, each of which corresponds to a location of one of the plurality of cut planes.