Medical Image Workflow System for Flexible Acquisition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical imaging workflows lack flexibility and standardization, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in image acquisition and analysis, particularly in ultrasound examinations, where specific sequences of images may be difficult to obtain due to patient positioning and the need for additional images during unexpected findings.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that utilizes primary and secondary workflows to standardize the sequence of medical image acquisition, allowing for flexibility in image collection while ensuring all necessary images are obtained, with automation features for mode changes, annotations, and context-aware assistance, applicable across various medical imaging technologies including ultrasound, MRI, PET, and CT.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standardized sequence of medical images is acquired, then reliability and consistency are improved, but flexibility to investigate anomalies is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow is segmented into a primary workflow for standardized image acquisition and secondary workflows for anomaly investigation. The system divides the overall examination process into distinct modular segments that can be executed in sequence or diverged from as needed, allowing both standardization and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between following the primary workflow and executing secondary workflows based on examination needs. The workflow structure is dynamic rather than rigid, allowing the examination path to adapt while maintaining an organized framework for image collection.
2Reliability
If multiple images are acquired during unexpected findings, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but examination time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Secondary workflows are prepared in advance with pre-defined image acquisition sequences for common anomalies. When an unexpected finding occurs, the system can immediately execute the appropriate pre-prepared secondary workflow, avoiding the need to design and execute ad-hoc image acquisition sequences during the examination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback mechanisms that monitor the examination progress and automatically prompt for additional images when anomalies are detected. The workflow system tracks which images have been acquired and can automatically initiate secondary workflows based on real-time examination findings, reducing the time loss by eliminating manual decision-making delays.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual image acquisition is performed, then flexibility is maintained, but operator fatigue and errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow system performs self-service by automatically tracking which images have been acquired, managing the sequence of examinations, and prompting for required images. This reduces the cognitive burden on operators and minimizes human error while maintaining the ability to adapt to examination needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously provides feedback to operators about examination progress, automatically tracking acquired images and comparing them against the required workflow. This feedback mechanism reduces errors by preventing missed images and guiding operators through the examination process without requiring constant manual tracking and decision-making.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for collecting a plurality of medical images. A method includes displaying a list that includes an indication corresponding to each image of a plurality of medical images of a workflow, wherein the indications are listed based on a sequence defined by the workflow. The method includes receiving a selection by a user indicating a specific image to be acquired from the plurality of medical images. The specific image is selected in an order different than defined in the sequence based on a position of an imaging target allowing for capture of the specific image. The method includes acquiring the specific image and displaying an updated list to omit an indication corresponding to the acquired specific image of the plurality of medical images.