Composite Medical Imaging Overlay for Needle Visibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Medical images often struggle to clearly visualize introduced structures, such as needles, due to sensitivity to different tissue types and imaging methods, leading to obscured information and challenges in real-time visualization.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating composite image data by combining first and second image data sets, using structural data to determine the location of a structure within the target region, and overlaying a representation of this location onto the second image data, improving visibility and accuracy in medical imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If different types of medical images are displayed side by side or overlaid, then information from multiple imaging modalities is provided, but the images become difficult to read and important information is obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the needle structure location information from the first image data (Doppler) and represents it as simplified geometric features (line segments) that are overlaid on the second image data (B-mode). This extraction approach provides needle location information without obscuring the underlying anatomical structures in the B-mode image, resolving the contradiction between providing multiple information sources and maintaining image readability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary representation approach where the needle is depicted as simplified line segments with adjustable transparency rather than displaying the full complex Doppler image. This intermediary representation mediates between the need to show needle location and the need to maintain clarity of the anatomical background, allowing both pieces of information to be visible simultaneously without mutual obstruction.
2Measurement precision
If Doppler imaging is used to locate introduced structures, then motion-sensitive detection is achieved, but the precise position of structures like needles becomes difficult to visualize in soft tissue images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential location information from the Doppler image data, representing the needle as simplified line segments defined by start and end coordinates. This extraction converts complex motion-sensitive imaging data into precise, easy-to-interpret geometric representations that clearly show needle position without the visual complexity of the original Doppler image.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different representation qualities to different parts of the image data: the needle structure is represented with high-precision geometric features (line segments with specific coordinates and orientations) while the anatomical background maintains its natural imaging appearance. This local differentiation optimizes both needle detection precision and overall image interpretability.
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
Enhances the visualization of medical devices within medical images, reducing noise and artefacts, allowing for more precise location determination and improved accuracy in real-time imaging procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element operable to cause reciprocation along a principal axis between the first and second mass assemblies
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(a)~4
AI summary
The invention relates to improving medical interventions and in certain instances to the generation of image data, in particular data acquired during a medical intervention or procedure. The invention also concerns the visibility of structures in target regions to be imaged and how this may be enhanced.