Medical Imaging Alignment With Real-Time Reference Overlays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning a subject in medical imaging are cumbersome, time-consuming, and prone to inaccuracies due to operator-dependent visual comparisons, which affect reproducibility and reliability, especially in cases where image data is compared over time.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for aligning an image acquisition assembly using real-time video processing, generating an alignment reference image, and dynamically updating the video to ensure precise alignment with a predefined reference, facilitated by a processor and display system, which includes fluorescence imaging for quantitative analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visual comparison method is used for alignment, then operator can perform alignment operation, but alignment accuracy is low and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual comparison method with an automated image processing system. The computer automatically compares the current image with the reference image, calculates alignment deviations, and provides guidance for adjustment, eliminating the need for operator visual estimation and significantly improving both accuracy and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary alignment evaluation system that mediates between the imaging device and the reference standard. This system processes images through computer algorithms to objectively assess alignment status and provide quantitative feedback, serving as a bridge that translates complex image comparison into simple operational guidance.
2Ease of operation
If visual comparison method is used for alignment, then alignment can be performed, but reproducibility is poor due to operator subjectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective operator judgment with objective computer-based image analysis. The automated system uses consistent algorithms to evaluate alignment across different operators and sessions, eliminating variability introduced by human subjectivity and ensuring reproducible results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-evaluation of alignment status through automated image processing. The computer independently compares images, calculates deviations, and generates alignment feedback without requiring operator interpretation, making the alignment process self-correcting and consistently reproducible.
3Measurement precision
If manual alignment adjustment is performed, then alignment can be achieved, but the process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous real-time image acquisition and processing during the alignment process. Instead of intermittent manual adjustments, the system continuously captures images, processes them through the alignment algorithm, and provides ongoing feedback, allowing for efficient and uninterrupted alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual visual comparison and iterative adjustment with automated computer-based image processing. The system rapidly processes images and provides precise alignment guidance, dramatically reducing the time required to achieve accurate alignment while maintaining high precision.
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 reproducibility and accuracy in medical imaging by ensuring consistent alignment of anatomical regions over time, enabling reliable quantitative analysis and efficient fluorescence imaging.
Implementation Method 1
illuminating, by a light source included in the system, the target tissue to induce fluorescence emission; when the current alignment of the image acquisition assembly is aligned with a predefined alignment associated with the reference image, capturing, by the image acquisition assembly, a time series of fluorescence input data from the fluorescence emission
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
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AI summary
Methods and systems for alignment of a subject for medical imaging are disclosed, and involve providing a reference image of an anatomical region of the subject, the anatomical region comprising a target tissue, processing the reference image to generate an alignment reference image, displaying the alignment reference image concurrently with real-time video of the anatomical region, and aligning the real-time video with the alignment reference image to overlay the real-time video with the alignment reference image. Following such alignment, the subject may be imaged using, for example, fluorescence imaging, wherein the fluorescence imaging may be performed by an image acquisition assembly aligned in accordance with the alignment.