MR Perfusion Analysis Using Statistical Time Series
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MR perfusion methods using magnetic resonance systems are prone to errors and artifacts, resulting in low-quality perfusion information due to the need for multiple image acquisitions and differences between perfusion-sensitive and control images.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the generation of multiple MR data sets using perfusion-sensitive and control imaging sequences, followed by statistical analysis to determine perfusion without taking differences, allowing for the calculation of absolute perfusion values and evaluation of signal curves for improved accuracy and quality control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple MR images are acquired over multiple minutes to obtain perfusion information, then the perfusion signal can be extracted, but the measurement time increases and the quality remains low due to artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a statistical analysis on multiple MR data sets before final perfusion calculation. The control data sets are acquired and stored in advance, and the statistical evaluation is performed on the combined data sets before determining the final perfusion values. This preliminary statistical processing prepares the data in a way that reduces artifacts and improves measurement precision without requiring extended acquisition times
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by acquiring control data sets continuously alongside perfusion data sets throughout the measurement process. Both types of data are collected in an interleaved manner over the same time period, maximizing the utilization of the measurement window. The statistical analysis then continuously processes these data sets to extract perfusion information, ensuring that the useful measurement action is maintained throughout the entire acquisition period
2Loss of information
If the difference is taken between perfusion-sensitive and control images to generate perfusion images, then perfusion information can be obtained, but the quality is low due to error-prone calculations and artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary statistical analysis step that processes both perfusion-sensitive and control data sets before final perfusion determination. This statistical evaluation acts as a mediator that combines information from multiple data sets and applies statistical methods to reduce artifacts and errors. The intermediary processing layer transforms the raw difference-based approach into a more reliable statistical evaluation, improving measurement reliability while still extracting the necessary perfusion information
3Quantity of substance
If multiple MR data sets are acquired and processed using conventional difference methods, then perfusion information can be extracted, but the quality of the resulting images is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the processing approach from simple difference calculation to statistical analysis. The measurement parameters are changed to include statistical evaluation methods that process the multiple acquired data sets differently. This parameter change in the processing methodology allows the same quantity of data sets to produce higher quality images by reducing artifacts and improving the signal-to-noise ratio through statistical evaluation
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
This approach enhances the quality of perfusion information by reducing artifacts and providing real-time monitoring of contrast-to-noise ratios, enabling more precise and reliable perfusion measurements.
Implementation Method 1
the water contained in blood is shifted into a particular magnetic state (normally an inverted magnetization)
Implementation Method 2
MR images are thereby generated with a perfusion-sensitive image sequence... The perfusion information is thereby represented only by a slight alteration in an image contrast which is present between the labeled blood particles flowing into a region of interest
Data Source
AI summary
In a method and a device for automatic determination of perfusion by using a magnetic resonance system, multiple first MR data sets are thereby acquired from a volume element over time with a perfusion-sensitive imaging sequence, and multiple second MR data sets of the same volume element are acquired over time with a control imaging sequence, in particular a perfusion-insensitive imaging sequence. These first MR data sets and the second MR data sets are subjected to a statistical time series analysis in order to determine the perfusion in the volume element.