MRE Inversion Using Finite Bounded Media Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) methods provide inaccurate results when quantifying myocardial tissue mechanical properties and are limited in assessing ocular and orbital rigidity, as they treat tissues as infinite media rather than finite, bounded media.
Innovation Solution
A method for MRE inversion that accounts for waves propagating in finite, bounded media by inducing vibratory motion and using wave equations to model and solve for material properties, with data filtered to enhance accuracy and computational efficiency, and applying coordinate transformations for non-Cartesian geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional MRE methods treat tissues as infinite media, then the measurement process is simplified, but the accuracy of material property quantification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the medium model from infinite to finite/bounded. By implementing finite medium models that account for boundary conditions, the system accurately represents tissues such as the heart, eye, and prostate which are naturally bounded structures. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement simplicity while significantly improving quantification accuracy through physically realistic boundary condition modeling.
2Measurement precision
If finite medium models are used to accurately represent bounded tissues, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the inversion process into distinct modules: data acquisition, wave equation modeling, and material property calculation. By dividing the complex inversion method into these manageable segments, the system maintains high measurement precision through accurate finite medium modeling while reducing overall device complexity through modular implementation and systematic computational approaches.
3Ease of operation
If conventional MRE methods are used, then the system is easier to operate, but reliability of diagnostic insights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces wave equation models as intermediaries between the measured displacement data and the material property calculations. These models serve as a mediator that translates raw MRE data into reliable diagnostic insights by accounting for the finite nature of tissues. This intermediary layer maintains ease of operation while significantly improving the reliability of diagnostic insights through physically accurate modeling.
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 allows for non-invasive, accurate measurement of mechanical properties of organs like the heart and eye, improving diagnostic insights into diseases related to mechanical properties.
Implementation Method 1
The method uses the oscillating stress to produce shear waves that propagate through the organ, or tissues, to be imaged. These shear waves alter the phase of the MR signals, and from this the material properties of the subject can be determined.
Implementation Method 2
A vibratory motion is induced in the subject and MRE is performed to measure one or more components of the resulting displacement vector distribution throughout the subject.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for magnetic resonance elastography (“MRE”) is described, in which an MRE inversion that accounts for waves propagating in a finite, bounded media is employed. A vibratory motion is induced in a subject and MRE is performed to measure one or more components of the resulting displacement produced in the subject. This displacement data is subsequently filtered to provide a more accurate and computationally efficient method of inversion. Wave equations based on the geometry of the bounded media are then utilized to calculate the material properties of the subject. Such a method allows for the performance of MRE on tissues such as the heart, eye, bladder, and prostate with more accurate results.