MRI Temperature Measurement Using Dual-Spectrum Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current temperature calculation methods in magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) require multiple measurements and are burdensome for subjects due to uncertainty in temperature accuracy, which is essential for reliable diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that calculates temperature information and accuracy from spectra obtained in a single measurement of two substances with different resonant frequencies, providing immediate and accurate results to operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple measurements are performed to confirm temperature accuracy, then temperature measurement reliability is improved, but measurement time and subject burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces repeated mechanical measurements with a single measurement combined with computational modeling. By performing one MRS measurement and then using computer processing to calculate both temperature and accuracy through spectral analysis and error propagation models, the system eliminates the need for multiple repeated measurements while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces computational modeling and spectral analysis as intermediaries between the raw MRS data and temperature determination. Through spectral fitting, error propagation calculations, and confidence interval computations, the system derives both temperature values and their accuracy estimates from a single measurement, avoiding repeated physical measurements.
2Reliability
If multiple measurements are performed to confirm temperature accuracy, then temperature measurement reliability is improved, but subject burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes repeated subject participation in measurements with a single measurement followed by automated computational analysis. The system uses computer-based spectral fitting and error propagation to determine temperature accuracy without requiring the subject to undergo multiple repeated scanning procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-validation through automated computational modeling that analyzes the spectral data to determine both temperature and measurement accuracy. The computer processing automatically calculates confidence intervals and error propagation, allowing the system to self-assess measurement quality without additional subject intervention.
3Device complexity
If temperature accuracy is not provided, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but diagnostic reliability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces computational modeling as an intermediary that automatically processes spectral data to provide both temperature values and accuracy estimates. The system uses spectral fitting algorithms, error propagation calculations, and confidence interval computations to derive accuracy information without adding physical complexity to the measurement procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to the operator by automatically calculating and displaying both temperature values and their associated accuracy estimates or confidence intervals. This feedback mechanism allows operators to assess measurement quality and make informed diagnostic decisions without requiring additional measurements or complex procedures.
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
Enables rapid and low-burden temperature information acquisition in living bodies with precise accuracy, reducing the time and effort required for temperature measurement.
Implementation Method 1
Magnetic resonance imaging apparatuses are apparatuses for obtaining physical and chemical information of an object of measurement by irradiating a radio frequency magnetic field of a specific frequency on the object of measurement placed in a static magnetic field to induce magnetic resonance phenomenon
Implementation Method 2
a radio frequency magnetic field irradiator configured to irradiate a radio frequency magnetic field on the subject, a gradient magnetic field applicator configured to apply a gradient magnetic field to the subject, a detector configured to detect magnetic resonance signals generated from the subject
Implementation Method 3
It is known that the resonant frequency shift of water depends on temperature, and the temperature coefficient of the shift amount is −0.01 ppm/° C.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a technique for obtaining temperature information for inside of a living body and accuracy information thereof in short time with low burden imposed on a subject. It is realized with a spectrum calculator configured to perform MRS or MRSI measurement for two kinds of substances showing difference of resonant frequencies and calculating spectra of magnetic resonance signals of the two kinds of substances, a temperature information calculator configured to calculate temperature information for inside of the subject on the basis of peaks of the calculated spectra, a temperature accuracy information calculator configured to calculate temperature accuracy information indicating accuracy of the temperature information on the basis of peaks of the calculated spectra, and a display information generator configured to generate display information to be displayed on a display device on the basis of the temperature information and the temperature accuracy information.