MRI Target Volume Tracking With Adaptive Slice Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The accuracy of target volume tracking in dynamic radiotherapy technologies is not high due to issues such as stitching distortions, low temporal resolution, and time-consuming imaging processes in existing MR imaging methods, which affect the precision of radiotherapy.
Innovation Solution
A target volume tracking method using MRI multi-angle real-time imaging technology to determine an isocenter location, obtain spatial positions, and control the movement of a treatment head based on planning and tracking images, enabling adaptive slice determination and RF pulse excitation for accurate tracking images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MR imaging methods are used for target volume tracking, then imaging can be performed, but stitching distortions occur and measurement precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging process into multiple independent slices rather than using a single continuous image. Each slice is imaged separately using RF pulse excitation, and then stitched together to form the complete target volume image. This segmentation approach allows for precise control of each slice's imaging parameters, reducing geometric distortions that occur in conventional single-image methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D planar imaging to 3D volumetric imaging by adding the slice dimension. Multiple slices are imaged at different positions and angles, then reconstructed to form a three-dimensional representation of the target volume. This dimensional enhancement provides more comprehensive spatial information and improves tracking accuracy while reducing geometric distortions through multi-angle verification.
2Productivity
If conventional MR imaging methods are used, then target volume can be imaged, but temporal resolution is low and imaging is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating and pre-positioning the slices that need to be imaged based on the treatment plan and target volume location. The slice positions, angles, and RF pulse parameters are determined in advance, allowing the imaging process to proceed efficiently during treatment without time-consuming real-time calculations. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces temporal resolution losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic RF pulse excitation to image multiple slices in a systematic sequence. Rather than attempting to image the entire volume simultaneously, the system uses periodic pulses to cycle through different slices, each excited at its optimal time. This periodic imaging approach maintains high temporal resolution while covering the complete target volume, as each slice is imaged rapidly in succession.
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
Improves the accuracy of target volume tracking by reducing geometric distortions, increasing imaging speed, and enhancing spatial and temporal resolution, thereby improving the precision of radiotherapy.
Implementation Method 1
controlling the magnetic resonance scanner to radiate a RF pulse which excites the at least one slice to obtain a tracking image of the object
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a target volume tracking method and a computer device. The method includes: determining an isocenter location corresponding to the target volume in a scout image of an object, and obtaining the spatial position of the treatment head in the radiotherapy device, and then determining the at least one slice on the scout image based on the isocenter location and the spatial position, so as to control the magnetic resonance scanner to radiate a RF pulse which excites the at least one slice to obtain a tracking image of the object; the tracking image includes the target volume.