Myocardial Perfusion Simulation from Static CCTA
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining myocardial muscle perfusion, such as dynamic computed tomography, impose additional burdens on patients and physicians, including time-consuming examinations and exposure to ionizing radiation.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a segmentation unit, a first simulation unit, and a visualization unit that segments coronary blood vessels and simulates blood flow to estimate perfusion in different myocardial muscle regions using a static CCTA image, reducing the need for additional imaging and radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dynamic perfusion measurement by means of computed tomography is performed, then myocardial muscle perfusion can be determined, but the patient is exposed to additional ionizing radiation and undergoes an additional time-consuming examination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the coronary anatomy by segmenting the CCTA image to generate a three-dimensional model of the coronary vessels and myocardial muscle. This digital replica allows simulation of blood flow and perfusion calculations without requiring additional physical CT scans, thereby eliminating extra radiation exposure while maintaining perfusion measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary segmentation and three-dimensional modeling of the coronary anatomy from the existing CCTA image before conducting any additional examinations. By pre-processing the anatomical data to create a usable model, the system enables subsequent perfusion simulation without requiring dynamic CT acquisition, thus avoiding additional radiation
2Measurement precision
If dynamic perfusion measurement by means of computed tomography is performed, then myocardial muscle perfusion can be determined, but the examination becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical CT scanning process with computational simulation. Instead of performing time-consuming dynamic CT acquisitions and processing, the system uses pre-generated three-dimensional anatomical models to simulate blood flow and calculate perfusion through computer algorithms, significantly reducing examination time while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary segmentation and three-dimensional reconstruction of the coronary anatomy from the static CCTA image. This pre-processing step creates a ready-to-use digital model that enables rapid perfusion simulation without requiring time-consuming dynamic imaging, thus reducing overall examination duration
3Reliability
If multiple imaging techniques are employed to investigate coronary anatomy and perfusion, then comprehensive cardiac assessment is achieved, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of coronary anatomy visualization and perfusion measurement into a single integrated system. By combining the segmentation of CCTA images with three-dimensional modeling and blood flow simulation capabilities, the system provides comprehensive cardiac assessment without requiring multiple separate imaging devices or techniques, thereby reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional platform that can perform anatomy visualization, perfusion measurement, and hemodynamic simulation using a single integrated approach. The three-dimensional model serves multiple purposes including stenosis detection, perfusion calculation, and treatment planning, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices and simplifying operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A device is disclosed for determining and visualizing the perfusion of the myocardial muscle with the aid of static CCTA images. In at least one embodiment, the device includes a segmentation unit for segmenting the coronary blood vessels and the left myocardial muscle from a CCTA image of the heart; a first simulation unit for simulating the blood flow through the coronary blood vessels; and a second simulation unit by which the local perfusion of the myocardial muscle is determined on the basis of the ascertained blood flow into different regions of the myocardial muscle. The perfusion of the different regions of the myocardial muscle is visualized in a schematized image on a visualization unit. By virtue of the proposed device it is possible to dispense with further imaging examinations after the performance of a CCTA scan, thereby relieving the pressure both on the part of the physician and on the part of the patient.