OCT Imaging System Context Alignment and Motion Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) systems face challenges in efficiently displaying and analyzing three-dimensional imaging data of biological samples, particularly in ophthalmology, where motion artifacts and varying orientations of tissue structures complicate diagnosis and treatment of pathologies.
Innovation Solution
The system acquires both high-resolution two-dimensional scans and lower-resolution three-dimensional data cubes, allowing for context-based alignment and orientation of images, generation of maps showing non-uniformities, and comparison to thresholds for binary mapping, facilitating the visualization of tissue structures and pathologies like drusen, exudates, and membrane disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If only high-resolution two-dimensional scans are acquired, then image detail is improved, but contextual information and location cues are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines high-resolution two-dimensional OCT scans with lower-resolution three-dimensional data cubes into a unified display system. The 2D scans provide detailed tissue structure information while the 3D data cubes provide contextual location cues and spatial orientation, allowing clinicians to see both detail and context simultaneously without switching between separate imaging modalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from displaying only two-dimensional cross-sectional images to incorporating three-dimensional volumetric data in the display. This adds a spatial dimension that provides depth information and contextual location, allowing clinicians to understand where detailed 2D scans are located within the overall tissue volume while maintaining the high resolution of the original 2D data.
2Loss of information
If three-dimensional data cubes are acquired, then contextual information is improved, but image resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different resolution qualities to different parts of the data representation. High-resolution imaging is applied locally to specific two-dimensional scan planes where detailed tissue structure is needed, while lower-resolution imaging is applied to the surrounding three-dimensional volumetric data that provides contextual information. This allows the system to optimize resolution allocation based on local informational needs.
3Ease of operation
If images from different visits are displayed together, then patient alignment is improved, but motion artifacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs image registration techniques that use feedback from the lower-resolution three-dimensional data to align and overlay images from different patient visits. The system compares anatomical landmarks and tissue structures between visits, automatically adjusting alignment parameters to compensate for patient motion, and provides visual feedback to confirm proper registration before final comparison.
4Loss of information
If multiple imaging parameters are displayed, then diagnostic information is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional display system that can simultaneously present multiple imaging parameters and data types through a unified interface. The display can show high-resolution 2D OCT scans, lower-resolution 3D volumetric data, elevation maps, and threshold-based binary maps all in one view, allowing clinicians to access comprehensive diagnostic information without switching between multiple separate devices or software applications.
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 diagnostic accuracy by providing clear, contextually aligned images and maps that aid in identifying tissue features and pathologies, improving the ability to track changes and detect diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinal fluid, while reducing motion artifacts and standardizing orientations for consistent comparison.
Implementation Method 1
OCT is a method of interferometry that determines the scattering profile of a sample along the OCT beam
Implementation Method 2
OCT is a method of interferometry that determines the scattering profile of a sample along the OCT beam
Data Source
AI summary
Various methods are disclosed for mapping optical coherence tomography (OCT) data to facilitate review and diagnosis. In one aspect, high resolution 2D line scans are obtained along with lower density 3D cube scans and displayed in a manner to provide context to the clinician. In another aspect, OCT data is analyzed to provide information about non-uniformities of the tissue. Binary image maps of maps useful for determining tautness of membranes are also disclosed.