Optical Coherence Imager Reduces Motion Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging techniques for assessing tissue viability during reconstructive surgery, such as laser speckle contrast imaging (LSI), are hindered by sensitivity to subject movement, making it difficult to obtain reliable real-time blood perfusion images, which is crucial for preventing post-operative complications like tissue necrosis and flap failure.
Innovation Solution
An optical coherence imager system that identifies a stable time segment during image acquisition by analyzing Fourier Transform data from a region of interest, allowing for the generation of a representative image with reduced movement noise, enabling real-time assessment of tissue viability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If laser speckle contrast imaging is used to assess tissue perfusion in real-time, then immediate detection of blood flow is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to sensitivity to subject movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acquired image data into multiple temporal segments and identifies stable segments for image reconstruction. By dividing the continuous image acquisition into discrete time segments and selecting only those with minimal movement artifacts, the system maintains real-time assessment capability while improving image quality through selective use of stable data portions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary stability analysis on image segments before final image reconstruction. By pre-assessing the stability of each temporal segment using motion estimation algorithms, the system identifies suitable segments for high-quality image generation beforehand, preventing the need for repeated scans and maintaining real-time assessment efficiency.
2Manufacturing precision
If image acquisition time is extended to improve image quality, then movement artifacts are reduced, but the real-time assessment capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image acquisition into multiple short temporal segments and processes them independently. This allows the system to identify stable segments quickly and reconstruct images from only those segments, avoiding the need for long continuous acquisitions while maintaining image quality and real-time assessment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acquires more image data than strictly necessary by collecting multiple temporal segments, then selectively uses only the stable portions for reconstruction. This partial use of acquired data ensures high image quality from stable segments while the overall process remains efficient enough for real-time assessment.
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
The system provides a stable and accurate representation of tissue perfusion, reducing the likelihood of post-operative complications by offering real-time, high-quality images of blood flow, thus aiding surgeons in making immediate decisions to improve patient outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
a laser source for illuminating an area of tissue surface; a detector system comprising an array of detector elements capable of operation at video frame rates, the detector system being arranged to detect laser light scattered from the tissue surface
Implementation Method 2
each tested time segment is assessed by extraction of stability indicators from a Fourier Transform analysis of time-varying values extracted from a region of interest within the illuminated tissue surface area
Data Source
AI summary
An optical coherence imager for use in a clinical environment includes a laser source (24) for illuminating an area of tissue surface and a detector array (28) arranged to generate output signals indicative of detected light scattered from the tissue surface. An optical coherence image, such as a Flux image that is indicative of blood perfusion in the tissue, is generated from data collected at the detector. Detector output is analysed to identify a time series of such optical coherence images during which relative movement between tissue and detector is favourable. A representative optical coherence image is formed from an average of optical coherence images generated from data collected within the identified time series and extending over a period of multiple heartbeats. The representative optical coherence image thereby exhibits minimal movement noise and the effects of heartbeat are averaged out.