Patient-Adaptive MR Scan Sequencing for Noise and Comfort Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing MR exams face challenges in optimizing the sequence of scans to balance duration, image quality, and patient comfort, as different scans have varying durations and noise levels, affecting patient experience and compliance.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that tailors the MR scan sequence based on patient-specific tolerance to noise and ability to remain still, using a scoring system to order scans to minimize discomfort and maximize patient experience, with modifications to less pleasant scans to improve their pleasantness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If longer scans are performed to improve image quality, then image quality is improved, but patient discomfort increases due to longer duration and higher noise exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the scan sequence adaptive and adjustable based on patient characteristics. The system dynamically modifies the scan protocol by selecting and ordering individual scans according to patient-specific factors such as noise tolerance and ability to remain still, rather than using a fixed sequence. This allows the exam to be optimized in real-time for each patient's comfort and compliance levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the sequence and selection of scans based on patient parameters. The system changes the ordering of scans (placing quieter scans earlier and louder scans later) and adjusts which scans are performed based on patient characteristics. This reparameterization of the scan protocol resolves the contradiction by adapting the imaging parameters to patient tolerance levels.
2Productivity
If louder scans are performed to reduce duration, then productivity is improved, but patient discomfort increases due to noise tolerance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by assessing patient noise tolerance and quiescence ability before the scan sequence is determined. The system performs preliminary evaluation of patient characteristics and uses this information to pre-plan the optimal scan sequence, selecting which scans to perform and in what order, thereby preventing discomfort before it occurs rather than reacting to it during the exam.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the scan protocol based on patient characteristics. By making the scan sequence adaptive rather than fixed, the system can optimize for both productivity and comfort by selecting appropriate scans and ordering them strategically according to each patient's tolerance levels.
3Device complexity
If scans are ordered without considering patient characteristics, then device complexity is reduced, but patient compliance decreases due to discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically assess patient characteristics and independently determine the optimal scan sequence without requiring complex manual intervention. The automated system evaluates patient noise tolerance and ability to remain still, then self-determines the best scan ordering and selection, maintaining simplicity while improving compliance through personalized optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the approach to scan protocol determination by incorporating patient-specific parameters into the sequencing decision-making process. Rather than using a single fixed protocol for all patients, the system adjusts the scan parameters and sequence based on individual patient characteristics, thereby improving compliance without significantly increasing operational complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus (10) for optimising a sequence of Magnetic Resonance (MR) scans of a MR exam, the apparatus comprises an input unit (20); a processing unit (30); and an output unit (40). The input unit is configured to receive information on a MR exam to be performed on a patient, the information comprising details of individual MR scans of the MR exam. The input unit is configured to provide the information on the MR exam to the processing unit. The input unit is configured to receive information on the patient on whom the MR exam is to be performed, and the input unit is configured to provide the information on the MR patient to the processing unit. The processing unit is configured to utilize the information on the patient to determine an overall score value for each MR scan of the individual MR scans. The processing unit is configured to determine a sequence of MR scans for the MR exam comprising utilization of the individual MR scans and the overall score value for each MR scan. The output unit is configured to output the determined sequence of MR scans for the MR exam