Patient-Specific MRI Functional Tests for Latent-Error Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Magnetic resonance examinations pose risks to patients due to strong gradient fields and radio-frequency power, exacerbated by implants, with existing latent error detection methods being inefficient and potentially undetectable, requiring time-consuming tests that disrupt patient schedules.
Innovation Solution
A patient-specific method for latent error testing in magnetic resonance apparatuses, where tests are performed based on individual risk assessment, ensuring safe operation by minimizing disruptions and optimizing test timing for critical patients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If latent error tests are performed at regular intervals to detect test path failures, then detection reliability is improved, but examination time is increased and patient schedules are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by transitioning from uniform periodic testing to demand-oriented testing. Tests are selectively performed only when patient-specific risk factors are present (e.g., implants, pregnancy, cardiac conditions), thereby concentrating testing resources where they are most needed while avoiding unnecessary tests for low-risk patients, thus reducing overall examination time while maintaining detection reliability for critical cases
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of test timing from fixed periodic intervals to dynamic demand-based scheduling. By assessing patient-specific risk parameters and adjusting test timing accordingly, the system achieves both reliable error detection and minimized time loss, as tests are performed only when risk assessment indicates necessity
2Reliability
If tests are performed to detect latent errors in the test path, then safety is improved, but operational efficiency is reduced due to time-consuming tests
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by implementing demand-oriented testing that targets only the specific safety-critical areas relevant to each patient's condition. Rather than performing comprehensive tests on all patients, the system identifies and tests only the relevant control paths based on patient-specific risk factors, thereby maintaining safety for high-risk cases while improving operational efficiency for low-risk cases
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing risk assessment before the actual examination and latent error testing. This preliminary evaluation determines which tests are necessary, allowing the system to prepare appropriate test protocols in advance and avoid unnecessary testing, thus maintaining safety while optimizing operational efficiency
3Productivity
If patient-specific risk assessment is implemented to guide testing, then operational efficiency is improved, but complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated risk assessment system that independently evaluates patient information and determines testing requirements without manual intervention. The system automatically processes patient data, assesses risks, and schedules appropriate tests, thereby improving operational efficiency while managing complexity through automation rather than manual procedures
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for performing a magnetic resonance examination on a patient with a magnetic resonance apparatus, a magnetic resonance apparatus, and a computer program product are provided. According to the method, patient-specific information about the patient is provided. The patient-specific information about the patient ascertains whether at least one latent error test is to be performed on the magnetic resonance apparatus. If it is ascertained that the at least one latent error test to check the magnetic resonance apparatus is to be performed, the at least one latent error test is performed. The magnetic resonance examination is performed depending on a result of the at least one latent error test.