Photon-Counting CT ROI Analysis Using 3D Energy Histograms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical image processing systems for photon counting CT scans require significant time and effort to activate analysis applications for calculating and displaying analysis values specific to a Region Of Interest (ROI), leading to inefficiencies in processing and display.
Innovation Solution
A medical image processing apparatus and method that reconstructs energy band images and generates three-dimensional histograms based on energy bin data from photon counting CT scans, allowing for efficient calculation and display of analysis values within the ROI without activating separate analysis applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an analysis application related to PCCT scan is activated to calculate and display analysis values specific to the ROI, then the analysis values can be displayed, but it takes time and effort due to activation of the analysis application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the analysis application functionality directly into the image processing apparatus. The processing circuitry that reconstructs images from energy bin data also performs ROI analysis and calculates analysis values (average CT value, standard deviation, maximum value, minimum value, area) without requiring separate application activation. This integration eliminates the time loss associated with activating separate analysis applications while maintaining precise measurement capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate analysis applications are used for PCCT scan analysis, then specialized analysis functions are available, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal image processing apparatus that performs both image reconstruction from energy bin data and ROI analysis functions. The processing circuitry is designed to handle multiple tasks: reconstructing images from photon counting data, receiving ROI designations, calculating various analysis values (average, standard deviation, maximum, minimum, area), and displaying results. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized applications while maintaining PCCT-specific analysis capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical image processing apparatus according to one embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry acquires a plurality of pieces of energy bin data that are generated based on execution of photon counting CT scan. The processing circuitry reconstructs a plurality of energy band images based on the plurality of pieces of energy bin data. The processing circuitry generates, based on the plurality of energy band images, a three-dimensional histogram based on a plurality of pixel values and a plurality of energy bands included in the plurality of energy band images.