Co-planar PET/CT Imaging System with Inter-ring CT Source
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional PET/CT imaging systems face challenges in achieving co-planarity of images and optimal performance due to sequential and spatially separated data acquisitions, with CT technology lagging standalone CT systems and lacking in spectral acquisition capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A PET/CT imaging system that allows simultaneous operation of CT and PET sub-systems on the same volume, utilizing a CT system configured to generate an x-ray beam between adjacent PET detector rings, enabling simultaneous data collection and processing of PET and CT imaging data, with a radiation shield to manage scattered radiation and extend CT acquisition time for spectral information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If CT and PET data are acquired sequentially in spatially separated systems, then device complexity is reduced, but image co-planarity cannot be achieved and diagnostic quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines CT and PET subsystems into a single integrated hybrid imaging system where both modalities are co-planar and simultaneously acquire data from the same patient volume. The CT x-ray source and PET detector rings are positioned to share the same imaging geometry, eliminating misalignment issues while providing complementary anatomical and functional information in perfect registration.
2Measurement precision
If CT acquisition time is extended for spectral information, then measurement precision improves, but patient radiation exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs continuous simultaneous CT and PET data acquisition over an extended period. The CT subsystem continuously collects spectral information across multiple energy levels while the PET subsystem continuously accumulates functional data, both over the same patient volume. This continuous dual-mode acquisition maximizes information extraction per unit time while maintaining optimal signal statistics for spectral analysis without proportionally increasing radiation dose.
3Adaptability or versatility
If CT x-ray beam is positioned between PET detector rings, then spectral acquisition capability is enabled, but scattered radiation interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a radiation shield as an intermediary component positioned between the CT x-ray source and the PET detector rings. This shield selectively blocks scattered x-ray photons from reaching the PET detectors while allowing the primary x-ray beam to pass through for spectral CT acquisition. The shield acts as a spatial filter that separates useful spectral information from harmful scattered radiation, enabling both subsystems to operate simultaneously with minimal mutual interference.
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
Enables efficient simultaneous data collection and processing, improving image quality and spectral information acquisition, reducing radiation dose, and allowing for longer CT acquisition times without increasing patient exposure, thus enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a CT system comprising an x-ray generator and a CT detection system, wherein the x-ray generator is positioned and configured to generate an x-ray beam
Implementation Method 2
a PET detection system comprising a plurality of detector rings... simultaneously collecting PET imaging data using the PET detection system
Data Source
AI summary
A PET/CT imaging system is provided. The imaging system includes a PET detection system having a plurality of detector rings and an axial gap between at least two adjacent detector rings within the plurality of detector rings. The imaging system includes a CT system having an x-ray generator and a CT detection system positioned within the axial gap between the at least two detector rings. The system is configured to collect PET data and CT data on the same volume of interest substantially simultaneously.