3D Plaque Density Ratio Analysis for High-Risk Coronary Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying high-risk coronary plaques are limited as they focus solely on plaque characteristics without considering the relationship between the plaque and adjacent vascular structures, such as the coronary lumen and perivascular fat.
Innovation Solution
The use of three-dimensional (3D) models from computed tomography (CT) scans to calculate density ratios between coronary plaques and surrounding tissues, including the coronary lumen and perivascular fat, to characterize high-risk plaques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional plaque characterization methods are used, then the assessment process is simple, but the diagnostic accuracy and ability to identify high-risk plaques is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 2D cross-sectional plaque analysis to 3D volumetric modeling of coronary plaques. By reconstructing plaques in three dimensions from multiple CT scan slices, the system captures the full spatial extent and morphology of plaques, enabling more accurate risk stratification. This dimensional enhancement allows visualization of plaque burden, distribution, and characteristics that cannot be assessed in single 2D planes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the coronary artery tree into individual vessel segments and further divides plaques into distinct compositional components (calcified, fibrous, lipid-rich necrotic core). This segmentation enables separate characterization of each plaque component and its relationship to the lumen and perivascular fat, providing granular diagnostic information that improves accuracy while organizing complex data into manageable analytical units.
2Loss of information
If only plaque characteristics are analyzed, then the analysis is straightforward, but the relationship with adjacent vascular structures is not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three distinct anatomical compartments into a unified 3D analysis framework: the coronary lumen (blood flow channel), the plaque (vascular wall pathology), and the perivascular fat (surrounding adipose tissue). By co-registering these structures in three-dimensional space, the system evaluates their spatial relationships, such as plaque proximity to the lumen surface and perivascular fat interface, providing comprehensive information about plaque vulnerability that integrates multiple previously separate assessments.
3Measurement precision
If invasive tests like FFR and SYNTAX scoring are performed, then functional and anatomical assessment is obtained, but the procedure is time-consuming and carries adverse risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a non-invasive 3D digital copy of the coronary anatomy and plaque morphology from CCTA imaging data. This virtual model replicates the anatomical and morphological features that would otherwise require invasive imaging, allowing detailed plaque characterization, volumetric measurement, and spatial relationship analysis without entering the coronary arteries. The 3D reconstruction serves as a surrogate for invasive visualization, providing comparable diagnostic information without procedural risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical invasive procedure of catheter-based imaging with a non-invasive computational approach. Instead of physically inserting catheters and performing manual measurements during angiography, the system uses automated 3D reconstruction algorithms to generate volumetric plaque models from external CT scans. This substitution eliminates the need for catheter manipulation, contrast injection during the procedure, and manual scoring, dramatically reducing procedure time and eliminating mechanical trauma risks.
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
This approach allows for the accurate identification of coronary plaques at increased susceptibility for future acute coronary syndrome, heart attack, or death, thereby enabling more targeted and effective treatment strategies.
Implementation Method 1
coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), which uses computed tomography (CT) scanning
Implementation Method 2
computed tomography (CT) scanning after an intravenous infusion of an iodinated contrast agent to examine the arteries
Data Source
AI summary
A method for characterization of coronary plaque tissue data and perivascular tissue data using image data gathered from a computed tomography (CT) scan along a blood vessel, the image information including radiodensity values of coronary plaque and perivascular tissue located adjacent to the coronary plaque, the method comprising quantifying radiodensity in regions of coronary plaque, quantifying, radiodensity in at least one region of corresponding perivascular tissue adjacent to the coronary plaque, determining gradients of the quantified radiodensity values within the coronary plaque and the quantified radiodensity values within the corresponding perivascular tissue, and determining a ratio of the quantified radiodensity values within the coronary plaque and the corresponding perivascular tissue; and characterizing the coronary plaque by analyzing a gradient of the quantified radiodensity values in the coronary plaque and the corresponding perivascular, and/or the ratio of the coronary plaque radiodensity values and the radiodensity values of the corresponding perivascular tissue.