Portable SPECT Imaging with Coded Aperture and Close-Proximity Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SPECT imaging systems face challenges with reduced imaging resolution and sensitivity due to the finite angular resolution of sensors placed at a distance from the patient, and the need for improved co-registration with other medical imaging modalities for accurate diagnostic and intervention guidance.
Innovation Solution
A portable SPECT imaging system with a gamma camera panel mounted on a jointed mechanical arm, allowing for close proximity scanning and co-registration with ultrasound and other imaging modalities, utilizing a coded aperture mask for enhanced imaging field of view and resolution, and adjustable geometry for various imaging tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If gamma camera sensors are placed at a distance from the patient, then the system structure is simplified, but imaging resolution and sensitivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gamma camera system employs a movable platform that can dynamically adjust its position and orientation relative to the patient. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to achieve high-resolution imaging by placing sensors in close proximity to the patient when needed, while maintaining operational flexibility and simplified overall system architecture through automated positioning rather than fixed complex mounting structures.
2Ease of operation
If gamma camera sensors are placed at a distance from the patient, then the system is easier to operate, but imaging sensitivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual positioning mechanisms with an automated movable platform that uses motorized actuators and control systems to position the gamma camera sensors. This substitution maintains ease of operation through automated control while achieving high imaging sensitivity by precisely positioning sensors in close proximity to the patient without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If a portable SPECT system with close proximity scanning is used, then imaging resolution and sensitivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable platform is designed as a multi-functional device that can perform multiple imaging tasks including SPECT scanning at various positions and angles, ultrasound imaging, and co-registration of different modalities. This universal design approach consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated system, reducing overall device complexity while enabling close-proximity scanning for high-resolution imaging across various clinical scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges SPECT gamma camera sensors, ultrasound imaging capabilities, and positioning systems into a single integrated portable platform. This consolidation of multiple imaging modalities and functions into one unified system reduces the complexity that would arise from separate systems while maintaining the ability to perform close-proximity scanning for high-resolution molecular imaging.
4Measurement precision
If co-registration with multiple imaging modalities is implemented, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges SPECT gamma camera, ultrasound imaging system, and co-registration capabilities into a single integrated portable platform. This consolidation enables automatic co-registration of multiple imaging modalities through shared positioning systems and processing hardware, improving diagnostic accuracy while avoiding the complexity of integrating separate standalone systems.
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
The system provides high-resolution, sensitive 3D imaging with improved molecular image quality, enabling precise medical intervention guidance and eliminating the need for CT radiation, while being portable and adaptable to different scanning scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
The gamma camera panel comprises gamma camera sensors with position and energy sensing resolution
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a coded aperture mask for enhanced imaging field of view and resolution
Implementation Method 3
The jointed arm can be positioned to a desired location by a user through applying direct force
Data Source
AI summary
Improved imaging devices and methods. A portable SPECT imaging device may co-register with imaging modalities such as ultrasound. Gamma camera panels including gamma camera sensors may be connected to a mechanical arm. A coded aperture mask may be placed in front of a gamma-ray photon sensor and used to construct a high-resolution three-dimensional map of radioisotope distributions inside a patient, which can be generated by scanning the patient from a reduced range of directions around the patient and with radiation sensors placed in close proximity to this patient. Increased imaging sensitivity and resolution is provided. The SPECT imaging device can be used to guide medical interventions, such as biopsies and ablation therapies, and can also be used to guide surgeries.