Scout Image Arm Removal for CT Tube Current Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing CT scanners face issues with sub-optimal radiation dose and image quality due to mismatched arm positions in scout images used for X-ray tube current modulation during scan series, particularly in series where arm positions change between groups, such as chest/abdomen/pelvis followed by head/neck scans.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that generates a scout image without arms by removing identified arm regions from a scout image, designating it as a reference for X-ray source current modulation for both groups, ensuring consistent arm positions are accounted for, regardless of actual arm positions during scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the last scout image acquired for a subject is automatically designated as the reference image for X-ray tube current modulation, then the process is simple and automatic, but the reference image may not match the subject's arm position for subsequent scan groups, resulting in sub-optimal radiation dose and image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scout image processing by creating separate processing paths: one for automatic designation and another for manual selection based on arm position matching. The system divides the reference image selection into automated routine cases and manual intervention cases where arm position mismatch is detected
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by comparing the arm position in the reference scout image with the expected arm position for each scan group. When a mismatch is detected, the system provides feedback to the user interface, prompting manual selection of an appropriate reference image
2Manufacturing precision
If another scout scan is performed between groups to match arm position, then image quality and radiation dose optimization improve, but the scan time increases and peak contrast agent uptake may be missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by capturing the scout image with the subject's arms in the correct position before the scan series begins. This pre-captured image is then selected as the reference image for subsequent groups, eliminating the need for additional scout scans between groups
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects different reference scout images for different scan groups based on arm position requirements. Instead of using a single static reference image, the system adapts the reference image selection to match the dynamic arm position requirements of each scan group
3Measurement precision
If the reference image reflects the subject with arms above head, then the scout image accurately represents the first group positioning, but the arm position does not match the second group where arms are at sides, causing sub-optimal radiation dose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by focusing specifically on the arm region of the scout image for matching purposes. The system extracts and compares arm position features locally rather than requiring overall image matching, allowing different reference images to be selected for different scan groups based on local arm position characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
A system(s), a computer-implemented method(s) and/or computer executable instructions encoded on a computer readable medium(s) obtains, for a scan series for a subject that includes arms of the subject at different positions relative to the subject, a scout image for the subject, removing the arms of the subject from the scout image, designating the scout image with the arms of the subject removed as a reference image for X-ray source current modulation for the scan series, and utilizes the designated scout image for X-ray source current modulation for the scan series.