Specimen Imaging Filter for Integrated Breast X-Ray Workflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current breast imaging systems require separate imaging systems for tissue specimens, leading to increased patient discomfort, longer procedure times, and higher costs due to the need for duplicate imaging components.
Innovation Solution
An x-ray breast imaging system that integrates tissue specimen imaging capabilities by using a specimen imaging filter within the x-ray tube head to define a path for the x-ray beam, allowing tissue specimens to be imaged directly on the gantry with the same components used for mammography and tomosynthesis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate imaging system is used for tissue specimens, then image quality for specimens is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to duplicate imaging components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the breast imaging system's x-ray tube head and receptor multi-functional by adding a specimen imaging filter with apertures that can be selectively positioned. This allows the same imaging components to serve both breast imaging and tissue specimen imaging purposes, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated specimen imaging system while maintaining image quality for both applications
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate imaging system is used for tissue specimens, then imaging capability is improved, but loss of time increases due to working between two systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines breast imaging and specimen imaging capabilities into a single integrated system. The specimen imaging filter is incorporated into the existing x-ray tube head, and the same receptor captures both breast and specimen images. This merging eliminates the need to switch between separate systems, reducing procedure time and improving workflow efficiency
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate imaging system is used for tissue specimens, then imaging functionality is improved, but patient discomfort increases due to prolonged compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the breast compression and imaging setup to serve dual purposes. After breast imaging, the same compressed breast position allows specimen imaging through the aperture in the filter without requiring additional compression or repositioning. This eliminates the need for prolonged compression that would occur if specimens were imaged on a separate system
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 integrated approach reduces patient discomfort, decreases procedure time, and lowers costs by eliminating the need for separate imaging systems, while also improving the accuracy and resolution of tissue specimen images.
Implementation Method 1
the specimen imaging filter blocks a portion of the emitted x-ray beam so that the at least one aperture defines a path of the emitted x-ray beam towards the x-ray receptor
Data Source
AI summary
An x-ray breast imaging system includes a breast support platform including an x-ray receptor, and an x-ray tube head. The x-ray tube head includes an x-ray source configured to emit an x-ray beam in a direction towards the x-ray receptor, and a collimator. A filter assembly including a plurality of filter slots selectively positionable adjacent to the collimator, and a specimen imaging filter disposed within a slot of the plurality of filter slots. The specimen imaging filter includes at least one aperture defined therein. The specimen imaging filter also blocks a portion of the emitted x-ray beam so that the at least one aperture defines a path of the emitted x-ray beam towards the x-ray receptor.