Spectral CT Thermal Conductivity Mapping for Cryoablation Planning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryoablation methods face challenges in accurately visualizing the ablation zone and temperature changes in tissue due to image artifacts from probes and thermal bridges, leading to inadequate representation of the destroyed tissue extent.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing spectral computed tomography to calculate thermal conductivity data based on fat and water maps, allowing for precise planning and monitoring of cryoablation by generating thermal conductivity maps and correcting for hardening artifacts caused by cryoablation probes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods (ultrasound, MRT, CT) are used for planning and monitoring cryoablation, then the ablation zone can be visualized, but image artifacts from probes and freezing lead to inadequate representation of the destroyed tissue extent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs pre-interventional determination of thermal tissue conductivity using spectral CT before cryoablation begins. This preliminary measurement creates accurate baseline data about tissue composition (fat and water maps) that can be used for treatment planning, avoiding the need to rely on artifact-prone intra-procedural imaging for initial assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from conventional single-energy CT to spectral CT, which measures tissue at multiple energy levels. This parameter change enables material decomposition into fat and water components, providing accurate thermal conductivity data without the image artifacts that plague conventional imaging methods during freezing.
2Manufacturing precision
If spectral computed tomography is used to calculate thermal conductivity data, then precise planning and monitoring of cryoablation is enabled, but additional data processing steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single spectral CT system: it performs anatomical imaging, material decomposition (fat/water mapping), and thermal conductivity calculation all in one device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized equipment while achieving high precision in cryoablation planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The spectral CT system automatically performs material decomposition and thermal conductivity calculation from the acquired spectral data without requiring manual intervention. The system self-processed the raw spectral measurements into clinically useful thermal conductivity maps that directly guide treatment planning.
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 precise planning and monitoring of cryoablation by reducing image artifacts and thermal bridges, ensuring complete tumor ablation without damaging adjacent structures.
Implementation Method 1
receiving first spectral computed tomography data relating to the anatomical structure
Implementation Method 2
spectral computed tomography data, in particular the first spectral computed tomography data, can be recorded for example on the basis of photon-counting computed tomography
Implementation Method 3
In cryoablation, as in any thermal tissue destruction, the visualization of the ablation zone and the change of temperature in the tissue being treated
Implementation Method 4
In the ultrasound image, the freezing causes a reflection and the tissue information is thus extinguished
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing thermal conductivity data relating to an anatomical structure, comprises: receiving first spectral computed tomography data relating to the anatomical structure; calculating a fat map of the anatomical structure and a water map of the anatomical structure based on the first spectral computed tomography data; calculating the thermal conductivity data relating to the anatomical structure based on the fat map and the water map; and providing the thermal conductivity data.