Gadolinium Deposition Detection Using Spectral CT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting and quantifying gadolinium retention in tissue require invasive tissue sampling, limiting the ability to assess gadolinium-based contrast agents' retention, organ distribution, and safety in living subjects.
Innovation Solution
The method employs spectral computed tomography (CT) imaging to detect and quantify gadolinium deposition in living subjects based on an energy-dependent attenuation profile, allowing non-invasive assessment of gadolinium levels in the range of 0.1-200 µg per gram of tissue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If tissue sampling is used to detect and quantify gadolinium retention, then measurement precision is improved, but invasiveness increases and sample size is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/invasive tissue sampling system with a non-invasive spectral CT imaging system. The spectral CT scanner uses X-ray photons to probe gadolinium distribution in the body, eliminating the need for physical tissue extraction while maintaining quantification capability through energy-dependent attenuation measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spectral CT imaging as an intermediary measurement method. Instead of directly examining tissue samples, the system uses X-ray attenuation properties at multiple energy levels to indirectly detect and quantify gadolinium retention, serving as a mediator between the subject and the measurement process
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If tissue sampling is used to detect gadolinium retention, then detection capability is improved, but sample size and statistical power are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the limiting factor of tissue sample quantity with a non-invasive imaging approach. Spectral CT can scan entire bodies or large body regions, enabling assessment of gadolinium retention across many more subjects without being constrained by the limited amount of tissue that can be safely sampled from each individual
3Ease of operation
If spectral CT imaging is used to detect gadolinium, then invasiveness is reduced, but measurement precision must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters by utilizing energy-dependent X-ray attenuation characteristics. By measuring attenuation at multiple energy levels and exploiting the unique K-edge absorption properties of gadolinium, the system achieves specific and accurate quantification of gadolinium concentrations without invasive procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through dual-energy or spectral imaging acquisition, where X-ray images are obtained at different energy levels in sequence. This periodic measurement approach enables differentiation of gadolinium from other tissues and contrast agents, maintaining measurement precision through multi-parameter analysis
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 non-invasive detection and quantification of gadolinium retention, facilitating larger sample sizes and comprehensive assessment of gadolinium-based contrast agents' retention and safety without tissue sampling.
Implementation Method 1
detecting and quantifying a level of retained gadolinium deposited in the tissue of said living mammalian subject based on an energy-dependent attenuation profile of the retained gadolinium
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for the evaluation of tissue gadolinium deposition that offers advantages compared with known methods. Comparison of different gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) based on retention, organ distribution, washout and safety is facilitated using the methods of the present invention.