TOFPET Detector Ring Tilting for Breast Imaging Dead Regions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard whole body PET scanners have limited spatial resolution and efficiency in detecting small breast lesions due to geometrical limitations, resulting in dead regions at the edges of dedicated breast PET scanners, which fail to account for the natural shape of the human body.
Innovation Solution
A time-of-flight positron emission tomography (TOFPET) assembly with detector segments placed in different planes, tilted to offset the chest wall-coronal plane, and configured to acquire tracer emission signals with high timing resolution, reducing dead regions and improving detection efficiency at the base of the breast.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated breast PET scanners use standard detector module positioning, then the system structure is simple, but detection efficiency drops at the edges and base of the breast due to geometrical limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning detector modules at non-uniform intervals around the breast, with closer spacing at the base and lower axilla regions where detection efficiency is poorest. This asymmetric arrangement compensates for the geometrical limitations of PET imaging at these locations, improving detection efficiency without requiring a complete redesign of the scanner structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by varying the spacing of detector modules according to the specific anatomical requirements of different breast regions. Areas with poorer detection efficiency (base and lower axilla) receive closer detector spacing, while other regions maintain standard spacing. This localized optimization improves overall detection efficiency without uniformly increasing system complexity
2Reliability
If detector modules are positioned to cover the entire breast including the base, then detection efficiency improves, but the system complexity and difficulty of positioning increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and pre-positioning detector modules at optimized locations before the imaging procedure begins. The asymmetric spacing configuration is established in advance based on anatomical considerations, eliminating the need for complex real-time positioning adjustments during operation. This ensures accurate coverage of the breast base while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detector array into multiple modules with different spacing configurations. This segmentation allows each module to be independently positioned at its optimal location, simplifying the overall positioning task while achieving comprehensive coverage. The segmented approach makes it easier to implement the complex asymmetric spacing pattern without overwhelming operational complexity
3Area of stationary object
If standard PET scanner geometry is used, then the device design is straightforward, but dead regions appear at the edges of the imaging field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a standard circular or rectangular detector arrangement to a three-dimensional asymmetric configuration that wraps around the breast. By adding spatial dimensionality and varying the radial distance of detector modules from the center, the system eliminates dead regions at the edges while maintaining a manageable device design. The detector modules are positioned at different angles and distances to ensure complete coverage of the breast volume
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 TOFPET assembly enhances detection efficiency and spatial resolution, allowing for comprehensive imaging of the breast by eliminating or reducing dead regions and providing a more accurate representation of breast tissue, even at the edges of the imaging field.
Implementation Method 1
a scintillator for placement toward the subject, the scintillator having a top edge generally closest to the subject and a detection surface wall aligned closest to surrounding the breast
Implementation Method 2
a photo multiplier opposite the scintillator
Implementation Method 3
The detector segments may be configured to acquire tracer emission signals from a target of the breast with a timing resolution of less than about 600 ps
Data Source
AI summary
A time-of-flight positron emission tomography (TOFPET) assembly for detecting lesions of a breast of a subject, wherein the subject may anatomically be defined with a median plane and chest wall-coronal plane. The assembly may comprise: a detector array having at least two or more detector segments. The detector segments may include: a scintillator for placement toward the target, the scintillator having a top edge generally closest to the subject and a detection surface wall aligned closest to surrounding the breast, a photo multiplier opposite the scintillator, and a readout connected to the photo multiplier. The assembly may also comprise a processor that receives the acquired tracer emission signals and converts the signals into a three dimensional, tomographic image reconstruction. The detector array is defined by a ring surrounding the breast and the face of ring that may be tilted to offset the chest wall-coronal plane of the subject, and wherein one of the top edges of one of the detector segments is above the chest wall-coronal plane of the subject in the posterior direction.