Tomosynthesis Imaging Using Orthogonal Megavoltage and Kilovoltage X-Ray Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radiation-based imaging systems used in radiation therapy are inadequate for real-time, accurate patient positioning due to slow image acquisition and poor depth resolution, failing to effectively maximize radiation delivery to tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
Innovation Solution
A system that acquires a plurality of projection images using both megavoltage and kilovoltage x-ray sources, with sources positioned along orthogonal axes, and performs digital tomosynthesis reconstruction to generate detailed three-dimensional images, allowing for improved patient positioning verification during radiation therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional CBCT is used for patient positioning verification, then three-dimensional imaging capability is provided, but image acquisition speed is too slow and system complexity is too high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential three-dimensional imaging function from complex CBCT by using a limited number of projection images at specific angles (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) to reconstruct 3D information, eliminating the need for full rotational scanning while maintaining 3D capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of acquiring complete 360° projection data as in conventional CBCT, the system uses partial action by acquiring projections at only four strategically selected angles, which is sufficient for the specific application of patient positioning verification without requiring full rotational scanning
2Productivity
If tomosynthesis is used for patient positioning verification, then image acquisition speed is improved, but depth resolution is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D tomosynthesis to 3D volumetric imaging by acquiring projections at four angles in multiple planes (axial, coronal, sagittal) and reconstructing complete 3D volume data, adding the third spatial dimension to the imaging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides 3D volumetric imaging, multi-planar reconstruction (axial, coronal, sagittal views), and precise depth resolution, making it universally applicable for various patient positioning verification scenarios
3Device complexity
If conventional imaging systems are used for patient positioning, then system complexity is reduced, but positioning accuracy and radiation dose optimization are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging task into four discrete projection acquisitions at specific angles (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°) rather than continuous scanning, simplifying the system while maintaining accurate 3D positioning capability through selective angular sampling
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 approach enables faster and more accurate three-dimensional imaging, reducing positioning errors and enhancing the precision of radiation delivery by providing better depth resolution and complete sampling of the treatment volume.
Implementation Method 1
acquire a first plurality of projection images of a volume using a megavoltage x-ray source, acquire a second plurality of projection images of the volume using a kilovoltage x-ray source
Data Source
AI summary
Some aspects include acquisition of a first plurality of projection images of a volume using a megavoltage x-ray source, each of the first plurality of projection images associated with a respective one of a first plurality of locations of the megavoltage x-ray source, acquisition of a second plurality of projection images of the volume using a kilovoltage x-ray source, each of the second plurality of projection images associated with a respective one of a second plurality of locations of the kilovoltage x-ray source, and performance of digital tomosynthesis reconstruction to generate a three-dimensional image of the volume based on the first plurality of projection images and the second plurality of projection images. The first axis may be perpendicular to the second axis.