Tumor Strain Imaging for Non-Invasive IFP and IFV Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assessing interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) and velocity (IFV) inside tumors are unreliable, expensive, and invasive, lacking non-invasive tools to monitor spatial and temporal distributions effectively.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing strain data from tumors obtained through imaging methods like ultrasound elastography, combined with analytical models, to estimate IFP and IFV non-invasively, providing cost-effective and portable tools for clinical applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If contrast-based MRI and optical methods are used to measure IFP/IFV, then measurement capability is provided, but reliability deteriorates and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contrast-based MRI and optical methods with ultrasound elastography, which uses mechanical strain data and analytical models to estimate IFP and IFV. This substitution eliminates the need for imaging contrast agents and provides more reliable, non-invasive measurements without requiring expensive imaging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a cost-effective ultrasound elastography system with portable equipment, replacing expensive MRI and optical imaging systems. The method uses disposable strain data acquisition and computational models rather than requiring costly contrast agents and sophisticated imaging hardware.
2Measurement precision
If contrast-based MRI and optical methods are used, then measurement capability is provided, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex contrast-based MRI and optical imaging systems with a simpler ultrasound elastography system that measures mechanical strain and uses analytical models to derive IFP and IFV. This reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from complex imaging systems by using strain data and analytical models to calculate IFP and IFV directly, eliminating the need for contrast agents and sophisticated imaging hardware.
3Measurement precision
If invasive methods are used to assess tumor parameters, then measurement accuracy is improved, but patient safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces invasive measurement methods with non-invasive ultrasound elastography, which measures mechanical strain externally and uses analytical models to estimate internal tumor parameters. This maintains measurement accuracy while eliminating the harmful effects of invasiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces strain data and analytical models as intermediaries between external measurements and internal tumor parameters, enabling accurate assessment without direct invasive access to the tumor interior.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If reliable noninvasive methods are developed, then patient safety is improved, but measurement reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses ultrasound elastography with analytical models to achieve non-invasive measurement of IFP and IFV. The method validates measurement reliability through systematic comparisons with ground truth data, demonstrating that non-invasive strain-based measurements can be as reliable as invasive methods.
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, low-cost, and safe estimation of tumor parameters, including IFP and IFV, facilitating personalized cancer treatments and drug delivery monitoring.
Implementation Method 1
obtain strain data of the tumor from image data of the tumor acquired by an imaging system
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a method, a system, an apparatus, and a computer program product for determining IFP, IFV, and fluid flow inside tumors. In one example, a method for estimating tumor parameters is disclosed. This method includes: (1) receiving image data from a tumor, (2) obtaining strain data of the tumor from the image data, and (3) determining a tumor parameter, such as IFP and IFV, employing the strain data and an analytical model. Additional tumor parameters can be determined employing the strain data and other analytical models. The additional tumor parameters include compression-induced fluid pressure, velocity and flow inside the tumor, parameter α employing the fluid pressure, the ratio between vascular permeability and interstitial permeability, and the ratio of peak IFP and effective vascular pressure. Each of these parameters can be employed for analyzing, monitoring, treating, testing, etc., tumors or the effects of drugs on the tumors.