Ultrasonic Breast Density Quantification Through 3D Tissue Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for quantifying breast density, such as mammography, rely heavily on operator technique and expose both the examinee and the doctor to radiation, and are challenging for larger or thicker breasts.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for quantifying breast density using ultrasonic imaging, which involves acquiring three-dimensional volume data, segmenting mammary gland and chest wall tissues, and calculating breast density based on these volumes, optionally visualizing the density distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mammography is used to quantify breast density, then breast density can be measured, but radiation exposure risk increases and operator technique dependency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the X-ray imaging system with an ultrasonic imaging system. The ultrasonic transducer converts electrical energy to ultrasonic pulses that penetrate breast tissue without ionizing radiation, receiving echo signals to generate images for density quantification. This substitution eliminates radiation exposure while maintaining measurement capability through acoustic wave propagation and reflection principles.
2Measurement precision
If mammography is used to quantify breast density, then breast density can be measured, but operator technique dependency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated image processing algorithms that objectively analyze ultrasonic images to quantify breast density. The processing device automatically segments mammary gland tissue from adipose tissue, calculates volume ratios, and generates density assessments without requiring operator interpretation. This automation eliminates technique dependency while maintaining or improving measurement precision through consistent algorithmic application.
3Area of stationary object
If ultrasonic scanning is performed on larger or thicker breasts, then complete scanning becomes more difficult, but the need for comprehensive imaging remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the breast imaging task into systematic segments using a grid-based scanning pattern. The scanning assembly moves the ultrasonic transducer along predefined paths, acquiring images at multiple positions and depths. This segmented approach ensures complete coverage of large or thick breasts by breaking down the complex imaging task into manageable, repeatable scanning steps that can be systematically executed.
4Measurement precision
If three-dimensional volume data is acquired through ultrasonic scanning, then breast density quantification accuracy improves, but data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a three-dimensional digital replica of the breast anatomy by integrating ultrasonic images acquired at multiple positions and angles. The processing device constructs a volumetric model that represents the internal structure, allowing automated segmentation and density calculation. This digital copying approach simplifies complex data processing by providing a structured three-dimensional representation that can be systematically analyzed through algorithmic operations.
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
Accurately quantifies breast density without radiation exposure, providing valuable information for clinical applications like lesion detection.
Implementation Method 1
ultrasonic imaging systems use ultrasonic transducers to convert electrical energy into ultrasonic pulses
Implementation Method 2
The ultrasonic pulses are sent to the interior of the body of the person to be scanned, and then echo signals are generated. The echo signals are received by a transducer element and then converted into electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A method for quantifying breast density and an ultrasonic imaging system including performing ultrasonic scanning on a breast to acquire an ultrasonic image of the breast; determining a volume of a mammary gland and a volume of the breast based on the ultrasonic image; and determining the breast density based on the volume of the mammary gland and the volume of the breast. According to the embodiments of the present application, the breast density is quantified by acquiring three-dimensional volume data of the breast, and detecting a glandular breast tissue and a chest wall tissue from the three-dimensional volume data.