Ultrasound Anatomic Model Correlation for Diagnostic Consistency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current ultrasound diagnostic systems require extensive training and are prone to inconsistent and inaccurate diagnoses due to operator dependence, limiting the number of skilled operators and increasing costs.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that correlate ultrasound images with anatomic model data to facilitate easier identification of organic specimen features, using a processor to create and display correlated ultrasound and model images, reducing the need for extensive training and improving diagnostic consistency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional ultrasound diagnostic systems are used, then diagnostic capability is provided, but extensive operator training is required and diagnostic consistency is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic consistencyVSAvoidoperator training time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

An anatomical model serves as an intermediary reference framework that mediates between the ultrasound images and the operator's diagnostic interpretation. The model provides standardized anatomical landmarks and structural relationships that guide feature identification, reducing dependence on operator experience and improving diagnostic consistency across different users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital copy of the anatomical model that can be overlaid with or integrated with ultrasound images. This virtual replica provides a consistent reference structure that can be repeatedly consulted during diagnosis, eliminating the need for operators to memorize and recall anatomical relationships from extensive training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Ease of operation

If traditional ultrasound systems are used, then imaging is provided, but identification of features is difficult without extensive training

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of tissue identificationVSAvoidtraining time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The anatomical model is pre-configured with labeled structures, normal variations, and diagnostic references before use. This preliminary preparation of reference information allows operators to quickly identify and interpret tissue features without needing to learn and memorize anatomical relationships through extensive training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The anatomical model acts as an intermediary visual guide that translates complex ultrasound imagery into easily identifiable features. By providing pre-labeled anatomical structures and normal appearance references, the model mediates between the raw ultrasound data and the operator's diagnostic judgment, making feature identification intuitive and rapid.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If more skilled operators are trained, then diagnostic accuracy improves, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidnumber of skilled operators
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of training multiple skilled operators, the system creates a single, standardized digital copy of the anatomical model that can be universally applied. This virtual reference model provides consistent diagnostic guidance to all users, eliminating the need to cultivate and maintain a small cadre of highly trained operators while ensuring uniform diagnostic accuracy across the board.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of diagnostic reference from human expertise (variable and expensive) to a standardized digital model (fixed and cost-effective). By transforming the reference framework from operator-based to model-based, the system maintains high diagnostic accuracy while significantly reducing the quantity and cost of skilled human resources required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Significantly reduces operator training time and costs, enhances diagnostic accuracy by allowing easier identification of tissues, and minimizes variation between operators.

Implementation Method 1

an ultrasound transducer configured for transmitting ultrasound incident waves into selected regions of an organic specimen, detecting resultant ultrasound reflected waves from specimen features of the organic specimen

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasound: Ultrasound

Implementation Method 2

detecting resultant ultrasound reflected waves from specimen features

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS11129593B2Identification of organic specimen model data region with ultrasound propagation region
Publication Date: 2021.09.28 GRONSETH CLIFF A
  • US11129593B2 patent drawing
  • US11129593B2 patent drawing
  • US11129593B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium The system includes a processor configured to receive ultrasound data from an ultrasound reflected wave reflected from specimen features in an organic specimen resultant from an ultrasound incident wave transmitted into the organic specimen; to identify each region having data obtained from anatomic model data related to the organic specimen that satisfies selection criteria in comparison to the received ultrasound data; and to repeat consecutively, if the number of identified regions is not equal to one and the number of times the selection criteria are adjusted is less than a specified maximum number of adjustments, removal of identified status from each identified region, adjustment of the selection criteria in accordance with adjustment rules and identification of each region having data obtained from anatomic model data that satisfies the adjusted selection criteria in comparison to the received ultrasound data.