Ultrasound Guided Workflow with Dynamic Reference Images
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Solution Overview
Problem
Less experienced ultrasound operators, such as obstetricians, face difficulties in acquiring specific image views during fetal congenital heart disease ultrasound examinations due to the variability of fetal lie and orientation, leading to potential undetection of congenital heart diseases.
Innovation Solution
A guided workflow system that presents reference images updated based on the determined anatomical position, using a combination of user input and artificial intelligence to assist in acquiring the correct ultrasound image views by automatically selecting and rotating reference images to match the fetal position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If less experienced operators perform ultrasound examinations without guidance, then the operation process is simple, but the image acquisition accuracy and detection reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A computer system acts as an intermediary between the ultrasound operator and the examination process. The system receives ultrasound images, determines fetal position automatically or with user input, selects appropriate reference images, and presents them to guide the operator. This intermediary provides expert-level guidance without requiring the operator to have extensive experience, thereby improving image acquisition accuracy while keeping the operator's task manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically determining fetal position from ultrasound images and pre-selecting appropriate reference images before the operator needs to acquire specific views. This preliminary processing reduces the cognitive load on the operator and provides ready-to-use guidance, improving accuracy without significantly increasing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple specific image views are required for congenital heart disease examination, then the detection capability is improved, but the time required for examination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides continuous feedback to the operator by presenting reference images that show the correct appearance and orientation of required views. After the operator acquires an ultrasound image, the system compares it with the reference, indicates whether the view is adequate, and guides adjustments. This feedback loop accelerates the learning process and reduces the time needed to acquire all necessary views while maintaining high detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference images are dynamically updated and rotated based on the determined fetal position. Rather than presenting static reference images that may not match the actual fetal orientation, the system adapts the references in real-time to match the dynamic situation, helping the operator acquire correct views more quickly regardless of fetal position changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If reference images are manually selected for each fetal position, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and operational burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining fetal position from the ultrasound images and autonomously selecting and rotating the appropriate reference images without requiring manual intervention from the operator. This automation maintains high adaptability to different fetal positions while significantly reducing the operational burden on the operator, who only needs to acquire images rather than manage complex reference selections.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of selecting and rotating reference images is replaced with an automated computer-based system that uses image analysis and software processing. The computer automatically determines fetal position and rotates reference images to match, substituting manual operations with automated computational processes, thereby maintaining adaptability while easing operational burden.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing a guided workflow through a series of ultrasound image acquisitions with reference images updated based on a determined anatomical position is provided. The method includes acquiring and displaying, by an ultrasound system, at least one ultrasound image of an anatomy. The method includes determining, by at least one processor, a position of the anatomy depicted in the at least one ultrasound image. The method includes automatically selecting and displaying, by the at least one processor, reference images corresponding to pre-defined views of an ultrasound examination. An orientation of anatomy depicted in the selected and displayed reference images is based on the determined position of the anatomy. The method includes acquiring and displaying, by the ultrasound system, additional ultrasound images of the anatomy corresponding to the selected and displayed reference images. The additional ultrasound images include pre-defined views of the ultrasound examination.