Ultrasound Volume Alignment via Deformable Model Fitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The alignment of 3D/4D ultrasound volumes, particularly of fetal hearts, is challenging due to the changing and unknown orientation of the fetus, requiring extensive manual interaction and expertise, as traditional methods rely on identifying external anatomical features like the spine, which are not consistently positioned relative to the heart.
Innovation Solution
A semi-automatic alignment method using deformable models, where user input is limited to identifying landmarks in the four-chamber view to determine the initial position and scale of the heart, with the system automatically adjusting the volume to a standard orientation using a volume model that fits the image data over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional manual alignment methods are used to align ultrasound volumes to standard orientation, then alignment accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes time consuming and requires high level expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic alignment by having the volume model fit to the captured image data through automated computational processes. The deformable model autonomously adjusts orientation and scale parameters by comparing synthesized images with captured data, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention while maintaining alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with computational image processing and automated model fitting algorithms. Instead of manual rotation and transformation of volume data, the system uses computer vision techniques to automatically determine orientation and scale, significantly reducing alignment time while preserving precision.
2Measurement precision
If traditional manual alignment methods are used, then accurate alignment can be achieved, but the complexity of operation increases due to requiring high level expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The automated model fitting system performs alignment operations autonomously without requiring operator expertise in ultrasound anatomy or manual alignment techniques. The deformable model self-adjusts to fit the captured image data, making the process accessible to clinicians with varying levels of ultrasound skill while maintaining consistent alignment accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a deformable volume model as an intermediary between the captured image data and the final aligned volume. This model acts as a mediator that automatically translates raw ultrasound data into properly oriented and scaled volume representations, eliminating the need for operators to directly manipulate complex alignment parameters.
3Ease of operation
If deformable models with automated fitting are used, then manual interaction effort is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex model fitting and alignment computation from the user interface layer and implements it as automated background processing. The deformable model fitting algorithm operates independently without requiring user intervention, isolating the computational complexity from the operational interface and maintaining simplicity for the end user.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments for aligning a volume to a standard alignment are provided. One example method of aligning a volume constructed from captured image data to a standard orientation includes determining an orientation and a scale of the volume based on a comparison of a volume model representing the volume to captured image data of the volume over time and adjusting the volume according to the determined orientation and scale.