Multi-mode Upright X-ray Breast Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current x-ray imaging systems for breast imaging cannot selectively choose between CT, tomosynthesis, and mammography modes without moving the patient to different imaging systems, and there is no system that can co-register CT breast images with other x-ray modalities, especially when taken from an upright patient.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode x-ray imaging system that can operate in CT, tomosynthesis (including wide and narrow angle modes), and mammography modes, allowing for the selection of different imaging types without moving the patient, and capable of co-registering images from various modalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional CT system is used to image the breast, then CT images can be obtained, but the patient must be lying down and the x-ray beam passes through the entire torso, increasing radiation exposure and limiting patient positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is designed to perform multiple imaging functions (mammography, tomosynthesis, and CT modes) within a single integrated platform. The system can switch between different imaging modes and can image both breasts simultaneously, providing universal functionality that eliminates the need for separate imaging systems and different patient positioning requirements for each modality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple imaging systems are used to provide different imaging modes, then comprehensive imaging capabilities are achieved, but patient movement between systems increases time loss and radiation exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mammography, tomosynthesis, and CT imaging capabilities into a single integrated imaging system. This merging allows all imaging modalities to be performed in one location without requiring patient movement between separate systems, thereby eliminating repositioning time and reducing overall examination duration.
3Measurement precision
If conventional CT imaging is used for breast imaging, then anatomical detail is provided, but the x-ray beam passes through the entire torso increasing radiation exposure to tissues not being imaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and isolates the breast region for imaging by using a breast compression device that holds the breast in a fixed position. This allows the x-ray beam to be directed specifically at the breast area rather than through the entire torso, reducing radiation exposure to non-imaged tissues while maintaining anatomical imaging quality.
4Loss of time
If a single integrated system provides all imaging modes, then patient time loss is reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic components including a movable x-ray source and detector assembly that can rotate and reposition to accommodate different imaging modes. The breast compression device can be adjusted and repositioned dynamically during the examination, allowing the same physical hardware to adapt to various imaging requirements without requiring multiple separate systems.
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 the acquisition of multiple types of breast images in a single session while the patient remains upright and immobilized, facilitating comprehensive breast imaging and co-registration of images from different modalities for enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an x-ray source on one side of a patient's breast immobilized in said unit and an x-ray imaging receptor on the other side of the breast, said source selectively emitting an imaging beam of x-rays
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-mode system and method for imaging a patient's breast with x-rays in one or more of a CT mode, a narrow-angle tomosynthesis mode, a wide angle tomosynthesis mode, and a mammography mode, using essentially the same equipment, on one or more compressions or immobilizations of the breast.