Uterine Strain Mapping via Ultrasound Speckle Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating uterine peristalsis using transvaginal ultrasound are qualitative and subjective, making it difficult to interpret uterine contractions effectively, which is a major factor in the low success rate of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method for quantitative visualization of uterine strain using 2D or 3D image frames with strain maps, employing optical flow techniques and block matching algorithms to track uterine anatomy and calculate strain, with color coding and bull eye plots for visualization, and a system comprising a computer for processing ultrasound data to provide objective strain measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transvaginal ultrasound is used to evaluate uterine peristalsis, then the measurement is non-invasive and safe, but the evaluation remains qualitative and subjective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual qualitative assessment with automated image processing algorithms (optical flow and block matching) that objectively track tissue motion and calculate strain metrics from ultrasound video loops, eliminating subjectivity while maintaining non-invasive measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces speckle pattern tracking as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the gap between raw ultrasound images and quantitative strain measurement, using the deterministic intensity patterns as markers to visualize and measure tissue motion objectively
2Measurement precision
If invasive techniques such as intrauterine pressure catheter or MRI are used, then measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation and patient comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes invasive mechanical measurement devices (pressure catheters, MRI) with non-invasive optical flow analysis of ultrasound images, achieving quantitative strain measurement without physical intrusion into the uterus
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual model of uterine motion by tracking speckle patterns in ultrasound video loops, generating quantitative strain data that replicates the information obtained from invasive techniques but without their associated risks and discomfort
3Ease of operation
If qualitative evaluation of uterine peristalsis is performed on ultrasound video loops, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the interpretation becomes difficult and subjective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated computer-based image processing that calculates objective strain metrics, maintaining operational simplicity while eliminating interpretation subjectivity through algorithmic analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the ultrasound system to automatically analyze its own output data through integrated image processing algorithms, generating quantitative strain measurements without requiring external manual evaluation
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
This approach allows for objective and non-invasive quantification of uterine strain, improving the interpretation of uterine contractions and potentially enhancing the success rate of IVF procedures by providing detailed strain maps and uterine activity parameters.
Implementation Method 1
The backscattered ultrasound waves form a deterministic intensity patterns due to their constructive/destructive interference which is referred to as speckle pattern. The speckle pattern moves along with tissue across consecutive frames, allowing for visualization of tissue motion.
Implementation Method 2
tracking comprises block matching. To this end, blocks at different frames are matched by minimizing (or maximizing) a cost function such as the mean squared error, the sum of absolute errors, or the mutual information.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for quantitative visualization of uterine strain. The method comprises the receiving a number of 2D or 3D image frames acquired via an imaging technique and selecting a number of confidential points, determine the orientation of the uterus using the confidential points, selecting a region of interest, generating a grid of tracking points inside the region of interest and tracking and estimating the displacement of tracking points between frames. From a varying distance between each couple or set of tracking points, a strain is calculated. The orientation of the grid of tracking points and of the calculated strain is dependent on the determined orientation of the uterus.