Vertebral Level Imaging System Using Panoramic X-Ray Stitching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In minimally invasive spine interventions, accurately localizing the vertebral level is challenging due to the limited field-of-view in X-ray imaging, making it difficult to reliably identify the target vertebral level, which can lead to errors in treatment.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system comprising a determination unit, definition unit, and processing unit that automatically determines the target vertebral level using pre-interventional image data, provides a series of X-ray images based on anatomical landmarks, and stitches these images into a panoramic view to facilitate accurate identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a limited field-of-view X-ray system is used for spine imaging, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision of vertebral level identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spine is divided into multiple vertebral levels, each identifiable through palpation landmarks. The imaging system captures multiple sequential images of different vertebral segments, which are then stitched together to form a complete panoramic view, enabling accurate identification of the target vertebral level despite limited individual field-of-view
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single 2D X-ray image with limited field-of-view to a composite panoramic image that effectively extends the viewing area by stitching multiple images together, providing both broad coverage and detailed vertebral level identification capability
2Measurement precision
If multiple successive X-ray images are taken to cover the entire spinal region, then the measurement precision of vertebral level identification is improved, but the loss of time and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Anatomical landmarks are identified and marked on the patient's back before imaging begins. This preliminary action provides reference points that guide the acquisition of sequential images and facilitate automated stitching and identification, reducing the time required for manual vertebral level determination
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a composite panoramic image that replicates the appearance of a single wide-field X-ray image by stitching multiple sequential images together. This copied panoramic view enables rapid visual assessment of the entire spinal region without requiring the time-consuming manual process of examining multiple separate images
3Reliability
If manual palpation and counting of landmarks is used to identify vertebral level, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of vertebral level identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying the composite panoramic image with the target vertebral level automatically highlighted and marked. This feedback mechanism allows the operator to verify the identified vertebral level against the actual anatomy, confirming accuracy and enabling correction if needed, thereby increasing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical process of palpation and counting landmarks is replaced with an automated image processing system that uses computer algorithms to identify anatomical landmarks, stitch images, and determine vertebral levels. This substitution increases reliability by eliminating human error while the user interface remains simple and intuitive
4Reliability
If a robotic system with marker placement is used for vertebral level identification, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated identification of the target vertebral level using image processing algorithms that automatically detect anatomical landmarks and calculate vertebral positions. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual marker placement by a robotic system while maintaining high reliability, and the simple user interface allows operators to initiate and verify the process with minimal effort
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 system enables easy and reliable identification of the target vertebral level, reducing the risk of misidentification and allowing for lower X-ray doses, while being compatible with existing imaging systems without the need for C-arm or table motion tracking.
Implementation Method 1
The imaging unit is configured to provide a series of X-ray images along the spine based on a landmark
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an imaging system (10) for a vertebral level, an identification method for a vertebral level, a computer program element for controlling such system and a computer readable medium having stored such computer program element. The imaging system (10) comprises a determination unit (11), a definition unit (12), an imaging unit (13), and a processing unit (14). The determination unit (11) determines a target vertebral level. The definition unit (12) defines an anatomical landmark of a spine. The imaging unit (13) provides a series of X-ray images along the spine based on the landmark. The processing unit (14) identifies the target vertebral level in at least one of the X-ray images. The processing unit (14) further stitches the X-ray images to a continuous panoramic image of the spine and identifies the target vertebral level in the panoramic image.