3D Blood Vessel Reconstruction Using Optical Path Lengths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-dimensional blood vessel reconstruction methods using 2D X-ray angiographic images face challenges due to foreshortening issues caused by varying vessel lengths when viewed from different angles, which are exacerbated by curved geometries and patient motion during imaging.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and device that determine optical path lengths in both 2D images and 3D models of blood vessels, adjusting the 3D models based on these comparisons to reduce foreshortening by utilizing grayscale intensity information and projecting path lengths, thereby improving reconstruction accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional 2D projection imaging methods are used for 3D reconstruction, then the imaging process is simple and fast, but foreshortening occurs causing inaccurate vessel length measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D projection imaging to 3D volumetric reconstruction by introducing depth information through optical path length calculations. The system reconstructs 3D vascular structures from multiple 2D angiographic projections, enabling accurate measurement of vessel lengths, diameters, and curvatures that were previously distorted by foreshortening effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational process that bridges 2D imaging and 3D reconstruction. By calculating optical path lengths and using iterative optimization algorithms, the system creates a virtual 3D model that mediates between the simplified 2D projections and the desired accurate 3D measurements, resolving the foreshortening problem without requiring complex hardware modifications.
2Measurement precision
If multiple imaging angles are used to reduce foreshortening, then measurement accuracy improves, but imaging time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary 3D reconstruction using available 2D projections before final measurement. By pre-computing the 3D vascular model and optimizing the reconstruction parameters in advance, the system reduces the need for additional imaging angles during the actual measurement process, thereby saving time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs iterative optimization algorithms that continuously refine the 3D reconstruction using the available 2D projections. Instead of requiring discrete additional imaging angles, the system continuously adjusts the 3D model parameters to minimize errors, maintaining measurement precision while utilizing the existing imaging data efficiently.
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
The method effectively reduces foreshortening in 3D vascular tree reconstructions, enhancing the accuracy of blood vessel measurements and geometrical assessments by considering pixel intensity and optical path lengths, leading to more precise three-dimensional vascular models.
Implementation Method 1
After a contrast agent (usually an x-ray opaque material, such as iodine) is injected into the vessel, the image contrast of the vessel regions is generally enhanced
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a method and device for performing three-dimensional blood vessel reconstruction using projection images of a patient. The computer-implemented method includes receiving a first two-dimensional image of a blood vessel in a first projection direction and a three-dimensional model of the blood vessel. The method further includes determining, by a processor, a first optical path length at a selected position of the blood vessel based on the first two-dimensional image. The method also includes determining, by the processor, a second optical path length at the selected position of the blood vessel in the three-dimensional model. The method additional includes adjusting the three-dimensional model of the blood vessel, based on a comparison of the first optical path length and the second optical path length.