Velocity-Flow-Anatomy Imaging Fusion for Real-Time Perfusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current visualization techniques, such as visible light and near-infrared imaging, are inadequate for real-time imaging of physiological processes like blood flow and perfusion, failing to effectively combine anatomical and physiological data for accurate medical visualization.
Innovation Solution
Combining anatomical and physiological data into a single image using near-infrared and visible light imaging, with adjustments such as colorization and transparency, to create a Velocity-Flow-Anatomy (VFA) image that integrates anatomical structure and blood flow/perfusion data in real-time, utilizing technologies like Laser Speckle Imaging and Laser Doppler Imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If visible light imaging is used for detailed anatomic visualization, then anatomical structure clarity is improved, but real-time physiological imaging capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the imaging task into two distinct components: visible light imaging for anatomical structure visualization and near-infrared imaging for physiological function visualization. Each imaging modality is optimized for its specific purpose, and the results are subsequently integrated to provide comprehensive information without compromising the performance of either modality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges visible light images and near-infrared images into a single composite image that displays both anatomical structure and physiological function information. This integration allows simultaneous visualization of detailed anatomy and real-time blood flow/perfusion data, resolving the contradiction between the two imaging capabilities.
2Productivity
If near-infrared imaging is used for physiological visualization, then blood flow and perfusion imaging capability is improved, but anatomical structure clarity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the imaging functions by using near-infrared imaging specifically for physiological parameter measurement (blood flow, perfusion) while using visible light imaging for anatomical visualization. This segmentation allows each modality to operate at optimal performance without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines near-infrared physiological data with visible light anatomical images to create an integrated visualization. The near-infrared information is overlaid or fused with the high-resolution anatomical image, providing both detailed structure and functional information simultaneously.
3Reliability
If separate imaging techniques are used for anatomy and physiology, then imaging capability for each modality is improved, but integration of anatomical and physiological data deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges separately acquired anatomical images and physiological maps into a single integrated image. This fusion process preserves all information from both modalities while presenting them in a unified visualization that shows the spatial relationship between anatomy and physiology.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a new dimension of information integration by combining spatial anatomical data with functional physiological data in a multi-layered image. This dimensional approach allows simultaneous display of structure and function without information loss, as each type of data occupies a different informational layer.
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 VFA image provides improved anatomic fidelity and intuitive interpretation of blood flow and perfusion data, enabling real-time medical decision-making and enhancing surgical procedures by integrating anatomical and physiological information.
Implementation Method 1
Near Infra-Red (NIR) imaging, on the other hand, can be used to visualize the surface of anatomic structures of target organs and/or tissue
Implementation Method 2
obtaining a blood flow and perfusion physiologic map from one or more images using laser speckle imaging (LSI)
Implementation Method 3
obtaining a blood flow and perfusion physiologic map from one or more images using laser Doppler imaging (LDI)
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for combining anatomical data and physiological data on a single image are provided. The methods include obtaining an image, for example, a raw near-infrared (NIR) image or a visible image, of a sample. The image of the sample includes anatomical structure of the sample. A physiologic map of blood flow and perfusion of the sample is obtained. The anatomical structure of the image and the physiologic map of the sample are combined into a single image of the sample. The single image of the sample displays anatomy and physiology of the sample in the single image in real time. Related systems and computer program products are also provided.