Virtual CT Image Generation from Orthogonal X-rays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computed Tomography (CT) scanners pose higher radiation hazards and have higher costs and longer scanning times compared to X-ray films, making them less accessible for widespread medical imaging, especially in regions lacking CT scanners.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating a three-dimensional CT image using only two orthogonal X-ray images through a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) framework, which encodes and decodes the images to perform three-dimensional reconstruction, reducing the need for multiple X-ray projections and lowering radiation exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a CT scanner is used to obtain three-dimensional structural information, then the diagnostic precision is improved, but the radiation hazard to the patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual CT image by copying and processing two orthogonal X-ray images through a generator network. Instead of using a physical CT scanner that exposes the patient to high radiation, the system generates a synthetic three-dimensional representation from low-radiation two-dimensional X-ray inputs, thereby achieving similar diagnostic value with reduced radiation hazard
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of radiation dosage by transitioning from CT scanning (high radiation) to two-view X-ray imaging (low radiation). The generator network processes these low-radiation images to produce virtual CT images, effectively changing the radiation parameter while maintaining diagnostic capability
2Measurement precision
If a CT scanner is used to obtain three-dimensional structural information, then the diagnostic precision is improved, but the scanning cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy of CT imaging capability through software processing of two orthogonal X-ray images. This virtual CT generation avoids the need for expensive CT scanner hardware, reducing scanning costs while maintaining the ability to obtain three-dimensional structural information for diagnosis
Solution Approach 2:
The generator network serves multiple functions: it processes two orthogonal X-ray images, performs three-dimensional reconstruction, and generates virtual CT images. This multi-functional approach allows a single low-cost X-ray imaging system to achieve capabilities previously requiring expensive dedicated CT scanner equipment
3Measurement precision
If a CT scanner is used to obtain three-dimensional structural information, then the diagnostic precision is improved, but the scanning time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by acquiring two orthogonal X-ray images that capture the necessary anatomical information in advance. The generator then processes these pre-acquired images to generate virtual CT images, eliminating the need for time-consuming multi-angle scanning required by traditional CT scanners
Data Source
AI summary
A CT image generation method and apparatus, a computer device, and a computer-readable storage medium are presented. The method includes obtaining a first X-ray image and a second X-ray image, the first X-ray image and the second X-ray image being X-ray images acquired for a target object from two orthogonal viewing angles; calling a generator to perform three-dimensional reconstruction on the first X-ray image and the second X-ray image, to obtain a three-dimensional model of the target object; and obtaining a CT image of the target object according to the three-dimensional model of the target object.