Virtual Marker Overlay for Medical Imaging Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metal markers used in medical imaging often cause artifacts in images and are difficult to accurately position, with non-metallic markers being undetectable or poorly displayed, leading to issues in diagnostics, therapy, documentation, and quality assurance.
Innovation Solution
A method using two measurement methods, such as optical and X-ray imaging, to determine the position of a graphic object representing the marker, which is displayed in the image without being part of the original image data, avoiding artifacts and improving accuracy and visibility of non-metallic markers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If metal markers are used to mark suspicious areas or provide positioning aids, then the markers are clearly visible and provide good positioning accuracy, but they cause artifacts in the images that are difficult to separate from body region data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy (graphic object) of the physical marker that is displayed in the diagnostic image. This virtual marker is generated based on the known position of the physical marker and is superimposed on the diagnostic image, allowing the marker indication to be visible without requiring the physical marker to be visually detectable in the diagnostic image sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational process that bridges the physical marker and its visual representation. The control unit determines the position of the physical marker (through direct detection or predefined knowledge) and generates a corresponding graphic object that serves as an intermediary representation in the diagnostic image, eliminating the need for the physical marker itself to be visible.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If non-metallic markers are used to avoid artifacts, then image quality is improved, but the markers cannot be detected by X-ray imaging and automatically transferred to diagnostic images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy (graphic object) of the physical marker that is displayed in the diagnostic image. This virtual marker is generated based on the known position of the physical marker and is superimposed on the diagnostic image, allowing the marker indication to be visible without requiring the physical marker to be visually detectable in the diagnostic image sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the system universal by accommodating both metallic and non-metallic markers. The control unit is configured to handle markers regardless of their material composition, using the same process of determining marker position and generating corresponding graphic objects. This multi-functionality allows the system to work with any marker type without requiring the marker to be X-ray detectable.
3Measurement precision
If markers are used to mark suspicious areas, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the user may swap sides or place markers incorrectly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit determines the actual position of the marker and generates a graphic object that reflects this position. This provides visual feedback to the user, allowing them to verify correct marker placement and identify any errors such as side swaps. The system compares the intended marker position with the actual position and displays the corresponding graphic object, enabling error detection and correction.
4Object-generated harmful factors
If correction software is used to minimize metal marker artifacts, then image quality is improved, but additional processing time and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by determining the marker position and generating the corresponding graphic object before final image display. This proactive approach eliminates the need for subsequent correction software processing, as the marker representation is already properly integrated into the diagnostic image from the beginning.
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 enhances the accuracy of marker positioning, reduces artifacts, and allows for the documentation and quality assurance of non-metallic markers, improving the safety and quality of medical examinations and treatments.
Implementation Method 1
A method using two measurement methods, such as optical and X-ray imaging
Implementation Method 2
A method using two measurement methods, such as optical and X-ray imaging
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for the graphical representation of a marker attached to an object under investigation in an imaging system. The position of the marker is determined by a first measurement method. An image of the object under investigation is generated based on a second measurement method, in which the position of a graphical object representing the marker in the image is determined and displayed based on the first measurement method.