Virtual X-Ray Generation from 3D Bone Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for visualizing morphologic regions of interest in bones using X-ray images often result in suboptimal orientation, leading to incomplete assessment and increased radiation exposure due to the 2D nature of X-ray projection imaging, particularly in cases like femoro-acetabular impingement, where bony lesions are difficult to fully capture and visualize intra-operatively.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes 3D medical images to create a 3D bone model, determines optimal relative bone and X-ray orientations, and generates virtual X-ray images for optimal visualization of the morphologic region of interest, allowing for patient-specific and kinematically informed imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple 2D X-ray views are obtained in different orientations, then the extent of bony lesions can be better characterized, but radiation exposure increases and patient positioning errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D X-ray imaging to 3D medical imaging (CT or MRI) to visualize bony lesions. This dimensional change allows comprehensive assessment of the entire lesion extent in three dimensions without requiring multiple 2D views from different orientations, thereby eliminating the need for repeated radiation exposure while maintaining complete visualization of the pathology.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a 3D digital model (virtual copy) of the bone and lesion from CT or MRI data. This virtual 3D model can be manipulated, rotated, and examined from any angle without additional radiation exposure, replacing the need for multiple physical X-ray exposures while preserving complete information about the lesion.
2Loss of information
If multiple 2D X-ray views are obtained in different orientations, then the extent of bony lesions can be better characterized, but the number of X-rays and operating time increase
Solution Approach 1:
By using 3D imaging, the patent obtains complete lesion information in a single acquisition rather than requiring multiple sequential 2D X-rays. The 3D model can then be interactively examined during surgery to determine optimal resection planes without time-consuming repositioning and repeated imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs comprehensive 3D visualization and measurement of the lesion before surgery begins. This preliminary assessment using 3D models allows the surgical team to plan the resection strategy in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming intraoperative positioning and repeated X-rays to assess lesion extent.
3Device complexity
If standard 2D X-ray views are used, then the imaging process is simple, but the full extent of bony deformity is often missed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs 3D medical imaging to capture the complete spatial extent of bony deformities, which cannot be fully appreciated in 2D projections. The 3D models reveal the true morphology, volume, and spatial relationships of lesions that are obscured or distorted in standard 2D X-ray views.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D imaging system serves multiple functions: it provides comprehensive diagnostic assessment of lesion extent, enables preoperative planning, guides intraoperative resection, and allows virtual simulation of different resection strategies - all from a single 3D dataset, replacing multiple 2D imaging modalities.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for optimally visualizing a morphologic region of interest of a bone in an X-ray image of a patient, comprising: - receiving a set of 3D medical images of the bone, - creating a 3D bone model of at least part of the bone comprising said region of interest from said set of 3D images, - determining a criterion representative of a visualization of the extent of said morphologic region of interest, - automatically determining from the 3D bone model optimal relative bone and X-ray orientation so as to optimize said criterion for said patient, - creating at least one virtual X-ray image of the bone from said set of 3D images according to said optimal relative bone and virtual X-ray orientation.