X-ray Arm Control for Ultrasonic Image Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) techniques face challenges in accurately positioning electrodes due to reduced visibility of superimposed X-ray and ultrasonic images, which hampers precise synchronization of ventricular contractions.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray diagnosis apparatus with a calculating unit and control unit that calculates the angle between the ultrasonic image and the radiographic space, allowing the arm to be controlled for optimal positioning, thereby enhancing the visibility of the site of latest activation in a fused image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electrode is placed in the site of latest activation determined through strain analysis by ultrasound, then the ventricles contract in a synchronized manner, but the visibility of the superimposed X-ray and ultrasonic image is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by calculating and controlling the radiographic angle relative to the ultrasonic scanning angle. Instead of working solely in the 2D image superposition plane, the system uses 3D spatial relationships between the X-ray source, ultrasound probe, and heart anatomy to determine optimal viewing angles that maximize visibility of the latest activation site while maintaining accurate electrode positioning guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the radiographic angle parameter based on the calculated relationship with the ultrasonic scanning angle. By adjusting the X-ray tube angle to match specific angular relationships with the ultrasound beam direction, the system optimizes the superimposed image visibility for displaying the latest activation site, thereby resolving the visibility issue without compromising the electrode placement accuracy.
2Illumination intensity
If the radiographic angle is not controlled, then the X-ray apparatus can operate freely, but the visibility of the site of latest activation in the fused image is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning of the X-ray apparatus with an automated control system. The calculating unit computes the optimal radiographic angle based on ultrasonic scanning parameters, and the control unit automatically positions the X-ray tube and detector arm, eliminating the need for operator judgment and manual adjustment while enhancing visibility of the latest activation site.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the ultrasonic scanning angle information feeds into the calculating unit, which determines the corresponding optimal radiographic angle. This feedback mechanism ensures that the X-ray imaging geometry is continuously adapted to match the ultrasonic viewing angle, maximizing the visibility of cardiac structures and the latest activation site in the fused image.
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 enables precise placement of electrodes, improving the synchronization of ventricular contractions and enhancing the accuracy of CRT by maintaining the visibility of the superimposed images from an anterior view.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic image generated through transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves by an ultrasound probe
Implementation Method 2
a radiographic space where a subject is radiographed
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment includes a calculating unit and a control unit. The calculating unit that calculates an angle between a specified position specified in an ultrasonic image generated through transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves by an ultrasound probe and a predetermined position in a radiographic space where a subject is radiographed based on information on a relative position between the radiographic space and a scanning space where the subject is scanned by the ultrasound probe. The control unit that controls an arm to move so that the subject is radiographed at the angle calculated by the calculating unit.