X-ray Image Brightness Correction via Reference Index Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing X-ray diagnostic apparatuses face challenges in using image density changes for analysis due to automatic brightness control, which alters imaging conditions and complicates the interpretation of X-ray images after contrast medium injection.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes processing circuitry that acquires indexes related to the brightness of X-ray images, and corrects the brightness values based on a reference index prior to contrast medium injection and a latest index after injection, thereby isolating the effects of imaging condition changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If automatic brightness control is executed to brighten the X-ray image after contrast medium injection, then the image brightness is improved, but the image density change is affected by imaging condition changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the brightness adjustment function from the automatic brightness control system and separates it into a manual correction mechanism. By taking out the automated brightness adjustment, the system can now maintain consistent imaging conditions while allowing manual correction of brightness changes caused by contrast medium injection, thus preserving image density change accuracy for analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring X-ray images before contrast medium injection to establish reference brightness levels. This preliminary acquisition allows the system to later compare and correct brightness changes caused by the contrast medium, enabling accurate measurement of true image density changes while maintaining consistent imaging conditions.
2Illumination intensity
If imaging conditions are changed to brighten the X-ray image, then the image brightness is improved, but the imaging conditions become unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the brightness control function into two independent parts: automatic brightness control for maintaining overall image brightness, and manual correction for compensating contrast medium-induced changes. This segmentation allows brightness adjustment without changing other imaging conditions, maintaining stability while improving brightness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces manual correction as an intermediary mechanism between the automatic brightness control and the actual image brightness. This intermediary allows brightness adjustment through parameter changes rather than changing imaging conditions, acting as a mediator that maintains imaging condition stability while achieving the desired brightness improvement.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, and processing circuitry. The X-ray tube radiates X-rays toward a subject into which a contrast medium is injected. The an X-ray detector detects the X-rays transmitted through the subject. The processing circuitry generates an X-ray image based on an output from the X-ray detector. The processing circuitry acquires indexes related to a brightness of the X-ray image. The processing circuitry corrects, based on a reference index prior to injection of the contrast medium and a latest index after start of the injection of the contrast medium, a brightness value of the X-ray image relative to the latest index, the reference index and the latest index being included in the acquired indexes.