X-Ray Projection Display Using 3D Data for Overlap Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray diagnostic apparatuses face difficulties in improving the visibility of a region of interest, such as an angiogram image, when it overlaps with other regions like a vertebral body, through image processing alone.
Innovation Solution
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus incorporates processing circuitry that changes the display mode of a target in an X-ray projection image based on three-dimensional medical image data, using information from an X-ray detector and CT volume data to compensate for X-ray attenuation, allowing selective adjustment of the display mode of regions like bones or organs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image processing is performed using only information related to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus, then the image processing is simple and fast, but the visibility of the region of interest cannot be improved when it overlaps with other regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces three-dimensional medical image data (CT volume data) as an intermediary information source to assist in improving the visibility of the region of interest. By combining this additional 3D data with the 2D projection image data, the system can selectively adjust display modes of overlapping regions without fundamentally complicating the core image processing pipeline
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from purely 2D projection image processing to incorporating 3D volumetric data for display mode determination. By using 3D medical image data to identify regions of interest and their spatial relationships, the system can make more informed decisions about which regions should have their display modes adjusted, thereby improving visibility without excessive complexity
2Measurement precision
If the display mode of a target region is adjusted to improve visibility, then the clarity of the region of interest is enhanced, but the overall image information may be lost or distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality adjustment by changing the display mode only in specific regions where the region of interest overlaps with other structures. The processing circuitry selectively identifies overlapping regions and adjusts their display modes (such as making them transparent or semi-transparent) while leaving other regions unchanged, thus improving local clarity without globally altering the image and losing information
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 visibility of regions of interest by selectively adjusting their display mode, improving clarity in X-ray projection images by compensating for X-ray attenuation, especially in cases where regions like blood vessels or devices with contrast agents are overlapped.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube configured to generate X-rays
Implementation Method 2
an X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject
Implementation Method 3
change the display mode of the target in an X-ray projection image that is based on a detection result of the X-ray detector, the display mode being changed based on three-dimensional medical image data related to the subject
Data Source
AI summary
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, image generating circuitry, and processing circuitry. The X-ray tube emits X-rays. The X-ray detector detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube and transmitted through a subject. The processing circuitry receives a designating operation related a display mode for a target that is at least one of a region of the subject and an object inserted in the subject. In response to the designating operation, the processing circuitry changes the display mode of the target in an X-ray projection image that is based on a detection result of the X-ray detector, the display mode being changed based on three-dimensional medical image data related to the subject.