X-ray Dose Calculation Using Virtual 3D Phantom
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for calculating and managing x-ray radiation exposure in radiographic imaging are inaccurate, particularly for pediatric patients, due to variations in patient size and anatomy, leading to potential overexposure.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates and reports x-ray dose information by obtaining technique setup parameters, patient information, and anatomical data, using a virtual 3D phantom for Monte-Carlo simulations to estimate organ-specific doses, and provides an operator interface for dose verification and override options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional look-up tables with statistically averaged values are used for exposure calculation, then the calculation process is simple, but the accuracy of dose determination is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual 3D phantom that copies the actual patient's anatomical structure based on their specific physical characteristics (weight, height, age, sex). This virtual model allows for accurate Monte Carlo simulations that account for individual patient variations, replacing the inaccurate statistical averages of conventional look-up tables while maintaining computational feasibility through the virtual copy approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts multiple parameters including patient demographics (weight, height, age, sex), anatomical dimensions, organ densities, and x-ray technique parameters (kVp, mAs, SID, SDD) to calculate personalized dose values. This parameter customization enables accurate dose determination for each individual patient rather than using fixed statistical averages.
2Measurement precision
If individualized patient parameters and virtual 3D phantom with Monte-Carlo simulations are used, then the accuracy of dose characterization is improved, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations by pre-processing patient input parameters (weight, height, age, sex) to generate the virtual 3D phantom and pre-calculate dose metrics before the actual x-ray exposure. This preliminary action allows the complex Monte Carlo simulations to be completed in advance, providing accurate dose information without delaying the clinical procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual 3D phantom serves as an intermediary between the patient's physical characteristics and the Monte Carlo simulation calculations. This virtual model translates complex anatomical variations into a computable format, enabling accurate dose calculations without requiring direct complex measurements of each patient's actual anatomy during the procedure.
3Productivity
If conventional automated index generation is used for technique setup, then the workflow is efficient, but the accuracy of technique parameters is insufficient for individual patient physiology
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by customizing x-ray technique parameters (kVp, mAs, SID, SDD, collimation) specifically for each patient's local anatomical characteristics and the particular examination being performed. Rather than using generic automated indices, the system adjusts parameters locally to match the patient's specific body habitus, anatomy, and the targeted anatomical region, ensuring both efficiency and individualized accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing x-ray dose information is executed at least in part by a computer and includes obtaining two or more technique setup parameters for a pending x-ray examination for a patient, at least one dimensional distance parameter related to the x-ray system, patient information parameters identifying one or more physical characteristics of the patient, and identifying the patient anatomy that is to be exposed. The projected effective dose value are calculated and displayed according to the obtained technique setup, dimensional distance, patient information parameters, and patient anatomy information. A message is displayed to the operator related to disabling the pending x-ray examination according to the calculated projected effective dose value.