X-ray Marker Detection Using Segmented Balloon Region Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional X-ray diagnostic systems face challenges in accurately detecting markers in fluoroscopic images due to the small size and low contrast of markers, leading to false negatives or false positives, especially when markers are confused with bones or blood vessels with contrast agents, and the accuracy of marker detection at the first step affects subsequent processing.
Innovation Solution
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus that includes an X-ray tube, detector, and processing circuitry, which generates X-ray images and performs image recognition to identify inserted objects, sets a specific area to search for markers based on the type of object, using a trained model for object recognition and pattern matching to improve detection accuracy by restricting the search area and excluding regions with high contrast or overlapping blood vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional image processing is applied to detect markers, then the detection process is simple, but the detection accuracy deteriorates due to false positives from bones or blood vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image processing into distinct stages: first identifying the balloon region through image recognition, then searching for markers only within that segmented region. This divides the complex task of marker detection across the entire image into a two-step process that maintains simplicity while improving accuracy by focusing computation on relevant areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by first performing image recognition to identify the balloon and define its search region before conducting the marker detection. This preliminary step prepares the search area in advance, allowing subsequent marker detection to be performed with higher accuracy using simplified processing techniques restricted to the relevant region.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the search area for markers is expanded to cover the entire image, then more potential marker locations are covered, but the detection accuracy decreases due to increased false positives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by changing the search strategy from uniform coverage to localized focus. Instead of searching the entire image with the same processing intensity, the system identifies the balloon region and applies enhanced search criteria specifically within that local area, improving detection accuracy while maintaining comprehensive coverage through the initial image recognition step.
3Productivity
If marker detection is performed at the first step without narrowing down the search area, then the process is faster, but the accuracy deteriorates due to confusion with bones or contrast agents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary image recognition to identify the balloon and define the search region before conducting marker detection. This preliminary action filters out false positives from bones and contrast agents by restricting the search to the balloon's expected location, maintaining speed while improving accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detection process into two sequential steps: balloon identification through image recognition, followed by marker detection within the segmented balloon region. This segmentation allows the system to maintain processing speed by avoiding unnecessary analysis of the entire image while achieving higher accuracy through focused search.
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
The system enhances marker detection accuracy by reducing false positives and negatives, improving throughput and operability in interventions by setting precise search areas based on the type of inserted object, thereby improving the reliability of marker localization.
Implementation Method 1
an X-ray tube, a detector, and processing circuitry, which generates X-ray images
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 generates an X-ray. The X-ray detector is positioned in a manner facing the X-ray tube, and detects the X-ray. The image generating circuitry generates an X-ray image one after another, based on an output of the X-ray detector. The processing circuitry identifies an inserted object inside a subject in the X-ray image, by performing an image recognition process to the X-ray image. The processing circuitry sets the area to be searched for a marker, based on the inserted object identified in the X-ray image. The processing circuitry detects the marker in the X-ray image, by searching the area to be searched for the marker.