Abstract: A radiographic imaging assembly comprises a radiographic silver halide film having a film speed of at least 100 and a single fluorescent intensifying screen that has a screen speed of at least 200. This imaging assembly is particularly useful for mammography or imaging or other soft tissues.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an integral anatomical and functional computed tomography imaging system, which includes an x-ray source, a rotational stand for a sample and an imager. The imager includes an x-ray and a gamma-ray scintillator, an image sensor for detecting photon from the scintillator and a pinhole collimator positioned between the rotational stand and the scintillator. During the anatomical imaging process, the x-ray penetrating through the sample will directly irradiate on the scintillator in x-ray mode. During the functional imaging process, the gamma-ray emitted from the radioisotope-injected sample will penetrate through the pinhole of the pinhole collimator and then irradiate on the scintillator in gamma-ray mode. For both cases, photons are generated by the scintillator and picked up by the image sensor.

Abstract: The image pickup apparatus of the radiological imaging apparatus of the present invention includes many detector units, a ring-shaped detector support member and an X-ray source circumferential transport apparatus. Each of the detector units is attached to the detector support section in a detachable manner. A plurality of radiation detectors provided for the detector units are arranged in three layers in the radius direction of the detector support member and in three columns in the axial direction of the detector support member. Since the radiation detectors are arranged in three layers in the radius direction, it is possible to recognize the detection position of radiation in the radius direction in detail. Furthermore, since the detector units are attached in a detachable manner, it is easy to replace damaged radiation detectors.

Abstract: This invention relates to a radiographic apparatus which comprises a radiographic image photographing unit for photographing a radiographic image of an object irradiated with radiation by a radiation generating device, a distance measuring system for measuring the distances or distance from the radiation generating device to the radiographic image photographing unit and/or the object, and distance information indicating means for indicating distance information obtained by the distance measuring system.

Abstract: A radiological imaging apparatus of the present invention includes an X-ray source for emitting an X-ray, a &ggr;-ray detecting section for outputting a detection signal of a &ggr;-ray, and an X-ray detecting section for outputting a detecting signal of an X-ray. The X-ray source moves around a bed for placing an examinee. The &ggr;-ray detecting section has a plurality of radiation detectors aligned in the longitudinal direction of the bed and placed around the bed. The X-ray detecting section is positioned in a region formed between one end and the other end of the &ggr;-ray detecting section in the longitudinal direction of the bed. The X-ray source is also positioned in the region. Since the X-ray detecting section is placed in the region, it is possible to accurately combine a PET image and an X-ray computed tomographic image.

Abstract: A radiological imaging apparatus of the present invention includes an X-ray source for emitting an X-ray, a &ggr;-ray detecting section for outputting a detection signal of a &ggr;-ray, and an X-ray detecting section for outputting a detecting signal of an X-ray. The X-ray source moves around a bed for placing an examinee. The &ggr;-ray detecting section has a plurality of radiation detectors aligned in the longitudinal direction of the bed and placed around the bed. The X-ray detecting section is positioned in a region formed between one end and the other end of the &ggr;-ray detecting section in the longitudinal direction of the bed. The X-ray source is also positioned in the region. Since the X-ray detecting section is placed in the region, it is possible to accurately combine a PET image and an X-ray computed tomographic image.

Abstract: An electron microscope is offered which is fitted with an X-ray spectrometer having a compact optical system and high resolution. The spectrometer has a spectrometer chamber whose inside is evacuated by a vacuum pumping system. A diffraction grating having unequally spaced grooves is placed in the chamber. An X-ray detector is mounted to an end of the chamber. The X-ray spectrometer is mounted to the sidewall of the electron microscope via a gate valve. A specimen is irradiated with an electron beam and emits characteristic X-rays, which are made to impinge on the face of the grating at a large angle with respect to the normal line to the face. Diffracted X-rays from the grating reach the X-ray detector and are detected.

Abstract: A computer assisted orthopedic surgery planner software for generation of 3D (three dimensional) solid bone models from two or more 2D (two dimensional) X-ray images of a patient's bone. The computer assisted orthopedic surgery planner software reconstructs the bone contours by starting with a 3D template bone and deforming the 3D template bone to substantially match the geometry of the patient's bone. A surgical planner and simulator module of the computer assisted orthopedic surgery planner software generates a simulated surgery plan showing the animation of the bone distraction process, the type and the size of the fixator frame to be mounted on the patient's bone, the frame mounting plan, the osteotomy/coricotomy site location and the day-by-day length adjustment schedule for each fixator strut. All bone models and surgery plans are shown as 3D graphics on a computer screen to provide realistic, pre-surgery guidance to the surgeon.

Abstract: A medical examination installation has an MR system and an X-ray system that has an X-ray radiator with an X-ray tube and a solid-state X-ray image detector for producing X-ray exposures. The X-ray system has sensors for the acquisition of the location dependency of the stray field of the MR system in the three spatial axes, and coils for compensation of the stray field, and a computer that uses the output signal of the sensors to calculate a current for the coils which cause the stray field to be reduced in the region of the electron beams of the X-ray tube.

Abstract: A radiological imaging apparatus of the present invention includes an X-ray source for emitting an X-ray, a &ggr;-ray detecting section for outputting a detection signal of a &ggr;-ray, and an X-ray detecting section for outputting a detecting signal of an X-ray. The X-ray source moves around a bed for placing an examinee. The &ggr;-ray detecting section has a plurality of radiation detectors aligned in the longitudinal direction of the bed and placed around the bed. The X-ray detecting section is positioned in a region formed between one end and the other end of the &ggr;-ray detecting section in the longitudinal direction of the bed. The X-ray source is also positioned in the region. Since the X-ray detecting section is placed in the region, it is possible to accurately combine a PET image and an X-ray computed tomographic image.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for imaging the head area of a patient by taking both cephalometric X-ray and photographic images of desired objects to be imaged. The method is conducted by using a mechanism (1) applicable to cephalometric X-ray imaging, which comprises an X-ray source (5) in front of an object, an X-ray receiving element behind the object, and patient positioning implements (8-10). The apparatus is further fitted with photographic instruments (13) for taking photographs from an object to be imaged. In the method, a patient is placed by means of the patient positioning implements (8-10) in a desired imaging position and imaged in the same imaging position in both modes of imaging.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes a system including a CT system, an NM system, a NM bed operatively coupled to the NM system, and a CT bed operatively coupled to the CT system, with the CT bed coupled to the NM bed when the CT system is used for dual mode imaging.

Abstract: An integrated, multi-modality imaging technique is disclosed. The embodiment described combines a split-magnet MRI system with a digital x-ray system. The two systems are employed together to generate images of a subject in accordance with their individual physics and imaging characteristics. The images may be displaced in real time, such as during a surgical intervention. The images may be registered with one another and combined to form a composite image in which tissues or objects difficult to image in one modality are visible. By appropriately selecting the position of an x-ray source and detector, and by programming a desired corresponding slice for MRI imaging, useful combined images may be obtained and displayed.

Abstract: A radiographic image diagnosis apparatus includes a photographing unit having a radiation source and a 2D radiation detector to generate data of a fluoroscopic image of an object to be examined. Volume data is generated on the basis of the data of plurality of fluoroscopic images of the object at different angles which are acquired by the photographing unit. A measuring mechanism measures the position and angle of the photographing unit with respect to the object. Projection image data is generated from the volume data on the basis of the position and angle of the photographing unit which are measured by the measuring mechanism. The volume data is then displayed. This makes it possible to display the projection image with substantially the same position and direction as those of a fluoroscopic image.

Abstract: A medical examination installation has an MR system and an X-ray system that has an X-ray radiator with an X-ray tube and a solid-state X-ray image detector for producing X-ray exposures. The X-ray system has sensors for the acquisition of the location dependency of the stray field of the MR system in the three spatial axes, and coils for compensation of the stray field, and a computer that uses the output signal of the sensors to calculate a current for the coils which cause the stray field to be reduced in the region of the electron beams of the X-ray tube.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a highly efficient searching system using a combination of X ray signal and millimeter wave signal, which allows a practical and effective method for searching human beings in public places where a level of security is required. Millimeter wave and X ray signal emitters and detectors are used to provide a processed image of a detected object, which is then analyzed and compared with objects in a stored database. Flagged objects then signal an alarm to alert security personnel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a high efficient searching apparatus or processing technique using a combination of X ray signal and millimeter wave signal, which allows a practical and effective method for searching human body to be conducted in air ports or harbors.

Abstract: The invention comprises a system and method for creating medical images of a subject patient using a plurality of imaging devices, such as tomographic imaging scanners. The imaging devices each have a bore through which a patient is translated during scanning. The imaging devices can be moved apart to allow greater access to a patient between the bores.

Abstract: The invention provides an aligner enabling to perform high accuracy positioning at manufacturing a multi-layered circuit board. A board alignment mark is photographed by a CCD camera by irradiating X-ray from an X-ray generator at the state removing a photo mask, and position of the board alignment mark is memorized. Then, the photo mask is set on a print circuit board, a mask alignment mark is photographed, and positioning of the mask alignment mark and the print circuit board is performed by comparing with position of memorized board alignment mark and by moving a platen so that the gap becomes zero.

Abstract: A surgical tissue fixation system is described, including: (1) a bioabsorbable tissue fixation plate having optionally a plurality of through-holes arranged in alternating relation along the plate; (2) bioabsorbable fasteners adapted for insertion into the through-holes to secure the plate to underlying bodily tissue or bone; and (3) an installation instrument which triggers (strikes or shoots) fasteners one after one, in rapid succession, into the through-holes made through the plate and into the underlying bodily tissue or bone, which also optionally includes drillholes.

Abstract: A X-ray image radiographing system, comprises a plurality of X-ray image output apparatus each of which detects X-rays having passed through an object and outputs image data of the object; a control apparatus to control the plurality of the X-ray image output apparatus; an object information input device to input object information regarding the radiographed object; and a storage device to store the image data outputted from the plurality of X-ray image output apparatus and the object information inputted from the object information input device, wherein the image data of the object is stored so as to be correlated with the object information of the object.

Abstract: This invention relates to a radiographic apparatus which comprises a radiographic image photographing unit for photographing a radiographic image of an object irradiated with radiation by a radiation generating device, a distance measuring system for measuring the distances or distance from the radiation generating device to the radiographic image photographing unit and/or the object, and distance information indicating means for indicating distance information obtained by the distance measuring system.

Abstract: Superimposed X-ray and video images can be obtained by acquiring the respective images from the optically equivalent points in space. One or more mirrors may be used to acquire the images and direct them towards the camera. The images can then be combined by warping one onto the other.

Abstract: Superimposed X-ray and video images can be obtained by acquiring the respective images from the optically equivalent points in space. One or more mirrors may be used to acquire the images. Alignment of one camera with respect to the X-ray source may be achieved using images of reference points in space. The procedure of alignment also provides correlated X-ray and optical images.

Abstract: The invention relates to an X-ray device, notable a device for X-ray fluoroscopy, which includes an X-ray source and an X-ray detector for the continuous formation of X-ray images of a patient (5) from an invariable position of the X-ray source (2) and the X-ray detector (3). The invention includes indicator means for illuminating and/or monitoring essentially the radiation zone over the patient which is traversed by X-rays. This offers the advantage that for the physician it quasi visualizes or monitors the radiation zone which is traversed by X-rays during a treatment with simultaneous formation of X-ray images so that the physician can make sure that he or she, notably his or her hands, is not inadvertently exposed to a continuous X-ray dose.

Abstract: A fluorescent X-ray analysis method comprises examining a positional relationship between an image of a sample and an X-ray illuminated region of the sample image, acquiring an image of the sample as a monochromatic image, extracting from the acquired sample image a coincident portion thereof containing the X-ray illuminated region, and examining a luminance change in the extracted image and, where there is a luminance change greater than a reference value, determining whether or not the X-ray illuminated to the sample is partly off the sample.

Abstract: A multiple examination arrangement has a number of imaging systems that are arranged at one location such that a patient lying on a movable patient support table can be examined in each of the imaging systems without changing beds. One of the imaging systems is a magnetic resonance system having an actively shielded magnet, another is a radiographic angio system, preferably offset laterally relative to the z-axis of the magnet. Selected components of the angio system have a soft-magnetic covering as shielding against the static stray field of the MR system.

Abstract: This device comprises a chamber (4) with a pinhole, the walls of the chamber acting as shielding (6) that absorbs radiation. The chamber contains means of forming images of the sources, due to radiation, and the area in which the sources are located, due to visible light from this area. A part (36) of the shielding in which the pinhole (32) is located, is free to move and is fixed to an optical system (34) capable of providing sharp images in visible light over the required field depth by replacing the pinhole for the formation of the image of the area, and vice versa for formation of the image of the sources. Application to localizing gamma radiation sources.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for imaging the head area of a patient by taking both cephalometric X-ray and photographic images of desired objects to be imaged. The method is conducted by using a mechanism (1) applicable to cephalometric X-ray imaging, which comprises an X-ray source (5) in front of an object, an X-ray receiving element behind the object, and patient positioning implements (8-10). The apparatus is further fitted with photographic instruments (13) for taking photographs from an object to be imaged. In the method, a patient is placed by means of the patient positioning implements (8-10) in a desired imaging position and imaged in the same imaging position in both modes of imaging.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for coordinating the operation of multiple devices actuated by foot pedal operated switches. A housing has a lid movably mounted thereto and defines a recess therewithin. A foot pedal assembly has a pedal member which is downwardly movable and which is adapted to be depressed by downward pressure exerted by the foot of a user. The foot pedal assembly has a first switch operatively associated therewith which is actuated by a downward movement of the pedal member. The foot pedal assembly is disposed within the recess defined within the housing such that a downward movement of the lid displaces the pedal member of the foot pedal assembly to actuate the first switch. A second switch is disposed such that the downward movement of the lid of the housing also actuates the second switch. Downward movement of the lid actuates the first and second switches together to concurrently change the states of first and second devices operatively associated with the first and second switches.

Abstract: This invention relates to the quantitative determination of a target or volume in the living body relative to external apparatus based on CT (computer tomography) or other image data. The invention describes a means of taking CT image data of the anatomy and of natural or implanted index positions on the patient's body, and relating the CT data to a coordinate system related to external apparatus which may be in fixed position relative to the patient. One implementation uses a transformation between the CT image data coordinate system and the second coordinate system. This makes it possible to do frame-based or frameless stereotactic target identification and approaches without the need for attaching a frame to the patient at the time of CT scanning.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for registering a patient data set obtained by an imaging process in camera navigation-supported surgical operations, comprising the following steps:

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a high-quality representation of a volume having a real-time 3-D reconstruction therein of movement of an object, wherein the real-time movement of the object is determined using a lower-quality representation of only a portion of the volume. The merger of 3-D angiography image representations acquired with other modalities, such as MR or CT, is disclosed. MR or CT modality images are registered with the 3-D Angiography data, such that those other images are brought into the same coordinate frame as the 3-D Angiography images. Movement of the object is detected in a 2-D X-ray fluoroscopy image and is reconstructed in a 3-D mode.

Abstract: Superimposed X-ray and video images can be obtained by acquiring the respective images from the optically equivalent points in space. One or more mirrors may be used to acquire the images and direct them towards the camera. The images can then be combined by warping one onto the other.

Abstract: An integrated X-ray and visual inspection system having an inspection subsystem with a holder holding an object to be inspected, an X-ray source, a camera receiving an X-ray image of an object to be inspected and a camera receiving a visible image of an object to be inspected, the X-ray source and camera receiving the X-ray image being positioned on opposite sides of the holder. A display may also be provided for displaying the images. The system is well suited to the inspection of printed circuit boards having electronic components mounted thereon, in which case the holder may be a conveyor for the printed circuit boards. Independent positioning of the X-ray source and camera receiving the X-ray image allows offset images of the printed circuit board topside and bottomside features of the board. Various other features of the system and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A medical examination system which allows the production of x-ray exposures in the context of an MR examination without re-situating the patient has a solid-state radiation detector integrated in the patient bed of an MR apparatus, and an adjustably mounted x-ray source with the further x-ray system components being allocated thereto.

Abstract: An implantable fiducial marker having a sealed cavity for the introduction of an imaging agent that provides imaging capability in several modes, including Computed Tomographic imaging (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is disclosed. The marker may be permanent, or it may be temporary and readily detachable from its anchor site. Combinations or agents imageable under CT scanning are combined with agents imageable under MRI scanning.

Abstract: An inspection system for inspecting a vehicle moving at a grade of travel over a surface and for detecting material disposed within or on the underside of the vehicle. The system has a source for providing a generally upward or downward pointing beam of penetrating radiation of specified cross-section so as to illuminate vehicles driven above or below the source of radiation. A detector arrangement, disposed below the grade of travel, detects radiation from the beam scattered by any material disposed on the underside of the moving vehicle and generates a scattered radiation signal that may be used for characterizing the material disposed on the underside of the vehicle. Similarly, a detector arrangement disposed above the vehicle generates a scattered radiation signal that may be used for characterizing the material disposed within the vehicle.

Abstract: Improved methods for detecting lesions in dense breast tissue are disclosed. The methods of the invention generally feature administration to a subject of an LHRH antagonist in an amount and for a period of time sufficient to reduce the density of breast tissue prior to generating an image of the breast tissue, for example by mammography, to detect a lesion in the breast tissue. Packaged formulations for reducing breast density in a subject prior to generating an image of the subject's breast tissue, comprising an LHRH antagonist packaged with instructions for using the LHRH antagonist to reduce breast density in a subject prior to imaging the breast tissue, are also disclosed.

Abstract: Superimposed X-ray and video images can be obtained by acquiring the respective images from the optically equivalent points in space. One or more mirrors may be used to acquire the images. Alignment of one camera with respect to the X-ray source may be achieved using images of reference points in space and their respective projections. Once the X-ray source and the video camera are positioned at the equivalent point in space, the resultant images can be superimposed through warping.

Abstract: Superimposed X-ray and video images can be obtained by acquiring the respective images from the optically equivalent points in space. One or more mirrors may be used to acquire the images. Alignment of one camera with respect to the X-ray source may be achieved using images of reference points in space. Once the X-ray source and the video camera are positioned at the equivalent point in space, the resultant images can be superimposed through warping.

Abstract: In an apparatus for examining living tissue by means of X-rays and by electric impedance measurement, a control device optionally activates an X-ray source and a radiation receiver, and/or for applying current or voltage signals to the tissue to be examined and a unit for measuring induced potentials or currents. This allows an X-ray image to be produced and induced potentials and currents to be measured either simultaneously or sequentially. It is also possible to fuse the respective images produced in these ways.

Abstract: An intraoral dental imaging system employs a service unit having a power supply and a light source, and selectively using a video camera having a plug-in module for releasably connecting the video camera to the power supply, or an x-ray camera having a second plug-in module for releasably connecting the x-ray camera to the power supply. In either case the modules have processing means for producing video output signals. These video output signals may be sent to a wide variety of devices connected to the service unit. For instance, they may be used to display an image on a video monitor, such as a CRT, they may be sent to a printer for printing, and they may be sent to a modem for eventual display at another location. In essence, these video output signals may be sent to any device known in the art. Thus, the plug-in modules are highly portable while allowing for interchangeability within the same service unit, thereby allowing a practitioner to use the modules in multiple operatories.

Abstract: This invention relates to the quantitative determination of a target or volume in the living body relative to external apparatus based on CT (computer tomography) or other image data. The invention describes a means of taking CT image data of the anatomy and of natural or implanted index positions on the patient's body, and relating the CT data to a coordinate system related to external apparatus which may be in fixed position relative to the patient. One implementation uses a transformation between the CT image data coordinate system and the second coordinate system. This makes it possible to do frame-based or frameless stereotactic target identification and approaches without the need for attaching a frame to the patient at the time of CT scanning.

Abstract: A medical imaging apparatus comprises magnetic resonance imaging means (30) for obtaining a MR tomogram of an object to be examined, X-ray radiographic means (11,12,13) for obtaining a radiographic image of the object and imaging control means for controlling overall timings of application of magnetic fields and acquisition of the nuclear magnetic resonance signals in the MRI means and timing of X-ray emission in the X-ray radiographic means. In the medical imaging apparatus, MR imaging is carried out in parallel with X-ray radiography by controlling the timing of X-ray emission to be noncoincident with both the timing of application of magnetic fields and the timing of acquisition of NMR signals to obtain X-ray images and MR images both having approximately the same time phase.

Abstract: A videofluoroscopy device having a rotatable and vertically moveable c-arm, with an x-ray device mounted thereupon, is connected to a system for producing a picture-in-a-picture (PIP) real time motion x-ray image. A video camera mounted on the videofluoroscopy device c-arm, proximal to the x-ray device, permits an operator to view an external picture of the patient while simultaneously viewing the x-ray image. An electrical circuit coupled to the system converts the two video signals into one PIP image. The single PIP image can be recorded on video tape and/or viewed on a monitor. In the preferred embodiment, the "full-screen" image is the motion z-ray image while the overlaid smaller image, placed in a box in the corner of the video frame, is that of an external view of the patient corresponding to the portion of the body being x-rayed.

Abstract: Apparatus for calibrating an intra-operative X-ray system having an X-ray source and a detector includes an optical camera associated with the X-ray source; an optical camera associated with the detector; an X-ray phantom placed within a field of view of the X-ray system during an off-line process; an optical phantom placed within a field of view of the optical cameras during the off-line process as well as the on-line process (called the patient run); and apparatus for computing a respective projection matrix from an image provided by any of the X-ray source and detector, and the optical cameras. A method to obtain the projection matrices characterizing the X-ray imaging geometry during the patient run, using the projection matrices associated to X-ray geometry as well as the optical cameras computed during an off-line process, and the projection matrices associated to the optical cameras during the patient run.

Abstract: A feature detection apparatus includes a reflective imaging system, a transmissive imaging system, and memory for generating an image of a workpiece. The reflective imaging system generates a first bit image of a surface of the workpiece. The transmissive imaging system generates a second, different bit image of the density of the workpiece. The two images are then combined in memory into a more complete image that contains data describing the surface and interior of the workpiece. The apparatus also includes a filter for enhancing the combined bit image so that physical features of the workpiece are accurately detected. The filter is constructed to perform the following steps. For detecting a feature of interest, the filter determines a mean, standard deviation, and normal distribution of the image's pixel intensities.

Abstract: A patient setup and treatment verification system for radiation therapy having diagnostic imaging devices connected to a room containing a megavoltage radiation therapy machine. The diagnostic rooms and the megavoltage therapy room are connected to each other by openings in the shared secondary wall of the accelerator or through an anteroom to the megavoltage therapy room. Daily patient setup for routine and three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy and on-line treatment port verification with superimposed isodose are done with the patient on a diagnostic-imaging table. The patients are transferred from the diagnostic table to the treatment table without changing the verified treatment position. Sliding or rotating shield or maze walled anteroom are used for radiation protection. A patient setup with multiple diagnostic devices in separate chambers allows rapid turnover of patients in the megavoltage treatment room with patients spending much less time in the treatment room.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for displaying an image, particularly of the female mammary gland, obtained from echo signals produced by ultrasound radiation directed onto the subject, the evaluation of echo signals time-dependently received by an echo signal receiver ensues on a subject axis directed in the spatial direction of the primary radiation and the intensity of the echo signals is evaluated. In the imaging evaluation, the echo signal is combined in a corresponding spatial reference orientation with a further imaging signal of a different signal source registered in the corresponding spatial direction with the subject held fixed in the same position as for producing the echo signals. The further imaging signal by itself, or in combination with the echo signals, provides diagnostic information not available from the echo signals by themselves. In the case of the female mammary gland, the mammary gland is fixed between two plates directed essentially parallel.