Simulation Of Modeling Patents (Class 600/416)
  • Publication number: 20110071383
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a method of visualizing an airway of a bronchial tree. The method includes generating a tree model from an airway segmentation of a bronchial tree, determining a lumen, a wall thickness, and an adjacent artery for a branch of the tree model, determining whether the lumen of the branch has a first abnormal state and the wall thickness of the branch has a second abnormal state based on the adjacent artery, and illustrating the branch in one of a plurality of visually distinct styles based on the first and second abnormal states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: Siemens Corporation
    Inventors: Carol L. Novak, Benjamin L. Odry
  • Patent number: 7889899
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method for visualization of diffusion tensor images includes providing a diffusion tensor image input and providing a volume of interest within the diffusion tensor image input. The method includes determining a plurality of direction-based classifications of the volume of interest, wherein classes are defined by a set of parameters, An optimal solution is then selected within the classifications by using a criterion defined as a ratio of inertia indicators. To represent the chosen classification, a cone graph is determined for each of the directional classes to be displayed or stored, each cone pair being the geometrical interpretation of the class parameters. The method further includes determining a spherical scatterplot of the volume of interest augmented with a cone graph for visualization of at least one of the directional classes, and displaying and/or storing the scatterplot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Mariappan S. Nadar, Aurelien Flipo
  • Publication number: 20110022369
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus for modeling states of an entity are presented. For example, a method, implemented on a processor device, of modeling one or more states of an entity is presented. The method includes obtaining a training dataset for training a model by applying a stimulus to the entity, forming a set of model parameters, and using the set of model parameters to form the model, such that the model is configured to predict at least one of the one or more states of the entity. At least one model parameter of the set of model parameters changes with time as a result of dependency of the at least one model parameter on the stimulus and as a result of time-dependency of the stimulus. The steps of obtaining the training dataset, forming the set of model parameters and using the set of model parameters are implemented on the processor device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Melissa Kristin Carroll, Guillermo Alberto Cecchi, Irina Rish
  • Publication number: 20110004317
    Abstract: A method for making an orthopaedic implant, the method comprising: characterizing at least a portion of a bone corresponding to the bone to be replaced, said corresponding bone being on the contralateral side of the patient; providing a model of the orthopaedic implant based on a mirror image of the contralateral bone; and forming the orthopaedic implant based on the model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Adam S. Hacking, Edward J. Harvey, Corey Richards
  • Patent number: 7853310
    Abstract: A computer system and a computer-implemented method are provided for interactively displaying a three-dimensional rendering of a structure having a lumen and for indicating regions of abnormal wall structure. A three-dimensional volume of data is formed from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the three-dimensional structure. An isosurface of a selected region of interest is created by a computer from the volume of data based on a selected value or values of a physical property representing the selected region of interest. A wireframe model of the isosurface is generated by the computer wherein the wireframe model includes a plurality of vertices. The vertices are then grouped into populations of contiguous vertices having a characteristic indicating abnormal wall structure by the computer. The wireframe model is then rendered by the computer in an interactive three-dimensional display to indicate the populations of abnormal wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Wake Forest University Health Sciences
    Inventors: David J. Vining, Gordon W. Hunt, David K. Ahn, David R. Stelts, Yaorong Ge, Paul F. Hemler, Tiffany W. Salido
  • Patent number: 7840044
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for image segmentation for liver objects. Segmentation is performed to obtain a first set of objects relating to liver. More than one types in association with one of the first set of objects are identified. Landmarks are identified based on the segmented first set of objects or the different types of one of the first set of objects. A second set of objects including liver lobes are segmented based on the landmarks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Edda Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Feng Ma, Guo-Qing Wei, Li Fan, Cheng-Chung Liang, Jianzhong Qian, Xiaolan Zeng
  • Patent number: 7835892
    Abstract: A method includes receiving data values associated with one of a position and orientation of a simulated scanner relative to an object. Image values are calculated, substantially in real-time, based on the data values. A simulated ultrasound image is rendered in a graphical display based on the image values. The simulated ultrasound image is representative of an interior or a simulated interior of the object on the ultrasound scan plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Immersion Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Anton Butsev, Weimin Wu
  • Patent number: 7822461
    Abstract: A system and method for endoscopic path planning is provided. The method comprises: identifying a target in a lung, wherein the target is located in a peripheral airway of the lung; generating an endoscopic path to the target, wherein a peripheral artery is used as a surrogate for the peripheral airway; and viewing the endoscopic path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernhard Geiger, Atilla Peter Kiraly, David P. Naidich, Carol L. Novak
  • Patent number: 7797031
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are presented for quickly acquiring MR cardiac images in a time equivalent to a single breath-hold. MR data acquisition is segmented across multiple cardiac cycles. MR data acquisition is interleaved from each phase of a first cardiac cycle with MR data from each phase of a subsequent cardiac cycle. Preferably, low spatial frequency data are interleaved between multiple cardiac cycles, and the subsequent cardiac cycle acquisition includes sequential acquisition of high spatial frequency data at the tail end of the acquisition window. An MR image can then be reconstructed with data acquired from each of the acquisitions that reduce ghosting and artifacts. MR images are reconstructed using this interleaved variable temporal k-space sampling technique to produce volume images of the heart within a single breath-hold. Images can be acquired throughout the cardiac cycle to measure ventricular volumes and ejection fractions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Thomas K. F. Foo
  • Patent number: 7787932
    Abstract: A method for computer-assisted medical navigation and/or pre-operative treatment planning includes detecting the current position of a patient or a part of a patient's body and the positions of medical treatment devices or treatment-assisting devices. The detected positional data can be assigned to body structure data, in order to jointly use the body structure data in assignment with the positional data, within the context of assisting the treatment. The body structure data can be used which is obtained based on a three-dimensional generic model, where the model is adapted by two-dimensional data linking with patient-characteristic, two-dimensional detection data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: BrainLAB AG
    Inventors: Stefan Vilsmeier, Mario Zeiss, Claus Schaffrath, Thomas Feilkas
  • Patent number: 7729743
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for the intravascular or intracardial navigation of a catheter (5). Using an X-ray fluoroscopy device (1), firstly an image database of 2D images is generated, where at the same time as each 2D image (I) is taken the associated heartbeat phase is recorded using an ECG (8). During the catheter intervention, the position of the catheter (5) is measured by means of a position measurement unit (6), and at the same time the ECG and preferably also a signal that is dependent on the breathing movement are recorded. The current spatial position of the catheter (5) that is measured is then assigned the 2D image of the image database which corresponds in terms of the heartbeat phase and also possibly in terms of the breathing phase, on which image the position of the catheter can be represented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Jörg Sabczynski, Volker Rasche
  • Patent number: 7720519
    Abstract: A method is disclosed in this publication for modeling different internal structures of a head, such as different parts of the brain, the method comprising the step of determining the location of the internal structures, such as the different cerebral parts, of at least one first head in a three-dimensional space by techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging or computer-aided tomography. According to the invention, the external dimensions of at least one second head are determined, and the location data of the internal structures of the first head are scaled in a three-dimensional space to correlate with the external dimensions of the second head, whereby the location data of the internal structures of the second head also become modeled without the need for anatomical images of the second head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Elekta Neuromag Oy
    Inventor: Jarmo Ruohonen
  • Patent number: 7702495
    Abstract: A method for performing a simulation of an electrosurgical procedure is provided. The method includes the step of generating a three-dimensional model of a medium comprising one or more material regions representing a physical object or a region of the tissue. The method also includes the step of calculating one of an electrical energy solution and a thermal transport solution based on one of a mathematical model and finite element method. The method further includes the step of updating one or more property values of the material region in response to temperature changes based on an empirically derived value, wherein one of the electrical energy solution and the thermal transport solution is updated as a function of the updated property value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Stanley Humphries, Kyle R. Rick, David A. Schechter, Nahum Goldberg
  • Patent number: 7693568
    Abstract: A medical device includes a sensor for sensing for an MRI gradient magnetic field and a microprocessor for responding to the detected gradient magnetic field by switching from a first electrical signal processing mode to a second electrical signal processing mode, such that electrical signals induced by the gradient magnetic field and an associated RF burst are not counted as cardiac events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Volkert A. Zeijlemaker
  • Patent number: 7689261
    Abstract: A method includes receiving a multi-phase axial cardiac dataset, receiving a selection of a phase from a user, when the received selection is systole, generating an endocardial volume of a left ventricle at an end systole phase without further user intervention, and when the received selection is diastole, generating an endocardial volume of the left ventricle at an end diastole phase without further user intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kelly Ann Mohr, Laurent Stefani, Laurent Launay, Helen Jane Thomson
  • Patent number: 7680526
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods, such as for deep brain stimulation (DBS) or other electrical stimulation. A model computes a volume of influence region for a simulated electrical stimulation using certain stimulation parameters, such as amplitude, pulsewidth, frequency, pulse morphology, electrode contact selection or location, return path electrode selection, pulse polarity, etc. The model uses a non-uniform tissue conductivity. This accurately represents brain tissue, which has highly directionally conductive neuron pathways yielding a non-homogeneous and anisotropic tissue medium. In one example, the non-uniform tissue conductivity is obtained from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data. In one example, a second difference of an electric potential distribution is used to define a volume of activation (VOA) or similar volume of influence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: Cameron C. McIntyre, Christopher R. Butson, John D. Hall, Jaimie M. Henderson
  • Publication number: 20100049032
    Abstract: It is disclosed a system and method (12) for determining a property map (82) of an object, particularly a human being, based on at least a first image (84), particularly an magnetic resonance (MR) image, of the object. In the method (12), a structure of reference pairs is defined in a first step (96), wherein each reference pair (16-26) comprises at least two entries (62). The first entry represents a property value, particularly an attenuation value. The second entry (62) preferably represents a group of image points (67) belonging together, which is extracted particularly from MR images (28) and comprises an interesting image point corresponding to the property value. In another step (98) of the method (12) a plurality of training pairs (16-26) is provided. A structure of the training pairs (16-26) corresponds to the structure of reference pairs, and the entries of respective training pairs (16-26) are known.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Florian Steinke, Bernd Pichler, Matthias Hofmann, Bernhard Scholkopf, Florian Steinke
  • Patent number: 7660619
    Abstract: A method for determining the condition of an animate or inanimate object by magnetic resonance imaging, MRI, particularly for determining the pathologic condition of rheumatoid arthritis (“arthritis rheumatoides”) and carrying out a patient follow-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Esaote S.p.A.
    Inventors: Eugenio Biglieri, Luigi Satragno
  • Publication number: 20090306496
    Abstract: A method for musculoskeletal tissue segmentation used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is provided. MRI image data is collected using at least two different contrast mechanisms. Voxel values from data from each contrast mechanism are used as elements of a feature vector. The feature vector is compared with classification boundaries to classify musculoskeletal tissue type of the voxel. The previous two steps are repeated for a plurality of voxels. An image is generated from the classified musculoskeletal tissue types for the plurality of voxels to provide a musculoskeletal segmentation image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Seungbum Koo, Brian A. Hargreaves, Garry E. Gold
  • Publication number: 20090292198
    Abstract: A non-invasive method for measuring intracranial pressure (ICP) is provided. A numerical model such as finite element model is developed in order to calculate the ICP, strain or stress for patients who suffers from hematoma, edema or tumor. The method can further provide local maximum principle strain that can provide information about possible subsequent brain injury, such as diffuse axonal injury, in sensitive region of the brain. Based on computer tomography or magnetic resonance images an individual diagnosis and treatment plan can be formed for each patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Inventors: Svein Kleiven, Johnson Ho, Hans Von Holst
  • Patent number: 7623902
    Abstract: A method of determining the size and placement of screws in pedicles in a selected spinal area comprising, hollowing out the vertebra in a three-dimensional image of the spine with cortical wall thicknesses selected by a surgeon; determining the isthmus within each pedicle; generating a straight line starting at the center of the isthmus and extending inwardly to a point centered within the anterior cortex so that it is positioned concentrically within the pedicle without touching the walls thereof, the line terminating a predetermined distance from the anterior inner cortical wall and extending outwardly in the opposite direction to penetrate the posterior pedicle cortex; expanding the line concentrically and radially to a cross sectional size that is less than that of the isthmus, the line being expanded into a cylinder that stops growing when any portion thereof contacts the inner cortical wall of the hollowed out vertebral body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Leucadia 6, LLC
    Inventor: Hector Pacheco
  • Patent number: 7620224
    Abstract: A path 22 representing the center line of a curved cylinder 21 is acquired (step S1). The path 22 can be set by a GUI while a volume rendering image displayed on a display device is viewed. Alternatively, the path 22 can be set automatically when the curved cylinder 21 is designated as a subject of observation. Then, a region of the curved cylinder 21 is extracted as a subject pf observation with the path 22 used as the center (step S2). Then, sections 23 and 24 are generated as if the extracted region was cut open along the path 22 (step S3). In this case, the sections 23 and 24 are curved along the curvature of the curved cylinder 21. Accordingly, CPR images are synthesized on the curved sections (step S4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: ZIOSOFT, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 7574247
    Abstract: A novel method is presented for detecting coronary arteries as well as other peripheral vessels of the heart. After finding the location of the myocardium through a segmentation method, such as a graph theoretic segmentation method, the method models the heart with a biaxial ellipsoid. For each point of the ellipsoid, a collection of intensities are computed that are normal to the surface. This collection is then filtered to detect the cardiovascular structures. Ultimately, vessel centerline points are detected using a vessel tracking method, and linked together to form a complete coronary artery tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Romain Moreau-Gobard, Charles Florin
  • Publication number: 20090043556
    Abstract: A system for virtually planning a size and position of a prosthetic implant for a bone on a patient includes a database containing pre-defined form factor information for a plurality of different implants and a circuit for obtaining surface shape information of the bone. The system further includes a circuit for defining baseline location parameters for an implant location in relation to a virtual representation of the bone based on the surface shape information and a circuit for assessing a fit calculation of each implant in relation to the virtual representation of the bone based on the form factor in formation and a plurality of fit factors at each of a plurality of incremental positions in relation to the bone. Still further, the system includes a circuit for selecting a best fit implant size and position from all of the fit calculations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Stuart L. Axelson, Jens Rueber, Jose Luis Moctezuma de la Barrera, Peter Zimmerman
  • Publication number: 20080319308
    Abstract: A method for determining cardiac status comprises for a given patient, constructing a patient-specific, three-dimensional, computational model of the patient's heart; and executing the constructed computational model, said executing generating a quantitative analysis of cardiac function. A method of performing cardiac surgeries comprises: a) assessing surgical options based on a patient-specific, three-dimensional, computational model of a patient's heart; and b) performing surgery based on one or more of the surgical options.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: Worcester Polytechnic Institute
    Inventor: Dalin Tang
  • Publication number: 20080255445
    Abstract: A method for planning a bone implant ascertains a condition of a bone to be treated, and identifies a dysfunctional part of the bone. A free-form area then can be ascertained and registered, wherein the free-form area lies below the dysfunctional part. A control data set then is produced that forms the basis for ablating the bone on the ascertained free-form area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Timo Neubauer, Manuel Millahn
  • Patent number: 7427200
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for analyzing surgical techniques using a computer system for gathering and analyzing surgical data acquired during a surgical procedure on a body portion and comparing that data to pre-selected target values for the particular surgical procedure. The inventive method allows the surgeon, for example, to measure the technical success of a surgical procedure in terms of quantifiable geometric, spatial, kinematic or kinetic parameters. The method comprises calculation of these parameters from data collected during a surgical procedure and then comparing these results with values of the same parameters derived from target values defined by the surgeon, surgical convention, or computer simulation of the same procedure prior to the operation itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Inventors: Philip C. Noble, Michael Conditt
  • Patent number: 7423430
    Abstract: A method for acquiring magnetic resonance (MR) data from a dynamic object in which a k-space sampling schedule are produced. The k-space sampling table is produced using a spatio-temporal model of the beating heart, time sequential sampling theory and a known number of parallel receive channels (coils). The imaging pulse sequence is repeated to play out the phase encodings in the order listed in the k-space sampling schedule and the k-space data sets acquired through the parallel receive channels are combined and used to reconstruct a sequence of images. The method is an improved process for dynamic MRI, designed to overcome the limitations of current MRI systems in imaging dynamic phenomena and produces highly accurate motion movies of the structure, function, perfusion and viability of various anatomical regions in MRI subjects such as the beating heart, flow of contrast agents in blood vessels, brain excitation, or joint movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventors: Behzad Sharif, Yoram Bresler, Nitin Aggarwal
  • Patent number: 7412278
    Abstract: A novel method is described for simulation of an electric stimulation of the nerve system subject to the rate of change of gradient fields. A gradient signal is filtered and a stimulation signal is derived, which is compared with a predetermined stimulation threshold value. An indicator signal is generated if the threshold value is exceeded. Therefore the time dependent and spatially dependent electric fields as defined by the scanning sequence and the gradient coil properties are calculated. A vector combination of said calculated electric field components from each gradient coil axis is performed, which results in a temporal diagram of the total electric field at various spatial locations within the gradient coil. The stimulation probability at each location from said temporal diagram and said stimulation signal is then calculated, and said stimulation probability is compared with the stimulation threshold value at each location within the gradient coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Paul Royston Harvey, Jouke Smink, Gerardus Nerius Peeren, Jacob Anne Den Boer
  • Patent number: 7408354
    Abstract: A phantom for evaluating a magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) performance is provided. Specifically, a phantom for evaluating an MRS performance capable of quantitatively evaluating a resolution of a spectrum obtained when a chemical shift imaging MRS measurement process is performed is provided. The phantom evaluates MRS performance using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus, and includes: an external container having an opened upper end; internal containers which are disposed in the external container and constructed so as to include metabolites; and an external container cover for covering the upper end of the external container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Catholic University Industry Academic Cooperation Foundation
    Inventors: Dong-Cheol Woo, Bo-Young Cheo, Sung-Ik Yoon, Moon-Hyun Yoon, Sung-Tak Hong
  • Patent number: 7403883
    Abstract: An in-vitro model apparatus of a human spine and methods for detecting and analyzing substance distribution patterns therein. In one embodiment, the model apparatus includes a column body defining a passageway that substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal canal. Also included is a cord structure that may be located and anchored within the passageway. The cord structure substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal cord. For example, the cord structure may include connecting elements that resemble nerve roots, dentate ligaments, and the septum posticum of a human spine. The passageway of the model apparatus may be filled with a first fluid that simulates cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF), and a second fluid containing a drug (or simulated drug) may be introduced into the passageway, after which the drug's distribution within the passageway may be analyzed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth T. Heruth, Mark S. Lent, Michael Hegland
  • Publication number: 20080154120
    Abstract: Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for intraoperative implant measurement. Certain embodiments of a method include noting a location of a first implant, noting a location of a second implant, measuring a distance between the first and second implants based on the location of the first implant and the location of the second implant, and displaying the distance to a user. Certain embodiments of a system include a processor configured to determine a distance between a first implant and a second implant based on tracking information for a location of the first implant and a location of the second implant and a display configured to display an image including the first and second implants and the distance to a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Ronald A. von Jako, M.D., Jon T. Lea
  • Patent number: 7383163
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method, a device and a computer software for making an individual model of a jawbone, which are particularly useful in the development of dental implants or pre-operative planning of implants. The method comprises the following steps: making a tomogram of a jawbone perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the jawbone; determining the boundary of the jawbone and the surrounding tissue and the boundary between the compact and spongiosal portion of the jawbone; transforming said boundaries into a two-dimensional profile; and extruding the two-dimensional profile into a three-dimensional volume body model of the jawbone. The volume body model of the jawbone may be combined with the volume body model of an implant and then transformed into a finite element model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Christof Holberg
  • Publication number: 20080119723
    Abstract: A system and method for dynamically generating a localizer image comprising a plurality of pixel values. First, a plurality of planar images is provided, wherein each image has a plane. A three dimensional volume is generated based on the plurality of planar images, wherein the three dimensional volume comprises a plurality of values. An orientation and location are selected for the localizer image. Finally, a localizer image is generated, based on the plurality of values of the three dimensional volume, in the selected orientation and location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Rainer Wegenkittl, Donald K. Dennison, John J. Potwarka, Lukas Mroz, Armin Kanitsar, Gunter Zeilinger
  • Publication number: 20080103385
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for image segmentation for liver objects. Segmentation is performed to obtain a first set of objects relating to liver. More than one types in association with one of the first set of objects are identified. Landmarks are identified based on the segmented first set of objects or the different types of one of the first set of objects. A second set of objects including liver lobes are segmented based on the landmarks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventors: Feng Ma, Guo-Qing Wei, Li Fan, Cheng-Chung Liang, Jianzhong Qian, Xiaolan Zeng
  • Patent number: 7346382
    Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, brain stimulation models, systems, devices, and methods, such as for deep brain stimulation (DBS) or other electrical stimulation. A model computes a volume of influence region for a simulated electrical stimulation using certain stimulation parameters, such as amplitude, pulsewidth, frequency, pulse morphology, electrode contact selection or location, return path electrode selection, pulse polarity, etc. The model uses a non-uniform tissue conductivity. This accurately represents brain tissue, which has highly directionally conductive neuron pathways yielding a non-homogeneous and anisotropic tissue medium. In one example, the non-uniform tissue conductivity is obtained from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data. In one example, a second difference of an electric potential distribution is used to define a volume of activation (VOA) or similar volume of influence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventors: Cameron C. McIntyre, Christopher R. Butson, John D. Hall, Jaimie M. Henderson
  • Patent number: 7289131
    Abstract: A method of rendering a graphics image in which rendering is only carried out in a region to be changed is disclosed. In a preferred form the image includes a plurality of objects and the method comprises the steps of: determining if each object has changed so that the object is required to be displayed differently in a subsequent frame; determining a bounding region of each changed object in the subsequent frame; determining a bounding region of each changed object in a frame prior to the subsequent frame; and combining the bounding regions to form an aggregate region and rendering the image only within the aggregate region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Bracco Imaging S.p.A.
    Inventors: Gim Guan Chua, Luis Serra, Hern Ng
  • Patent number: 7225011
    Abstract: A device, a method and a computer program to model and report an anatomic structure, for example for coronary angiography is provided. The graphical editor models and reports the morphology/topology of the coronary anatomy with its clinical relevant items, i.e. grafts, stents, stenosis/occlusion and turtuosity. From the model different presentations (views) with adjustable display attribute settings, like scale and shape of the arteries can be constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.
    Inventor: Pieter Maria Mielekamp
  • Patent number: 7194295
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for computer-assisted medical navigation and/or pre-operative treatment planning, wherein the current position of a patient or a part of a patient's body and the positions of medical treatment devices or treatment-assisting devices are detected by means of a position detection unit, and wherein said detected positional data are assigned to body structure data, in order to jointly use said body structure data in assignment with said positional data, within the context of assisting the treatment, wherein body structure data are used which are obtained based on a generic model which has been adapted by linking it with patient-characteristic detection data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: BrainLAB AG
    Inventor: Stefan Vilsmeier
  • Patent number: 7184814
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for assessing the condition of a cartilage in a joint and assessing cartilage loss, particularly in a human knee. The methods include converting an image such as an MRI to a three dimensional map of the cartilage. The cartilage map can be correlated to a movement pattern of the joint to assess the affect of movement on cartilage wear. Changes in the thickness of cartilage over time can be determined so that therapies can be provided. The amount of cartilage tissue that has been lost, for example as a result of arthritis, can be estimated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Philipp Lang, Daniel Steines
  • Patent number: 7149564
    Abstract: A computer system and a computer-implemented method are provided for interactively displaying a three-dimensional rendering of a structure having a lumen and for indicating regions of abnormal wall structure. A three-dimensional volume of data is formed from a series of two-dimensional images representing at least one physical property associated with the three-dimensional structure. An isosurface of a selected region of interest is created by a computer from the volume of data based on a selected value or values of a physical property representing the selected region of interest. A wireframe model of the isosurface is generated by the computer wherein the wireframe model includes a plurality of vertices. The vertices are then grouped into populations of contiguous vertices having a characteristic indicating abnormal wall structure by the computer. The wireframe model is then rendered by the computer in an interactive three-dimensional display to indicate the populations of abnormal wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Wake Forest University Health Sciences
    Inventors: David J. Vining, Gordon W. Hunt, David K. Ahn, David R. Stelts, Yaorong Ge, Paul F. Hemler, Tiffany W. Salido
  • Patent number: 7081088
    Abstract: A method for automatic local path planning for a virtual endoscope comprises the steps of defining a sub volume around a current endoscope position in a lumen; performing a region growing inside the lumen, starting from the current endoscope position; calculating and clustering the intersection of the region with the faces of a cube circumscribing the sub volume; calculating approximated centerline paths from the current endoscope position to the center of each cluster formed in the preceding step; comparing each of the centerline paths with a current path exhibited by the endoscope; and selecting an optimal centerline path based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Corporate Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernhard Geiger
  • Patent number: 7081748
    Abstract: A system for combining electromagnetic position and orientation tracking with magnetic resonance scanner is provided. One embodiment includes a magnetic resonance scanner defining a reference coordinate system for scanning a target. Coupled to the magnetic resonance scanner is a magnetic field source which produces a magnetic field. The magnetic field is sensed by a magnetic field sensor which produces a signal proportional to the magnetic field. The magnetic field sensor has a location relative to the reference coordinate system. The location of the magnetic field sensor relative to the reference coordinate system of the magnetic resonance scanner is determined by a location tracking device using at least a line segment model of the magnetic field source and the signal from the magnetic field sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Peter D. Jakab
  • Patent number: 7081750
    Abstract: A system and method for facilitating RF pulse sequence generation and modification and for real-time sequence input modification for use in conjunction with magnetic resonance imaging equipment. A graphical user interface is provided through a display coupled to a digital computer operating as the primary control system for a magnetic resonance imaging scanner and associated hardware. Through the graphical user interface, an operator may choose or design sequences of radiofrequency pulses, gradient waveforms and other input parameters for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. Real-time information is also communicated to the operator through the graphical user interface allowing for real-time manipulation of the magnetic resonance imaging inputs and for displaying the magnetic resonance response thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Fonar Corporation
    Inventor: Guoping Zhang
  • Patent number: 7078899
    Abstract: A magnetic resonance data acquisition method includes designating a plurality of parameters that are representative of conditions for acquiring data from a magnetic resonance apparatus, at least one of the parameters being variable; designating at least one objective function measuring the quality of the acquired magnetic resonance data; optimizing the at least one objective function using an optimization algorithm to find at least one set of optimum values for the parameters characterizing data acquisition; configuring the magnetic resonance apparatus with the parameters determined above, configuring by one set of the optimum values of the parameters, and instructing a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus to apply the field to the target of the data acquisition to acquire the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Case Western Reserve University
    Inventors: Brian M. Dale, Jeffrey L. Duerk, Jonathan S. Lewin
  • Patent number: 7043290
    Abstract: An object, such as an example blood vessel, in a two or three dimensional image data set is segmented. An adaptable model, such as an example cylinder model, is defined around a starting point in the example blood vessel and is adapted or fit to the blood vessel. A plurality of candidate next active points are defined around the starting point and the adaptable model is defined around each candidate point. The models around the candidate points are adapted to the blood vessel. Based on results of the fitted models, a next active point is selected. In this manner, the blood vessel is segmented by adapting a series of cylinder models to an inner surface of the blood vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Stewart Young, Vladimir Pekar, Juergen Weese
  • Patent number: 7002345
    Abstract: The invention consists of three image-postprocessing phases for the purposes of generating high-quality quantitative MR images (proton density (PD), T1, and T2) as well as high-quality virtual MR images with continuously adjustable computer-synthesized contrast weightings, from source images acquired directly with an MRI scanner. Each of the image-postprocessing phases uses one or several new computer algorithms that improve image quality with respect to prior art, including linear-combination-of source-images (LCSI) algorithms for generating PD images and model-conforming algorithms for generating Q-MR images of tissue properties that influence NMR relaxation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Boston Medical Center Corporation
    Inventor: Hernan Jara
  • Patent number: 6975894
    Abstract: The invention provides method, system and device for determining trabecular bone structure and strength by digital topological analysis, and offers, for the first time, a demonstration of superior associations between vertebral deformity and a number of architectural indices measured in the distal radius, thus permitting reliable and noninvasive detection and determination of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. A preferred embodiment provides imaging in three dimension of a region of trabecular bone, after which the 3D image is converted into a skeletonized surface representation. Digital topological analysis is applied to the converted image, and each image voxel is identified and classified as a curve, a surface, or a junction; and then associated with microarchitectural indices of trabecular bone to quantitatively characterize the trabecular bone network. The invention is applicable in vivo, particularly on human subjects, or ex vivo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania
    Inventors: Felix W. Wehrli, Punam K. Saha, Bryon Roos Gomberg
  • Patent number: 6943033
    Abstract: Featured is an MRI/NMR methodology or process to detect amide protons of endogenous mobile proteins and peptides via the water signal. Such methods and processes can be used for the purposes of detection of pH effects and labile amide proton content of mobile proteins/peptides or content changes thereto using MRI Also featured are methods whereby assessment of determined pH effects and amide proton content or content changes and related mobile protein and/or peptide content or content changes can be used in connection with diagnosis, program and treatment of brain related disorders and diseases, cardiac disorders and diseases, and cancer and to use such methods for monitoring, detecting and assessing protein and peptide content in vivo and pathologically for any of a number of diseases or disorders of a human body, including but not limited to cancers, ischemia, Alzheimers and Parkinsons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Peter C. M. Van Zijl, Jinyuan Zhou
  • Patent number: 6909914
    Abstract: A method for generating time independent images of moving objects with the image information being related to properties of the moving objects represented by sequences of digital images. The images are transformed into a series of space-time representations of the image data. A function is derived from the space-time representation images that approximates the object motion and is used to create time independent images of the moving objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignees: Esaote, S.p.A., AMID Srl
    Inventors: Gianni Pedrizzetti, Giovanni Tonti, Emidio Marchese