Abstract: A system provides a single composite image including multiple medical images of a portion of patient anatomy acquired using corresponding multiple different types of imaging device. A display processor generates data representing a single composite display image including, a first image area showing a first image of a portion of patient anatomy acquired using a first type of imaging device, a second image area showing a second image of the portion of patient anatomy acquired using a second type of imaging device different to the first type. The first and second image areas include first and second markers respectively. The first and second markers identify an estimated location of the same corresponding anatomical position in the portion of patient anatomy in the first and second images respectively.

Abstract: An optical coherent tomographic image forming apparatus including a light guide configured to divide a light into a measurement light and a reference light; a flush unit configured to discharge a flush liquid into a body lumen; a refractive index setting unit configured to set a refractive index of the flush liquid; an adjustment value setting unit configured to set an adjustment value; a calibration unit for adjusting the length of the reference optical path or the length of the measurement optical path based on the adjustment value; an image construction unit configured to construct a cross-sectional image; and an offset value calculation unit for calculating an offset value of the length of the reference optical path based on a changed refractive index when the refractive index of the flush liquid is changed by the refractive index setting unit after calibration is executed by the calibration unit.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide methods of determining an efficacy of a xerostomia treatment in a mammalian subject (e.g., a human) that include the steps of comparing a first thickness of a site in the subject that comprised of sub-epithelial oral mucosa to a second thickness of the site; and thereby determining that: the xerostomia treatment is efficacious because the second thickness is greater than the first thickness; or the xerostomia treatment is not efficacious because the first thickness is greater than or equal to the second thickness. In such methods, assaying the first thickness comprises analyzing a first OCT scan of the site that was conducted at a time close to the subject starting the xerostomia treatment, and assaying the second thickness comprises analyzing a second OCT scan of the site that was conducted at a time close to the subject completing the xerostomia treatment.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease is provided, the method comprising the steps of obtaining a vessel image showing a vasculature of a vessel, identifying at least two measurements from the vasculature of the vessel, the measurements relating to at least two parameters, calculating a relationship between the at least two parameters from the at least two measurements to generate one or more vasculature data points, and comparing the one or more vasculature data points to data relative to a model vasculature to determine the extent of vascular disease. In an another embodiment, a method for diagnosing vascular disease in a patient's vascular tree is provided, the method comprising the steps of generating a model vascular tree from a minimum energy hypothesis calculation, and comparing the patient's vascular tree with the model vascular tree to determine the extent of vascular disease.

Abstract: An integral laser imaging and coagulation apparatus, and associated systems and methods that allow an ophthalmologist to perform laser retinal surgical procedures with an integral laser imaging and coagulation apparatus disposed at a first (i.e. local) location from a control system disposed at a second (i.e. remote) location, e.g., a physician's office. In some embodiments, communication between the integral laser imaging and coagulation apparatus and control system is achieved via the Internet®.

Abstract: A method of controlling a medical diagnostic system using a contrast medium is provided. The method includes injecting the contrast medium into a subject; obtaining an appearance image of the subject via a first camera; obtaining a temperature distribution image of the subject via a second camera; displaying a fusion image which combines the appearance image of the subject and the temperature distribution image of the subject on a screen; determining whether a side effect of the contrast medium has occurred in the subject, based on the fusion image; and selectively controlling the medical diagnostic system depending on a result of the determining.

Abstract: A method of producing a patient image indicating proton stopping power of the tissue may employ photon attenuation information converted to proton stopping power. The conversion uses different conversion functions for particular tissue types to account for a strong atomic number dependency in the conversion process. Megavoltage x-rays may be used for improved accuracy.

Abstract: A medical image diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment includes: a first image taking unit, a second image taking unit, a position specifying unit, and a moving controlling unit. The first image taking unit performs an image taking process by implementing PET while using a first PET detector and a second PET detector. The position specifying unit specifies positions of the first PET detector and the second PET detector, on the basis of a medical image taken by the second image taking unit. The moving controlling unit controls moving of the first PET detector and the second PET detector in accordance with the specified positions. The first image taking unit and the second image taking unit each perform the image taking process after the first PET detector and the second PET detector have been moved.

Abstract: Provided are medical apparatuses for simultaneously performing radiotherapy and hyperthermia therapy and methods of treating an affected area. The medical apparatus includes a table where a subject is placed; a driving unit configured to move the table; a treatment device configured to treat an affected area of the subject; and an ultrasonic transducer configured to increase treatment efficiency of the affected area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determining inhomogeneity in a portion of animal tissue, which provides for the arrangement beforehand of a 3-dimensional density map of said portion of tissue; the map is obtained by means of computed tomography and therefore is formed by a plurality of voxels (VX); for each voxel (VX) of the map, respectively considered as the central voxel (VXC), the following steps are carried out:—determining a space (CC) surrounding the central voxel (VXC) and containing a group of peripheral voxels (VXP),—for each peripheral voxel (VXP) of the group, calculating a value proportional to the ratio or the difference between the density of the peripheral voxel (VXP) and the density of the central voxel (VXC), thus obtaining a plurality of values,—calculating the maximum value and/or the minimum value and/or the average value and/or a statistical partitioning value of these values, thus obtaining a local indicator of inhomogeneity in the animal tissue in correspondence to the ce

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed that, in various embodiments and permutations and combinations of inventions, diagnose and treat Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms. In one series of embodiments, the invention consists of methods and devices for identifying patients whose Pulmonary Embolism or associated symptoms are caused or exacerbated, at least in part, by blockages of one or more of the patient's internal pulmonary veins. In some instances, stenoses or other flow limiting structures or lesions in the patient's affected veins are identified. Further, in some instances the nature of such lesions and whether there is a significant disruption of blood pressure, or both, is ascertained. In some embodiments, methods and devices for applying one or more therapies to the blockages in the patient's pulmonary veins are provided.

Abstract: A substrate configured for placement on an internal organ or internal tissue is provided. In certain embodiments, the substrate conforms to and moves with the internal organ or internal tissue. Three or more sensor elements are integrated on the substrate. In one implementation, the substrate and associated sensor elements provide dynamic referencing of the internal organ or internal tissue after registration of the sensor data with images and/or volumetric representations of the internal organ or internal tissue.

Abstract: A dual imaging probe 300 for obtaining both ultrasound and electrical impedance data is disclosed along with methods of using the dual imaging probe 300 to interrogate tissue. An electrical impedance imaging overlay 330 is adapted to be positioned on a transducer window 304 of an ultrasound probe 320, and may be integrally formed as part of the ultrasound probe 320 or as a modular adapter for coupling with, and optionally uncoupling from, an ultrasound probe 320 to form the dual imaging probe 300. A method (FIG. 6) of reconstructing composite images using both ultrasound and electrical impedance data is described. Applications for medical diagnosis are described. A particular use for prostate imaging is described.

Abstract: An apparatus for percutaneously implanting a localization wire into a tissue mass comprises a cannula with a preloaded localization wire having a distal end and at least one anchor. An actuator is in operable communication with the cannula and is configured for operation between a charged condition and a discharged condition to retract the cannula toward a retracted position to expose the distal end and the at least one anchor of the localization wire to the tissue mass, without inducing movement of the localization wire, and with the cannula being removable from the localization wire in its entirety.

Abstract: An apparatus for inserting delay according to an embodiment includes a signal generating circuit, a plurality of carry elements, and a delay chain circuit. The delay chain circuit includes one or more delay modules selected from the plurality of carry elements, at least one feedback line connected between at least one of the delay modules and the signal generating circuit, and a plurality of enable inputs. Each of the plurality of enable inputs is provided in a respective one of the delay modules. The delay chain circuit is configured to generate an amount of delay based on a delay selection signal that is received at the enable inputs and that selects the amount of delay, and is configured to provide the selected amount of delay to the signal generating circuit, which is configured to incorporate the delay into the start signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a simulation and planning system for intraoperative radiation therapy and to a method allowing said system to be used for treatment studies, simulation, planning, training and recording, which system generally comprises a central processing unit or computer (1) for management and control and software-based communication with the rest of the devices and the user; one or several monitors or screens (2) for displaying images and peripherals responsible for gathering data relating to the actions performed by said user, a deformation simulation module for the virtual simulation of the deformation produced in the organs and tissues during the process; algorithms for instantly calculating the radiation dose applied during the radiation therapy treatment simulation and means for recording all the activities carried out and generating a full dosimetry report.

Abstract: The present invention provides an imaging probe for imaging mammalian tissues and structures using high resolution imaging, including high frequency ultrasound and optical coherence tomography. The imaging probes structures using high resolution imaging use combined high frequency ultrasound (IVUS) and optical imaging methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to accurate co-registering of images obtained from ultrasound image signals and optical image signals during scanning a region of interest.

Abstract: An image recording device is disclosed for the simultaneous recording of magnetic resonance image data and nuclear medical image data, in particular PET image data. In at least one embodiment, the image recording device includes a nuclear medical detector arrangement integrated into a magnetic resonance device, wherein a fluorescence detector arrangement including an optical system and designed for fluorescence imaging is also integrated into the magnetic resonance device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of tracking a change in a region of interest in an subject according to respiration are provided. For example, an apparatus embodiment may include a model selector configured to select a model from among models of a region of interest of an subject generated to indicate a change in a region of interest during a respiration cycle of the subject, a respiration signal obtainer configured to obtaining a respiration signal of the region of interest by using ultrasound images including the region of interest obtained during the respiration cycle of the subject, and an information obtainer configured to obtain information regarding the region of interest at a time when the ultrasound images are obtained, from the selected model, by using the obtained respiration signal.

Abstract: Apparatus for accurate positioning of a needle guide is disclosed. The apparatus provides a means for taking as input the position vector for the point of insertion of the needle into the body. This point of insertion can be selected from images produced by a Computer Tomography system. Similarly, the apparatus has a means for taking as input the point of target. A controller determines the directional vector between point of insertion and point of target. A guide manipulator accurately positions the needle guide in line with the directional vector, such that the needle can easily be inserted through the guide to the point of target. The positioning of the guide manipulator in accordance with the directional vector is done with the help of motors.

Abstract: A system includes a gantry, a first positron emission tomography (PET) section including a first detector ring oriented about an axis, and a second PET section supported by the gantry and including a second detector ring oriented about the axis. The gantry is adjustable to move the second PET section relative to the first PET section.

Abstract: A system for the imaging, processing and evaluation of tissues provides prognostic and diagnostic details regarding diseased tissue. A set of quantitative measures were developed and integrated in an image-base analysis software tool designed for OCT images. The system and methods in this invention is significant because it allows assessing the optical properties and structure morphology differences between normal healthy subjects and diabetic patients with retinopathy up to ETDRS level 35 and without retinopathy.

Abstract: Embodiments for forming elastic images in an ultrasound system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a Tx/Rx unit repeatedly transmits/receives an ultrasound beam along scan lines in a target object to output receive signals. An image processing unit forms a plurality of consecutive ultrasound images based on the receive signals and set a center of the target object on each of the ultrasound images. The image processing unit further sets radial scan lines in radial directions with respect to the center on each of the ultrasound image and reconstructs the ultrasound images such that the radial scan lines are in parallel with each other to form reconstruction images. An elastic image forming unit forms an elastic image based on the reconstruction images.

Abstract: Multiple aperture, multiple modal optical systems and methods include at least one optical component positioned at a first position about a longitudinal axis; and at least two light sources connectable to the at least one optical component, wherein the multiple modal optical system is configured to transmit light from the at least two light sources in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal axis and receive reflected light, and wherein the at least one optical component is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis and translate along the longitudinal axis when connected to the at least two light sources.

Abstract: Investigation of in vivo models of disease requires imaging studies involving single subjects in single imaging sessions, serial imaging of individuals or groups of subjects, and integration of data across diverse and heterogeneous experimental methodologies. Each type of experiment is preferably supported by various feature sets that can be rigorously applied to produce quantitative, reproducible results. Current imaging scanners are not equipped with standardized capability that supports an automated and scientifically rigorous workflow suited to hypothesis testing. An imaging system includes a research workstation at which a user can design, execute, study, and report imaging plans. Flexibility that comes along with a modular design of the system allows the user to customize workflow parameters for more robust hypothesis testing.

Abstract: A masquerading detection system includes: an imaging unit (2) that obtains a first image by imaging an inspection object (12) from a first angle, and a second image by imaging the inspection object from a second angle which is different from the first angle; a unit (101) that detects first feature points from the first image, obtains first feature point coordinates of the detected feature points, detects second feature points from the second image, and obtains second feature point coordinates of the detected feature points; a unit (104) that obtains transformed coordinates by performing a plane projective transformation for the second feature point coordinates from the second image to the first image; and a unit (105) that determines that masquerading has been attempted when the difference between the transformed coordinates and the corresponding first feature point coordinates is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

Abstract: Disclosed is a microrobot for the therapy of brain/spinal cord diseases. It comprises a microrobot comprising a driving unit having a magnet therein, and a therapeutic means or drug delivery means for treating a disease lesion; a microrobot driving module for performing and controlling various motions of the microrobot by generating an electromagnetic force through an electromagnetic coil system; an imaging module for imaging a thecal sac filled with cerebrospinal fluid, a ventricle, and the microrobot; a diagnosis module for diagnosing the brain/spinal cord disease, based on a pre-operative image produced by the imaging module; and a navigation module for planning a moving path for the microrobot, based on the pre-operative image produced by the imaging module and for monitoring the microrobot through an intraoperative image produced by the imaging module.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to biopsy needle guidance which employs an x-ray/gamma image spatial co-registration methodology. A gamma camera is configured to mount on a biopsy needle gun platform to obtain a gamma image. More particular, the spatially co-registered x-ray and physiological images may be employed for needle guidance during biopsy. Moreover, functional images may be obtained from a gamma camera at various angles relative to a target site. Further, the invention also generally relates to a breast lesion localization method using opposed gamma camera images or dual opposed images. This dual head methodology may be used to compare the lesion signal in two opposed detector images and to calculate the Z coordinate (distance from one or both of the detectors) of the lesion.

Abstract: The current invention provides an ultrasound-assisted delivery device, that includes a focused ultrasound transducer having an ultrasound focal point, a real-time imaging device having an imaging focal point, and a therapeutic delivery device, where the transducer and the imaging device are integrated with the delivery device, and the ultrasound focal point coincides with the imaging focal point, where the delivery device and transducer are disposed to provide an unobstructed imaging path for the real-time imaging device. The invention further includes a scanning optical or laser beam having a focal point disposed to sweep across the target, where the delivery device is disposed to deliver an optical contrast material to the target, and the scanning focal point coincides with the ultrasound and imaging focal points, where the target or the optical contrast material react to the scanning beam to generate at least one interface signal.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for measuring the motion of internal joint structures during and for measuring the function of muscles involved with the motion of a joint of a subject are disclosed. The apparatus can be configured in three forms: a horizontal, vertical, or butterfly motion control device. Each configuration comprises a static member and a moving member, in which the moving member operates to move or be moved by the subject being studied. Also disclosed are processes for using each apparatus to measure of the relative motion of skeletal structures in a subject, in which the subject is positioned in the apparatus and commanded to move while diagnostic medical images are taken or captured. Additionally, processes for using each apparatus to specifically measure and collect data on the function of the subject's muscles are disclosed.

Abstract: In alternative embodiments, the invention provides compositions, products of manufacture and medical devices, and methods, using optical coherence tomography to monitor for a physiological event and/or a state prior to the physiological event. The invention also provides computer program products and computer implemented methods to capture, analyze, and display optical coherence tomography images of neural tissue to measure, detect and/or monitor for a physiological event and/or a state prior to the physiological event.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for estimating internal position information of a target in real-time based on a single gantry-mounted x-ray imager and a respiratory signal. The x-ray imaging is done periodically to limit radiation dosage. Initial parameters for the estimation model are determined in a pre-treatment session using four dimensional computed tomography (4D CT) in combination with a respiratory signal acquired from the patient. The model parameters are updated during treatment based on the periodic x-ray image data and the respiratory signal.

Abstract: A patient treatment unit for analyzing and treating abnormality of human or animal tissues, includes a display; a pulse generator circuit that outputs a sequence of electrical pulses at a pulse frequency, the electrical pulses having a pulse width, the pulse generator controlling the pulse frequency and the pulse width of the electrical pulses; a pair of probes for contacting a body of a patient and electrically coupled to the pulse generator; and a voltage and current sensing circuit that senses a voltage or a current via the probes when contacting the body of the patient.

Abstract: Described herein is a three-dimensional scanning system that features a camera integrated with a user-guided haptic interface device. The system allows an operator, through the sense of touch, to intuitively and interactively identify optimum locations for obtaining images or scans of an object. The system then assembles these scans to produce a virtual three-dimensional representation of the object with a high degree of accuracy and with a minimum of data artifacts.

Abstract: A treatment delivery system or a simulation system simulates treatment of a patient, including testing the ability of one or more tracking methods to track a target position during the simulation. The system then presents simulation results to a user, the simulation results indicating whether any of the one or more tracking methods will successfully track the target position during treatment delivery.

Abstract: A method and device (1) for imaging soft body tissue such as a female breast is proposed. X-ray projection techniques and optical tomography techniques are combined. First image data for a first image of a breast (17) may be acquired by X-ray projection using an X-ray source (3) and an X-ray detector (5). Second image data for a second image may be acquired using optical tomography equipment comprising a light source (9) and a light detector (11). From the first image data, estimated bulk optical properties of the breast (17) are be derived. Based on such estimated bulk optical properties, an optical tomography image is reconstructed from the second image data with high image quality. Performing mammography acquisition at different compression states of the breast (17) may improve patient comfort. Mammograms may be acquired at two different compression states wherein a first compression state is adapted to provide high image resolution.

Abstract: Regions-of-interest discovered from analyses of images obtained from one imaging modality can be further observed, analyzed, supplemented, and further analyzed by one or more additional imaging modalities and in an automated way. In addition, one or more pathologies identified from analyses of these regions-of-interest, and a metric of the likelihood of the presence of disease, and/or a metric of risk of disease progression can be derived therefrom.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods for evaluating and preserving arteriovenous access sites. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a sensor wire that is sized, shaped, and configured to pass through a delivery instrument to measure pressure and flow within and around an AV access site, thereby indicating the impact of the arteriovenous access site on the blood flow to the surrounding vasculature and tissues in real time. Also, the present disclosure relates to a therapeutic system comprising a combination pressure-flow sensor wire, a balloon catheter with imaging capabilities, and a computer system to allow the user to evaluate the blood flow and blood pressure within and around an AV access site in real time, diagnose the presence of complications associated with arteriovenous access sites, treat such complications, and assess the effectiveness of treatment both during and after treatment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an integrated therapeutic and imaging catheter. The catheter comprises an inner member defining a guidewire lumen, a radiopaque balloon assembly, a treatment device operatively associated with an outer sleeve of the balloon assembly, and an imaging device adjacent the balloon assembly. The balloon assembly comprises an inner sleeve surrounding the inner member and an outer sleeve surrounding the inner sleeve. The catheter includes a connection medium, wherein when the connection medium extends through the balloon it is disposed between the balloon inner sleeve and the inner member. The imaging device is disposed adjacent to the balloon assembly and is coupled to the connection medium.

Abstract: A variety of methods and arrangements for sharing medical data are described. In one aspect, one or more data streams are received from one or more medical imaging/sensing or other types of devices. Frames are obtained from the streams. In some embodiments, particular frames and/or parts of frames are selectively encrypted. The frames are transmitted to a remote device, where they are rendered and/or displayed at the remote device. In various embodiments, the frames of different streams are synchronized.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to devices and methods for imaging and delivering a fertilized egg into a woman's uterus. In certain embodiments, the invention provides devices that include a body configured to fit within a lumen of a woman's reproductive system. The body includes an opening. Devices of the invention also include a channel within the body. The channel includes a distal end that is connected to the opening. Devices of the invention also include an imaging assembly coupled to the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for cochlear endoscopy is provided, comprising a noninvasive head holder with a frame to attach to a head, an otologic tool for examining or operating on an ear, and a manipulator for moving the otologic tool with a translation precision of better than or equal to 0.5 mm. The otologic tool comprises an endoscope.

Abstract: A dual modality probe is disclosed having both a positron emission tomography sensor and a ultrasound sensor. A dual imaging system is provided having the probe and at least one external positron emission tomography detector and a data acquisition computer system for collecting data simultaneously from said positron emission sensor and said ultrasound sensor of said probe and said positron emission tomography detector. A method for evaluating a target organ of a patient utilizing the probe and imaging system, and performing a biopsy of the organ is disclosed.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to systems and methods for determining a probability of a female subject having a cardiac event.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to devices and methods for imaging and delivery thrombolytic agents to biological material inside a vessel. In certain embodiments, the invention provides devices that include a body configured to fit within a lumen of a vessel. The body includes an opening. Devices of the invention also include a channel within the body. The channel includes a distal end that is connected to the opening. Devices of the invention also include an imaging assembly coupled to the body.

Abstract: In a radiographic image capturing apparatus, an object to be examined is compressed and secured between a compression plate and an image capturing base, at a position off-center from a central position of the image capturing base near a subject in a direction along the subject. An opening is defined in the compression plate so as to confront the object to be examined in the off-center position. The radiation source irradiates the object to be examined as well as the opening with radiation from a central angle of the radiation source, which is aligned with a vertical axis of the image capturing base, and which passes through the central position from a predetermined angle that is angularly spaced from the central angle about the central position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for allowing determination of patient position change relative to an imaging device and/or allowing digital subtraction in an operative position. The system can include devices for determining a position of a patient at various times and comparing the various positions of the patient. Further, a digital subtraction may be performed if the patient change is not above a threshold value and/or if motion correction can occur.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for three dimensional imaging of tissue. The invention provides systems and methods to provide a representation of tissue from three-dimensional data that includes intravascular imaging data as well as data representing a shape of the intravascular imaging probe. Device of the invention combine a shape-sensing mechanism with an intravascular intervention catheter.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for fiducial-less tracking of a volume of interest (VOI) have been presented. In some embodiments, a pair of intra-operative images of a portion of a patient is generated during treatment of a target region in the patient to show a bony structure of the patient. The bony structure shown is movable responsive to respiration of the patient. Then the pair of intra-operative images is compared with a set of digitally reconstructed radiograph (DRR) pairs, generated from volumes of four-dimensional (4D) diagnostic imaging data, to determine a location of the movable bony structure that corresponds to a particular volume of the 4D diagnostic imaging data.

Abstract: A radioactive emission probe in communication with a position tracking system and the use thereof in a variety of systems and methods of medical imaging and procedures, are provided. Specifically, wide-aperture collimation-deconvolution algorithms are provided, for obtaining a high-efficiency, high resolution image of a radioactivity emitting source, by scanning the radioactivity emitting source with a probe of a wide-aperture collimator, and at the same time, monitoring the position of the radioactive emission probe, at very fine time intervals, to obtain the equivalence of fine-aperture collimation. The blurring effect of the wide aperture is then corrected mathematically. Furthermore, an imaging method by depth calculations is provided, based on the attenuation of photons of different energies, which are emitted from the same source, coupled with position monitoring.