Feature tracking using ultrasound
First Claim
1. A computer-implemented method utilizing a processor executing computer-executable instructions for tracking an anatomical feature of interest using an imaging device, the method comprising:
- receiving a series of three dimensional images of a region of interest acquired by the imaging device at a first image acquisition rate, wherein the region of interest includes the anatomical feature of interest;
determining, by the processor, a location of the anatomical feature of interest in the region of interest;
receiving temporally-displaced targeted subsets of ultrasound images acquired by the imaging device at a second image acquisition rate greater than the first image acquisition rate for the determined location;
comparing, by the processor, each targeted subset with at least one of the three dimensional images;
determining, by the processor, a displacement of the anatomical feature based on each comparison; and
using the determined displacement to determine whether to modify a radiation therapy treatment plan.
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Abstract
Various implementations of the invention provide techniques and supporting systems that facilitate real-time or near-real-time ultrasound tracking for the purpose of calculating changes in anatomical features during a medical procedure. More specifically, anatomical features within a patient undergoing a medical procedure are tracked by obtaining temporally-distinct three dimensional ultrasound images that include the feature of interest and obtaining a targeted subset of ultrasound images focused on the feature. Based on the targeted subset of ultrasound images, a displacement of the feature is determined and image parameters used to obtain the targeted subset of ultrasound images are adjusted based on the displacement. This results in a time-based sequence of three dimensional images and targeted ultrasound images of the feature that identify changes in the position, size, location, and/or shape of the feature.
195 Citations
22 Claims
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1. A computer-implemented method utilizing a processor executing computer-executable instructions for tracking an anatomical feature of interest using an imaging device, the method comprising:
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receiving a series of three dimensional images of a region of interest acquired by the imaging device at a first image acquisition rate, wherein the region of interest includes the anatomical feature of interest; determining, by the processor, a location of the anatomical feature of interest in the region of interest; receiving temporally-displaced targeted subsets of ultrasound images acquired by the imaging device at a second image acquisition rate greater than the first image acquisition rate for the determined location; comparing, by the processor, each targeted subset with at least one of the three dimensional images; determining, by the processor, a displacement of the anatomical feature based on each comparison; and using the determined displacement to determine whether to modify a radiation therapy treatment plan. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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Specification