A Computer-Graphic Display for Real-Time Operator Feedback during Interventional X-Ray Procedures

The harmful effects of ionizing radiation, as employed in a variety of medical imaging procedures, have been well studied and documented. To minimize risk to patients, operators must continually assess the dose rate and cumulative dose to the patient at each area of exposure. We have developed a computer graphic dose management display system which provides this operator feedback. The system is comprised of a signal processing module which reads the state of a fluoroscopy machine, a transmission ionization chamber for exposure measurement, and a visualization of the patient that displays the current level of radiation intensity and accumulated dose at every location on the body. The system shows the beam projection and orientation of the machine and color-coded dose metrics on the patient graphic model in real time. Additionally, a database system has been incorporated to allow for recording and playback of the entire procedure.