Abstract:
Provided are an image processing device capable of improving effectiveness of observation by a user and an image processing method in the image processing device. The image processing device includes: image signal input means for inputting an image signal based on a plurality of images captured by a medical device having an imaging function; image division means for dividing each of the images into a plurality of regions; feature amount calculation means for calculating a feature amount in each of the regions; cluster classification means for classifying clusters generated in a feature space according to the feature amount and the occurrence frequency of the feature amount, into one of classes; subset generation means for generating a plurality of subset by using the images; and classification reference calculation means for calculating the classification reference when classifying the images contained in one of the subsets.
Abstract:
A treatment system (1600, 1900) is provided for traversing the alimentary tract. The system (1600, 1900) includes an ingestible capsule, which includes a gas pressurizing module (1602)) providing a gas and at least one balloon (1604, 1901) in fluid communication with the gas pressurization module (1602). The capsule further includes an exhaust channel (1610) in fluid communication with a respective balloon of the at least one balloon (1604, 1901), and a depressurizing closure member (1608) for selectively controlling flow of gas between the balloon (1604, 1901) and the ambient surroundings of the capsule. The system further includes control circuitry (906) for controlling the depressurizing closure member (1608).
Abstract:
In one aspect, the present invention is a medical device that reduces the likelihood of an operator improperly reusing it. The medical device includes (a) a device body; (b) a substrate comprising a contrast material that covers at least a portion of the device body; and (c) an outer layer comprising a hydrophilic material that covers at least a portion of the substrate. The outer layer comprising hydrophilic material is capable of absorbing water-solute a contaminants during clinical use that, once absorbed, are visible against the background of the substrate comprising the contrast material. In another aspect, the device includes (a) a device body and (b) an outer layer comprising a usage indicator reagent. In another aspect, the invention provides methods of preventing re-use of a single use medical device.
Abstract:
A protective cover (34) for medical imaging devices of the type having a probe (12) with an optical system (14) at a distal end, includes a sheath (35) of plastic material formed to enclose at least a portion of the probe, and a transparent head (37) secured to the sheath at a distal end of the cover. The transparent head provides a transparent window at the distal end of the probe to allow light to enter the probe, and be imaged in a normal manner. Indicia (42) are formed on the transparent head, and are imaged by the medical imaging device. The image is then analyzed to determine if the indicia as shown in the image correspond to a preselected pattern, which may be one of a group of patterns which provide indications concerning the nature of the cover. If a pattern is recognized, the information corresponding to that pattern can be provided to an operator; and if no pattern is recognized or if the pattern corresponds to an improper cover for the particular imaging device, a warning can be provided to the operator or the device disabled. The protective cover can be disposed after use with a patient, and a new cover applied to enclose the portions of the probe that will contact another patient, thereby minimizing potential spread of infection.
Abstract:
A portable data collection device (200) is provided for diagnostic image, and data collection at a remote location. The device is implemented as an otoscope including a speculum, and light source for illumination of the ear canal. A digital camera element collects the reflected images, and provides the images to a processor. The processor processes the images using pattern matching techniques, and displays, and/or stores suitable images. The images are transferred to a base station (300) for subsequent transmission to a remote server or computer (110) where an authorized party (102) may access, and examine the images. An authorization or prescription (112, 114) from the remote server or computer (110) may be required to enable data collection, and transmission by the otoscope.
Abstract:
A protective cover (34) for medical imaging devices of the type having a probe (12) with an optical system (14) at a distal end, includes a sheath (35) of plastic material formed to enclose at least a portion of the probe, and a transparent head (37) secured to the sheath at a distal end of the cover. The transparent head provides a transparent window at the distal end of the probe to allow light to enter the probe, and be imaged in a normal manner. Indicia (42) are formed on the transparent head, and are imaged by the medical imaging device. The image is then analyzed to determine if the indicia as shown in the image correspond to a preselected pattern, which may be one of a group of patterns which provide indications concerning the nature of the cover. If a pattern is recognized, the information corresponding to that pattern can be provided to an operator; and if no pattern is recognized or if the pattern corresponds to an improper cover for the particular imaging device, a warning can be provided to the operator or the device disabled. The protective cover can be disposed after use with a patient, and a new cover applied to enclose the portions of the probe that will contact another patient, thereby minimizing potential spread of infection.
Abstract:
A portable data collection device (200) is provided for diagnostic image, and data collection at a remote location. The device is implemented as an otoscope including a speculum, and light source for illumination of the ear canal. A digital camera element collects the reflected images, and provides the images to a processor. The processor processes the images using pattern matching techniques, and displays, and/or stores suitable images. The images are transferred to a base station (300) for subsequent transmission to a remote server or computer (110) where an authorized party (102) may access, and examine the images. An authorization or prescription (112, 114) from the remote server or computer (110) may be required to enable data collection, and transmission by the otoscope.