Method for Processing an Endoscopy Image

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The patent describes a method for processing digital endoscopy images to enable objective, quantitative evaluation of patient regions depicted in the images. By analyzing the color values and surface areas of image points that represent body regions, the method calculates quantitative measures (like area proportions of certain color clusters) that correlate with pathological conditions, such as inflammation. This provides a reproducible, evidence-based assessment tool for endoscopic diagnostics, reducing reliance on the subjective visual interpretation of doctors.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Supporting gastroenterologists in diagnosing and tracking inflammation or other abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract using quantitative measures.
• Comparative analysis of sequential endoscopic images to monitor disease progression or treatment response.
• Automated screening or computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) in endoscopic procedures for early detection of pathological changes.
• Objective documentation and comparison of endoscopy results across different patients or clinical visits.
• Integration into endoscopic imaging systems for real-time, quantitative feedback during interventions.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides objective, reproducible, and quantitative assessment of endoscopy images, minimizing subjective errors.
• Enables evidence-based diagnostics in endoscopy, improving accuracy and standardization.
• Allows for tracking and comparison of patient conditions over time, aiding in disease monitoring.
• Facilitates the development of automated analysis tools that can detect even subtle image changes beyond human perception.
• Supports standardized reporting and enhances communication between clinicians through quantitative results.
• Reduces dependency on individual experience and variability among endoscopists.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for processing a generated digital endoscopy image (12) of a patient (2), wherein: those pixels (16a-d) that depict a body region of the patient (2) are determined as image points (18a-d) in the endoscopy image (12), a color value (20a-d) is derived for each image point (18a-d) using the value of the associated pixel (16a-d), an area portion (24a-d) associated with each image point (18a-d) is derived for same, a color area (26A-C) is derived for each value (A-C) of the derived color values (20a-d) as the sum of all area portions (24a-d) of the image points (18a-d) comprising said value (A-C), an evaluation dimension (28) is determined for the endoscopy image (12) using the color areas (26A-C).