Contactless Patient Positioning in CT
Reliable CT scan results, with the lowest possible radiation dose, depend on correct patient positioning. To achieve this, medical staff operate the patient table remotely from the control room. Laser lines are projected onto the patient to ensure precise alignment. Cameras and software are crucial components for precisely positioning the patient within the optimal scanning area of the computed tomography scanner.
Reading time: approx. 3 Minutes
Precise positioning in CT with a vision solution combining hardware and software
To position patients remotely from the control room, cameras capture images of the patient and projected laser lines. The laser lines must be visible regardless of the material and color of the patient’s clothing. It is important that the cameras deliver images reliably with sufficiently low latency. Software controls the system and displays the images on a monitor.
Low-latency color cameras, including user and service software
The system's hardware consists of three Basler ace U color cameras with 3.2 MP resolution and GigE interface. Two cameras record the patient positioning from the rear and front while the third camera captures the laser lines. The hardware setup is completed with the appropriate lenses, an industrial PC, and three 30 m GigE data cables that connect the cameras to the PC.
User and service software complement the hardware. The service software assists the FAE technician with system commissioning and ensuring correct camera settings. This makes use of special firmware features of the camera. For example, the FAE optimizes color reproduction according to the specific lighting conditions in the examination room. This ensures that the laser lines projected onto the patient for positioning are clearly visible. Using the user software, medical staff can view the three camera images—front, rear, and laser pattern views—along with a control panel, all displayed on a single monitor.
Benefits of the vision solution for contactless patient positioning
Optimally coordinated hardware and software from one source
Low latency and high reliability of the live video stream; easy to use for medical staff
Custom-developed service software that allows FAEs to configure in-camera features—for example, to flexibly yet precisely adjust color reproduction to local conditions
Cameras enable patient monitoring during the examination
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