Scientists at Samara National Research University have developed a digital image processing algorithm aimed at enhancing vein contrast in near-infrared (NIR) imaging. The method improves the differentiation between blood vessels and surrounding tissues, ensuring clearer separation and easier visualization, particularly in challenging cases. The algorithm was designed for integration into medical devices such as portable venous scanners. The results have been published in the Journal of Biomedical Photonics & Engineering.
NIR imaging devices leverage differences in light absorption by hemoglobin and tissues, but often produce images with low contrast, making needle insertion difficult when vessels are poorly visible. To address this, researchers proposed a new algorithm based on fast Fourier transform and frequency domain filtering, ensuring high speed and efficiency.
The process involves three stages: high-pass filtering with a Gaussian filter, adaptive contrast enhancement, and a Wallis filter. Unlike popular approaches such as CLAHE or median filtering, this method effectively highlights blood vessel boundaries and operates in real time on devices with limited computing resources.
The algorithm was tested on a set of 100 infrared images of forearms. The assessment was based on the RMSE indicator, which measures how closely the brightness of the veins and skin pixels approaches the desired value: veins should be as dark as possible (close to 0), and the background should be lighter (close to 255).
The results showed that the new algorithm reduced the brightness error of the veins by 20-40%: most of the pixels corresponding to the veins turned almost black.
The algorithm is implemented using the OpenCV library and is intended for use in portable vein visualization devices, including in conditions of limited computing resources. The authors note that further testing in real medical device environments is necessary.
Earlier it was reported that Moscow-based Garnet Bio Tech, located in the Dubna special economic zone, plans to expand its production capacity. Following the launch of a new production line at the end of 2024, the company increased its capacity to produce up to 210 million vacuum blood collection systems annually. Covering a full production cycle, Garnet Bio Tech now holds more than 27% of the Russian market for venous access solutions.
