Radiation tomography apparatus

Abstract

The radiation tomography device is provided with a tomographic image file generation unit (12) that generates the same tomographic image file (18) including an equivalent pure X-ray image (17) and a plurality of tomographic images (16). The plurality of tomographic images (16) are tomographic images at a plurality of height positions generated by reconstructing each of a plurality of X-ray images (15) captured from different directions, and the equivalent simple X-ray image (17) is an image having a positional relationship substantially identical to that of a case in which a subject (T) is captured from a predetermined direction.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application filed on July 10, 2018, with application number 201880073588.X, and invention name “Radiation tomography image processing device and radiation tomography device”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a radiation tomographic image processing device and a radiation tomographic imaging device, and in particular, to a radiation tomographic image processing device and a radiation tomographic imaging device that reconstruct a plurality of tomographic images based on a plurality of X-ray imaging images. Background Art

[0003] Conventionally, there are known radiation tomographic image processing devices and radiation tomographic imaging devices that reconstruct a plurality of tomographic images from a plurality of X-ray images. For example, Japanese Patent No. 5866958 discloses such a radiation tomographic image processing device and radiation tomographic imaging device.

[0004] Japanese Patent Gazette No. 5866958 discloses a radiation tomographic image processing device and a radiation tomographic imaging device that reconstructs a plurality of X-ray images acquired by performing X-ray photography in which a subject is irradiated with X-rays from different directions, thereby generating a plurality of tomographic images at arbitrary height positions.

[0005] In Japanese Patent No. 5866958, the acquired multiple tomographic images are generally stored in one image file and can be viewed sequentially in the direction of the cross-sectional height through a PC (Personal Computer). Doctors and the like display the file storing the multiple tomographic images on a PC and the like, observe the tomographic images at various height positions, and thereby identify the disease and the affected part. In this way, the tomographic images acquired through Japanese Patent No. 5866958 and the like are acquired to perform detailed examinations to identify the disease and the like.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5866958 Summary of the invention

[0009] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0010] However, in Japanese Patent No. 5866958, a plurality of tomographic images are stored in one file in the order of cross-sectional height, so that when the file is opened, the first image displayed is the tomographic image at the highest (or lowest) height position. Therefore, when a doctor or the like opens a tomographic image file obtained by photographing a chest, it is difficult to identify the imaging part. For example, the first displayed tomographic image only captures a part of the surface of the ribs, and in order to identify the imaging part, it is necessary to open another file of a simple X-ray image that can identify the imaging part for confirmation.

[0011] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide a radiation tomographic image processing device and a radiation tomographic imaging device capable of generating a tomographic image file capable of distinguishing an imaging part in the same file when observing a plurality of tomographic images.

[0012] Solutions for solving problems

[0013] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the radiation tomographic image processing device in the first aspect of the present invention comprises: an image acquisition unit, which acquires a plurality of X-ray images obtained by X-ray photography performed by irradiating a subject with X-rays from different directions; a reconstruction processing unit, which reconstructs each of the plurality of X-ray images to generate tomographic images at a plurality of height positions, and generates an equivalent simple X-ray image based on the plurality of tomographic images, the equivalent simple X-ray image being an image whose positional relationship is roughly the same as that of a case where the subject is photographed from a specified direction; and a tomographic image file generation unit, which generates the same tomographic image file including the equivalent simple X-ray image and the plurality of tomographic images.

[0014] In the radiation tomographic image processing device in the first aspect of the present invention, as described above, there is provided: a reconstruction processing unit, which generates an equivalent simple X-ray image; and a tomographic image file generating unit, which generates the same tomographic image file including an equivalent simple X-ray image and a plurality of tomographic images. Thus, it is possible to display tomographic images and equivalent simple X-ray images at various height positions in one tomographic image file. As a result, it is possible to generate a tomographic image file that can distinguish the imaging part in the same file when observing a plurality of tomographic images. In addition, the positional relationship of the generated equivalent simple X-ray image is substantially the same as that of the X-ray image obtained by simple X-ray photography, so that an equivalent simple X-ray image substantially the same as the simple X-ray image can be obtained without performing simple X-ray photography. As a result, the number of imaging times can be reduced compared to the case where simple X-ray photography and tomographic photography are performed separately.

[0015] In the radiation tomographic image processing device of the first aspect described above, it is preferred that the tomographic image file generating unit is configured to set an equivalent simple X-ray image and any one of the tomographic images specified by the user among a plurality of tomographic images as a representative image displayed when selecting a tomographic image file. If configured in this way, a file can be selected by confirming the representative image. As a result, when the equivalent simple X-ray image is set as the representative image, a file displaying the photographed part can be selected, thereby suppressing the selection of a file with a different photographed part when selecting a file. In addition, when the tomographic image specified by the user is set as the representative image, a tomographic image capable of identifying the photographed part is designated as the representative image, thereby enabling the selection of a file displaying the tomographic image capable of identifying the photographed part. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the selection of a file captured by other photographic methods when selecting a file.

[0016] In this case, it is preferable that the tomographic image file generating unit is configured to insert the representative image at the beginning or the end of the tomographic image file. If configured in this way, when the representative image is inserted at the beginning of the tomographic image file, each tomographic image can be confirmed on the basis of first grasping the overall image of the photographed part or the tomographic image of the height position specified by the user. In addition, when the representative image is inserted at the end of the tomographic image file, the overall image of the photographed part or the tomographic image of the height position specified by the user can be finally grasped on the basis of confirming each tomographic image. As a result, the overall image of the photographed part or the tomographic image of the height position specified by the user and the tomographic image of each height position can be confirmed by the same file, so that the convenience during diagnosis can be improved.

[0017] In the configuration in which the above-mentioned equivalent simple X-ray image or the tomographic image designated by the user is set as the representative image, it is preferable that the tomographic image file generating unit is configured to insert the representative image into the beginning of the tomographic image file and to arrange the tomographic image designated by the user and the plurality of tomographic images after the representative image. If configured in this way, the representative image, the tomographic image designated by the user, and each tomographic image can be confirmed by the same file. As a result, in addition to the representative image and the plurality of tomographic images, the tomographic image designated by the user can also be added to the tomographic image file, thereby further improving the convenience during diagnosis.

[0018] In the radiation tomographic image processing device of the first aspect, it is preferred that the reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image by performing reconstruction processing according to a weight set by weighting each of a plurality of tomographic images. If configured in this way, it is possible to select a tomographic image to be reflected in the equivalent simple X-ray image by changing the weight of each tomographic image. As a result, in the case where an object that hinders diagnosis, such as a button of clothing, is photographed, the object can be prevented from being reflected in the equivalent simple X-ray image by reducing the weight of the tomographic image. Therefore, it is possible to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image without using a tomographic image that captures an object that hinders diagnosis, thereby reducing the burden on the doctor when observing the equivalent simple X-ray image.

[0019] In this case, it is preferable that an input operation receiving unit for receiving an input operation by a user is further provided, and the reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image based on a plurality of tomographic images whose weights are determined by the user. If configured in this way, the user can arbitrarily set the weight of each tomographic image. As a result, an equivalent simple X-ray image with enhanced visibility by emphasizing a desired cross section can be easily generated. In addition, if the weights are made equal, an image similar to a normal simple X-ray image can be obtained, so a familiar simple X-ray image can be generated according to the intention of a doctor or the like.

[0020] In the configuration for generating an equivalent simple X-ray image based on a plurality of tomographic images whose weights are determined by the user, it is preferable that the reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image based on a plurality of tomographic images in which the weights of tomographic images including the region of interest of the subject are set large. If configured in this way, an equivalent simple X-ray image in which the region of interest is emphasized can be generated. As a result, the region of interest is emphasized in the equivalent simple X-ray image, so that the part to be focused on in diagnosis can be easily confirmed in the equivalent simple X-ray image.

[0021] In the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus of the first aspect, it is preferred that the tomographic image file generating unit is configured to generate a copy of the equivalent simple X-ray image as another file not including the tomographic image. If configured in this way, when a doctor or the like wants to confirm the simple X-ray image in addition to the tomographic image, the confirmation can be performed by the equivalent simple X-ray image even without separately taking a simple X-ray image. In addition, by setting the tomographic image file including the equivalent simple X-ray image and the file of the equivalent simple X-ray image not including the tomographic image as separate files, it is possible to simply browse only the equivalent simple X-ray image without confirming the tomographic image.

[0022] In addition, the radiation tomography apparatus in the second aspect of the present invention comprises: an X-ray source; a detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; an image processing unit that generates an X-ray image based on the intensity distribution of the X-rays detected by the detector; an imaging system position changing mechanism that changes the relative position of the imaging system including the X-ray source and the detector; a reconstruction processing unit that reconstructs each of a plurality of X-ray images obtained by irradiating an object with X-rays from different directions to generate tomographic images at a plurality of height positions, and generates an equivalent simple X-ray image based on the plurality of X-ray images, the equivalent simple X-ray image being an image with a positional relationship substantially the same as that of a case where the object is photographed from a prescribed direction; and a tomographic image file generating unit that generates a tomographic image file including the equivalent simple X-ray image and the plurality of tomographic images.

[0023] In the radiation tomography apparatus in the second aspect of the present invention, as described above, there is provided: a reconstruction processing unit that generates an equivalent simple X-ray image; and a tomography file generating unit that generates the same tomography file including the equivalent simple X-ray image and a plurality of tomography images. Thus, it is possible to display the tomography image and the equivalent simple X-ray image at each height position in one tomography file. As a result, it is possible to provide a radiation tomography apparatus that can generate a tomography file that can distinguish the imaging part in the same file when observing a plurality of tomography images. In addition, the positional relationship of the generated equivalent simple X-ray image is substantially the same as that of the X-ray image obtained by simple X-ray photography, so that it is possible to obtain an equivalent simple X-ray image that is substantially the same as the simple X-ray image without performing simple X-ray photography. As a result, it is possible to provide a radiation tomography apparatus that can reduce the number of imaging times compared to the case where simple X-ray photography and tomography are performed separately.

[0024] Effects of the Invention

[0025] According to the present invention, as described above, it is possible to provide a radiation tomographic image processing apparatus and a radiation tomographic imaging apparatus capable of generating a tomographic image file capable of discriminating an imaging site in the same file when observing a plurality of tomographic images. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a radiation tomography apparatus including a radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the Z direction.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a method of capturing an X-ray image in the radiation tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 (A) is a schematic diagram of an imaging part imaged by the radiation tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 (B) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the first layer. Figure 4 (C) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the second layer. Figure 4 (D) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the third layer.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram for explaining an image and a tomographic image captured by the radiation tomography apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 (A) to (C) are schematic diagrams of tomographic images generated by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a process of generating an equivalent simple X-ray image by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the difference in the position of pixels in each tomographic image when generating an equivalent simple X-ray image.

[0034] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram of an equivalent simple X-ray image generated by the radiation image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig.10 (A) to (C) are schematic diagrams for explaining a process of generating a tomographic image file by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig.11 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the structure of a tomographic image file generated by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig.12 (A) is a schematic diagram of a representative image included in a tomographic image file, Fig.12 (B) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of the first layer. Fig.12 (C) is a schematic diagram of the tomographic image of the second layer. Fig.12 (D) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of the third layer.

[0038] Fig.13 (A) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of a first layer generated by a radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Fig.13 (B) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of the second layer. Fig.13 (C) is a schematic diagram of the tomographic image of the third layer. Fig.13 (D) is a schematic diagram of an equivalent simple X-ray image.

[0039] Fig.14 (A) to (C) are schematic diagrams for explaining a process of generating a tomographic image file using weighted tomographic images by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Fig.15 (A) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of the first layer. Fig.15 (B) is a schematic diagram of a tomographic image of the second layer. Fig.15 (C) is a schematic diagram of the tomographic image of the third layer (C). Fig.15 (D) is a schematic diagram of an equivalent simple X-ray image generated based on the weighted tomographic image.

[0041] Fig.16 (A) to (C) are schematic diagrams of equivalent simple X-ray images when the weighted tomographic image is changed.

[0042] Fig.17 (A) and (B) are schematic diagrams for explaining a process of replicating an equivalent simple X-ray image by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Fig.18 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the structure of a tomographic image file generated by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus according to the first modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0045] [First embodiment]

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 12 The configuration of a radiation tomographic imaging apparatus 100 including the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention and a process of generating an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 will be described.

[0047] (Structure of Radiation Tomography Apparatus)

[0048] First, refer to Figure 1The structure of a radiation tomography apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the radiation tomography device 100 as viewed from the Z direction. Figure 1 As shown, the radiation tomography imaging device 100 includes an X-ray source 2, a detector 3, a control unit 4, an imaging system position changing mechanism 5, a radiation tomography processing device 1, and a display unit 7. In addition, in this specification, the vertically upward direction is referred to as the Y2 direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as the Y1 direction. In addition, the left-right direction in a plane perpendicular to the Y direction is referred to as the Z direction, and the right-left direction in a plane perpendicular to the Y direction is referred to as the Z direction. Figure 1 The direction toward the inner side of the paper is set as Z2 direction, Figure 1 The direction toward the outside of the paper is defined as the Z1 direction. In addition, the up-down direction in the plane perpendicular to the Y direction is defined as the X direction, the upper direction is defined as the X1 direction, and the lower direction is defined as the X2 direction.

[0050] The X-ray source 2 generates X-rays when a high voltage is applied thereto. The X-ray source 2 is configured to irradiate the generated X-rays toward the detector 3 .

[0051] The detector 3 is configured to detect X-rays, convert the detected X-rays into electrical signals, and read the converted electrical signals as image signals. The detector 3 is, for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The detector 3 is composed of a plurality of conversion elements (not shown) and pixel electrodes (not shown) arranged on the plurality of conversion elements. The plurality of conversion elements and the pixel electrodes are arranged on the detector 3 at a predetermined period (pixel pitch) in such a manner that the arrangement direction of the pixels coincides with the X direction and the Z direction. In addition, the detector 3 is configured to output the acquired image signal to the radiation tomography image processing device 1.

[0052] The radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 is configured to generate an X-ray image 15 (see Figure 5 ). In addition, the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 is configured to generate a tomographic image 16 obtained by reconstructing a plurality of X-ray images 15 into one image (see Figure 5 ).

[0053] The radiation tomographic image processing device 1 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In addition, the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 includes, for example, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or a processor such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) configured to perform image processing. Details of the structure of the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 for generating the tomographic image 16 will be described later. In addition, the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 is an example of an "image processing unit" in the claims.

[0054] The control unit 4 is configured to perform X-ray photography by irradiating X-rays from the X-ray source 2 toward the detector 3. In addition, the control unit 4 is configured to change the relative position of the imaging system 6 with respect to the subject T by moving the X-ray source 2 and the detector 3 via the imaging system position changing mechanism 5. The control unit 4 includes, for example, a CPU and the like.

[0055] The imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured to change the relative position of the imaging system 6 including the X-ray source 2 and the detector 3 and the angle of the X-ray source 2 based on the signal from the control unit 4. The imaging system position changing mechanism 5 includes an X-ray source holding part 5a that holds the X-ray source 2 in a rotatable manner. The X-ray source holding part 5a holds the X-ray source 2 in a rotatable manner at one end, and the other end of the X-ray source holding part 5a is held in an X-ray source moving part 5b in a movable manner. The X-ray source holding part 5a is configured to allow the X-ray source 2 to rotate around the axis of the Z direction at one end. In other words, the X-ray source holding part 5a is configured to be able to change the irradiation angle of the X-ray source 2 by a signal from the control unit 4. The X-ray source holding part 5a includes, for example, a stepping motor, an encoder, and the like.

[0056] The imaging system position changing mechanism 5 includes an X-ray source moving unit 5b that moves the X-ray source holding unit 5a in the X direction. The X-ray source moving unit 5b is configured to move the X-ray source holding unit 5a in the X direction by a signal from the control unit 4. The X-ray source moving unit 5b includes, for example, a motor.

[0057] In addition, the imaging system position changing mechanism 5 includes a detector moving unit 5c for moving the detector 3 in the X direction. The detector moving unit 5c is configured to move the detector 3 in the X direction in the opposite direction to the direction in which the X-ray source 2 moves in response to a signal from the control unit 4. The detector moving unit 5c includes, for example, a motor. Figure 1In the example shown, the X-ray source moving unit 5b moves the X-ray source 2 by moving the X-ray source holding unit 5a from the X2 direction to the X1 direction. In addition, the detector moving unit 5c moves the detector 3 from the X1 direction to the X2 direction. The imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured such that the control unit 4 of the radiation tomography imaging apparatus 100 controls the imaging system 6 to pass through the imaging site IS (refer to FIG. 1 ) of the subject T so that a line connecting the center of the surface of the X-ray source 2 on the detector 3 side and the center of the surface of the detector 3 on the X-ray source 2 side passes through the imaging site IS of the subject T. Figure 3 )'s center.

[0058] The display unit 7 is configured to display a processing screen 40 (see Fig.10 ), a tomographic image file 18 generated by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 (refer to Figure 2 ) etc. The display unit 7 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display etc.

[0059] The radiation tomography imaging device 100 is configured to perform imaging while changing the relative position of the imaging system 6 via the imaging system position changing mechanism 5, thereby generating a plurality of X-ray images 15. The relative position of the imaging system 6 includes the positions of the X-ray source 2 and the detector 3, and the irradiation angle of the X-rays of the X-ray source 2 relative to the detector 3.

[0060] (Structure of Radiation Tomographic Image Processing Apparatus)

[0061] Figure 2 1 is a block diagram showing the overall structure of the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1. Figure 2 As shown, the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 includes an image acquisition unit 10, a reconstruction processing unit 11, a tomographic image file generation unit 12, and an X-ray imaging image generation unit 13. The image acquisition unit 10, the reconstruction processing unit 11, the tomographic image file generation unit 12, and the X-ray imaging image generation unit 13 are configured as processing modules (processors) in a processor such as an FPGA of the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1, for example.

[0062] The image acquisition unit 10 is configured to acquire a plurality of X-ray images 15 obtained by X-ray photography performed by the radiation tomography imaging device 100. Specifically, the image acquisition unit 10 is configured to acquire image signals detected by the detector 3. In addition, the image acquisition unit 10 is configured to output the acquired image signals to the X-ray imaging image generation unit 13.

[0063] The X-ray image generator 13 is configured to generate an X-ray image 15 based on the image signal output from the image acquisition unit 10. The X-ray image generator 13 is also configured to perform a known correction process accompanying the visualization of the X-ray image 15.

[0064] The reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to reconstruct each of the plurality of X-ray images 15 captured while changing the relative position of the imaging system 6 with respect to the subject T, thereby generating tomographic images 16 at a plurality of height positions. In addition, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the plurality of tomographic images 16, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 being an image having a substantially same positional relationship as when the subject T is captured from a predetermined direction (see Fig. 9 The details of the process of generating the tomographic image 16 and the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 by the reconstruction processing unit 11 will be described later.

[0065] The tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate the same tomographic image file 18 including the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the plurality of tomographic images 16. In the first embodiment, the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 is configured to store the generated tomographic image file 18 in a server (not shown) or the like. In addition, a doctor or the like browses the tomographic image file 18 stored in the server through a client PC (not shown) or the like. Details of the process of generating the tomographic image file 18 by the tomographic image file generating unit 12 will be described later.

[0066] (Generation of tomographic images)

[0067] Next, refer to Figure 3 to Figure 6 A process of capturing a plurality of X-ray images 15 by the radiation tomography apparatus 100 and a process of generating a plurality of tomographic images 16 by the radiation tomography processing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the radiation tomography apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment when capturing a plurality of X-ray images 15. Figure 3 As shown, in the first embodiment, the radiation tomography imaging device 100 is configured to perform imaging while changing the relative position of the imaging system 6 with respect to the subject T by the imaging system position changing mechanism 5. Specifically, the imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured to move the X-ray source 2 in the X1 direction. In addition, the imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured to change the X-ray irradiation direction of the X-ray source 2. In addition, the imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured to move the detector 3 in the X2 direction. In this way, the imaging system position changing mechanism 5 is configured to perform imaging while changing the relative position of the imaging system 6 with respect to the subject T. The radiation tomography imaging device 100 is a device that performs so-called tomosynthesis.

[0069] Figure 4 (A) is a schematic diagram for explaining the imaging site IS of the subject T. Figure 4(B) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure 14a in the first layer L1 of the imaging site IS of the subject T. Figure 4 (C) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure 14b in the second layer L2 of the imaging site IS of the subject T. Figure 4 (D) is a schematic diagram of the internal structure 14c in the third layer L3 of the imaging site IS of the subject T.

[0070] In a first embodiment, if Figure 4 2A and 2B show an example in which the radiation tomography apparatus 100 acquires a tomographic image 16 of the chest of the subject T. FIG. Figure 4 (A) shows an example in which internal structures 14a to 14c exist at three different height positions on the chest of the subject T. That is, the internal structures 14a to 14c are internal structures 14 at different height positions (positions in the Y direction) in any imaging part IS. In addition, Figure 4 (B)~ Figure 4 (D) is a schematic diagram when the imaging site IS is viewed from the Y1 direction.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown in (B), the first layer L1 of the imaging part IS has an internal structure 14a. Figure 4 As shown in (C), the second layer L2 of the imaging part IS has an internal structure 14b. Figure 4 As shown in (D), the third layer L3 of the imaging part IS has an internal structure 14c. When the imaging part IS is photographed from the front (Y1 direction), the entire image of the imaging part IS can be confirmed, but the internal structures 14a to 14c are photographed overlapping. Therefore, when it is desired to observe the internal structures 14a to 14c separately, it is necessary to obtain the tomographic images 16 at each height position. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the radiation tomographic imaging device 100 is configured to obtain the tomographic images 16 at each height position by performing tomosynthesis imaging.

[0072] Figure 5 1 is a schematic diagram of X-ray images 15 acquired at various relative positions and a schematic diagram of a tomographic image 16 obtained by reconstructing these images. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the position where the imaging system 6 is arranged is different, the angle of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 2 to the detector 3 changes, so the obtained X-ray image 15 is also different. In the first embodiment, the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 is configured to generate a tomographic image 16 by reconstructing a plurality of X-ray images 15 of the internal structure 14a to the internal structure 14c in different imaging methods. Figure 5In FIG. 1 , the numerical values ​​shown in the X-ray source 2 represent the relative positions of the imaging system 6. Figure 5 The first to seventh relative positions are represented in order from the left side of . In addition, “generating a tomographic image 16 by reconstructing the X-ray image 15” means generating a tomographic image 16 at an arbitrary height position based on a plurality of X-ray images 15 captured by the imaging system 6 configured at various relative positions. In addition, Figure 5 In the figure, for convenience, the imaging system 6 is arranged at seven positions, namely the first relative position to the seventh relative position. However, in reality, the imaging system 6 is arranged at more relative positions for imaging. For example, the imaging system 6 is arranged at 40 relative positions for imaging.

[0073] Figure 6 (A) to (C) are schematic diagrams of a tomographic image 16 of an imaging part IS captured by the radiation tomography imaging device 100 in the first embodiment, including a plurality of internal structures 14a, internal structures 14b, and internal structures 14c whose positions in the X-direction and Z-direction are approximately the same and whose positions in the Y-direction are different from each other.

[0074] Figure 6 (A) is a tomographic image 16a of the internal structure 14a of the first layer L1 of the imaging site IS. Figure 6 (B) is a tomographic image 16b of the internal structure 14b of the second layer L2 of the imaging site IS. Figure 6 (C) is a tomographic image 16c of the internal structure 14c of the third layer L3 of the imaging site IS. The radiation tomographic image processing device 1 reconstructs the plurality of X-ray images 15 to generate a tomographic image 16c. Figure 6 (A)~ Figure 6 (C) shows a plurality of tomographic images 16.

[0075] Generally, a plurality of tomographic images 16 are stored in one file and browsed in order of height position by a PC etc. Here, when a file storing the tomographic images 16 is opened, the tomographic image 16 (the tomographic image 16a) of the cross section with the highest height position is displayed. However, depending on the imaging part IS of the subject T, it may be difficult to determine which imaging part IS is in the tomographic image 16a.

[0076] Therefore, in the first embodiment, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate the same tomographic image file 18 including the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the plurality of tomographic images 16. The equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is an image having substantially the same positional relationship as a simple X-ray image obtained by imaging the subject T from a predetermined direction.

[0077] (Equivalent to simple X-ray image)

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 7 to Figure 9 The configuration of generating the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a process in which the reconstruction processing unit 11 generates an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 from a plurality of tomographic images 16 .

[0079] exist Figure 7 In , when the set of points connecting the X-ray source 2 and the points (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16 is assumed to be (a, b, c), the following equation (1) is obtained.

[0080] [Number 1]

[0081] (a, b, c) = t (X, Y, Z) + (1-t) (0, 0, SOD)···(1)

[0082] Here, SOD is the distance between the X-ray source 2 and the subject T. Also, t is the coefficient of the linear vector connecting the X-ray source 2 and each tomographic image 16 .

[0083] When the above formula (1) is expanded, the following formulas (2) to (4) are obtained.

[0084] [Number 2]

[0085] a=tX···(2)

[0086] b=tY···(3)

[0087] c=tZ+(1-t)SOD···(4)

[0088] Since the X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 2 are detected by the detector 3 , when C is set to the following equation (5), the following equations (6) and (7) are obtained.

[0089] [Number 3]

[0090] c=-(SID-SOD)···(5)

[0091] a=α···(6)

[0092] b=β···(7)

[0093] Here, SID is the distance between the X-ray source 2 and the detector 3. In addition, α is the X coordinate on the detector 3 when the point (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16 is detected by the detector 3. In addition, β is the Y coordinate on the detector 3 when the point (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16 is detected by the detector 3.

[0094] The following formula (8) is obtained from the above formula (4) and the above formula (5).

[0095] [Number 4]

[0096] tZ+(1-t)SOD=-(SID-SOD)···(8)

[0097] By solving t in the above equation (8), the following equation (9) is obtained.

[0098] [Number 5]

[0099]

[0100] When t obtained by the above formula (9) is substituted into the above formula (2) and formula (3), the following formula (10) and formula (11) are obtained.

[0101] [Number 6]

[0102]

[0103] By solving the above equation (10) for X, the following equation (12) is obtained. Also, by solving the above equation (11) for Y, the following equation (13) is obtained.

[0104] [Number 7]

[0105]

[0106] In this way, the value of the X coordinate and the value of the Y coordinate in each point (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16 are obtained. In addition, the Z coordinate is the height position of the slice of each tomographic image 16, and the Z coordinate can be obtained by the parameter specified when generating each tomographic image 16. Therefore, by integrating the pixel values ​​of the points (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 can be generated.

[0107] Here, X-rays are radiated radially from the X-ray source 2. Therefore, when the points (X, Y, Z) in each tomographic image 16 are simply integrated, the obtained image has a positional relationship different from that of a simple X-ray image. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is as follows: Figure 8As shown in the figure, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is generated in consideration of the radial irradiation of X-rays. Specifically, regarding the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 and the tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3, the values ​​of the X coordinates and the values ​​of the Y coordinates of the points (X, Y, Z) on the optical axis of the X-rays in the respective tomographic images 16 are different. Therefore, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the difference in the values ​​of the X coordinates and the values ​​of the Y coordinates of the points (X, Y, Z) in the respective tomographic images 16.

[0108] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 generated by the reconstruction processing unit 11. Fig. 9 As shown, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is an image of the internal structure 14 a to the internal structure 14 c of each slice of the imaging site IS of the subject T.

[0109] In addition, in the first embodiment, as an example, the generation of Figure 5 . Therefore, the photographing method of the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is roughly the same as that of the X-ray image 15 photographed by configuring the photographic system 6 at the fourth relative position. On the other hand, the photographing time (exposure time) of the X-ray image 15 in tomosynthesis is shorter than the photographing time (exposure time) of the simple X-ray image, so sufficient visibility (image quality) cannot be obtained in the X-ray image 15 at the fourth relative position. In contrast, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is generated based on multiple tomographic images 16 obtained by reconstructing multiple X-ray images 15, so for the equivalent simple X-ray image 17, an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 with sufficient visibility (image quality) can be obtained.

[0110] (Tomographic image file)

[0111] Next, refer to Figure 10 to Figure 12 The process of generating the tomographic image file 18 by the tomographic image file generating unit 12 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0112] Fig.10 (A) is a schematic diagram showing an example of a processing screen 40 displayed on the display unit 7 by the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Fig.10 (B) is a schematic diagram of a parameter setting screen 50 displayed when the tomographic image file generation button 44 is pressed. Fig.10 (C) is a schematic diagram of a processing screen 40 displayed on the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 after the tomographic image file 18 is generated.

[0113] exist Fig.10In (A), the processing screen 40 includes a patient information display area 41 that displays patient information such as the name of the subject T, a file information display area 42 that displays information of a selected file, a file display area 43 that displays image files of the subject T, and a tomographic image file generation button 44.

[0114] In the first embodiment, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate the tomographic image file 18 when the user selects a file storing a plurality of tomographic images 16 and presses the tomographic image file generating button 44 .

[0115] Specifically, when the user presses the tomographic image file generation button 44, a parameter setting screen 50 is displayed. The parameter setting screen 50 includes: a tomographic image display area 51 for displaying a tomographic image 16 to select a tomographic image 16 to be designated as a representative image 19; a parameter input area 52 for selecting whether to insert the representative image 19 at the beginning or at the end of the tomographic image file 18, or whether to use the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 or the tomographic image 16 designated by the user as the representative image 19; and a generation button 53. The representative image 19 is an image displayed in the form of a thumbnail of the file displayed in the file display area 43. The representative image 19 is an image inserted at the beginning or at the end of the tomographic image file 18 for a doctor or the like to observe the imaging site IS, the tomography of the region of interest, etc., of the subject T.

[0116] In the parameter setting screen 50, the representative image 19 to be displayed when the tomographic image file 18 is selected is set, and the representative image 19 is selected to be inserted at the beginning or at the end of the tomographic image file 18. The tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to set, according to the input parameters, either the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 or the tomographic image 16 designated by the user among the plurality of tomographic images 16 as the representative image 19 to be displayed when the tomographic image file 18 is selected, when the generating button 53 is pressed after each parameter is input. In addition, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to insert the representative image 19 at the beginning or at the end of the tomographic image file 18 according to the input parameters.

[0117] exist Fig.11 , an example of a tomographic image file 18 in which a representative image 19 is inserted at the beginning and a plurality of tomographic images 16 are arranged after the representative image 19. Fig.10 ), when the representative image 19 is selected to be inserted at the end, the representative image 19 is inserted at the end of the tomographic image file 18. The tomographic image file 18 is generated in the DICOM format, for example, and can include information such as the patient's name and patient ID as header information in addition to the image data.

[0118] When a doctor or the like opens the tomographic image file 18 through a PC, the representative image 19 can be displayed first, and then the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1, the tomographic image 16b of the second layer L2, and the tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3 can be browsed in order of height positions. Therefore, by observing the representative image 19 (equivalent to the simple X-ray image 17) included in the tomographic image file 18, the doctor or the like can determine the imaging part IS of the subject T. When browsing the images included in the tomographic image file 18, the display of the representative image 19 and each tomographic image 16 can be switched by operating the scroll wheel of the mouse or the direction keys of the keyboard, for example.

[0119] (Effects of the First Embodiment)

[0120] In the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0121] In the first embodiment, as described above, the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 includes: an image acquisition unit 10 that acquires a plurality of X-ray images 15 obtained by performing X-ray photography on a subject T by irradiating X-rays from different directions; a reconstruction processing unit 11 that reconstructs each of the plurality of X-ray images 15 to generate tomographic images 16 at a plurality of height positions, and generates an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the plurality of tomographic images 16, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 being an image having a substantially same positional relationship as when the subject T is photographed from a predetermined direction; and a tomographic image file generation unit 12 that generates a single tomographic image file 18 including the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the plurality of tomographic images 16. Thus, the tomographic images 16 at each height position and the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 can be displayed in one tomographic image file 18. As a result, a tomographic image file 18 that enables the imaging site IS to be identified in the same file when the plurality of tomographic images 16 are observed can be generated. In addition, the positional relationship between the generated equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the X-ray image obtained by simple X-ray photography is substantially the same, so that the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 substantially the same as the simple X-ray image can be obtained without performing simple X-ray photography. As a result, the number of photography times can be reduced compared to the case where simple X-ray photography and tomography are performed separately.

[0122] In the first embodiment, as described above, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to set one of the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the tomographic image 16 designated by the user among the plurality of tomographic images 16 as the representative image 19 displayed when the tomographic image file 18 is selected. Thus, a file can be selected by confirming the representative image 19. As a result, when the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is set as the representative image 19, a file displaying the imaging site IS can be selected, so that it is possible to suppress the selection of a file with a different imaging site IS when selecting a file. In addition, when the tomographic image 16 designated by the user is set as the representative image 19, by designating the tomographic image 16 that can identify the imaging site IS as the representative image 19, it is possible to select a file displaying the tomographic image 16 that can identify the imaging site IS. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the selection of a file captured by another imaging method when selecting a file.

[0123] In the first embodiment, as described above, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to insert the representative image 19 at the beginning or the end of the tomographic image file 18. Thus, when the representative image 19 is inserted at the beginning of the tomographic image file 18, each tomographic image 16 can be confirmed after first grasping the whole image of the imaged part IS or the tomographic image 16 at the height position specified by the user. In addition, when the representative image 19 is inserted at the end of the tomographic image file 18, the whole image of the imaged part IS or the tomographic image 16 at the height position specified by the user can be grasped at the end after confirming each tomographic image 16. As a result, the whole image of the imaged part IS or the tomographic image 16 at the height position specified by the user and the tomographic image 16 at each height position can be confirmed by the same file, so that the convenience at the time of diagnosis can be improved.

[0124] In addition, in the first embodiment, as described above, the radiation tomography imaging device 100 includes: an X-ray source 2; a detector 3 that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 2; a radiation tomography processing device 1 that generates an X-ray image 15 based on the intensity distribution of the X-rays detected by the detector 3; an imaging system position changing mechanism 5 that changes the relative position of an imaging system 6 including the X-ray source 2 and the detector 3; a reconstruction processing unit 11 that reconstructs each of a plurality of X-ray images 15 captured by irradiating an object T with X-rays from different directions to generate tomographic images 16 at a plurality of height positions, and generates an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the plurality of X-ray images 15, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 being an image with a positional relationship substantially the same as that of a case where the object T is captured from a predetermined direction; and a tomographic image file generating unit 12 that generates a tomographic image file 18 including the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the plurality of tomographic images 16. Thus, the tomographic image 16 and the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 at each height position can be displayed in one tomographic image file 18. As a result, it is possible to provide a radiation tomographic imaging apparatus 100 that can generate a tomographic image file 18 that can identify the imaging site IS in the same file when observing a plurality of tomographic images 16. In addition, since the generated equivalent simple X-ray image 17 has substantially the same positional relationship as the X-ray image obtained by simple X-ray imaging, it is possible to obtain an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 substantially the same as the simple X-ray image without performing simple X-ray imaging. As a result, it is possible to provide a radiation tomographic imaging apparatus 100 that can reduce the number of imaging times compared to the case where simple X-ray imaging and tomographic imaging are performed separately.

[0125] [Second embodiment]

[0126] Next, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 13 to Figure 16 A radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 20 according to a second embodiment of the present invention (see Figure 1 ). Unlike the first embodiment in which an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is generated from a plurality of tomographic images 16, in the second embodiment, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 by performing reconstruction processing based on a weight set by weighting each of the plurality of tomographic images 16. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

[0127] (Decrease weighting)

[0128] First, refer to Figure 13 to Figure 15 An example of a case where the weight of the tomographic image 16 is set small will be described. Fig.13 (A) is a schematic diagram of the tomographic image 16 when an object P which is unnecessary for diagnosis or hinders diagnosis is captured in the tomographic image 16 a of the first layer L1 . Fig.13 (B) is a schematic diagram of the tomographic image 16b of the second layer L2. Fig.13 (C) is a tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3. Fig.13 (D) is a schematic diagram of an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 when an object P is captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1. The object P is, for example, a button of clothing, jewelry, or the like.

[0129] like Fig.13 As shown in (A), when a plurality of tomographic images 16 including a tomographic image 16a of the object P are used to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 As shown in (D), the object P captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 is also captured in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to perform reconstruction processing based on the weight set by weighting each of the plurality of tomographic images 16 to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image 17.

[0130] Specifically, if Fig.14 As shown in (B), the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 1 further includes an input operation receiving unit 54 for receiving input operations from a user, and the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on a plurality of tomographic images 16 whose weights are determined by the user. The input operation receiving unit 54 is configured to be able to arbitrarily set the weight of each tomographic image 16 based on the input operation of the user. In the second embodiment, an example of generating an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on a plurality of tomographic images 16, namely, a tomographic image 16a of a first layer L1, a tomographic image 16b of a second layer L2, and a tomographic image 16c of a third layer L3 is shown. Since an object P is captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1, the user sets the weight of the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 to 0, and sets the weights of the tomographic image 16b of the second layer L2 and the tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3 to 1. The vertical axis of the input operation accepting unit 54 represents the weight of each tomographic image 16, and the horizontal axis of the input operation accepting unit 54 represents the tomographic number (the order of height position) of each tomographic image 16. Fig.14 (A) and Fig.14 (C) is Fig.10 (A) and Fig.10 The structure is the same as (C), so the detailed description is omitted.

[0131] like Fig.14As shown in (B), when the weight of the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 is reduced, as shown in Fig.15 As shown in (D), the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 is not reflected in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17, so the object P captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 is not captured in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17. Fig.15 In the example shown in (D), the internal structure 14a and the object P captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 are shown by dashed lines for convenience, but they are not displayed in the actual equivalent simple X-ray image 17. Fig.15 (A)~ Fig.15 (C) is Fig.13 (A)~ Fig.13 (C) is the same schematic diagram, so detailed description is omitted.

[0132] (Increase weight)

[0133] Next, refer to Fig.16 An example of a case where the weight of a tomographic image 16 is set large is described. As an example of setting the weight of a tomographic image 16 large, for example, a part (region of interest) that a doctor or the like should pay attention to when making a diagnosis is sometimes displayed with emphasis. Therefore, in a second embodiment, an example is shown in which the reconstruction processing unit 11 generates an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on a plurality of tomographic images 16 including a tomographic image 16 of a region of interest of the subject T, the weight of which is set large. In addition, increasing the weight of a tomographic image 16 refers to a state in which the weight becomes relatively larger compared to other tomographic images 16. As a method of increasing the weight of a tomographic image 16, there is a method of setting the weight of the tomographic image 16 whose weight is to be increased to be larger than the weights of other tomographic images 16, and a method of setting the weight by reducing the weight of tomographic images 16 other than the tomographic image 16 whose weight is to be set large.

[0134] When the weight of the tomographic image 16 is increased, the internal structure 14 captured in the tomographic image 16 with increased weight is emphasized in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17. When the weight of the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1 is set large, the following image is generated: Fig.16 As shown in (A) of FIG. 1 , an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is generated by emphasizing the internal structure 14a captured in the tomographic image 16a of the first layer L1. When the weight of the tomographic image 16b of the second layer L2 is set large, Fig.16 As shown in (B) of FIG. 1 , an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is generated by emphasizing the internal structure 14b captured in the tomographic image 16b of the second layer L2. When the weight of the tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3 is set large, Fig.16As shown in FIG. 2(C), an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is an image in which the internal structure 14c captured in the tomographic image 16c of the third layer L3 is emphasized and displayed.

[0135] In addition, the other structures of the second embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first embodiment.

[0136] (Effects of the Second Embodiment)

[0137] In the second embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0138] In the second embodiment, as described above, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 by performing reconstruction processing based on the weight set by weighting each of the plurality of tomographic images 16. Thus, by changing the weight of each tomographic image 16, it is possible to select the tomographic image 16 to be reflected in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17. As a result, when an object P that hinders diagnosis, such as a button of clothing, is captured, the object P can be not reflected in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 by reducing the weight of the tomographic image 16. Therefore, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 can be generated without using the tomographic image 16 in which the object P that hinders diagnosis is captured, and the burden on the doctor when observing the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 can be reduced.

[0139] In the second embodiment, as described above, the input operation receiving unit 54 for receiving the input operation of the user is further provided, and the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on the plurality of tomographic images 16 whose weights are determined by the user. Thus, the user can arbitrarily set the weight of each tomographic image 16. As a result, it is possible to easily generate the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 in which the visibility is improved by emphasizing the desired cross section. In addition, if the weights are made equal, an image similar to a normal simple X-ray image can be obtained, so that a familiar simple X-ray image can be generated according to the intention of the doctor or the like.

[0140] In the second embodiment, as described above, the reconstruction processing unit 11 is configured to generate an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 based on a plurality of tomographic images 16 including a region of interest of the subject T, the weight of which is set large. Thus, an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 in which the region of interest is emphasized can be generated. As a result, the region of interest is emphasized in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17, so that the portion of interest to be diagnosed can be easily confirmed in the equivalent simple X-ray image 17.

[0141] [Third Embodiment]

[0142] Next, refer to Figure 1 and Fig.17Next, a radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 30 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Unlike the first and second embodiments in which a tomographic image file 18 is generated based on a plurality of tomographic images 16, in the third embodiment, a tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate a copy of an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 as another file 17a that does not include the tomographic image 16. The same reference numerals are used for the same configurations as those in the first and second embodiments, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0143] like Fig.17 As shown, the radiation tomographic image processing apparatus 30 in the third embodiment is configured to display a copy generation button 45 on the processing screen 40. The tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate a copy of the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 as another file 17a that does not include the tomographic image 16 by pressing the copy generation button 45 after selecting the tomographic image file 18 to which the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is to be copied. The separate file 17a is another file separate from the tomographic image file 18.

[0144] In addition, the other structures of the third embodiment are the same as those of the above-mentioned first and second embodiments.

[0145] (Effects of the Third Embodiment)

[0146] In the third embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0147] In the third embodiment, as described above, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 is configured to generate a copy of the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 as another file 17a that does not include the tomographic image 16. Thus, when a doctor or the like wants to confirm a simple X-ray image in addition to the tomographic image 16, the doctor can confirm the simple X-ray image 17 without separately taking a simple X-ray image. In addition, by providing the tomographic image file 18 that includes the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the file 17a that does not include the tomographic image 16 as separate files, when it is not necessary to confirm the tomographic image 16, the doctor can simply browse only the equivalent simple X-ray image 17.

[0148] In addition, other effects of the third embodiment are the same as those of the first and second embodiments described above.

[0149] (Variation Example)

[0150] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all aspects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not indicated by the description of the embodiments described above, but by the claims, and includes all changes (modifications) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0151] For example, in the first and second embodiments described above, the tomographic image file generation unit 12 inserts the representative image 19 at the beginning of the tomographic image file 18 and arranges the plurality of tomographic images 16 after the representative image 19, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Fig.18 As shown, the tomographic image file generating unit 12 may be configured to insert the representative image 19 at the beginning of the tomographic image file 18 and to arrange the tomographic image 16d and the plurality of tomographic images 16 specified by the user after the representative image 19. If configured in this way, the representative image 19, the tomographic image 16d specified by the user, and the tomographic images 16 can be confirmed in the same file. As a result, in addition to the representative image 19 and the plurality of tomographic images 16, the tomographic image 16d specified by the user can be added to the tomographic image file 18, so that the convenience at the time of diagnosis can be further improved.

[0152] In addition, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, an example is shown in which the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 and the tomographic image 16 specified by the user are selected as the representative image 19 through the parameter setting screen 50, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to configure that the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 is set to be used as the representative image 19 in advance, and when the tomographic image file generation button 44 is pressed, the tomographic image file 18 with the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 as the representative image 19 is automatically generated.

[0153] In the first and second embodiments, the example of inputting whether to insert the representative image 19 at the beginning or the end is shown through the parameter setting screen 50, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to configure such that the insertion of the representative image 19 at the beginning or the end is set in advance, and the tomographic image file 18 is automatically generated when the tomographic image file generation button 44 is pressed.

[0154] In addition, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment, an example of generating an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 from a plurality of tomographic images 16 is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when generating a plurality of tomographic images 16 from a plurality of X-ray images 15, an equivalent simple X-ray image 17 may also be generated.

[0155] In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment and second embodiment, an example of generating a tomographic image file 18 including a three-layer tomographic image 16 based on a plurality of X-ray images 15 captured by moving the imaging system 6 to seven relative positions is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. The relative position of the imaging system 6 when imaging the subject T can be any number of positions. In addition, the number of slices when generating the tomographic image 16 can also be three or more. As long as the tomographic image 16 and the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 that can diagnose the desired part can be generated, the relative position of the imaging system 6 when imaging and the number of slices of the generated tomographic image 16 can be arbitrary.

[0156] In addition, in the first to third embodiments described above, an example is shown in which the radiation tomography image processing device 1 (radiation tomography image processing device 20 and radiation tomography image processing device 30) is provided in the radiation tomography image imaging device 100, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the radiation tomography image processing device 1 (radiation tomography image processing device 20 and radiation tomography image processing device 30) and the radiation tomography image imaging device 100 are provided separately. In this case, the radiation tomography image processing device 1 (radiation tomography image processing device 20 and radiation tomography image processing device 30) may be configured to acquire a plurality of X-ray images 15 generated by the radiation tomography image imaging device 100 and perform reconstruction.

[0157] In addition, in the above-mentioned first to third embodiments, an example is shown in which the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 (radiation tomographic image processing device 20 and radiation tomographic image processing device 30) and the control unit 4 of the radiation tomographic image imaging device 100 are separately provided, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 (radiation tomographic image processing device 20 and radiation tomographic image processing device 30) and the control unit 4 may be provided integrally. That is, it may be configured so that the function of the radiation tomographic image processing device 1 (radiation tomographic image processing device 20 and radiation tomographic image processing device 30) is provided in the control unit 4 of the radiation tomographic image imaging device 100.

[0158] In the second embodiment, the example in which the user performs weighting of each tomographic image 16 via the input operation receiving unit 54 is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the weight of each tomographic image 16 may be set in advance, and when the tomographic image file generation button 44 is pressed, the tomographic image file 18 is automatically generated.

[0159] In the second embodiment, the user selects a tomographic image 16 for each tomographic image 16 and performs weighting, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the weight of the tomographic image 16 corresponding to the input height position may be automatically set by accepting the input of the height of the region of interest.

[0160] In the first and second embodiments, the equivalent simple X-ray image 17 or the tomographic image 16 specified by the user is set as the representative image 19, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the tomographic image 16 at the central height position may be set as the representative image 19.

[0161] Description of Reference Numerals

[0162] 1, 20, 30: radiation tomographic image processing apparatus; 2: X-ray source; 3: detector; 11: reconstruction processing unit; 12: tomographic image file generating unit; 15: X-ray image; 16, 16a, 16b, 16c: tomographic image; 16d: tomographic image specified by the user; 17: equivalent simple X-ray image; 17a: other files not including tomographic image; 18: tomographic image file; 19: representative image; 54: input operation receiving unit; 100: radiation tomographic image processing apparatus; T: subject.

Claims

1. A radiation tomography apparatus comprising: X-ray source; a detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; A bed on which the person being examined lies; an image processing unit that generates an X-ray image based on the intensity distribution of the X-rays detected by the detector; A photographic system position changing mechanism, which changes the relative position of the photographic system including the X-ray source and the detector; a reconstruction processing unit that reconstructs each of the plurality of X-ray images captured by irradiating the subject with X-rays from different directions to generate tomographic images at a plurality of height positions, and generates an equivalent simple X-ray image based on the plurality of tomographic images, the equivalent simple X-ray image being an image having a substantially same positional relationship as when the subject is captured from a predetermined direction; A display unit that displays the plurality of tomographic images and the equivalent simple X-ray image; as well as a tomographic image file generating unit, which generates a tomographic image file including the equivalent simple X-ray image and the plurality of tomographic images; The tomographic image file generating unit generates the tomographic image file by inserting the equivalent simple X-ray image at the beginning or the end of the plurality of tomographic images arranged in order of height positions, The display unit first displays the equivalent simple X-ray image when the tomographic image file is opened, and then displays the plurality of tomographic images in order of height positions.

2. The radiation tomography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tomographic image file generating unit is configured to insert the equivalent simple X-ray image into the beginning of the tomographic image file and to arrange the tomographic image designated by the user and the plurality of tomographic images after the equivalent simple X-ray image.

3. The radiation tomography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image by performing reconstruction processing according to a weight set by weighting each of the plurality of tomographic images.

4. The radiation tomography apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes an input operation receiving unit for receiving an input operation from a user, The reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image based on the plurality of tomographic images whose weights are determined by a user.

5. The radiation tomography apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that: The reconstruction processing unit is configured to generate the equivalent simple X-ray image based on the plurality of tomographic images in which the weight of the tomographic image including the region of interest of the subject is set to be large.

6. The radiation tomography apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tomographic image file generating unit is configured to generate a copy of the equivalent simple X-ray image as another file that does not include the tomographic image.

Images