X-ray diagnostic apparatus and method for controlling X-ray diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an X-ray diagnostic apparatus and a method for controlling the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. Even when a top plate or an image system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, the operation load related to the adjustment of an X-ray diaphragm and a compensation filter can be reduced, and the halation of an X-ray image and the radiation to a subject can be suppressed. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes a top plate, an image system, a compensation filter, and a processing circuit. A subject is placed on the top plate. The image system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The compensation filter attenuates X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube to the subject, and is movable in position with respect to the X-ray tube. The processing circuit sets an initial position of the compensation filter with respect to the X-ray tube so as to cover a predetermined site of the subject, and moves the compensation filter from the initial position with respect to the position of the X-ray tube to follow the predetermined site of the subject when at least one of the top plate and the image system moves. Therefore, the compensation filter continuously covers the specified part.

Description

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-008091 (filing date: January 23, 2024) and claims priority therefrom. This application incorporates the entire contents of that application by reference thereto. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings relate to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus and a control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus. Background Art

[0003] X-ray diagnostic apparatuses include various types such as a general X-ray imaging apparatus and an X-ray TV apparatus. Among these apparatuses, the general X-ray imaging apparatus is an apparatus that performs X-ray imaging of, for example, the chest with a relatively simple structure. In addition, the X-ray TV apparatus is configured to be able to acquire an X-ray fluoroscopic image as a moving image in addition to an X-ray imaging image as a still image so that image-guided treatment, that is, IVR (Interventional Radiology), can be performed using medical devices such as a catheter.

[0004] In these X-ray diagnostic apparatuses, devices for controlling the irradiation area and dose of X-rays, such as an X-ray diaphragm device and a compensating filter device, are mostly provided near the X-ray tube. The X-ray diaphragm device forms an opening through which X-rays pass by a diaphragm formed of a component such as lead, and irradiates only a desired area of the subject with X-rays through the opening. On the other hand, the compensating filter device is a device that suppresses vignetting or suppresses radiation to the subject by a compensating filter for X-rays.

[0005] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus, such as an X-ray TV apparatus, is configured to be able to move a top plate on which a subject is placed and an imaging system including an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging. A user, such as a physician or a technician, can fluoroscope or image a desired area of the subject by moving the top plate or the imaging system.

[0006] However, if the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, the opening position of the pre-set X-ray diaphragm or the position of the compensating filter also moves. Therefore, every time the top plate or the imaging system is moved, the user needs to readjust the opening position of the X-ray diaphragm or the position of the compensating filter again, and these readjustments impose an operational burden on the user. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings is to achieve: even when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, it is possible to reduce the operation burden related to the adjustment of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensating grid while suppressing the vignetting of the X-ray image and the radiation to the subject. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the accompanying drawings are not limited to this problem. It is also possible to identify the problems corresponding to the respective effects of the respective structures shown in the following embodiments as other problems.

[0008] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a top plate, an imaging system, a compensating grid, and a processing circuit. The top plate mounts the subject. The imaging system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The compensating grid attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube. The processing circuit sets an initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube so as to cover a predetermined part of the subject, and when at least one of the top plate and the imaging system is moved, moves the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube from the initial position to follow the predetermined part of the subject, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the predetermined part of the subject.

[0009] According to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus having the above structure, even when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, it is possible to reduce the operation burden related to the adjustment of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensating grid while suppressing the vignetting of the X-ray image and the radiation to the subject. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2A is an explanatory diagram of the X-ray diaphragm in the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2B is an explanatory diagram regarding the compensating grid in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a switch for operating the X-ray diaphragm and the compensating grid on the operation interface in the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram regarding the semi-automatic setting of the initial position of the compensating grid in the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 It is an explanatory diagram of the automatic setting of the initial position of the compensating grid in the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up start process of the compensating grid in the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up process of the compensating grid when the imaging system moves in the Y-axis direction in the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up process of the compensating grid when the top plate moves in the X-axis direction in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 It is an explanatory diagram of the distance TOD, that is, the distance between the specified part of the subject P and the top plate 51 in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up stop process of the compensating grid in the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12 It is an explanatory diagram of the first display example of the display and the thumbnail screen in the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 It is an explanatory diagram of the second display example of the display and the thumbnail screen in the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 14 It is a flowchart showing an operation example of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up start process of the X-ray diaphragm of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the third embodiment. Detailed implementation mode

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus and the control method of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0027] (First embodiment)

[0028] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1This is an example of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 that performs X-ray imaging on a subject P in a lying position. In addition, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a general imaging apparatus, an X-ray mobile examination apparatus, an X-ray angiography apparatus, an X-ray TV apparatus, and the like. Further, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 may be, for example, an X-ray fluoroscopic diagnostic apparatus used in gastrointestinal contrast examinations or the like, an X-ray fluoroscopic diagnostic apparatus for circulatory organs used in angiography examinations or the like. Hereinafter, as Figure 1 shown, the central axis of the X-ray irradiation direction is set as the Z-axis, the axis in the long side direction of the top plate 51 perpendicular to the Z-axis is set as the Y-axis, and the axis in the short side direction of the top plate 51 perpendicular to the Z-axis and the Y-axis is set as the X-axis.

[0029] As Figure 1 shown, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 includes an imaging apparatus 10 and a console 20 as an example of an image processing apparatus. The imaging apparatus 10 includes an X-ray irradiation apparatus 30, an X-ray detector 34, a support frame 35, and an examination couch 50.

[0030] The X-ray irradiation apparatus 30 includes an X-ray tube 31, an X-ray diaphragm apparatus 32, and a compensating grid apparatus 33. The X-ray tube 31 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from the cathode (filament) toward the anode (target) by applying a high voltage from a high-voltage apparatus 41. The X-ray generated by the X-ray tube 31 is irradiated onto the subject P.

[0031] The X-ray diaphragm apparatus 32 is disposed between the X-ray tube 31 and the subject P and forms the irradiation range of the X-ray on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 34. The X-ray diaphragm apparatus 32 has a plurality of diaphragm blades that can move independently. In addition, the plurality of diaphragm blades included in the X-ray diaphragm apparatus 32 are also simply referred to as X-ray diaphragms. The X-ray diaphragm limits the irradiation range of the X-ray irradiated from the X-ray tube 31 toward the subject P to the range defined by the opening by forming a movable opening. Further, the X-ray diaphragm apparatus 32 is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube 31. The X-ray diaphragm controller 42 can move the opening of the X-ray diaphragm in order to adjust the irradiation range of the X-ray. The plurality of diaphragm blades are formed of, for example, lead that shields X-rays and can move in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the X-ray irradiation direction.

[0032] Figure 2A is an example of an X-ray diaphragm. In Figure 2AIn this case, the X-ray diaphragm device 32 has a pair of diaphragm blades 321c and 321d that reduce the X-rays expanding in the X-axis direction, and a pair of diaphragm blades 321a and 321b that reduce the X-rays expanding in the Y-axis direction. In addition, the X-ray diaphragm controller 42 can control the diaphragm blades of the X-ray diaphragm device 32 asymmetrically in each direction, or can control the diaphragm blades of each pair symmetrically. For example, the X-ray diaphragm controller 42 can control in such a way that all the diaphragm blades move independently, or can control in such a way that the two pairs of diaphragm blades move symmetrically left and right and up and down. In addition, the X-ray diaphragm can also be a multi-layer structure in which a plurality of the aforementioned diaphragm blades are provided in the Z-axis direction.

[0033] The compensating grid device 33 has one or more compensating grids provided between the X-ray diaphragm device 32 and the subject P and capable of moving independently. The compensating grid is configured to attenuate the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 31 toward the subject P, and the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube 31 can be moved. The compensating grid controller 43 can move the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube 31. The compensating grid is formed, for example, of a metal plate having a rectangular shape, a semi-circular shape, an elliptical shape, etc., and can move in a direction orthogonal to the irradiation direction of the X-rays.

[0034] Figure 2B is an example of the compensating grid device 33. In Figure 2B this case, the compensating grid device 33 has two compensating grids 331a and 331b. For each of the compensating grids 331a and 331b, for example, in the initial state, the long side directions of the rectangles of the compensating grids 331a and 331b are arranged parallel to each other. The compensating grid device 33 can move it parallel to the X-axis direction or the Y-axis direction orthogonal to the irradiation direction of the X-rays by moving both ends of the compensating grids 331a and 331b an equal distance from each other. In addition, the compensating grid device 33 can rotate it in the θ direction or the φ direction on a plane orthogonal to the irradiation direction of the X-rays by moving both ends of the compensating grids 331a and 331b different distances from each other. In addition, in Figure 2B this case, there are two compensating grids, but the number of compensating grids can be one, or three or more.

[0035] The X-ray detector 34 includes, for example, a flat panel detector (FPD) and an analog-to-digital converter (A / D converter). The flat panel detector has a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged two-dimensionally, and the A / D converter converts an electrical signal into digital data. The X-ray detector 34 detects X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 31, irradiated onto the subject P, and transmitted through the subject P. Based on the detected X-rays, the X-ray detector 34 provides the console 20 with X-ray image data such as fluoroscopic data generated by fluoroscopic X-ray imaging that captures X-ray images (frame images) continuously in chronological order in real time, and raw data generated by raw X-ray imaging that captures one X-ray image.

[0036] The support frame 35 supports the X-ray irradiation device 30 and the X-ray detector 34, which are arranged opposite to each other, in a movable manner. Here, the structure including at least the X-ray tube 31 and the X-ray detector 34 is referred to as the imaging system 36. The imaging system 36 may also be configured to include the X-ray irradiation device 30, the X-ray detector 34, and the support frame 35. The imaging system controller 44 can move the imaging system 36, for example, along the long side direction (Y-axis direction) of the examination table 50. In addition, the imaging system controller 44 can move the X-ray irradiation device 30 in the vertical direction.

[0037] The examination table 50 is supported on the ground and has a top plate 51 for placing the subject P. The top plate 51 is also referred to as a lying table and places the subject P. In X-ray imaging, the subject P is placed between the X-ray irradiation device 30 and the X-ray detector 34. The examination table controller 52 can move the top plate 51 on which the subject P lies relative to the main body of the examination table 50 that houses the X-ray detector 34, for example, in the short side direction (X-axis direction). In addition, the examination table controller 52 can move the examination table 50 in a sliding manner (X and Y axis directions), in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), and in a rotational manner.

[0038] The controller 60 includes at least a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory (not shown). The controller 60 is controlled by the processing circuit 21 of the console 20 and comprehensively controls each component such as the high voltage device 41, the X-ray diaphragm controller 42, the compensating grid controller 43, the imaging system controller 44, and the examination table controller 52 of the imaging device 10.

[0039] As an example of an image processing apparatus, the console 20 includes a processing circuit 21, a storage circuit 22, a display 23, an operation interface 24, and a communication interface 25. In addition, the console 20 may not be provided independently, and the processor and storage circuit of the controller 60 of the imaging device 10 may also respectively perform the functions of the processing circuit 21 and the storage circuit 22.

[0040] The communication interface 25 installs various information communication protocols corresponding to the form of the network. The communication interface 25 performs communication control corresponding to various protocols and can be connected to the network by wired or wireless means. The communication interface 25 can, for example, exchange various data between the network and the storage circuit 22.

[0041] The operation interface 24 includes an input device operable by a user and an input circuit for inputting signals from the input device. The input device is implemented, for example, by an operation console, a joystick, a trackball mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel that performs an input operation by contacting an operation surface, a touch screen that integrates a display screen and a touchpad, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, and the like.

[0042] Here, Figure 3 An example of a switch for operating the X-ray diaphragm and the compensating grid installed in the operation interface 24 will be described. When the top plate 51 or the imaging system 36 is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, the preset opening position of the X-ray diaphragm and the position of the compensating grid also move. Therefore, every time the top plate 51 or the imaging system 36 is moved, the user needs to readjust the position of the X-ray diaphragm and the position of the compensating grid again.

[0043] The operation interface 24 is provided with switches for controlling the operation of the compensating grid 331 and the X-ray diaphragm.

[0044] The switches 241 and 242 for setting the position of the compensating grid are each a switch with a knob. By the user performing forward / backward, left / right, and rotational operations on the knob, the compensating grid can be manually moved. When the user performs forward / backward, left / right, and rotational operations on the knobs of the switches 241 and 242 for setting the position of the compensating grid, according to the amount of this operation, Figure 2B the compensating grids 331a and 331b move forward / backward, left / right, and rotate. In addition, by performing forward / backward, left / right, and rotational operations on the knobs of the switches 241 and 242, the initial position of the follow-up operation of the compensating grid can be manually set.

[0045] In addition, in Figure 3In this case, an example is shown where there are two compensation grids, and there are switches 241 and 242 for setting the positions of the two compensation grids in order to enable manual operation of each compensation grid. However, the number of switches for setting the positions of the compensation grids is not limited. The switch for setting the position of the compensation grid can be one piece according to the number of pieces of each compensation grid, or three pieces or more.

[0046] In addition, the switch 243 for following the compensation grid is a slide switch that can be set to manual start, follow stop, and automatic start. When the user slides the follow switch 243 and performs an operation to set the follow switch 243 to any one of manual start, follow stop, and automatic start, the operation mode of following the compensation grid is set according to the operation.

[0047] The switches 244 and 245 for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm are also, for example, knobbed switches. By the user operating the knob back and forth and left and right, the X-ray diaphragm can be manually moved. When the user operates the knob of the switch 244 for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm back and forth and left and right, according to the amount of the operation, Figure 2A the diaphragm blades 321a and 321c open and close back and forth and left and right. In addition, when the user operates the knob of the switch 245 for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm back and forth and left and right, according to the amount of this operation, Figure 2A the diaphragm blades 321b and 321d open and close back and forth and left and right. In addition, by the user operating the knobs of the switches 244 and 245 back and forth and left and right, the initial position of the follow operation of the X-ray diaphragm can be manually set.

[0048] In addition, in Figure 3 an example is shown where there are two switches for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm. However, the number of switches for the X-ray diaphragm is not limited. The switch for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm can be one, or three or more. When there is one switch for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm, the X-ray diaphragm can also be moved back and forth and left and right while maintaining the open state of the X-ray diaphragm.

[0049] In addition, the switch 246 for following the X-ray diaphragm is a slide switch that can be set to manual start, follow stop, and automatic start. When the user slides the follow switch 246 and performs an operation to set the follow switch 246 to any one of manual start, follow stop, and automatic start, the follow operation mode of the X-ray diaphragm is set according to the operation.

[0050] In addition, the settings for manual start, follow stop, and automatic start are not limited to the switches 243 for following the compensating grid and 246 for following the X-ray diaphragm described above. For example, they can also be set using hard buttons or soft buttons arranged on the control console 20. Additionally, instead of arranging new dedicated buttons, they can be set by pressing an existing button twice or holding it down for a long time. Moreover, they can also be set by pressing the switches 241 and 242 for setting the position of the compensating grid and the switches 244 and 245 for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm. Furthermore, the settings for manual start, follow stop, and automatic start can be triggered by voice recognition or the movement of the user's line of sight.

[0051] The display 23 is composed of a general display output device such as a liquid crystal display or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display. The display 23 displays X-ray fluoroscopic images, X-ray radiographic images, thumbnails, etc. generated under the control of the processing circuit 21. In addition, the thumbnail is an example of a schematic diagram. The schematic diagram only needs to be a diagram that schematically shows the compensating grid and is not limited to the thumbnail.

[0052] The display 23 can use the entire surface of the display as a display window, or can use a part of the display as a display window, or can switch between the two. Additionally, the display 23 can also display the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image and the thumbnail side by side in the display window. Moreover, the display 23 can also display screens related to patient information and various inputs.

[0053] The storage circuit 22 is composed of semiconductor storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, and storage media readable by a processor such as a hard disk and an optical disc. The storage circuit 22 can also be composed of portable media such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and a DVD (Digital Video Disk). The storage circuit 22 stores various processing programs used in the processing circuit 21, data required for executing the programs, etc. Additionally, the storage circuit 22 stores various data such as shooting conditions related to X-ray radiography or X-ray fluoroscopy, and image data of X-ray fluoroscopic images or X-ray radiographic images.

[0054] The processing circuit 21 has a processor, and the processing circuit 21 realizes the various functions described below through software processing of executing the programs stored in the storage circuit 22. Additionally, the processing circuit 21 comprehensively controls each component of the imaging device 10 via the controller 60.

[0055] As Figure 1As shown, the processing circuit 21 implements functions such as the initial position setting function F01, the follow start determination function F02, the follow control function F03, the display control function F04, and the image generation function F05. In addition, the display control function F04 is not essential, which will be described later in the second embodiment. Using Figure 4 the flowchart of Figures 5 - 11 , the operation examples of the respective functions of the processing circuit 21 will be described.

[0056] In step ST100, X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging is started. For example, based on the imaging conditions specified by the user via the operation interface 24, according to the diagnostic part of the subject P, the examination content, the examination purpose, the examination protocol, etc., which are pre-stored in the storage circuit 22, X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging is performed. The image generation function F05 generates an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image based on the X-ray data detected by the X-ray detector 34.

[0057] In step ST101, it is selected whether to perform the follow processing of the compensating grid 331. For example, it is selected by the user via the operation interface 24.

[0058] In step ST101, when the follow processing of the compensating grid is performed (that is, in the case of "Yes"), it proceeds to step ST102. In step ST101, when the follow processing of the compensating grid is not performed (that is, in the case of "No"), it proceeds to step ST106. In step ST106, the user manually moves the compensating grid, for example, via the switches 241 and 242 for setting the position of the compensating grid of the operation interface 24.

[0059] In step ST102, the initial position setting function F01 sets the initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube 31 to cover a specified part of the subject P. The initial position of the compensating grid can be set manually, semi-automatically, or automatically. When manually setting the initial position of the follow, the user manually sets the initial position of the compensating grid, for example, via the switches 241 and 242 for setting the position of the compensating grid of the operation interface 24. The user manually configures the compensating grid to an anatomically appropriate position, for example, under X-ray fluoroscopy.

[0060] Figure 5 It is an explanatory diagram regarding the semi-automatic setting of the initial position of the compensating grid. Figure 5 It is an example of an examination including the lungs in an X-ray image, and the region of interest ROI is the region other than the lungs. As Figure 5As shown, for example, a user sets a line segment for an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing a subject P. The user can set the line segment using, for example, a mouse of the operation interface 24. In addition, the user can also change the position of the line segment using a GUI function that can move or rotate the line segment set for the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image.

[0061] By using the set line segment, the user can semi-automatically set the position of the compensating grid. For example, the user can select one of the regions divided by the line segment, and set the initial position of the compensating grid in the region selected by the user. The user can also use, for example, a mouse or a touch panel of the operation interface 24 to select, by double-clicking or the like, one of the regions divided by the line segment as the region where the compensating grid is to be arranged.

[0062] In addition, the initial position of the compensating grid can also be determined according to the imaging conditions set at the start of imaging. If the compensating grid is pre-arranged at an appropriate position according to the imaging conditions, the movement of the compensating grid can be fine-tuning. On the other hand, before arranging the compensating grid, it is not necessary for the compensating grid to be reflected in the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image. That is, the compensating grid may not be set before the start of X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray radiography.

[0063] In addition, the initial position setting function F01 can also automatically set the initial position of the compensating grid based on the line segment set for the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the subject P. For example, the initial position setting function F01 can also determine, by analysis, the region that the compensating grid should cover based on the luminance value of the image in the region of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image divided by the line segment, and automatically set the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the region. In Figure 5 the initial position setting function F01 automatically sets the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the brighter region. In addition, when the black and white of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image are inverted and displayed, the initial position setting function F01 can also automatically set the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the darker region.

[0064] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the automatic setting of the initial position of the compensating grid. As Figure 6As shown in the figure, the initial position setting function F01 uses at least one of the result of image recognition of an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the subject P and the photographing target part preset according to the photographing conditions to determine the anatomical part where the radiation should be reduced or the suppression part where the vignetting should be suppressed, and sets the initial position of the compensating grid in such a way that the compensating grid covers the determined anatomical part or suppression part. In addition, segmentation, AI (Artificial Intelligence), etc. can also be used for image recognition of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the subject P, that is, recognition of the anatomical part or the suppression part.

[0065] In addition, the initial position of the compensating grid can also be set according to the anatomical part or the suppression part. For example, the initial position setting function F01 can also detect the position of the bottom of the lungs or the position of the diaphragm based on the image analysis of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image, determine the position of the lungs according to the position of the bottom of the lungs or the diaphragm, and set the initial position of the compensating grid in such a way that the compensating grid covers the determined position of the lungs.

[0066] In addition, the initial position setting function F01 can also set the initial position of the compensating grid based on the photographing conditions set at the start of photographing.

[0067] In step ST103, the tracking start determination function F02 starts the process of tracking the compensating grid. The tracking start determination function F02 determines the start of the tracking process based on at least one of the X-ray fluoroscopic motion state of the subject P and the fluoroscopic image obtained by photographing the subject P. Use Figure 7 The tracking start process of the compensating grid will be described. The tracking process of the compensating grid can be started manually or automatically.

[0068] In the case of manual start, for example, when the user performs an operation of setting the switch 243 for tracking the compensating grid 331 to manual start, the tracking process of the compensating grid 331 starts ( Figure 7 manual start 1).

[0069] In the case of automatic start, during the X-ray fluoroscopy, the tracking start determination function F02 detects that at least one of the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36 is moved, and starts the tracking process based on the detection of the movement. For example, the tracking start determination function F02 can also start the tracking process when the compensating grid is not manually moved within a specified period after the start of X-ray fluoroscopy ( Figure 7Automatic start 1). Additionally, the follow start determination function F02 can also start the follow-up process when X-ray fluoroscopy has continued for a specified period without moving the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36 ( Figure 7 Automatic start 2).

[0070] The follow start determination function F02 can also start the follow-up process when X-ray fluoroscopy operates in the pulse fluoroscopy mode and the pulse rate is switched. Figure 7 Automatic start 3). For example, when positioning at a low pulse rate and switching to a high pulse rate for shooting, or when positioning at an initially set pulse rate according to the shooting conditions and switching to a low pulse rate for shooting to reduce radiation, etc., the timing of shooting start is determined when the pulse rate is switched, and the follow start determination function F02 starts the follow-up process.

[0071] The follow start determination function F02 can also start the follow-up process when the dose of X-ray fluoroscopy is switched. Figure 7 Automatic start 4). For example, when starting X-ray fluoroscopy under a low dose setting and switching to a high dose setting for shooting, or when starting X-ray fluoroscopy under an initially set dose setting for a specified examination and switching to a low dose setting for shooting to reduce radiation, etc., the timing of shooting start is determined when the dose of X-ray fluoroscopy is switched, and the follow start determination function F02 starts the follow-up process.

[0072] Additionally, it can also be that when a specified medical device is detected in the LIH (Last Image Hold) image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the follow start determination function F02 starts the follow-up process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy after the first X-ray fluoroscopy. Figure 7 Automatic start 5). Additionally, it can also be that when a specified organ or tissue is detected in the LIH image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the follow start determination function F02 starts the follow-up process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy after the first X-ray fluoroscopy. Figure 7 Automatic start 6).

[0073] When following starts in step ST103, in the next step ST104, the follow-up process of the compensating grid is executed. The follow control function F03 moves the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube 31 from the initial position when at least one of the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36 moves to follow a specified part of the subject P, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the specified part of the subject P.

[0074] Figure 8It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up process of the compensating grid 331 when the imaging system 36 moves in the Y-axis direction. As Figure 8 shown, when the compensating grid 331 is initially set for the lungs, when the imaging system 36 moves in the Y-axis direction, the follow-up control function F03 moves the position of the compensating grid 331 relative to the X-ray tube 31 to make the compensating grid 331 follow the lungs, so that the compensating grid 331 continuously covers the lungs.

[0075] Figure 9 It is an explanatory diagram of the follow-up process of the compensating grid 331 when the top plate 51 moves in the X-axis direction. As Figure 9 shown, when the compensating grid 331 is initially set for the lungs, when the top plate 51 moves in the X-axis direction, the follow-up control function F03 moves the position of the compensating grid 331 relative to the X-ray tube 31 to make the compensating grid 331 follow the lungs, so that the compensating grid 33 continuously covers the lungs.

[0076] In addition, the follow-up control function F03 can also perform the follow-up process through an operation that reflects the distance between the specified part of the subject P and the top plate 51, that is, TOD (Table to Object Distance, top plate - target distance). Figure 10 It is an explanatory diagram of the distance TOD between the specified part of the subject P indicated by an asterisk and the top plate 51. As Figure 10 shown, based on the angle at which the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 31 enter the X-ray detector 34, the movement amount D' that reflects TOD is calculated. In addition, in addition to the movement in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, the rotation of the imaging system 36 can also be considered to calculate the movement amount D' that reflects TOD. Compared with simply calculating the movement amount D on the X-ray detector 34 based on the movement amount of only the top plate 51 or the imaging system 36 (the movement amount that does not reflect TOD), by calculating the movement amount D' that reflects TOD, a more accurate follow-up process can be performed.

[0077] In step ST105, the follow-up control function F03 stops the follow-up process of the compensating grid. Figure 11 It is an explanatory diagram of the manual stop and automatic stop of the follow-up process of the compensating grid.

[0078] The follow-up process of the compensating grid can be manually stopped. For example, by the user operating to set the switch 243 for following the compensating grid 331 to the follow-up stop, the follow-up process of the compensating grid 331 is stopped ( Figure 11 manual stop 1). When an instruction to stop following is received during the following process, the follow-up control function F03 can also stop the following process while maintaining the position of the compensating grid at the current position ( Figure 11Manual stop 2). Additionally, when an instruction to stop following is received during the following process, the following control function F03 can also stop the following process after retracting the compensating grid to a position tangent to the field of view at that time (i.e., the X-ray irradiation range). Figure 11 Manual stop 3).

[0079] Additionally, the following process of the compensating grid can also be automatically stopped. For example, when the position of the compensating grid is manually adjusted during the following process, the following control function F03 stops the following process. In this case, the adjusted position of the compensating grid can also be set as the new initial position, and the following process can be restarted. Figure 11 Automatic stop 1). Additionally, storage can also be performed so that the position of the compensating grid before adjustment can be restored in the case where a new initial position is erroneously set. Additionally, when the entire compensating grid moves out of the field of view during the following process, the following control function F03 can also automatically stop the following process immediately or after a specified time. Figure 11 Automatic stop 2).

[0080] According to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, even when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray radiography, it is possible to reduce the operation burden related to the adjustment of the compensating grid while suppressing vignetting of the X-ray image and radiation to the subject.

[0081] (Second Embodiment)

[0082] Based on the first embodiment, the display control function F04 of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the second embodiment causes the display 23 to display an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the subject P and a thumbnail schematically showing the compensating grid. Regarding other structures and functions, since they are substantially the same as those of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment, repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0083] Figure 12 And Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of a display example of the display 23 and the thumbnail screen W3. As shown in the display example of the display 23 shown on the left side in Figure 12 And Figure 13 the thumbnail screen W3 is displayed in the display 23, for example, in parallel with the screen W1 of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image and the screen W2 of the patient information.

[0084] In Figure 12In the thumbnail screen W3, the ranges where the compensating grids 331a and 331b are disposed are displayed overlapping the maximum range of the X-ray diaphragm. In this case, the display control function F04 can also cause the compensating grids 331a and 331b to be displayed in the thumbnail in different ways when performing the tracking process and when not performing the tracking process. For example, in Figure 12 the compensating grids 331a and 331b, it is also possible to use different colors, blinking, etc., such as representing with different shades before and during tracking, so as to be displayed in a manner that allows the user to easily determine whether it is in automatic tracking.

[0085] In addition, the display control function F04 can also display the compensating grids 331a and 331b in the thumbnail in a manner that can be compared with the position of the field of view. In Figure 12 the thumbnail screen W3, the position of the field of view is displayed by a dashed line. By displaying the position of the field of view by a dashed line, even when the position of the compensating grid deviates from the field of view, it can be confirmed within the maximum range of the X-ray diaphragm.

[0086] Moreover, the thumbnail screen W3 can also be used for the determination operation of automatic tracking. For example, the user can drag the compensating grid displayed on the thumbnail screen W3 to the position where it is desired to be disposed by using a mouse, or click on the position where it is desired to move after clicking on the compensating grid to be moved, thereby moving the position of the compensating grid on the thumbnail screen W3.

[0087] In Figure 13 the thumbnail screen W3 shown in the upper right, the relative positional relationship between the two compensating grids 331a and 331b is displayed without showing the rotation radius during rotational movement. In addition, Figure 13 the orientation of the arrow indicates the moving direction when manually operating each of the compensating grids 331a and 331b.

[0088] In Figure 13 the thumbnail screen W3 shown in the lower right, in addition to the relative positional relationship between the two compensating grids 331a and 331b and the moving direction of each of the compensating grids 331a and 331b, the rotation radius during the rotational movement of each of the compensating grids 331a and 331b is also shown. In this way, the display control function F04 can also cause the compensating grids to be displayed in the thumbnail in a manner that enables the relative positional relationship between multiple compensating grids to be grasped in the case of having multiple compensating grids.

[0089] In addition, the thumbnail screen W3 can also display the relative positional relationship between the two compensation grids 331a and 331b and the rotation radius when each of the compensation grids 331a and 331b rotates and moves. In this way, the display control function F04 can also display at least one of the moving direction of the compensation grid and the rotation radius when the compensation grid rotates and moves in the thumbnail.

[0090] The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment can achieve the same effects as the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment. Moreover, since the thumbnail is displayed side by side with the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image, it is easy for the user to grasp together the position of each compensation grid relative to the field of view position, the relative positional relationship between the multiple compensation grids, the moving direction of each compensation grid, and the rotation radius of each compensation grid, without interfering with the observation using the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image.

[0091] (Third Embodiment)

[0092] The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment makes the compensation grid follow when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray radiography, suppressing the vignetting of the X-ray image and the radiation to the subject. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the X-ray diaphragm is made to follow instead of the compensation grid. Regarding other structures and functions, since they are substantially the same as those of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the first embodiment Figure 1 shown, the repeated description is omitted. Use Figure 14 the flowchart and Figure 15 to illustrate the operation examples of the respective functions of the processing circuit 21.

[0093] In step ST200, X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray radiography is started. Since step ST200 of the third embodiment is substantially the same as step ST100 of the first embodiment, the repeated description is omitted.

[0094] In step ST201, it is selected whether to perform the follow-up process of the X-ray diaphragm. For example, the user makes the selection via the operation interface 24.

[0095] In step ST201, when the follow-up process of the X-ray diaphragm is to be performed (that is, in the case of "Yes"), the process proceeds to step ST202. In step ST201, when the follow-up process of the X-ray diaphragm is not to be performed (that is, in the case of "No"), the process proceeds to step ST206. In step ST206, the user manually moves the X-ray diaphragm, for example, via the switches 244 and 245 for setting the position of the X-ray diaphragm of the operation interface 24.

[0096] In step ST202, the initial position setting function F01 sets the initial position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube 31 so that the X-ray passes through the opening and irradiates a specified part of the subject.

[0097] In step ST203, the follow start determination function F02 starts the process of following the X-ray diaphragm. The follow start determination function F02 determines the start of the following process based on at least one of the action state of X-ray fluoroscopy with respect to the subject P and the fluoroscopic image obtained by photographing the subject P. In addition, the following process of the X-ray diaphragm can be started manually or automatically. Use Figure 15 The follow start process of the X-ray diaphragm will be described.

[0098] In the case of manual start, for example, when the user performs an operation of setting the switch 246 for following the X-ray diaphragm to manual start, the following process of the X-ray diaphragm is started ( Figure 15 manual start 1).

[0099] In the case of automatic start, during X-ray fluoroscopy, the follow start determination function F02 detects the movement of at least one of the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36, and starts the following process based on the detection of the movement. For example, the follow start determination function F02 can also start the following process when the X-ray diaphragm is not manually moved within a specified period after starting X-ray fluoroscopy ( Figure 15 automatic start 1).

[0100] In addition, the follow start determination function F02 can also start the following process when the X-ray fluoroscopy has continued for a specified period without moving the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36 ( Figure 15 automatic start 2). In addition, the follow start determination function F02 can also start the following process when switching the pulse rate in the case where the X-ray fluoroscopy operates in the pulse fluoroscopy mode ( Figure 15 automatic start 3). In addition, the follow start determination function F02 can also start the following process when switching the dose of X-ray fluoroscopy ( Figure 15 automatic start 4).

[0101] In addition, it can also be that when a specified medical device is detected in the LIH image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the follow start determination function F02 starts the following process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy after the first X-ray fluoroscopy ( Figure 15 automatic start 5). In addition, it can also be that when a specified organ or tissue is detected in the LIH image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the follow start determination function F02 starts the following process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy after the first X-ray fluoroscopy (Figure 15 Automatic start 6).

[0102] In step ST204, when at least one of the top plate 51 and the imaging system 36 moves, the follow control function F03 moves the position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube from the initial position to follow a specified part of the subject P, so that the X-ray continuously irradiates the specified part of the subject P. In addition, the follow control function F03 can also perform follow processing by calculating the distance TOD between the specified part of the subject P and the top plate and reflecting it.

[0103] In step ST205, the follow control function F03 stops the follow processing of the X-ray diaphragm. The follow processing of the X-ray diaphragm is manually stopped. For example, by an operation in which the user sets the switch 246 for following the X-ray diaphragm to follow stop, the follow processing of the X-ray diaphragm is stopped.

[0104] According to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of the third embodiment, even when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, it is possible to reduce the operation burden related to the adjustment of the X-ray diaphragm while suppressing vignetting of the X-ray image and radiation to the subject.

[0105] In addition, as an example of an examination applying the above-described embodiment, examination examples of the lungs such as bronchoscopy (i.e., bronchofiberscopy) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (i.e., ERCP) included in the X-ray image are described. In addition, it can also be applied to examination examples of direct lines on the side of the chest including myelography (i.e., myelography), colon endoscopy, nerve root block, etc. included in the X-ray image.

[0106] According to at least one of the above-described embodiments, even when the top plate or the imaging system is moved during X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging, it is possible to reduce the operation burden related to the adjustment of the X-ray diaphragm and the compensating grid while suppressing vignetting of the X-ray image and radiation to the subject.

[0107] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the term "processor" refers, for example, to a dedicated or general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), such as programmable logic devices like a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and field programmable gate array (FPGA). When the processor is, for example, a CPU, the processor realizes various functions by reading and executing a program stored in a storage circuit. Additionally, when the processor is, for example, an ASIC, instead of storing the program in the storage circuit, a function equivalent to the program is directly incorporated into the circuit of the processor as a logic circuit. In this case, the processor realizes various functions by reading and executing the hardware processing of the program incorporated into the circuit. Alternatively, the processor may also combine software processing and hardware processing to realize various functions.

[0108] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which each function is realized by a single processor of a processing circuit. However, a processing circuit may also be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may realize each function. Additionally, when multiple processors are provided, the storage circuit storing the program may be provided separately for each processor, or a single storage circuit may uniformly store a program corresponding to the functions of all the processors.

[0109] Some embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

[0110] Regarding the above embodiments, the following remarks are disclosed as an aspect and optional features of the invention.

[0111] (Remark 1)

[0112] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a top plate, an imaging system, a compensating grid, and a processing circuit. The top plate mounts a subject. The imaging system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The compensating grid attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube. The processing circuit sets an initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube so as to cover a predetermined part of the subject. When at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the processing circuit moves the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube from the initial position to follow the predetermined part, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the predetermined part of the subject.

[0113] (Note 2)

[0114] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a top plate, an imaging system, an X-ray diaphragm, and a processing circuit. The top plate mounts a subject. The imaging system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The X-ray diaphragm limits the irradiation range of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject to a range defined by the movable opening and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube. The processing circuit sets an initial position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube so that the X-rays pass through the opening and irradiate a predetermined part of the subject. When at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the processing circuit moves the position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube from the initial position to follow the predetermined part, so that the X-rays continuously irradiate the predetermined part of the subject.

[0115] (Note 3)

[0116] The processing circuit may also determine the start of the tracking process based on at least one of the operation state of the X-ray fluoroscopy relative to the subject and the fluoroscopic image obtained by photographing the subject.

[0117] (Note 4)

[0118] The processing circuit may also automatically set the initial position of the compensating grid based on a line segment set for the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the subject.

[0119] (Note 5)

[0120] The processing circuit may also determine, by analysis, the area to be covered by the compensating grid based on the luminance value of the image in the area of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image divided by the line segment, and automatically set the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the area.

[0121] (Note 6)

[0122] The processing circuit may also use at least one of the result of image recognition of an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing a subject and a preset imaging target region to determine an anatomical region where radiation should be reduced or a suppression region where vignetting should be suppressed, and set an initial position of the compensating grid so that the compensating grid covers the determined anatomical region or suppression region.

[0123] (Note 7)

[0124] The processing circuit may also detect the position of the bottom of the lungs or the position of the diaphragm based on the image analysis of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image, determine the position of the lungs according to the position of the bottom of the lungs or the diaphragm, and set the initial position of the compensating grid so that the compensating grid covers the determined position of the lungs.

[0125] (Note 8)

[0126] The processing circuit may also set the initial position of the compensating grid based on the imaging conditions set at the start of imaging.

[0127] (Note 9)

[0128] During X-ray fluoroscopy, the processing circuit may also detect that at least one of the top plate and the imaging system is moved, and start a tracking process based on the detection of the movement.

[0129] (Note 10)

[0130] After starting X-ray fluoroscopy, when the compensating grid is not manually moved within a specified period, the processing circuit may start a tracking process.

[0131] (Note 11)

[0132] After starting X-ray fluoroscopy, when the X-ray diaphragm is not manually moved within a specified period, the processing circuit may start a tracking process.

[0133] (Note 12)

[0134] When X-ray fluoroscopy continues for a specified period without moving the top plate and the imaging system, the processing circuit may start a tracking process.

[0135] (Note 13)

[0136] When X-ray fluoroscopy operates in a pulsed fluoroscopy mode, the processing circuit may start a tracking process when the pulse rate is switched.

[0137] (Note 14)

[0138] The processing circuit can also start the tracking process when the dose of the X-ray fluoroscopy is switched.

[0139] (Note 15)

[0140] Alternatively, when a specified medical device is detected in the last image hold image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the processing circuit starts the tracking process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy following the first X-ray fluoroscopy.

[0141] (Note 16)

[0142] Alternatively, when a specified organ or tissue is detected in the last image hold image of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, the processing circuit starts the tracking process at the start of the second X-ray fluoroscopy following the first X-ray fluoroscopy.

[0143] (Note 17)

[0144] When the position of the compensating grid is manually adjusted during the tracking process, the processing circuit can set the adjusted position of the compensating grid as the new initial position and restart the tracking process.

[0145] (Note 18)

[0146] When an instruction to stop tracking is received during the tracking process, the processing circuit can stop the tracking process while maintaining the position of the compensating grid at the current position.

[0147] (Note 19)

[0148] When an instruction to stop tracking is received during the tracking process, the processing circuit can stop the tracking process after retracting the compensating grid to a position tangent to the current field of view.

[0149] (Note 20)

[0150] When the entire compensating grid moves out of the field of view during the tracking process, the processing circuit can immediately or automatically stop the tracking process after a specified time.

[0151] (Note 21)

[0152] The processing circuit can also perform the tracking process by reflecting the operation of the distance between the specified part of the subject and the top plate, i.e., the table to object distance.

[0153] (Note 22)

[0154] It may also be provided with a display, and the processing circuit causes the display to display an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing a subject to be examined and a schematic diagram for schematically displaying a compensating grid.

[0155] (Note 23)

[0156] When performing tracking processing and when not performing tracking processing, the processing circuit may also cause the compensating grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram in different ways.

[0157] (Note 24)

[0158] The processing circuit may also cause the compensating grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram in a manner that can be compared with the position of the field of view.

[0159] (Note 25)

[0160] There may also be a plurality of compensating grids. When there are a plurality of compensating grids, the processing circuit may also cause the compensating grids to be displayed in the schematic diagram in a manner that can grasp the relative positional relationship between the plurality of compensating grids.

[0161] (Note 26)

[0162] The processing circuit may also cause at least one of the moving direction of the compensating grid and the rotation radius during the rotational movement of the compensating grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram.

[0163] (Note 27)

[0164] A control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment is a control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus including a top plate, an imaging system, and a compensating grid. The top plate supports a subject to be examined. The imaging system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The compensating grid attenuates X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject to be examined and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube. The control method for the X-ray diagnostic apparatus sets an initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube so as to cover a specified part of the subject to be examined. When at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube is moved from the initial position to track the specified part, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the specified part of the subject to be examined.

[0165] (Note 28)

[0166] A control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment is a control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus including a top plate, an imaging system, and an X-ray diaphragm. The top plate supports a subject to be examined. The imaging system includes an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. The X-ray diaphragm defines the irradiation range of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject to be examined within a range defined by an opening by forming a movable opening, and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube. The control method for the X-ray diagnostic apparatus sets an initial position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube such that the X-rays pass through the opening and irradiate a specified part of the subject to be examined. When at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the position of the X-ray diaphragm relative to the X-ray tube is moved from the initial position to follow the specified part, so that the X-rays continuously irradiate the specified part of the subject to be examined.

Claims

1. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus, characterized in that, Comprising: A top plate on which the object to be examined is placed; An imaging system including an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector; A compensating grid that attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the object to be examined and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube; and A processing circuit; The processing circuit sets an initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube so as to cover a specified part of the object to be examined; When at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube is moved from the initial position to follow the specified part, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the specified part of the object to be examined.

2. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The processing circuit automatically sets the initial position of the compensating grid based on a line segment set for an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the object to be examined.

3. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: In the region of the X-ray fluoroscopic image or the X-ray radiographic image divided by the line segment, the processing circuit determines the region to be covered by the compensating grid based on the luminance value of the image, and automatically sets the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the region.

4. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The processing circuit uses at least one of the result of image recognition of an X-ray fluoroscopic image or an X-ray radiographic image obtained by photographing the object to be examined and a preset imaging target part to determine an anatomical part where radiation should be reduced or a suppression part where vignetting should be suppressed, and sets the initial position of the compensating grid so as to cover the determined anatomical part or suppression part.

5. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: During X-ray fluoroscopy, the processing circuit detects that at least one of the top plate and the imaging system is moved, and starts the following process according to the detection of the movement.

6. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: After starting X-ray fluoroscopy, when the compensating grid is not manually moved within a specified period, the processing circuit starts the following process.

7. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: In a state where the top plate and the imaging system are not moved, when X-ray fluoroscopy continues for a specified period, the processing circuit starts the following process.

8. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When X-ray fluoroscopy operates in a pulse fluoroscopy mode, when the pulse rate is switched, the processing circuit starts the following process.

9. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When the dose of X-ray fluoroscopy is switched, the processing circuit starts the following process.

10. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When the processing circuit detects a specified medical device or a specified organ or tissue in the LIH image (i.e., the last-frame frozen image) of the first X-ray fluoroscopy, it starts the following processing when the second X-ray fluoroscopy after the first X-ray fluoroscopy starts.

11. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the processing circuit manually adjusts the position of the compensation grid during the following processing, it sets the adjusted position of the compensation grid as a new initial position and restarts the following processing.

12. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the processing circuit receives an instruction to stop following during the following processing, after retracting the compensation grid to a position tangent to the outside of the field of view at this time, it stops the following processing.

13. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the entire compensation grid moves out of the field of view during the following processing by the processing circuit, it automatically stops the following processing immediately or after a specified time.

14. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing circuit performs the following processing through an operation reflecting the distance between the specified part of the subject and the top plate, that is, TOD, i.e., the top plate-target distance.

15. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the X-ray diagnostic apparatus further includes a display, and the processing circuit causes the display to display an X-ray fluoroscopy image or an X-ray radiograph obtained by photographing the subject and a schematic diagram for schematically displaying the compensation grid.

16. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processing circuit causes the compensation grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram in different ways when performing the following processing and when not performing the following processing.

17. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processing circuit causes the compensation grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram in a manner that can be compared with the position of the field of view.

18. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein when there are a plurality of the compensation grids, the processing circuit causes the compensation grids to be displayed in the schematic diagram in a manner that can grasp the relative positional relationship between the plurality of compensation grids.

19. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the processing circuit causes at least one of the moving direction of the compensation grid and the rotation radius during the rotational movement of the compensation grid to be displayed in the schematic diagram.

20. A control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, wherein the X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes: a top plate for placing a subject; an imaging system including an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector; and a compensation grid that attenuates X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube toward the subject and is configured to be movable relative to the position of the X-ray tube; The control method of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus is characterized in that an initial position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube is set so as to cover a predetermined part of the subject when at least one of the top plate and the imaging system moves, the position of the compensating grid relative to the X-ray tube is moved from the initial position to follow the predetermined part, so that the compensating grid continuously covers the predetermined part of the subject.

Images