Medical image processing system, program, and method

Abstract

To facilitate grasping a correspondence between a position where a value of a blood flow parameter is derived and a position on a coronary artery.SOLUTION: A medical image processing system according to an embodiment, which acquires a medical image acquired by a medical image diagnostic apparatus, via a network, comprises an acquisition unit, an analysis unit, and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires medical image data concerning a coronary artery of a subject from the medical image diagnostic apparatus. The analysis unit derives a value of a blood flow parameter expressing the hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the medical image data. The display control unit displays a shape of the coronary artery and information showing variation of the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery together, with a distance direction along the coronary artery as a lateral axis. The display control unit shows a first marker, a second marker, and a third marker at positions corresponding to the lateral axis in the display and further shows a cross-section image of the coronary artery at the position of the first marker.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical image processing system, a program, and a method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a technique for deriving a value of a blood flow parameter that represents hemodynamics of a coronary artery based on medical image data generated by a medical image diagnostic device such as an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) device. In general, in order to determine the relationship between the morphology of a coronary artery and the blood flow parameter and the necessity of treatment based on the value of such a blood flow parameter, it is necessary to know the actual position on the coronary artery from which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0209114 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0228115 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0032097 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to make it possible to easily grasp the correspondence relationship between the position at which the value of a blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A medical image processing system according to an embodiment is a medical image processing system that acquires medical images acquired by a medical image diagnostic device via a network, and includes an acquisition unit, an analysis unit, and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires medical image data related to a coronary artery of a subject from the medical image diagnostic device. The analysis unit derives a value of a blood flow parameter that represents hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the medical image data. The display control unit displays a shape of the coronary artery and information indicating a change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery, with the distance direction along the coronary artery being the horizontal axis. The display control unit displays a first marker, a second marker, and a third marker at positions corresponding to the horizontal axis in the display, and further displays a cross-sectional image of the coronary artery at the position of the first marker. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image processing system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the processing performed by the medical image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the first modified example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the second modified example. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the third modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the fourth modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the fifth modified example. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the sixth modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the seventh modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the eighth modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the ninth modified example. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the tenth modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the eleventh modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the twelfth modified example. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the thirteenth modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the fourteenth modification. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the sixteenth modification. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the sixteenth modification. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function according to the sixteenth modification. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image processing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments of a medical image processing apparatus, a program, and a system will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0008] In the following embodiment, an example will be described in which CT image data generated by an X-ray CT apparatus is used as medical image data.

[0009] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image processing system according to the first embodiment.

[0010] 1, a medical image processing system 100 according to this embodiment includes an X-ray CT apparatus 110 and a medical image processing apparatus 120. Here, each apparatus is connected to each other via a network 130 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0011] The X-ray CT device 110 generates CT image data related to a subject. Specifically, the X-ray CT device 110 detects X-rays transmitted through the subject and collects projection data while rotating an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector substantially around the subject. Then, the X-ray CT device 110 generates CT image data based on the collected projection data.

[0012] The medical image processing device 120 acquires CT image data from the X-ray CT device 110 via a network 130, and performs various image processing based on the acquired CT image data. For example, the medical image processing device 120 is realized by computer equipment such as a server, a workstation, or a personal computer.

[0013] Then, the medical image processing device 120 derives values ​​of blood flow parameters representing hemodynamics of the coronary arteries based on the CT image data relating to the coronary arteries of the subject.

[0014] Generally, in order to determine the relationship between the morphology of the coronary artery and the blood flow parameters and the need for treatment based on the values ​​of such blood flow parameters, it is necessary to know the actual position on the coronary artery from which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived.

[0015] Therefore, in this embodiment, the medical image processing device 120 displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery together with the graph.

[0016] According to this configuration, by displaying auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery together with a graph showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter, it becomes possible to easily grasp the correspondence between the position at which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery.

[0017] The configuration of such a medical image processing apparatus 120 will be described in detail below.

[0018] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a medical image processing device 120 includes a NW (network) interface 121, a storage circuitry 122, an input interface 123, a display 124, and a processing circuitry 125.

[0019] The NW interface 121 is connected to the processing circuit 125, and controls data communication performed with other devices via the network 130. Specifically, the NW interface 121 controls transmission and reception of various data performed with other devices and systems under the control of the processing circuit 125. For example, the NW interface 121 is realized by a network card, a network adapter, a NIC (network interface controller), or the like.

[0020] The memory circuitry 122 is connected to the processing circuitry 125 and stores various data. Specifically, the memory circuitry 122 stores various data and reads and updates the stored data under the control of the processing circuitry 125. For example, the memory circuitry 122 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like.

[0021] The input interface 123 is connected to the processing circuit 125 and accepts input operations of various instructions and various information from an operator. Specifically, the input interface 123 converts the input operation accepted from the operator into an electric signal and outputs it to the processing circuit 125. For example, the input interface 123 is realized by a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad that performs an input operation by touching the operation surface, a touch screen in which a display screen and a touch pad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit using a microphone, and the like. Note that in this specification, the input interface 123 is not limited to only those that have physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electric signal processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electric signal to a control circuit is also included as an example of the input interface 123.

[0022] The display 124 is connected to the processing circuit 125 and displays various information and data. Specifically, the display 124 converts the various information and data into electrical signals for display and outputs them under the control of the processing circuit 125. For example, the display 124 is realized by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a touch panel, or the like.

[0023] The processing circuitry 125 controls the operation of the medical image processing device 120 in response to an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 123 .

[0024] Specifically, the processing circuit 125 has an acquisition function 125a, an analysis function 125b, and a display control function 125c. The acquisition function 125a is an example of an acquisition unit. The analysis function 125b is an example of an analysis unit. The display control function 125c is an example of a display control unit.

[0025] The acquisition function 125a acquires CT image data relating to the coronary arteries of a subject.

[0026] Specifically, the acquisition function 125a acquires CT image data from the X-ray CT device 110 via the network 130. Then, the acquisition function 125a causes the memory circuitry 122 to store the acquired CT image data.

[0027] The analysis function 125b derives values ​​of blood flow parameters representing hemodynamics of the coronary arteries based on the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a.

[0028] Specifically, the analysis function 125b reads out the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a from the storage circuitry 122, and derives the values ​​of the blood flow parameters based on the read out CT image data.

[0029] Here, various known parameters can be used as the blood flow parameters. For example, the analysis function 125b may derive values ​​of pressure parameters such as FFR (Fractional Flow Reserve), iFR (instantaneous wave-free ratio), and QFR (Quantitative Flow Ratio) as the blood flow parameter values, or may derive flow velocity, pressure ratio, vorticity, kinetic energy, turbulence intensity, shear stress, and the like. Alternatively, the analysis function 125b may derive the gradient of any of the values ​​of these parameters as the blood flow parameter values. Here, the derived gradient may be a gradient in the distance direction along the coronary artery, or a gradient in any other direction.

[0030] Also, various known methods can be used as a method for deriving the blood flow parameters. For example, the analysis function 125b derives the blood flow parameters by simulation calculation using a known fluid analysis method. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 125b may derive the blood flow parameters using a trained model that inputs CT image data related to a coronary artery and outputs blood flow parameters related to the coronary artery. In this case, for example, the trained model is created in advance by machine learning using CT image data related to a coronary artery and blood flow parameters representing the hemodynamics of the coronary artery as training data, and is stored in the storage circuitry 122. Here, various methods such as deep learning, nonlinear discriminant analysis, support vector machine, random forest, and naive Bayes can be used as the machine learning method.

[0031] Furthermore, the analysis function 125b derives values ​​of morphological parameters representing the morphology of the coronary arteries based on the CT image data.

[0032] Specifically, the analysis function 125b reads out the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a from the storage circuitry 122, and derives the values ​​of the morphological parameters based on the read out CT image data.

[0033] Here, various known parameters can be used as the morphological parameters. For example, the analysis function 125b may derive a blood vessel cross-sectional area, a blood vessel lumen diameter, etc., as the value of the morphological parameters, or may derive a stenosis rate, a ratio of the blood vessel cross-sectional area to a reference cross-sectional area, etc. In addition, for example, the analysis function 125b may derive an eccentricity index value, a measurement value of the blood vessel wall (the contour of the lumen or the contour of the wall), a remodeling index value, a value of a cross-sectional plaque load, etc., as the value of the morphological parameters.

[0034] Also, various known methods can be used as a method for deriving the morphological parameters. For example, the analysis function 125b derives the morphological parameters using a known image analysis method. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 125b may derive the morphological parameters using a trained model that inputs CT image data related to a coronary artery and outputs morphological parameters related to the coronary artery. In this case, for example, the trained model is created in advance by machine learning using CT image data related to a coronary artery and morphological parameters representing the shape of the coronary artery as learning data, and is stored in the storage circuitry 122. Here, various methods such as deep learning, nonlinear discriminant analysis, support vector machine, random forest, and naive Bayes can be used as the machine learning method.

[0035] The display control function 125c displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery derived by the analysis function 125b in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery together with the graph.

[0036] Specifically, the display control function 125c displays on the display 124 a graph showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter derived by the analysis function 125b along the coronary artery, and auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery.

[0037] In this embodiment, the display control function 125c further displays, in the graph, information indicating the change in the value of the morphological parameter along the coronary artery, as auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery.

[0038] For example, the display control function 125c further displays information indicating the change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the blood vessel in the graph as auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the first embodiment.

[0040] For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the display control function 125c displays a curve showing the change in FFR for a section of the coronary artery selected by the operator in a graph 2a with the FFR value on the vertical axis and the distance from the coronary artery ostia on the horizontal axis.

[0041] Then, for example, the display control function 125c further displays on the graph 2a a curve indicating the change in the blood vessel cross-sectional area (Area [mm]) along the coronary artery as auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery in that section.

[0042] With this display, the change in FFR along the coronary artery and the change in vascular cross-sectional area are displayed on a single graph 2a, making it easy to grasp the correlation between FFR and vascular cross-sectional area at each position in the coronary artery.

[0043] Here, for example, the processing circuitry 125 is realized by a processor. In this case, each processing function possessed by the processing circuitry 125 is stored in the storage circuitry 122 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 125 realizes the processing function corresponding to each program by reading each program from the storage circuitry 122 and executing it. In other words, the processing circuitry 125 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state where each program is read.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the processing performed by the medical image processing apparatus 120 according to the first embodiment.

[0045] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment, when the acquisition function 125a receives an instruction to start processing from the operator via the input interface 123 (step S101, Yes), it acquires CT image data regarding the subject's coronary arteries (step S102).

[0046] The processes in steps S101 and S102 are implemented by, for example, the processing circuitry 125 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 125a from the storage circuitry 122 and executing the program.

[0047] Thereafter, the analysis function 125b reads out the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a from the storage circuitry 122, and derives the values ​​of blood flow parameters representing the hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the read out CT image data (step S103). Furthermore, the analysis function 125b derives the values ​​of morphological parameters representing the morphology of the coronary artery based on the CT image data read out from the storage circuitry 122 (step S104).

[0048] The processes in steps S103 and S104 are realized, for example, by the processing circuitry 125 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 125b from the storage circuitry 122 and executing it.

[0049] Then, the display control function 125c displays, in a graph, information indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery derived by the analysis function 125b (step S105). Furthermore, the display control function 125c further displays, in a graph on the display 124, information indicating the change in the value of the morphological parameter along the coronary artery derived by the analysis function 125b (step S106).

[0050] The processes in steps S105 and S106 are implemented by, for example, the processing circuitry 125 reading out a program corresponding to the display control function 125c from the storage circuitry 122 and executing the program.

[0051] As described above, in the first embodiment, the display control function 125c displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery together with the graph. With this configuration, by referring to the auxiliary information together with the graph, it is possible to easily grasp the correspondence relationship between the position where the value of the blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery. As a result, it becomes easy to formulate a treatment plan.

[0052] Also, for example, in the first embodiment, the display control function 125c further displays information indicating the change in the value of the morphological parameter along the coronary artery in the graph as auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery. With such a configuration, the correlation between the value of the blood flow parameter at each position of the coronary artery and the morphology of the blood vessel can be easily understood.

[0053] For example, in the case of a coronary artery, the morphology and hemodynamics may be inconsistent, such as "apparent stenosis but no decrease in FFR." In order to determine a treatment plan, it is essential to observe not only the distribution of FFR but also the correlation between FFR and blood vessel morphology. For example, when an image of a coronary artery is displayed together with a graph showing the change in FFR, the blood vessel morphology is read visually from the image, so it may be difficult to grasp the relationship between the morphology and FFR at each position of the coronary artery. In contrast, in the first embodiment, for example, the change in FFR and the change in the blood vessel cross-sectional area along the coronary artery are displayed in one graph, so that the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be easily grasped.

[0054] In the above-described first embodiment, an example of displaying information showing changes in the values ​​of blood flow parameters and morphological parameters in a graph has been described, but the example of information display performed by the display control function 125c is not limited to this. Therefore, hereinafter, a modified example of information display performed by the display control function 125c will be described.

[0055] (First Modification) For example, the display control function 125c may further display, in a graph, information indicating the change in the stenosis rate along the coronary artery as auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the first modified example.

[0057] For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the display control function 125c further displays on the graph 2a a curve showing the change in the stenosis rate (% stenosis) along the coronary artery for the corresponding section of the coronary artery, in addition to the information of the example shown in Fig. 2. Here, the stenosis rate is large at the point where the cross-sectional area of ​​the blood vessel is locally small.

[0058] According to this display, the change in FFR along the coronary artery and the stenosis rate are displayed on a single graph 2a, so that the relationship between the degree of stenosis of the coronary artery and the drop in FFR can be grasped in detail.

[0059] (Second Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may further display a color bar in which a color is assigned to each position in the distance direction along the coronary artery according to the value of the blood flow parameter.

[0060] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the second modified example.

[0061] For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the display control function 125c displays a rectangular color bar 5a in which a color is assigned according to the FFR value for each position in the distance direction along the coronary artery (FFR as color bar) in addition to the information in the example shown in Fig. 2. In this case, for example, the display control function 125c sets the length of the color bar 5a so that the horizontal axis of the graph 2a showing the change in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area matches the scale in the distance direction, and arranges the graph 2a and the color bar 5a side by side so that their positions in the distance direction match.

[0062] According to such a display, by further referring to the color bar 5a, the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be more easily understood.

[0063] (Third Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may display a color bar in a manner that represents the shape of the coronary artery.

[0064] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the third modified example.

[0065] For example, as shown in Fig. 6, the display control function 125c displays a color bar 6a in which a color is assigned according to the value of FFR for each position in the distance direction along the coronary artery, similar to the example shown in Fig. 5. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c extracts the cross-sectional shape of the coronary artery in the relevant section based on the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a, and shapes and displays the color bar 6a so as to represent the extracted cross-sectional shape (FFR as color bar (schematic)).

[0066] According to such a display, by further referring to the color bar 6a representing the shape of the coronary artery, the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be more intuitively grasped.

[0067] (Fourth Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may further display a tomographic image along the distance direction of the coronary artery, and display a marker indicating a position in the distance direction at a corresponding position on each of the graph and the tomographic image.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the fourth modified example.

[0069] For example, as shown in Fig. 7, the display control function 125c displays a CPR (Curved Planar Reconstruction) image 7a of the coronary artery in the section in addition to the information in the example shown in Fig. 2. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c generates the CPR image 7a in the section based on the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a, and displays the generated CPR image 7a alongside the graph 2a showing the changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area.

[0070] For example, the display control function 125c displays a marker 7b (an arrow-shaped figure shown in FIG. 7) indicating a position in the distance direction along the coronary artery on the graph 2a indicating the change in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area. At this time, the display control function 125c may display the marker 7b on the cross-sectional area curve (Optional marker of area position), or may display the marker 7b on the FFR curve. At the same time, the display control function 125c also displays the marker 7c on the CPR image 7a at a position corresponding to the position of the marker 7b displayed on the graph.

[0071] Here, for example, the display control function 125c receives an operation from the operator to move one of the markers 7b and 7c displayed on the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a, respectively. Then, when the display control function 125c receives the operation, it moves the other marker to a position corresponding to the position of the moved marker. As a result, the display control function 125c moves the marker 7b displayed on the graph 2a showing the changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area and the marker 7c displayed on the CPR image 7a in a linked manner so that they show the same position in the distance direction.

[0072] According to such a display, by referring to the markers 7b and 7c displayed on the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a, respectively, the correspondence between the position where the FFR is derived and the position on the coronary artery can be more easily understood.

[0073] (Fifth Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may further display auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery together with the tomographic image.

[0074] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the fifth modified example.

[0075] For example, as shown in Fig. 8, the display control function 125c displays a graph 8a showing a change in the cross-sectional area of ​​blood vessels along the coronary artery, as auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery, alongside the CPR image 7a, in addition to the information in the example shown in Fig. 7. At this time, the display control function 125c sets the horizontal axis of the graph 8a so that the scale in the distance direction coincides with that of the CPR image 7a, and arranges the CPR image 7a and the graph 8a alongside each other so that their positions in the distance direction coincide with each other.

[0076] Here, for example, the display control function 125c displays a marker 7b indicating a position in the distance direction along the coronary artery on the graph 2a showing the change in FFR and blood vessel cross-sectional area, and also displays a marker 8b at a corresponding position on the graph 8a of the blood vessel cross-sectional area displayed alongside the CPR image 7a, as in the example shown in Fig. 7. When the display control function 125c receives an operation to move one of the markers from the operator, it moves the other marker to a position corresponding to the position of the moved marker. As a result, the display control function 125c moves the marker 7b displayed on the graph 2a showing the change in FFR and blood vessel cross-sectional area and the marker 8b displayed on the graph 8a of the cross-sectional area displayed alongside the CPR image 7a in a linked manner so that they show the same position in the distance direction.

[0077] According to such a display, by referring to the graph 8a showing the change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the blood vessel together with the CPR image 7a, it is possible to grasp the correspondence between the position at which the FFR is derived and the position on the coronary artery in more detail.

[0078] (Sixth Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may display multiple markers on the graph showing the changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area and on the tomographic image along the distance direction of the coronary artery as markers indicating positions in the distance direction along the coronary artery, and may display the values ​​of the blood flow parameters and the morphological parameters at each position where the markers are displayed.

[0079] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the sixth modified example.

[0080] For example, as shown in Fig. 9, the display control function 125c displays three markers 9a to 9c on the graph 2a shown in Fig. 7, and displays three markers 9d to 9f on the CPR image 7a shown in Fig. 7. At this time, the display control function 125c displays three markers on each of the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a so as to indicate three different positions in the distance direction along the coronary artery. Here, for example, when the display control function 125c receives an operation from the operator to move a marker displayed on one of the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a, it moves the marker at the corresponding position on the other in conjunction with the operation.

[0081] Then, for example, the display control function 125c displays the cross-sectional area value, stenosis rate (% stenosis), and FFR value (FFR Value) at each of the three positions indicated by the three markers displayed on the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a. Furthermore, for example, the display control function 125c displays the difference in FFR (ΔFFR=xxx) between the positions indicated by the markers for each pair of adjacent markers. Here, for example, the display control function 125c may further display cross-sectional images at each position indicated by the markers.

[0082] For example, the display control function 125c displays a first marker 9a on the graph 2a at a position designated by the operator, a second marker 9b at a position a predetermined distance (e.g., 5 mm) away from the position of the first marker 9a on the upstream side of the coronary artery, and a third marker 9c at a position a predetermined distance (e.g., 5 mm) away from the position of the first marker 9a on the downstream side of the coronary artery. The display control function 125c also displays three markers 9d to 9f on the CPR image 7a at positions corresponding to the three markers 9a to 9c displayed on the graph 2a.

[0083] Alternatively, for example, the display control function 125c displays a first marker 9a at a position where the stenosis rate of the coronary artery is the largest (maximum stenosis cross-section) on the graph 2a, displays a second marker 9b at a position (proximal cross-section) away from the position of the first marker 9a on the upstream side of the coronary artery by a predetermined distance, and displays a third marker 9c at a position (distal cross-section) away from the position of the first marker 9a on the downstream side of the coronary artery and closest to the end. Then, the display control function 125c displays three markers 9d to 9f on the CPR image 7a at positions corresponding to the three markers 9a to 9c displayed on the graph 2a.

[0084] In this example, for example, the degree of influence of stenosis can be grasped by comparing the FFR at the position of the first marker 9a with the FFR at the position of the second marker 9b. Also, by comparing the FFR value at the position of the first marker 9a with the FFR value at the position of the third marker 9c, it can be determined whether there is a stenosis having an adverse effect other than the stenosis at the position of the first marker 9a.

[0085] Although the example in which the display control function 125c displays three markers on each of the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a has been described here, this modified example is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 125c may display four markers on each of the graph 2a and the CPR image 7a, or may display four or more markers.

[0086] According to such a display, by using a plurality of markers, the effect of stenosis occurring in the coronary artery can be easily grasped.

[0087] (Seventh Modification) In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example was described in which auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery is displayed together with a graph showing changes in the value of the blood flow parameter. However, for example, information indicating a segment of the coronary artery may be displayed instead of the auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary artery.

[0088] In this case, the display control function 125c displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter derived by the analysis function 125b along the coronary artery on a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays information showing the segment of the coronary artery on the horizontal axis of the graph.

[0089] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the seventh modified example.

[0090] For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the display control function 125c displays a curve showing the change in FFR along the coronary artery for a section of the coronary artery selected by the operator in a graph 2a with the FFR on the vertical axis and the distance from the coronary artery ostia on the horizontal axis.

[0091] Then, for example, the display control function 125c further displays numbers indicating the coronary artery segments ("5", "6", "7", and "10" shown in FIG. 10) 10a on the horizontal axis of the graph 2a as information indicating the coronary artery segments in the section.

[0092] Here, for example, the display control function 125c uses numbers "1" to "15" indicating segments of the coronary arteries classified by the American Heart Association (AHA) as follows:

[0093] 1: Right Coronary Artery (RCA) base to Right Ventricular Branch (RVB) 2: Right ventricular branch (RVB) ~ Aute Marginal Branch (AM) 3: Acute marginal branch (AM) ~ Posterior descending branch (PD) 4: Atrio-Ventricular (AV), posterior descending branch (PD) 5:Left Main Truck (LMT) 6: Left main trunk (LMT) to first septal branch (SB) 7: First septal branch (SB) to second diagonal branch (D2) 8: Second diagonal branch (D2) to the end of the left anterior descending branch (LAD) 9: First Diagonal Branch (D1) 10: Second diagonal branch (D2) 11: Left main trunk (LMT) ~ Obtuse Marginal (OM) 12: Obtuse branch (OM) 13: Obtuse branch (OM) ~ Posterior Lateral branch (PL) 14: Posterior wall branch (PL) 15: Posterior Descending (PD)

[0094] Furthermore, for example, the display control function 125c displays a three-dimensional image (volume image) 10b of the subject's heart side by side with the graph 2a. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c generates the three-dimensional image 10b of the subject's heart based on the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a.

[0095] According to such a display, by referring to segment information that is generally familiar to doctors and the like, it is possible to easily grasp the spatial position on the coronary artery.

[0096] (Eighth Modification) FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the eighth modified example.

[0097] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, the display control function 125c may display an image 11a showing the positions of segments in a standard schematic diagram of the heart alongside the graph 2a, instead of the three-dimensional image 10b.

[0098] With such a display, the spatial location on the coronary arteries can be more intuitively understood by further referring to a schematic diagram of the heart showing the location of the segments.

[0099] (Ninth Variation) In the above-described first embodiment, an example has been described in which a color bar in which a color is assigned to each position in the distance direction along the coronary artery according to the value of the blood flow parameter is displayed together with a graph showing the change in the blood flow parameter. However, for example, instead of the graph, a tomographic image in the distance direction of the coronary artery may be displayed.

[0100] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the ninth modified example.

[0101] For example, as shown in Fig. 12, the display control function 125c displays a CPR image 12a of a coronary artery in one section of the coronary artery selected by the operator. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c generates the CPR image 12a of the section based on the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a.

[0102] Then, the display control function 125c displays a rectangular color bar 5a in which a color according to the FFR value is assigned to each position in the distance direction along the coronary artery, similar to the example shown in Fig. 5. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c sets the length of the color bar 5a so that the scale in the distance direction matches that of the CPR image 12a, and arranges the CPR image 12a and the color bar 5a side by side so that their positions in the distance direction match.

[0103] Furthermore, the display control function 125c displays a marker 12b on the CPR image 12a at a position designated by the operator, and displays an FFR value 12c at the position where the marker 12b is displayed.

[0104] According to such a display, by comparing the color bar 5a with the CPR image 12a, the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be easily grasped.

[0105] (Tenth Variation) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the tenth modified example.

[0106] Furthermore, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, the display control function 125c may display a color bar 6a shaped to represent the cross-sectional shape of the coronary artery, similar to the example shown in FIG. 6, instead of the rectangular color bar 5a.

[0107] According to such a display, by comparing the color bar 6a representing the shape of the coronary artery with the CPR image 12a, the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be more intuitively grasped.

[0108] (Eleventh Variation) Moreover, the information that the display control function 125c displays in the first embodiment and the modified example described above can also be displayed in appropriate combinations.

[0109] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the eleventh modified example.

[0110] For example, as shown in Fig. 14, the display control function 125c displays the graph 2a showing the change in FFR and blood vessel cross-sectional area and the CPR image 7a of the coronary artery, and displays the color bar 6a shown in Fig. 6 next to the CPR image 7a instead of the graph 8a showing the change in blood vessel cross-sectional area, in the same manner as in the example shown in Fig. 8. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c sets the length of the color bar 6a so that the scale in the distance direction matches that of the CPR image 7a, and arranges the CPR image 7a and the color bar 6a next to each other so that their positions in the distance direction match.

[0111] For example, the display control function 125c displays marker 7b on graph 2a showing changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area, and also displays marker 8b at a corresponding position on color bar 6a, similar to the example shown in Fig. 8. The display control function 125c moves marker 7b displayed on graph 2a and marker 8b displayed on color bar 6a in a linked manner so that they indicate the same position in the distance direction, similar to the example shown in Fig. 8.

[0112] Furthermore, for example, the display control function 125c displays the FFR value 12c at the position where the marker 7b is displayed, similar to the examples shown in FIGS.

[0113] According to such a display, by referring to various information such as the graph 2a, the CPR image 7a, and the color bar 6a, the correlation between the FFR and the blood vessel cross-sectional area at each position of the coronary artery can be grasped more efficiently.

[0114] (Twelfth Variation) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may display information indicating segments of the coronary arteries in addition to auxiliary information indicating the structure of the coronary arteries.

[0115] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the twelfth modified example.

[0116] For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the display control function 125c displays a graph 2a showing changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area, similar to the example shown in FIG. 2, while displaying a number 10a indicating a coronary artery segment on the horizontal axis of the graph 2a, similar to the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0117] With such a display, by referring to both the information showing the change in vascular cross-sectional area and the information showing the coronary artery segment, the correlation between FFR and vascular cross-sectional area at each position in the coronary artery can be grasped more easily and in more detail.

[0118] (13th Variation) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may set a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery based on anatomical information, and further display the value of the blood flow parameter obtained from the statistical value in that range together with the graph.

[0119] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the thirteenth modified example.

[0120] For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the display control function 125c displays a graph 2a showing changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area shown in FIG. 2 and a CPR image 12a and a color bar 5a shown in FIG. 12 side by side so that their positions in the distance direction are aligned.

[0121] Then, the display control function 125c displays a marker 16a indicating a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery on the graph 2a indicating the change in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area. At the same time, the display control function 125c also displays a similar marker 16b on the CPR image 12a at a position corresponding to the position of the marker 16b displayed on the graph 2a. In this example, the horizontal width of each of the markers 16a and 16b indicates a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery. Note that the markers in this modification are not limited to the markers 16a and 16b shown in FIG. 16, and any shape of marker may be used as long as it is capable of indicating a range in the distance direction.

[0122] Thereafter, the display control function 125c receives an operation from the operator to place the marker 16a at an arbitrary position on the graph 2a based on the anatomical information shown by the graph 2a and the CPR image 12a. Here, the display control function 125c displays the marker 16a at a corresponding position on the graph 2a in response to the operation received from the operator. Alternatively, the display control function 125c may receive an operation from the operator to place the marker 16b at an arbitrary position on the CPR image 12a. In addition, the display control function 125c changes the width of the marker 16a or 16b in response to the operation by the operator, thereby receiving a designation of a range in the distance direction from the operator. Then, the display control function 125c sets a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery based on the position and width of the marker 16a or 16b placed by the operator.

[0123] Thereafter, the display control function 125c displays the FFR value obtained from the statistical value of the coronary artery pressure in the set range. For example, the display control function 125c derives the FFR using the minimum value of the coronary artery pressure in the set range, and displays the derived FFR value 16c. Note that the display control function 125c may derive the FFR using other statistical values ​​such as the maximum value, average value, median value, and difference value of the coronary artery pressure. Alternatively, for example, the display control function 125c may display the FFR value in the set range as a range such as 0.81 to 0.85.

[0124] Alternatively, for example, the display control function 125c may display a similar marker near the origin of the coronary artery in each of the graph 2a and the CPR image 12a, and further receive an operation for the marker from the operator. In this case, for example, the display control function 125c derives the FFR using the statistical value of the coronary artery pressure in the range of the marker placed near the origin of the coronary artery and the statistical value of the coronary artery pressure in the range of the markers 16a and 16b placed at the arbitrary positions described above.

[0125] Alternatively, for example, the display control function 125c may further display information indicating a segment of a coronary artery, as in the examples shown in Figs. 10, 11, and 15. In this case, for example, the display control function 125c uses the segment of the coronary artery as anatomical information to set a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery. For example, the display control function 125c may set a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery in units of a segment of the coronary artery. That is, in this case, the display control function 125c sets a section of one segment or a section of multiple consecutive segments as a range in the distance direction along the coronary artery.

[0126] (14th Variation) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may further display functional information of the subject's myocardium together with a graph showing changes in the value of the blood flow parameter.

[0127] In this case, the acquisition function 125a acquires volume data indicating functional information of the myocardium of the subject, in addition to CT image data relating to the coronary arteries of the subject.

[0128] For example, the acquisition function 125a acquires volume data of a CT perfusion image obtained by injecting a contrast agent into a subject and imaging the myocardium. Alternatively, for example, the acquisition function 125a may acquire volume data generated by other medical image diagnostic devices such as an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device, an ultrasound diagnostic device, an X-ray diagnostic device, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) device, etc. Note that, as the volume data in this modification, any volume data may be used as long as it indicates functional information of the myocardium.

[0129] Then, the display control function 125c displays the functional information of the myocardium of the subject together with a graph showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter based on the volume data acquired by the acquisition function 125a.

[0130] Specifically, the display control function 125c identifies a region controlled by the coronary artery in the myocardium, and displays the myocardial index value in the region controlled by the coronary artery as functional information of the myocardium.

[0131] For example, the display control function 125c generates a polar map showing functional information of the myocardium using the volume data acquired by the acquisition function 125a, and displays it together with a graph showing changes in the values ​​of blood flow parameters. Here, the polar map is an image in which the three-dimensional shape of the myocardium is expanded on a plane and represented as a simulated circular figure, and the functional information of the myocardium is mapped onto the figure.

[0132] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of information display performed by a display control function 125c according to the fourteenth modification.

[0133] 17(a), the display control function 125c generates an image in which a blood vessel image of a coronary artery is projected onto a polar map in which functional information of the myocardium is represented by color, and displays the image together with a graph (not shown) showing a change in the value of a blood flow parameter. Then, the display control function 125c displays a marker 17a on the polar map, and receives an operation from the operator to place the marker 17a at an arbitrary position.

[0134] Here, as shown in (b) of Fig. 17, when a marker 17a is placed on a blood vessel image of a coronary artery, the display control function 125c identifies a blood vessel region 17b located downstream of the position where the marker 17a is placed. Then, as shown in (c) of Fig. 17, the display control function 125c identifies a myocardial dominated region 17c, which is a region of the myocardium to which blood is supplied from the identified blood vessel region 17b. For example, the display control function 125c identifies the myocardial dominated region 17c using a Voronoi algorithm or the like.

[0135] 17(d), the display control function 125c derives a myocardial index value in the identified myocardial controlled region 17c and displays the derived myocardial index value 17d. Here, the myocardial index value may be, for example, an integral value obtained by integrating the myocardial index values ​​in the myocardial controlled region 17c, or an average value obtained by averaging the myocardial index values ​​in the myocardial controlled region 17c.

[0136] Although the display control function 125c displays the myocardial functional information in a polar map, the present modified example is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 125c may display the myocardial functional information in a graph or a color bar.

[0137] (Fifteenth Variation) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may derive, by simulation, information indicating changes in myocardial functional information when the shape of the coronary artery is deformed by a treatment simulation, and further display the information together with a graph indicating changes in the value of the blood flow parameter.

[0138] In this case, the analysis function 125b performs a coronary artery treatment simulation using the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a, thereby further deriving the value of the blood flow parameter after the coronary artery treatment.

[0139] Then, the display control function 125c performs a simulation using the post-treatment blood flow parameter values ​​derived by the analysis function 125b, and further displays information indicating the change in the functional information of the myocardium when the coronary artery is deformed by the treatment simulation, together with a graph indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter.

[0140] Specifically, the display control function 125c derives functional information of the myocardium before treatment by performing a simulation using values ​​of blood flow parameters before treatment derived before the treatment simulation is performed. Also, the display control function 125c derives functional information of the myocardium after treatment by performing a simulation using values ​​of blood flow parameters after treatment. Then, the display control function 125c displays the derived functional information of the myocardium before treatment and the functional information of the myocardium after treatment as information indicating a change in the functional information of the myocardium.

[0141] At this time, for example, the display control function 125c identifies the control area of ​​the coronary artery in the myocardium, derives the pre-treatment myocardial index value in the control area as functional information of the myocardium before treatment, and derives the post-treatment myocardial index value in the control area as functional information of the myocardium after treatment.

[0142] For example, the analysis function 125b performs a fluid analysis using the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, to derive the value of the blood flow parameter of the coronary artery before treatment.

[0143] Thereafter, for example, the display control function 125c derives the blood flow rate supplied to the control region based on the pre-treatment blood flow parameters derived by the analysis function 125b after identifying the control region of the coronary artery in the myocardium.Then, the display control function 125c generates a pre-treatment myocardial perfusion image by performing a simulation to derive a spatial distribution of the perfusion value of the myocardium using the derived blood flow rate.Here, the perfusion value is an example of a myocardial index value.

[0144] Thereafter, the analysis function 125b performs a treatment simulation to virtually perform a treatment on the coronary artery using the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a. Here, various known methods can be used as a method of the treatment simulation.

[0145] Furthermore, the analysis function 125b performs fluid analysis again using the data of the coronary artery virtually deformed by the treatment simulation, thereby deriving the value of the blood flow parameter of the coronary artery after treatment.

[0146] Then, the display control function 125 derives the blood flow rate supplied to the control region based on the post-treatment blood flow parameters derived by the analysis function 125b, and generates a post-treatment myocardial perfusion image by performing a simulation using the derived blood flow rate.

[0147] Then, the display control function 125c displays a pre-treatment myocardial perfusion image generated before the treatment simulation is performed and a post-treatment myocardial perfusion image generated after the treatment simulation is performed side by side as information indicating changes in the functional information of the myocardium.

[0148] Such a display allows the operator to easily confirm the range of myocardium affected by the treatment (control region).

[0149] In this modification, the image for displaying the spatial distribution of the myocardial perfusion value is not limited to the myocardial perfusion image. For example, the spatial distribution of the myocardial perfusion value may be displayed in the form of a polar map, or may be displayed by displaying a volume rendering image of the myocardium and coronary arteries and coloring the myocardial portion in the volume rendering image according to the perfusion value. By using the volume rendering image, the operator can better understand the relationship between the coronary arteries, FFR, and the perfusion value.

[0150] (16th Modification) Also, for example, the display control function 125c may further display, in a graph, information indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter after treatment obtained by the treatment simulation.

[0151] In this case, the analysis function 125b performs a coronary artery treatment simulation using the CT image data acquired by the acquisition function 125a to further derive the value of the blood flow parameter of the coronary artery after the treatment. The analysis function 125b may also perform a treatment simulation to further derive the value of the morphological parameter of the coronary artery after the treatment.

[0152] The display control function 125c further displays information indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter after the treatment derived by the analysis function 125b on the graph indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter. The display control function 125c may further display information indicating the change in the value of the morphological parameter after the treatment derived by the analysis function 125b on the graph indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter.

[0153] For example, the analysis function 125b performs a treatment simulation in which a device for treatment is inserted into a coronary artery. Here, as an example, a case where the analysis function 125b performs a treatment simulation in which a stent is inserted into a coronary artery will be described.

[0154] 18 to 20 are diagrams showing an example of information display performed by the display control function 125c according to the sixteenth modification.

[0155] For example, as shown in FIG. 18, the display control function 125c displays a graph 2a showing the changes in FFR and vascular cross-sectional area shown in FIG. 2 and a stretched curved planar reconstruction (SPR) image 18a of the coronary artery generated based on CT image data, side by side so that their positions in the distance direction match.

[0156] 19, the display control function 125c displays a stent image 18b that simulates the shape of a stent for treatment on the SPR image 18a, and receives an operation from the operator to place the stent image 18b at an arbitrary position in the coronary artery. Here, for example, the display control function 125c receives a designation of the length, diameter, and insertion position of the stent from the operator by transforming the stent image 18b in response to the operation by the operator. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c displays stent information 18c indicating the stent image, stent model number, stent length, and stent diameter together with the graph 2a and the SPR image 18a.

[0157] Then, the analysis function 125b performs a treatment simulation by applying the length, thickness, and insertion position of the stent specified by the operator using the stent image 18b to the analysis model created from the CT image when the initial fluid analysis was performed, and performing fluid analysis again. As a result, for example, the analysis function 125b derives the FFR and the vascular cross-sectional area after the treatment.

[0158] Then, for example, as shown in Fig. 20, the display control function 125c displays on the graph 2a the curves (shown by dashed lines in Fig. 20) showing the changes in the FFR and vascular cross-sectional area after the treatment derived by the analysis function 125b, superimposed on the curves showing the changes in the FFR and vascular cross-sectional area before the treatment. At this time, for example, the display control function 125c further displays information showing the start point and end point of the stent (shown by dashed lines in Fig. 20) on the graph 2a.

[0159] According to such a display, by comparing the information before and after treatment, it becomes possible to easily grasp the extent to which the FFR and the vascular cross-sectional area will change when treatment is performed.

[0160] In the example shown in Fig. 20, the display control function 125c displays the curves showing the changes in the FFR and the vascular cross-sectional area after the treatment superimposed on the curves showing the changes in the FFR and the vascular cross-sectional area before the treatment, but this modification is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 125c may display the curves showing the changes after the treatment and the curves showing the changes before the treatment side by side. Alternatively, for example, the display control function 125c may switch between displaying the curves showing the changes after the treatment and the curves showing the changes before the treatment in response to an operation by the operator.

[0161] In addition, here, an example has been described in which the analysis function 125b performs a treatment simulation in which a stent is inserted into a coronary artery, but this modified example is not limited to this. For example, the analysis function 125b may perform a treatment simulation in which a narrowed portion in the coronary artery is scraped to widen the inner diameter of the blood vessel. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 125b may perform a treatment simulation in which a balloon is inserted into the coronary artery and the balloon widens the inner wall of the coronary artery. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 125b may perform a treatment simulation in which a drug is administered to the subject to change blood flow parameters (such as viscosity).

[0162] In addition, here, an example has been described in which the display control function 125c displays only the results (SPR image, FFR, and vascular cross-sectional area) of a treatment simulation in which a stent is inserted into a coronary artery, but this modified example is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 125c may display the results of multiple types of treatment simulations performed by the analysis function 125b. For example, the display control function 125c may display a result in which the blood vessel diameter is 3 mm and the blood vessel length is 5 mm, a result in which the blood vessel diameter is 3 mm and the blood vessel length is 7 mm, and a result in which the blood flow parameters are changed by drug administration. In this case, the display control function 125c may display each result in an overlapping manner, may display them side by side, or may switch between them depending on the operation by the operator.

[0163] (Other variations) In the above-described first embodiment and modified example, when a CPR image of a coronary artery is displayed as in the examples shown in FIGS. 7 to 8 and 12 to 14, for example, the display control function 125c may be configured to superimpose a linear graphic showing the contour of the coronary artery on the CPR image.

[0164] In this case, for example, the display control function 125c may switch between a mode in which graphics are displayed and a mode in which graphics are not displayed in response to an instruction from an operator. For example, when graphics are displayed, the graphics may make it difficult to observe blood vessels on a CPR image, but by being able to switch the display mode in this way, the operator can easily observe blood vessels according to the situation.

[0165] Second embodiment In the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example in which the processing circuitry 125 of the medical image processing device 120 has the acquisition function 125a, the analysis function 125b, and the display control function 125c has been described, but these processing functions may be distributed and implemented in a plurality of devices. Therefore, in the following, as a second embodiment, an example in which the processing functions of the processing circuitry 125 described in the first embodiment are distributed and implemented in two devices will be described.

[0166] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image processing system according to the second embodiment.

[0167] 21, a medical image processing system 200 according to this embodiment includes an X-ray CT apparatus 110, a medical image analysis apparatus 220, and a medical image display apparatus 230. Here, each apparatus is connected to each other via a network 240 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0168] The X-ray CT apparatus 110 generates CT image data relating to a subject, similarly to the first embodiment.

[0169] The medical image analysis device 220 acquires CT image data from the X-ray CT device 110 via the network 240, and performs various analysis processes based on the acquired CT image data. For example, the medical image analysis device 220 is realized by computer equipment such as a server, a workstation, or a personal computer.

[0170] Specifically, the medical image analysis device 220 includes a NW interface 221, a memory circuitry 222, an input interface 223, a display 224, and a processing circuitry 225. Here, the NW interface 221, the memory circuitry 222, the input interface 223, and the display 224 have the same configurations as the NW interface 121, the memory circuitry 122, the input interface 123, and the display 124 of the medical image processing device 120 described in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0171] The medical image display device 230 acquires CT image data from the X-ray CT device 110 via a network 240, and performs various analysis processes based on the acquired CT image data. For example, the medical image display device 230 is realized by computer equipment such as a server, a workstation, or a personal computer.

[0172] Specifically, the medical image display device 230 includes a NW interface 231, a storage circuitry 232, an input interface 233, a display 234, and a processing circuitry 235. Here, the NW interface 231, the storage circuitry 232, the input interface 233, and the display 234 have the same configurations as the NW interface 121, the storage circuitry 122, the input interface 123, and the display 124 of the medical image processing device 120 described in the first embodiment, respectively.

[0173] In this embodiment, the processing circuitry 225 of the medical image analyzer 220 includes an acquisition function 225a, an analysis function 225b, and a transmission function 225c. The acquisition function 225a is an example of an acquisition unit. The analysis function 225b is an example of an analysis unit.

[0174] The acquisition function 225a executes the same process as the acquisition function 125a described in the first embodiment or the modified example. The analysis function 225b executes the same process as the analysis function 125b described in the first embodiment or the modified example. The transmission function 225c transmits information including the values ​​of the blood flow parameters and morphological parameters derived by the analysis function 225b to the medical image display device 230 via the NW interface 221.

[0175] In this embodiment, the processing circuitry 235 of the medical image display device 230 has a receiving function 235a and a display control function 235b. The display control function 235b is an example of a display control unit.

[0176] The receiving function 235a receives information including values ​​of blood flow parameters and morphological parameters transmitted from the medical image analyzer 220 via the NW interface 231. The display control function 235b uses the information received by the receiving function 235a to execute the same process as the display control function 125c described in the first embodiment or the modified example.

[0177] As a result, for example, the display control function 235b displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery together with the graph.

[0178] Alternatively, for example, the display control function 235b displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays information showing the segment of the coronary artery on the horizontal axis of the graph.

[0179] In this embodiment, for example, the analysis function 225b of the medical image analysis device 220 generates display data for displaying information in the same manner as in the first embodiment or the modified example based on the derived values ​​of blood flow parameters and morphological parameters, and transmits the display data to the medical image display device 230, and the display control function 235b of the medical image display device 230 displays information based on the received display data. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 225b of the medical image analysis device 220 may transmit the values ​​of blood flow parameters and morphological parameters to the medical image display device 230, and the display control function 235b of the medical image display device 230 may display information using the received values ​​of blood flow parameters and morphological parameters in the same manner as the display control function 125c described in the first embodiment or the modified example.

[0180] Here, for example, the processing circuitry 225 of the medical image analysis device 220 and the processing circuitry 235 of the medical image display device 230 are each realized by a processor. In this case, each processing function of each processing circuit is stored in the storage circuitry of each device in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, each processing circuit realizes the processing function corresponding to each program by reading each program from the storage circuitry and executing it. In other words, each processing circuit has each processing function shown in FIG. 21 when each program is read.

[0181] According to the above-described configuration, in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by referring to auxiliary information together with a graph, it is possible to easily grasp the correspondence between the position at which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery.

[0182] (Third embodiment) Furthermore, the processing function of the processing circuit 125 described in the first embodiment may be implemented in an X-ray CT scanner. Therefore, hereinafter, as a third embodiment, an example in which the processing function of the processing circuit 125 described in the first embodiment is implemented in an X-ray CT scanner will be described.

[0183] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG.

[0184] For example, as shown in Fig. 22, an X-ray CT apparatus 300 according to this embodiment includes a gantry device 310, a bed device 330, and a console device 340. For convenience of explanation, a plurality of gantry devices 310 are shown in Fig. 22.

[0185] In this embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotating frame 313 in a non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 333 of the bed device 330 is defined as the "Z-axis direction." Also, the axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is defined as the "X-axis direction." Also, the axial direction that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the "Y-axis direction."

[0186] The gantry device 310 is a device that irradiates an object P (such as a patient) with X-rays, detects the X-rays that have passed through the object P, and outputs the detected X-rays to a console device 340. The gantry device 310 has an X-ray tube 311, an X-ray detector 312, a rotating frame 313, an X-ray high voltage device 314, a control device 315, a wedge 316, and an X-ray aperture 317.

[0187] The X-ray tube 311 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by application of high voltage from the X-ray high voltage device 314. For example, the X-ray tube 311 is a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermoelectrons.

[0188] The wedge 316 is a filter for adjusting the amount of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 311. Specifically, the wedge 316 is a filter that transmits and attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 311 so that the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 311 to the subject P have a predetermined distribution. For example, the wedge 316 is a filter made of processed aluminum so as to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness. The wedge 316 is also called a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter.

[0189] The X-ray aperture 317 includes a lead plate or the like for narrowing the irradiation range of the X-rays transmitted through the wedge 316, and a slit is formed by combining a plurality of lead plates or the like.

[0190] The X-ray detector 312 detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 311 and passing through the subject P. Specifically, the X-ray detector 312 has a plurality of detection element rows in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 311. For example, the X-ray detector 312 has a structure in which a plurality of detection element rows in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged in the channel direction are arranged in the row direction (also called the slice direction or row direction).

[0191] For example, the X-ray detector 312 is an indirect conversion type detector having a collimator, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has a plurality of scintillators, each of which has a scintillator crystal that outputs light with a photon amount corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The collimator (also called a grid) is arranged on the X-ray incident side surface of the scintillator array, and has an X-ray shielding plate that absorbs scattered X-rays. For example, the collimator is a one-dimensional collimator or a two-dimensional collimator. The photosensor array has a plurality of photosensors, each of which outputs an electric signal corresponding to the amount of light output from the corresponding scintillator. For example, the photosensor array has other photosensors such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). The X-ray detector 312 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electric signal.

[0192] The X-ray detector 312 also has a Data Acquisition System (DAS) that processes the electrical signals output from each detection element. The DAS has an amplifier that performs an amplification process on the electrical signals output from each detection element of the X-ray detector 312, and an A / D converter that converts the electrical signals into digital signals, and generates detection data. The detection data generated by the DAS is transferred to the console device 340.

[0193] The X-ray high voltage device 314 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and includes a high voltage generator having a function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 311, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-ray output irradiated by the X-ray tube 311. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. The X-ray high voltage device 314 may be provided on the rotating frame 313 described later, or may be provided on a support frame (not shown) in the gantry device 310 that rotatably supports the rotating frame 313.

[0194] The rotating frame 313 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 311 and the X-ray detector 312 facing each other and rotates the X-ray tube 311 and the X-ray detector 312 by a control device 315 described later. The rotating frame 313 further supports an X-ray high voltage device 314 in addition to the X-ray tube 311 and the X-ray detector 312. Detection data generated by a DAS included in the X-ray detector 312 is transmitted by optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided on the rotating frame 313 to a receiver having a photodiode provided on a non-rotating portion (e.g., a support frame, etc.) of the gantry device 310, and is then transferred to the console device 340. The method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 313 to the non-rotating portion of the gantry device 310 is not limited to the optical communication described above, and any method of non-contact data transmission may be used.

[0195] The control device 315 has a processing circuit having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and a driving mechanism such as a motor and an actuator. The control device 315 has a function of receiving an input signal from the console device 340 or an input interface 343 attached to the gantry device 310 and controlling the operation of the gantry device 310 and the bed device 330. For example, the control device 315 receives an input signal and controls the rotation of the rotating frame 313, the tilt of the gantry device 310, and the operation of the bed device 330 and the tabletop 333. The control of tilting the gantry device 310 is realized by the control device 315 rotating the rotating frame 313 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on inclination angle (tilt angle) information input by the input interface 343 attached to the gantry device 310. The control device 315 may be provided in the gantry device 310 or the console device 340.

[0196] The bed device 330 is a device on which the subject P to be scanned is placed and moved, and includes a base 331, a bed driving device 332, a top plate 333, and a support frame 334. The base 331 is a housing that supports the support frame 334 so that it can move in the vertical direction. The bed driving device 332 is a motor or actuator that moves the top plate 333 on which the subject P is placed, in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 333. The top plate 333 provided on the upper surface of the support frame 334 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. Note that the bed driving device 332 may move the support frame 334 in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 333 in addition to the top plate 333.

[0197] The console device 340 is a device that accepts operations of the X-ray CT apparatus 300 by an operator, and reconstructs CT image data using detection data collected by the gantry device 310. The console device 340 has a memory 341, a display 342, an input interface 343, and a processing circuit 344. Note that, although an example in which the console device 340 and the gantry device 310 are separate will be described here, the gantry device 310 may include the console device 340 or some of the components of the console device 340.

[0198] The memory 341 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 341 stores, for example, projection data and CT image data.

[0199] The display 342 displays various types of information. For example, the display 342 outputs medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuitry 344, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from an operator, and the like. For example, the display 342 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. Note that, for example, the display 342 may be provided on the pedestal device 310. Also, for example, the display 342 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the console device 340 main body.

[0200] The input interface 343 receives various input operations from the operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 344. For example, the input interface 343 receives from the operator collection conditions for collecting projection data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing CT image data, image processing conditions for generating post-processed images from CT images, and the like. For example, the input interface 343 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, and the like. Note that, for example, the input interface 343 may be provided in the gantry device 310. Also, for example, the input interface 343 may be configured by a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the console device 340 main body.

[0201] The processing circuitry 344 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 300. For example, the processing circuitry 344 has a system control function 344a, a pre-processing function 344b, a reconstruction processing function 344c, and an image processing function 344d.

[0202] The system control function 344a controls various functions of the processing circuitry 344 based on an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 343. For example, the system control function 344a controls a CT scan executed in the X-ray CT device 300. The system control function 344a also controls the generation and display of CT image data in the console device 340 by controlling a pre-processing function 344b, a reconstruction processing function 344c, and an image processing function 344d.

[0203] The pre-processing function 344b generates projection data by performing pre-processing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from the DAS of the X-ray detector 312. Note that the data before pre-processing (detection data) and the data after pre-processing may be collectively referred to as projection data.

[0204] The reconstruction processing function 344c performs reconstruction processing using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 344b to generate CT image data (reconstructed image data).

[0205] The image processing function 344d converts the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 344c into tomographic image data of an arbitrary cross section or three-dimensional image data by a known method based on an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 343. Note that the generation of the three-dimensional image data may be performed directly by the reconstruction processing function 344c.

[0206] In this embodiment, the system control function 344a further includes an analysis function 344e and a display control function 344f. The analysis function 344e is an example of an analysis unit. The display control function 344f is an example of a display control unit.

[0207] The analysis function 344e executes the same process as the analysis function 125b described in the first embodiment or the modified example by using the CT image data generated by the reconstruction processing function 344c. The display control function 344f executes the same process as the display control function 125c described in the first embodiment or the modified example.

[0208] As a result, for example, the display control function 344f displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays auxiliary information showing the structure of the coronary artery together with the graph.

[0209] Alternatively, for example, the display control function 344f displays information showing the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery in a graph with the value of the blood flow parameter on the vertical axis and the distance direction along the coronary artery on the horizontal axis, and further displays information showing the segment of the coronary artery on the horizontal axis of the graph.

[0210] Here, for example, the processing circuitry 344 is realized by a processor. In this case, each processing function possessed by the processing circuitry 344 is stored in the memory 341 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 344 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program from the memory 341. In other words, the processing circuitry 344 has each processing function shown in FIG. 22 in a state where each program is read.

[0211] According to the above-described configuration, in the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, by referring to auxiliary information together with a graph, it is possible to easily grasp the correspondence between the position at which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery.

[0212] (Other embodiments) In the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications, the CT image data generated by the X-ray CT device is used as the medical image data, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, medical image data generated by other medical image diagnostic devices such as an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device, an ultrasonic diagnostic device, or an X-ray diagnostic device may be used as long as the medical image data can acquire the shape of blood vessels.

[0213] The medical image data used to derive the blood flow parameters and the medical image data used to derive the morphological parameters may be different types of medical image data. For example, the blood flow parameters may be derived based on CT image data, and the morphological parameters may be derived based on ultrasound images generated by an ultrasound diagnostic device such as IVUS (Intravascular Ultrasound).

[0214] In the above-mentioned embodiments, each processing function is realized by a single processing circuit for each device, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, a processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize each processing function. In addition, each processing function of a processing circuit may be appropriately distributed or integrated and realized in a single or multiple processing circuits. In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, an example in which a single storage circuit stores a program corresponding to each processing function for each device has been described, but, for example, multiple storage circuits may be distributed and arranged, and the processing circuit may read out the corresponding program from each storage circuit.

[0215] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, examples have been described in which the acquisition unit, analysis unit, and display control unit in this specification are realized by the acquisition function, analysis function, and display control function of the processing circuit, respectively, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the acquisition unit, analysis unit, and display control unit in this specification may be realized by only hardware, only software, or a combination of hardware and software, in addition to being realized by the acquisition function, analysis function, and display control function described in the embodiments.

[0216] In addition, the term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). When the processor is, for example, a CPU, the processor realizes a function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. On the other hand, when the processor is, for example, an ASIC, instead of storing the program in a memory circuit, the function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit in the circuit of the processor. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize the function. Furthermore, the multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize the function.

[0217] Here, the program executed by the processor is provided in advance in a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a storage circuit. The program may be provided in a format that can be installed in these devices or in a format that can be executed, recorded on a computer-readable storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disk)-ROM, a FD (Flexible Disk), a CD-R (Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk). The program may be provided or distributed by being stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloaded via the network. For example, the program is composed of modules including each of the above-mentioned functional units. As actual hardware, a CPU reads out the program from a storage medium such as a ROM and executes it, so that each module is loaded onto a main storage device and generated on the main storage device.

[0218] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment and modified examples, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution or integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or a part of it can be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of each processing function performed by each device can be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0219] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

[0220] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it becomes possible to easily grasp the correspondence relationship between the position at which the value of the blood flow parameter is derived and the position on the coronary artery.

[0221] Although some embodiments have been described, 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 modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0222] 120 Medical image processing device 125 Processing Circuit 125a Acquisition function 125b Analysis function 125c Display Control Function

Claims

1. A medical image processing system that acquires medical images acquired by a medical image diagnostic device via a network, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires medical image data related to a coronary artery of a subject from the medical image diagnostic apparatus; an analysis unit that derives values ​​of blood flow parameters representing hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the medical image data; a display control unit that displays the shape of the coronary artery and information indicating changes in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery, together with a distance direction along the coronary artery as a horizontal axis; Equipped with The display control unit is showing a first marker, a second marker, and a third marker at positions corresponding to the horizontal axis in the display; and further showing a cross-sectional image of the coronary artery at the location of the first marker. Medical image processing system.

2. The blood flow parameter is a quantitative flow ratio (QFR). The medical image processing system according to claim 1 .

3. the display control unit determines and further displays a difference value of the blood flow parameter among the positions indicated by the first marker, the second marker, and the third marker.

3. The medical image processing system according to claim 1.

4. the display control unit further displays a stent image that simulates a shape of a stent at a position corresponding to the horizontal axis in the display, and displays a numerical value indicating a length of the stent together with the stent image.

4. The medical image processing system according to claim 1.

5. the display control unit displays, as the display, a color map to which colors are assigned according to values ​​of the blood flow parameters, and further displays a CPR (Curved Planar Reconstruction) image of the coronary artery together with the color map.

5. The medical image processing system according to claim 1.

6. the display control unit displays a plurality of cross-sectional images at different positions of the coronary artery, and among the plurality of cross-sectional images, a cross-sectional image at a position of the first marker is displayed in a distinguishable manner.

6. The medical image processing system according to claim 1.

7. The display control unit displays the first marker, the second marker, and the third marker at corresponding positions of the CPR image of the coronary artery.

7. The medical image processing system according to claim 1.

8. The display control unit further displays information indicating a segment of the coronary artery on the horizontal axis. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The analysis unit further derives values ​​of morphological parameters representing a morphology of the coronary artery based on the medical image data; The display control unit further displays information indicating a change in the value of the morphological parameter along the coronary artery. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. the display control unit further displays a tomographic image of the coronary artery along the distance direction, and displays markers corresponding to the first marker, the second marker, and the third marker at corresponding positions in the tomographic image. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The display control unit is and further displaying values ​​of the blood flow parameter at each of the positions where the first marker, the second marker, and the third marker are displayed. The medical image processing system according to claim 10.

12. the display control unit sets a range in a distance direction along the coronary artery based on anatomical information, and further displays values ​​of the blood flow parameters obtained from statistics in the range. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. the display control unit displays a marker indicating the range at a position corresponding to the horizontal axis on the display. The medical image processing system according to claim 12.

14. the display control unit sets the range in units of segments of the coronary artery.

14. The medical image processing system according to claim 12 or 13.

15. The acquisition unit further acquires volume data indicating functional information of the myocardium of the subject; The display control unit further displays functional information of the myocardium based on the volume data. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. the display control unit identifies a control region of the coronary artery in the myocardium, and displays a myocardial index value in the control region as functional information of the myocardium. The medical image processing system according to claim 15.

17. the analysis unit further derives values ​​of blood flow parameters after the treatment of the coronary artery by performing a treatment simulation of the coronary artery using the medical image data; the display control unit performs a simulation using the values ​​of the blood flow parameters after the treatment, and further displays information indicating a change in functional information of the myocardium when the coronary artery is deformed by the treatment simulation. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. the display control unit derives myocardial functional information before the treatment by performing a simulation using the values ​​of the blood flow parameters derived before the treatment simulation is performed, derives myocardial functional information after the treatment by performing a simulation using the values ​​of the blood flow parameters after the treatment, and displays the myocardial functional information before the treatment and the myocardial functional information after the treatment as information indicating a change in the myocardial functional information.

18. The medical image processing system of claim 17.

19. the display control unit identifies a control region of the coronary artery in the myocardium, derives a myocardial index value before treatment in the control region as functional information of the myocardium before treatment, and derives a myocardial index value after treatment in the control region as functional information of the myocardium after treatment.

20. The medical image processing system of claim 18.

20. the analysis unit further derives values ​​of blood flow parameters after the treatment of the coronary artery by performing a treatment simulation of the coronary artery using the medical image data; The display control unit further displays information indicating a change in the value of the blood flow parameter after the treatment. The medical image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The analysis unit further derives values ​​of morphological parameters of the coronary artery after treatment by performing the treatment simulation; The display control unit further displays information indicating a change in the value of the morphological parameter after the treatment.

21. The medical image processing system of claim 20.

22. On the computer, An acquisition function for acquiring medical image data relating to a coronary artery of a subject; an analysis function for deriving values ​​of blood flow parameters representing hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the medical image data; a display control function for displaying the shape of the coronary artery and information indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery, together with the distance direction along the coronary artery as the horizontal axis; Realize this, The display control function includes: showing a first marker, a second marker, and a third marker at positions corresponding to the horizontal axis in the display; and further showing a cross-sectional image of the coronary artery at the location of the first marker. A medical image processing program.

23. A medical image processing device, An acquisition step of acquiring medical image data relating to a coronary artery of a subject; an analysis step of deriving values ​​of blood flow parameters representing hemodynamics of the coronary artery based on the medical image data; a display control step of displaying the shape of the coronary artery and information indicating the change in the value of the blood flow parameter along the coronary artery, with the distance direction along the coronary artery being plotted as a horizontal axis; Including, The display control step includes: showing a first marker, a second marker, and a third marker at positions corresponding to the horizontal axis in the display; and further showing a cross-sectional image of the coronary artery at the location of the first marker. Medical image processing method.

Images