Instrument counting support system

Abstract

To provide an instrument counting support system that supports counting confirmation (counting) of instruments and can further simplify management of the instruments and the like.SOLUTION: An instrument counting support system 100 includes: a first storage unit 22 which stores a first file containing a prescribed quantity for each instrument; a display control unit 16 which displays the instruments and the prescribed quantity as a table on a display device 32 along with an identification symbol; a voice recognition unit 12 which analyzes voice collected by a microphone 30 and converts the voice into text data; a second storage unit 24 which stores a second file that records the quantity for each instrument included in the collected voice as an input quantity; and a collation unit 14 which collates the prescribed quantity with the input quantity. When receiving a signal for starting voice input for counting, the voice recognition unit recognizes the quantity included in the voice as the input quantity for the instrument and records them in the second file, and when the identification symbol is included in the voice, starts reception of modification of the input quantity of the instrument corresponding to the identification symbol.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an instrument counting assistance system. [Background technology]

[0002] Many small surgical instruments used in surgery have been developed according to the surgical procedure, and the management of many instruments and preparation before surgery have become more advanced and complicated with the advancement of medical technology. As a technique for simplifying the management and preparation of such instruments, Patent Document 1 describes "a cart including a transmitter attached to a surgical instrument, a shelf on which the surgical instruments and other items are placed and managed, a receiver installed on the shelf for receiving radio waves transmitted from the transmitter, and a communication unit for receiving information on the surgical instruments transmitted by the radio waves received by the receiver, and the information on the surgical instruments is sent to an external system via the communication unit." [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-219709 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] The surgical instrument management support cart described in Patent Document 1 still leaves things insufficient in terms of recording instruments and simplifying individual confirmation according to surgical procedure. The instrument counting support system disclosed in the present specification supports the counting of instruments, and can make instrument management, etc. easier.

[0005] One of the instrument counting support systems disclosed in the present specification is an instrument counting support system that supports counting the number of each instrument included in a set of instruments for surgery using a specified surgical procedure, and includes a first storage unit that stores a first file including a specified number of each instrument included in the set, a display control unit that displays at least the names of the instruments that make up the set and the specified number of instruments together with an identification code specified for each instrument as a table on a display device, a voice recognition unit that analyzes voice collected by a microphone and converts it into text data, and a voice recognition unit that records the number of each instrument included in the collected voice as an input number relative to the specified number. the voice recognition unit, upon receiving a signal to start voice input for counting the appliances, recognizes the quantities contained in the collected voice as the input quantities for each appliance in the order listed in the table and records them in the second file; and, when the voice includes an identification symbol predetermined for each appliance, begins accepting corrections to the input quantity for the appliance corresponding to the identification symbol and records the quantity recognized immediately after the identification symbol in the second file as the corrected input quantity for the appliance to be corrected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an instrument counting support system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of modified examples having different storage locations for the voice recognition engine 36. (A) is a configuration similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 1, (B) is a modified example in which a virtual machine 38 is constructed in a remote server 120 at the request of the voice recognition unit 12, and (C) is a modified example in which the voice recognition engine 36 is stored in the storage unit 20 of the main body 110. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of assistance in counting the number of appliances using the appliance count assistance system. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of assistance in counting the number of appliances using the appliance count assistance system. [Figure 3C]FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of assistance in counting the number of appliances using the appliance count assistance system. [Figure 4] (A) is an example of data in table format of the instruments included in a set corresponding to a specified surgical procedure and the prescribed quantity (constant) of each instrument, contained in the first file. (B) shows a plan view of the completed set in which the instruments included in the set are placed in a specified container. [Figure 5A] This is a screen displayed on the display device during pickup counting. [Figure 5B] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a main window when counting has started. [Figure 5C] This shows the screen immediately after an utterance of the quantity of a given tool has been text-recognized by the voice recognition unit and recorded as the input quantity. [Figure 5D] In the state shown in FIG. 5C, the operator vocalizes the identification symbol of a given tool, which is recognized and the screen changes to the correction mode. [Figure 5E] This is a screen for providing additional information about the corresponding device, in which a Details button is specified by voice and displayed. [Figure 5F] 13 is an image of an add note window that is displayed when the add note button is selected. [Figure 5G] FIG. 13 illustrates the Instrument Details window after notes have been added. [Figure 5H] FIG. 13 illustrates a comment menu window. [Figure 5K] 13 is an image of a comment addition window that is displayed when a predetermined comment addition use button is specified. [Figure 5L] FIG. 13 illustrates the Instrument Details window after a comment has been added. [Figure 5M] FIG. 13 shows the main window after notes and comments have been added for a given tool. [Figure 5N] FIG. 13 is a diagram of a count end window that is displayed when the contents are saved using the temporary save button. [Figure 6]11 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a second file stored in a second storage section. FIG. [Figure 7] This is a specific example of a second file in which the preoperative input quantities are recorded. [Figure 8] This is a specific example of a second file in which the amount of data entered during surgery is recorded. [Figure 9] This is a specific example of a second file in which the input quantity for postoperative period is recorded. [Figure 10] This is a specific example of a second file in which the input quantity of collected items is recorded. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the instrument counting support system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described. In this specification, a numerical range expressed using "to" means a range including the numerical values ​​before and after "to" as the lower and upper limits.

[0008] The embodiment described below is an example of a concrete embodiment of the technical concept. The technical concept does not limit the material, shape, structure, arrangement, etc. of the components to the embodiment described below. The drawings are schematic.

[0009] A first embodiment of the instrument counting support system disclosed in this specification is an instrument counting support system that supports counting the quantity of each instrument included in a set of instruments for surgery using a specified surgical procedure, and includes a first storage unit in which a first file containing a specified quantity for each instrument included in the set is stored, a display control unit that causes a display device to display at least the names of the instruments constituting the set and the specified quantity together with an identification code specified for each instrument as a table, a voice recognition unit that analyzes voice collected by a microphone and converts it into text data, and a second file that records the quantity of each instrument included in the collected voice as an input quantity relative to the specified quantity. The appliance counting support system further comprises a second storage unit that stores a file, and a comparison unit that compares the specified quantity with the input quantity. When the voice recognition unit receives a signal to start voice input for counting the appliances, it recognizes the quantities contained in the collected voice as the input quantities for each of the appliances in the order listed in the table and records them in the second file, and when the voice includes an identification symbol predetermined for each appliance, it begins accepting corrections to the input quantities of the appliances corresponding to the identification symbol, and records the quantity recognized immediately after the identification symbol in the second file as the corrected input quantity for the appliance that is the subject of the correction.

[0010] According to the first embodiment, the number of appliances can be counted hands-free by voice input. Conventionally, the number of appliances was counted while checking against a list, but by speaking the number of appliances, the number can be checked against the list, so that even a single worker can count reliably and easily. Each appliance displayed in the list is assigned an identification code that can be recognized by voice, and this identification code triggers the start of the correction and recording of the quantity of the appliance. This identification code may be at least one selected from the group consisting of a number or the like previously assigned to each appliance, the appliance name itself, and a combination thereof. As a result, not only input but also correction can be performed hands-free, so that even a single operator can perform counting work reliably and easily.

[0011] A second embodiment of the instrument counting support system is an instrument counting support system in which the input quantity is recorded in the second file each time the count is performed, the first count is performed when the instruments are picked up to prepare the set, and the second and subsequent counts are performed at at least one time point selected from the group consisting of before surgery, during surgery, after surgery, and collection, and the comparison unit compares the input quantity with the specified quantity each time the count is performed.

[0012] According to the second embodiment, in addition to the time of picking up the instruments to prepare a set, counting is also performed before surgery, during surgery, after surgery, and at the time of collection, which makes it easier to manage the instruments more reliably. In particular, by counting at the time of picking up, before surgery, during surgery, after surgery, and collection, the number of instruments can be consistently managed from preparation to collection, and the occurrence of accidents such as the retention of instruments in the patient's body can be further suppressed.

[0013] A third embodiment of the instrument counting support system is an instrument counting support system which, upon receiving a specified signal indicating the addition of a new instrument not included in the set and / or the addition of a quantity of the instruments included in the set during the counting in at least one type selected from the group consisting of before the surgery and during the surgery, records the quantity of the instruments added as the new specified quantity.

[0014] According to the third embodiment, even if an instrument not listed in the original list is added before or during surgery, the instrument can be appropriately managed. As will be described in detail later, instruments may be added before or during surgery in the form of a single package. The instrument counting support system of this embodiment allows the instruments included in this single package to be appropriately managed.

[0015] A fourth embodiment of the instrument counting support system is an instrument counting support system in which the specified quantity for each instrument is also recorded in the second file, and the new specified quantity is recorded only in the second file.

[0016] According to the fourth embodiment, the specified quantity of instruments added before or during surgery is recorded only in the second file, and the specified quantity is not recorded in the first file. By registering the minimum number of instruments according to the surgical procedure in the first file and recording the variations (additional instruments) in the second file, it is possible to deal with many modified surgical procedures without preparing multiple subdivisions of the first file, and the preparation of the first file (master file) is more labor-saving.

[0017] A fifth embodiment of the appliance counting support system is an appliance counting support system in which, when the new specified quantity is recorded in the second file, the display control unit causes the display device to display the table during the subsequent counting by referring to the names of the appliances and the specified quantities recorded in the second file.

[0018] According to the fifth embodiment, the specified quantity of the most recently added appliance can be reflected in the table, and additional single packages can also be managed.

[0019] A sixth embodiment of the appliance counting support system is an appliance counting support system in which, when there is a change in the specified quantity recorded in the second file, the comparison unit compares the input quantity recorded thereafter with the specified quantity after the change recorded in the second file.

[0020] According to the sixth embodiment, since the second file with the changed specified quantity is used as a reference for comparison, it is possible to more easily manage preoperative and intraoperatively added single-packaged instruments that are not recorded in the first file. Also, by referring to the changed second file, all single-packaged instruments added in previous processes can be counted.

[0021] A seventh embodiment of the instrument counting support system is an instrument counting support system in which the first file further includes image information for each instrument, the display control unit displays the image information together with the table on the display device, and when the corresponding input quantity for a given instrument is recognized by the voice recognition unit, the image information displayed on the display device is updated to image information of the instrument for which the input quantity is to be obtained next.

[0022] According to the seventh embodiment, when counting, an image of the target tool is displayed on the display device, so the worker can tell if the tool he is currently counting is the correct one just by comparing the image in front of him with the image on the screen. The image is updated every time a count is performed, so it is easy to know which tool is the next tool to be counted. Recording is done hands-free, so there is no need to take your hands off the tool when comparing with the image on the screen, making it difficult to make a mistake. Even an unskilled person can easily count tools.

[0023] An eighth embodiment of the instrument counting support system is the instrument counting support system described in claim 6, wherein the first file further includes the set of image information, and the display control unit causes the display device to display the set of image information together with the table, and continues to cause the display device to display the set of image information together with the table regardless of updates to the image information of the instrument.

[0024] According to the eighth embodiment, an overall image of the set of tools is displayed regardless of whether the images of the individual tools are updated, so that the worker can always understand the order in which the tools are arranged for assembling.

[0025] A ninth embodiment of the instrument counting support system is an instrument counting support system in which the display control unit displays, in the table, a button for displaying and / or editing additional information for each instrument, and the buttons are individually recognized by the voice recognition unit by specifying the names of each instrument by voice input.

[0026] According to the ninth embodiment, buttons for editing additional information and the like are each individually voice-recognized, so that even in a table containing multiple appliances, information can be easily added to a desired appliance in a hands-free manner.

[0027] Next, an embodiment of the instrument counting support system will be described with reference to the drawings. 1 is a configuration diagram of an instrument counting support system 100. The instrument counting support system 100 includes a main body 110 to which a microphone 30, a display device 32, an operating device 34, and a remote server 120 are connected. The main body 110 includes a communication unit 10 for communicating with a remote server 120, a voice recognition unit 12 for analyzing voice collected by a microphone 30 and converting it into text data, a display control unit 16 for controlling the display contents of a display device 32, an input control unit 18 for receiving input from an operation device 34, a storage unit 20 for storing various files, programs, software components, etc. and for providing a storage location for data, etc. to the processor, and a collating unit 14 for collating the contents of files, which will be described later. The storage unit 20 also includes a first storage unit 22 for storing a first file, which will be described later, and a second storage unit 24 for storing a second file.

[0028] The main body 110 is a computer equipped with a processor, a memory, a storage device, etc. The functions of each part of the main body 110 are realized by the processor executing a control program, etc., loaded from a storage device, etc., into the memory, and the hardware of the computer operating.

[0029] Examples of processors include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), and a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and these may be used in combination. The memory may be a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or a static RAM (SRAM), and may be internal to the CPU (register) or external to the CPU, and these may be used in combination. Storage devices include hard disk drives (HDD) and solid state drives (SSD), and these may be used in combination.

[0030] Examples of the display device 32 include monitors such as liquid crystal displays and organic EL displays, projectors, and head-mounted displays, and these may be used in combination. The operation device 34 may be a mouse, a keyboard, a touch screen, a controller, a track pad, or the like, and these may be used in combination.

[0031] The remote server 120 is a computer connected to the main unit 110 via a network and has in its memory and / or storage the speech recognition engine 36 used to analyze and convert speech into text data. When the voice recognition unit 12 analyzes the voice data collected by the microphone 30, the voice recognition unit 12 transmits the voice data to the remote server 120. Furthermore, the voice recognition unit 12 receives the text data analyzed by the remote server 120.

[0032] 2 is an explanatory diagram of modified examples having different storage locations for the voice recognition engine 36. Note that in each modified example, parts other than those necessary for explanation, such as the voice recognition unit 12 and the voice recognition engine 36, are omitted from the illustration. 2(A) shows a configuration similar to that of the embodiment of FIG. 1, in which the voice recognition unit 12 included in the main body 110 transmits voice data acquired by a microphone 30 (not shown) to a remote server 120. The text data obtained by calculation (analysis) in the remote server 120 at the request of the voice recognition unit 12 is acquired from the remote server 120 by the voice recognition unit 12.

[0033] In the modification of Fig. 2(B), a virtual machine 38 is constructed on the remote server 120 at the request of the voice recognition unit 12. The virtual machine 38 is a virtual computer that operates by being allocated a part or all of the processing capacity of the resources (processor, memory, storage, etc.) of the remote server 120. The voice recognition engine 36 is provided on the virtual machine 38. The voice recognition unit 12 controls the virtual machine 38 configured on the remote server 120 to analyze the voice data, and acquires the resulting text data.

[0034] 2C, the voice recognition engine 36 is stored in the storage unit 20 of the main body 110. The voice recognition unit 12 loads the voice recognition engine 36, analyzes the voice data, and converts it into text data. The voice recognition engine 36 may be downloaded from the remote server 120 at the request of the voice recognition unit 12, or may be stored in advance in the storage unit 20. In the latter case, the instrument counting assistance system 100 does not need to include the remote server 120.

[0035] 2A and 2B, the remote server 120 (such as the storage of the remote server 120) stores a voice recognition engine 36. Meanwhile, the first storage section 22 and the second storage section 23 of the memory section 20 of the main body 110 store a first file and a second file, respectively. In the case where the instrument counting assistance system includes (can be connected to) the remote server 120, instead of the above configuration, a part or all of the files stored in the memory unit 20 of the main body 110 may be stored in the storage of the remote server 120. For example, a part or all of the first file and / or the second file may be stored in the storage of the remote server 120.

[0036] Next, a method for assisting in counting the number of appliances will be described using the appliance count assistance system 100. As a prerequisite, a general procedure for counting appliances will be described. In this specification, "instruments" refers to various surgical instruments classified as scalpels, scissors (scissors-like), forceps (tweezers), forceps (scissor pliers, scissors-like pliers), needle holders, hooks, etc. In this specification, "instruments" includes those generally called "surgical instruments."

[0037] The types and quantities of instruments used in surgery are predetermined according to the surgical procedure. This can be summarized in a table format of instrument names and their corresponding quantities, which is also referred to as a "menu table" in this specification.

[0038] Before surgery, the instruments are picked up according to a menu by a person called the "core material" (core material staff) and / or a nurse, and the set is assembled and placed in a container. This series of work is sometimes called "assembly." At this time, the person in charge counts the instruments for the first time. Sometimes the counting is done by two people (core material staff and a nurse).

[0039] There are several purposes for counting when picking up instruments. One is to confirm that the type and number of instruments match the "rules" (menu list) for the surgical procedure. Another is to confirm that the instruments are not damaged or dirty. In this specification, the counting when picking up instruments is sometimes referred to as the "pickup count."

[0040] The picked-up instruments are sterilized by a prescribed method (for example, radiation sterilization) and provided to the operating room. In the operating room, the set of provided instruments is laid out on an instrument table and counted by the nurse in charge of the operating room. At this time, in addition to the set of instruments, instruments may be added in the form of a "single package" in which one or more instruments are packaged. Note that instruments added in a single package may be laid out on the instrument table in advance, or may be added as is (wrapped). In the preoperative count (preoperative count), the instrument set is checked against the menu to see if there are any surpluses or shortages in the types and quantities of instruments, and if additional single packets are to be added, the types and quantities of additional instruments are checked. In this specification, a single packet added before surgery is sometimes referred to as a "preoperative additional single packet."

[0041] When the surgery begins, a task called "instrument handing" is performed in which the instruments are handed over to the surgeon in sequence. This task is generally performed by a nurse. This nurse may be the same nurse who performed the preoperative count. During surgery, instruments are counted either in conjunction with the removal of instruments or separately (intraoperative count). Intraoperative counts are primarily performed to check whether any instruments are left inside the patient. In addition, single packages may be added during surgery (intraoperative additional single packages). Therefore, intraoperative counting is performed by referring to the menu table, preoperative additional single package information, and intraoperative additional single package information.

[0042] After the surgery is completed, the nurse and / or the medical staff counts the instruments (post-op count). The main purpose of the post-op count is to check whether any instruments have been lost. The postoperative count is performed by referring to the menu table, the preoperative additional single package information, and the intraoperative additional single package information.

[0043] After use, the instruments are washed and sterilized. These procedures may be carried out within the hospital, or may be carried out by specialized institutions outside the hospital. In some cases, only some of the instruments are washed outside the hospital. At this time, the instruments are collected and counted. Specifically, after the postoperative count is completed, the used instruments are handed over to the staff member in charge of cleaning and sterilization, who then carries them to the designated work area (typically the center), where they are collected and counted before being cleaned and sterilized.

[0044] This series of counts is often done by one or two people. When one person is doing the task of checking the number of each type of utensil while referring to the menu, they have to move their eyes back and forth between the hand that is sorting the utensils and the menu, which makes it easy to mix up utensils or read the corresponding column on the menu. In addition, since the tasks of arranging the utensils while inputting or entering the confirmed mark on the menu list are carried out in parallel, efficiency is likely to decrease.

[0045] When working in a team of two, one person can read out the menu while the other checks the type and quantity of equipment. This method is less likely to result in mistakes and is more efficient than working alone. On the other hand, due to the recent labor shortage, the number of personnel available for instrument counting is limited, and because pre- and intra-operative counts are carried out in the operating room or preparation room, there are restrictions on the number of personnel who can enter the room and their qualifications, so working with two people is sometimes not realistic.

[0046] The instrument counting support system of this embodiment enables efficient instrument counting with fewer errors even when performed by a single person in the above-mentioned case. A method for counting instruments using the instrument counting support system will be described below. Figures 3A to 3C are flow diagrams of instrument counting support using the instrument counting support system 100.

[0047] First, in step S1, pick-up counting is started. The display control unit 16 of the instrument counting support system 100 displays a selection screen (not shown) on the display device 32, and allows the operator to select the timing at which the counting will be performed. The timing refers to each of the tasks of picking up, pre-operative, intra-operative, post-operative, and retrieval. Specifically, buttons corresponding to pickup (assembly), pre-op, post-op, intra-op, and retrieval are displayed on the screen, and the operator is prompted to select one of them. This selection may be made via the operation device 34, or may be made by voice input, with each button being individually recognized by voice input.

[0048] When the pickup count is started and the surgical procedure or the like is specified, the display control unit 16 causes the display device 32 to display a set of the corresponding instruments, that is, the instruments to be counted, as a table (step S2). This table is based on a first file stored in the first storage section 22. The first storage section 22 is a partial area of ​​the memory section 20, and stores the first file. In the first file, the appliances included in a set and the specified quantity (constant) of each appliance are recorded. The first file corresponds to the above-mentioned "menu table." In other words, the table displayed on the screen corresponds to a conventional menu table, and the operator can use it without feeling uncomfortable.

[0049] Although a table referencing the first file is displayed on the screen, when the first data itself is stored in the storage unit 20, it does not necessarily have to be in a table format, and may be in a text format such as a comma-separated value file or a tab-separated value file. Also, it may be expressed as a combination of objects and arrays in JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) format, or as a structure having elements and attributes in eXtensible Markup Language (XML) format, or as a database file. The data structure and format may be appropriately selected.

[0050] FIG. 4(A) is an example of data 22A in table format, which is included in the first file and lists the names of instruments included in a set corresponding to a specific surgical procedure, and the prescribed quantities (constants) of each of the instruments.

[0051] Data 22A includes columns of an instrument name column 40, an attribute column 42, a constant column 44, and an image column 46. Each row collects information about an individual instrument, forming an array. The instrument name column 40 records the name of the instrument included in the set. The attribute column 42 records the attribute of the instrument. An attribute refers to the attribute of an instrument (instrument), and may include scalpels, scissors, forceps, needle holders, hooks, and the like. The constant column 44 records the prescribed quantity of the instrument (the quantity of the instrument that should be included in the set). Additionally, the image column 46 records image information of the instrument.

[0052] This data 22A is registered in advance for each surgical procedure as master data (first file), and is stored as a part of the first data in the first storage unit 22. The data 22A may include information other than the above. Other information than the above includes information on the arrangement of the instruments included in the set. FIG. 4(B) shows a plan view 48 of a completed set in which the instruments included in the set are contained in a specified container. A set may include multiple instruments, and the arrangement order of the instruments may be specified. In that case, it is preferable that the data 22A further includes image information on the arrangement of the set of instruments for the surgical procedure.

[0053] The image information is used when counting. By displaying an image of each tool on the display device 32, it becomes less likely that the tools being counted will be mixed up, and by displaying an image of the arrangement (order) on the display device 32, even an unskilled person can easily assemble a set.

[0054] Based on the data 22A contained in the first file, the display control unit 16 displays on the screen of the display device 32 the names and specified quantities of the instruments that make up the set used in the specified surgical procedure, along with identification symbols assigned to each instrument. FIG. 5A shows a screen displayed on the display device 32 during pick-up counting.

[0055] The main window 50 displays information required for counting. First, the menu bar 50A displays information regarding which surgical procedure the set to be assembled (picked up) corresponds to. In the case of FIG. 5A, it displays that a set for "set 0001" corresponding to a specific gynecological surgical procedure is to be picked up.

[0056] The types of appliances included in "set 0001" and their prescribed quantities (constants) are displayed as a table 50W in the center of the main window 50. This table 50W is displayed with reference to the data 22A. The table 50W has an appliance identification code column 50E, an appliance name column 50F, a constant column 50H, a remarks column 50K, an input quantity column 50L, an input quantity column 50M, and a details button 50N, and information for each appliance in each row is displayed, added, and edited. 5A shows the first three rows of table 50W, and the subsequent rows are omitted. The number of rows displayed at one time is not particularly limited, and can be changed appropriately according to the size of main window 50. Furthermore, when many rows are required, table 50W may be displayed in a scrolling manner.

[0057] The identification symbol column 50E displays an identification symbol assigned to each appliance so that it is unique. This identification symbol is individually identified by the voice recognition unit 12. Voice input of this identification symbol triggers the start of an overwrite mode (modification mode) for the input quantity of the appliance. In the above example, the identification symbol is determined in advance separately from the name of the tool. However, the identification symbol may be the name of the tool itself, or may be both. In other words, when either the name or a symbol other than the name is recognized, this may be used as a trigger for corrective input. In the following description, a description will be given of a form in which the identification symbol is determined in advance separately from the name of the tool.

[0058] The instrument name column 50F lists the names of the instruments that are the same as those recorded in the instrument name column 40 of the data 22A. The recording order of the data 22A and the arrangement order of the instruments in the table 50W may be the same or different. The remarks column 50K indicates whether detailed information about each tool is recorded or not. How to use the tool will be described later. The input quantity fields 50L and 50M are both used to input the text data of the quantity obtained as a result of the voice input of the device, that is, the result of the voice analysis. The input quantity fields 50L and 50M are provided in two for double checking, but either one may be used. In other words, double checking is not required.

[0059] In addition to the above, the main window 50 is configured so that the instruments can be sorted by using a drop-down button 50G. In addition to the above, the main window 50 also has, as "counter" columns, a first counter display column 50B, a second counter display column 50C, and a sterilization method display column 50D.

[0060] The Details button 50N is a trigger for starting to register additional information about the appliance. Each button is assigned an individual name, and can be individually identified by voice input. In the case of FIG. 5A, the buttons are respectively named "Details 1", "Details 2", "Details 3", etc., but are not limited to the above.

[0061] The Details button 50N is used to register and edit additional information about each tool. Figure 5E shows a screen for additional information about the corresponding tool (TC wire scissors), in which "Details 1" is specified by voice and displayed. The instrument details window 60 is displayed overlapping the main window 50 in front of it, and the main window 50 is in an inactive state. In the appliance details window 60, the appliance 60C whose information is to be edited corresponds to the specified details button 50N.

[0062] The appliance details window 60 displays an image 60D of an appliance 60C together with the appliance. The image is loaded from the first file. The appliance details window 60 has an Add Note button 60E, an Add Comment button 60G, and a Back button 60H. These buttons trigger screen transitions, with the Add Note button 60E displaying a screen for adding information to the appliance 60C, the Add Comment button 60G displaying a screen for adding a comment 60F to the appliance 60C, and the Back button 60H closing the appliance details window 60 and displaying the main window 50. Each button is individually voice-recognized.

[0063] FIG. 5F is an image of an add note window 62A that is displayed by specifying the add note button 60E. The remarks addition window 62A is displayed overlapping the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 in front of each other, and the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 become inactive.

[0064] The add remarks window 62A has a date and time column 62D, a quantity column 62E, and a stockout status column 62F. If a target tool is out of stock during tool counting, the worker can use the add remarks window 62A to record the situation. Information is added by speaking the date and time, quantity, and stockout status in that order. The recognized content (text) is inserted into the date and time column 62D, quantity column 62E, and stockout status column 62F in that order, and is recorded in a second file described below.

[0065] At this time, if there is an error in the input or recognition results in each field, the worker can correct it. Each field is provided with a correction button 62G that is individually identified by voice recognition. For example, by saying "Correction 1," the content of the date and time field 62D can be corrected. When the Add button 62H is selected, the input data is saved, and when the Back button 62K is selected, the user returns to the Instrument Details window 60. These buttons can also be individually voice-recognized.

[0066] 5G is a diagram showing the Instrument Details window 60 after a note has been added. The added note is displayed in a note field 60L. A plurality of notes may be registered. When a plurality of notes are registered, they are listed in the note field 60L. Adjacent to each note are an edit button 60M and a delete button 60N. These buttons can be individually voice-recognized. When the edit button 60M is selected, a note addition window 62A is displayed, allowing the contents to be edited. On the other hand, when the delete button 60N is selected, the note is deleted. Even when multiple remarks are registered, each edit button 60M and delete button 60N can be independently voice-recognized, so that the desired remark can be easily edited or deleted. When a remark is added, a confirmation message 60P (remark added) is displayed.

[0067] Returning to Fig. 5E, the method of adding a comment will now be described. When the add comment button 60G is selected in Fig. 5E, the screen transitions to the screen in Fig. 5H. Fig. 5H is a diagram showing a comment menu window 64A. The comment menu window 64A is displayed overlapping the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 in front of each other, and the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 become inactive.

[0068] The comment menu window 64A has a number of buttons arranged according to the comments to be added. Comments can be added using pre-registered standard phrases. The comment menu window 64A allows the user to select an appropriate one from a number of registered standard phrases. The OP Use button 64D in the comment menu window 64A is a button for calling up a standard phrase for registering that the target tool is being used in an OP (operation). In addition to the above, the comment menu window 64A also has a standard phrase button 64E arranged therein, allowing multiple standard phrases to be registered. Each of these buttons is individually voice-recognized. The comment menu window 64A also has a back button 64F for returning to the previous screen.

[0069] FIG. 5K is an image of the comment addition window 66 that is displayed by specifying the use OP button 64D. The comment addition window 66 is displayed overlapping the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 in front of each other, and the main window 50 and the instrument details window 60 are inactive.

[0070] The comment addition window 66 is provided with a template 66A, a user column 66B, a quantity column 66C, and a status column 66D. The worker can register sequentially by vocalizing the words in brackets in a fill-in-the-blank format based on the pre-registered template "(user), (quantity) pieces, (status) in the OP room." The recognized content (text) is inserted in the user column 66B, quantity column 66C, and status column 66D in that order. The data is recorded in a second file.

[0071] At this time, if there is an error in the notation or recognition results of each column, the worker can correct it. Each column is provided with a correction button 66E that is individually identified by voice recognition. For example, by saying "Correction 1," the content of the user column 66B can be corrected. Selecting the Add button 66F saves the entered data, and selecting the Back button 66G returns to the Instrument Details window 60. These buttons can also be individually voice-recognized.

[0072] 5L is a diagram showing the instrument details window 60 after a comment has been added. The added comment is displayed in a comment field 60Q. Multiple comments can be registered. When multiple comments are registered, they are listed in the comment field 60Q. An edit button 60R and a delete button 60S are displayed adjacent to each comment. These buttons can be individually voice-recognized. When the edit button 60R is selected, a comment addition window 66 is displayed, allowing the content to be edited. On the other hand, when the delete button 60S is selected, the comment is deleted. Even when a plurality of comments are registered, the edit button 60R and the delete button 60S can be independently voice-recognized, so that even when a plurality of comments are registered, they can be easily edited and deleted.

[0073] 5M is a diagram showing the main window after notes and comments have been added to "TC steel wire scissors." A sign 50S appears in the notes column for "TC steel wire scissors," indicating that notes and / or comments have been registered.

[0074] The above is a procedure for adding a comment using a fixed phrase, but the procedure for adding a comment is not limited to the above. For example, a comment may be added by free speech. In this case, when the comment addition button 60G is selected, a transition to a screen for accepting free speech is made, and the speech content is recorded by voice recognition and recorded as a comment. Adding a comment by free speech has no restrictions on the content, and is more flexible (easy to use).

[0075] Returning to Figures 3A and 5A, in step S2, when the instruments to be counted are displayed in a table in the main window 50, the person in charge of the pickup count (the worker) starts counting by voice. At this time, the worker presses the count start button 50R. This is the signal to start voice input. This operation can be performed via the operation device 34. Note that if the analysis results of the voice collected by the microphone 30 include predetermined text (for example, "start counting"), the voice can be used to designate the count start button 50R and to signal the start of voice input.

[0076] When the input control unit 18 (or the voice recognition unit 12) receives a signal to start voice input, the counting of the appliances by voice is started. Fig. 5B is a diagram showing the main window 50 in a state where counting has started. The display of the count start button 50R changes to show that counting is in progress, and a voice input field 52D and a voice input mark 52E are displayed. In the voice input field 52D, the content of the voice input being accepted is displayed. In the state of Fig. 5B, it is displayed that the reading of the quantity of "TC steel wire scissors" with the identification code "No. 1" is waiting.

[0077] At the same time, in table 50W, "TC steel wire scissors" with the identification code "No. 1" is highlighted 52A, allowing the user to grasp the tool that is currently waiting for input. Also, adjacent to table 50W, the name 52B of the tool that is currently waiting for input (accepting input) and an image 52C are displayed. This image 52C is displayed based on the registration information in image column 46 of data 22A. Also, a plan view 48 of the set is displayed near the table 50W. This image is recorded in the first data, and is displayed by pressing the image list button 50P or by voice instruction. While looking at this screen display, the worker vocalizes the quantity of the target "TC steel wire scissors."

[0078] When the quantity of "TC steel wire scissors" is spoken, the voice recognition unit 12 analyzes it to obtain text data, which is then recorded in the second file as the input quantity of TC steel wire scissors (step S3). The second file is stored in the second storage unit 24, and mainly records the input quantity of each tool.

[0079] The input quantity stored in the second file is recorded in association with the timing of counting. In this case, it is recorded as the input quantity at the time of picking up. The input quantity is also recorded at the second and subsequent counting times, and these are recorded in the second file each time. That is, the second file is updated and stored in the second storage unit 24 each time counting is performed.

[0080] 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of the second file stored in the second storage section 24. The second file is recorded, as one form, as table-format data 24A. The data format and structure of the second file is not limited to a table, as with the first file already described, but will be described below in table format. The data 24A includes an instrument name column 70A, an attribute column 70B, a constant column 70C, an assembly column 70D, a preoperative column 70E, an intraoperative column 70F, a postoperative column 70G, and a recovery column 70H. The results of counting at that time are sequentially recorded in the assembly column 70D, the preoperative column 70E, the intraoperative column 70F, the postoperative column 70G, and the recovery column 70H. The tool name, attributes, and their prescribed quantities (constants) can be recorded by referring to the first file and copying the corresponding data. In step S3, the input quantity is recorded in the assembly field 70D as the quantity at the time of the pick-up operation.

[0081] Returning to Fig. 3A, when the input quantity is recorded in the second file (step S2), the collation unit 14 then collates the specified quantity recorded in the first file with the input quantity recorded in the second file (step S4). Since the input quantity during the pick-up operation must match the specified quantity recorded in the first file, if there is a mismatch, an alert is displayed on the display device 32. In addition, if the specified quantity is recorded in the second file, the reference source may be the second file.

[0082] The input quantity can be corrected when an alert is displayed, when there is an input error, etc. The display screens in Figures 5B to 5D are diagrams corresponding to the screen transitions when making corrections. 5B, "TC steel wire scissors" in the first line is highlighted 52A and is being input. In other words, the input of the number of identification symbols "No. 1" is in progress.

[0083] Next, Fig. 5C shows the screen immediately after the utterance "6" for "TC steel wire scissors" is text-recognized by the voice recognition unit 12 and recorded as the input quantity 50LA. In Fig. 5C, the highlighting 52A moves to "Subramanian Vascular Forceps" on the second line (identification code "No. 2"), and this input is in awaiting. Therefore, the instrument name 52F of the image on the right side of the table 50W is also changed to "Subramanian Vascular Forceps," and the image 52G is also changed to that of "Subramanian Vascular Forceps." That is, when the input quantity of the appliances in the first row is recognized, the display control unit 16 updates the image displayed on the display device 32 to the image of the appliances in the second row. This also applies to the third row and onwards.

[0084] At this time, the plan view 48 remains displayed (is not updated) regardless of whether the images of the individual tools are updated. With this configuration, the worker can grasp the images of the tools currently waiting to be input one by one, and can always check the overall image.

[0085] At this stage, if one wishes to modify the input quantity of "TC wire scissors" in the first line (identification code "No. 1"), one must speak the identification code of the instrument one wishes to modify prior to the reading of the quantity of Subramanian vascular forceps, interrupting the reading, and have this recognized by the voice recognition unit 12, thereby changing the input to "modification mode (overwrite mode)".

[0086] FIG. 5D shows the screen in the state shown in FIG. 5C when the operator utters "No. 1," which is recognized and the mode changes to the correction mode. The identification symbols are determined so as not to overlap for each tool, and are individually recognized by the voice recognition unit 12. That is, when "No. 1", which is the identification symbol of "TC steel wire scissors", is spoken, the corresponding quantity of "TC steel wire scissors" is entered into a correction mode (overwrite mode). Correspondingly, the voice input field 52D displays "(correction)", indicating that the mode is correction, and also displays that the input of "TC steel wire scissors" with the identification symbol "No. 1" is waiting to be entered. In addition, the tool name 52B and image 52C are updated accordingly. The input quantity 50LA is also reset. In this state, when the user vocalizes the corrected quantity of "TC steel wire scissors", the voice recognition unit 12 recognizes this as a new input quantity, and records it by overwriting the input quantity at the time of picking up in the second file.

[0087] As described above, the identification code is set for each device in table 50W so that there is no duplication, and all of these can be triggers for starting voice input reception in the correction mode. In addition, since the identification number is recognized individually for each device, the input quantity of the desired device can be specified and corrected in a hands-free manner. The identification code may be unique and in one-to-one correspondence with the appliance, but this is not required. There only needs to be no duplication between the appliances in a certain table 50W. When the displayed table 50W is updated and a different count is started, the identification code may be duplicated with an identification code in a previously displayed list.

[0088] When the counting is completed, the worker presses the temporary save button 50Q, and the counting operation ends. Fig. 5N shows the counting end window 68 that is displayed when the contents are saved by pressing the temporary save button 50Q. This ends the counting operation during the pick-up operation.

[0089] According to the tool counting support system 100 configured as described above, the operator can count and correct the count (hands-free) simply by speaking, so that the tool count can be performed quickly and reliably. In particular, in the past, when correcting the count, it was easy to make mistakes in the selection of utensils and the number of items. This tendency was more pronounced when the count was being done by checking off items on a menu.

[0090] In conventional appliance counting, once the quantity of a certain appliance was confirmed, the result was written on the menu list. However, this process had problems such as the hands being taken off the appliance (leading to mix-ups when returning to count), the need to search for the relevant appliance column on the menu list, and mix-ups in the appliance column (particularly noticeable when making corrections). Many of the above issues could be resolved by having two people carry out the count, with one person in charge of writing, but there were also many cases where two people could not be assigned to appliance counting.

[0091] The instrument count assistance system 100 allows easy count correction in a hands-free manner, in other words, without taking your hands off the instrument you wish to correct (so there is no risk of instruments being mixed up or the number of instruments being counted incorrectly). Another advantage is that the devices are displayed in a table and the device to be input is highlighted 52A, so there is no need to search for the device column to be input. Also, when making corrections, you can simply speak the identification number to enter hands-free correction mode and enter input standby mode for that device, which is one of the most practical advantages. In particular, from the standpoint of performing instrument counting more safely and quickly in a highly hygienic operating room environment, the fact that it can be done without taking your hands off the instruments or touching unnecessary parts (the operating device 34 or the display device 32) is a notable advantage over conventional technology.

[0092] . The instrument counting support system 100 can easily achieve the same reliability as two-person work, even when working alone. In particular, pre-operative and intra-operative counting may be performed by a single nurse, and the instrument counting support system 100 is particularly effective. With the instrument counting support system 100, even a single person in charge can quickly and reliably perform instrument counting.

[0093] Returning to FIG. 3A, the set of picked up instruments is provided to the operating room (or its antechamber or preparation room) after sterilization and the like, and preoperative counting (step S5) is started. The method for starting the preoperative count is similar to the method for starting the pick-up count in step S1, and therefore the explanation will be omitted.

[0094] When the preoperative count is started, the display control unit 16 displays an inquiry screen as to whether or not there is an additional preoperative package on the display device 32 (step S6). If there is an additional preoperative package (if a preoperative package has been added, step S6: YES), the operator operates the operation device 34 or the screen of the display device 32 to input the type and quantity of instruments in the additional preoperative package. This input may also be performed by voice. When the type and quantity of preoperative additional single package are input, the input control unit 18 (or the voice recognition unit 12) adds the instruments and the quantity to the second file, and the second file is updated (step S7). At this time, the input quantity is recorded as the specified quantity of preoperative additional single package.

[0095] Preoperative additional single packets are not included in the menu table (data 22A), so the first file does not record the instrument and / or its specified quantity. Specifically, there are cases where a new instrument is added, the quantity of an instrument that was originally included is added, or both. In this case, the type of preoperative additional single packet and the specified quantity are recorded in the second file. When a new instrument is added, the instrument name and the added quantity are recorded, and when the quantity of an instrument is added, the new specified quantity is recorded.

[0096] The types of preoperative additional single packages and the specified quantities may be added to the first file, but it is better to use the menu table (data 22A) in the first file as a universal one (a template-like one) corresponding to the surgical procedure; in other words, it is better to record additional single packages only in the second file, as this can accommodate cases where there are no additional single packages and can flexibly accommodate special instrument setups.

[0097] Next, the display control unit 16 displays a table of the instruments to be counted on the display device 32 (step S8). At this time, if there is a preoperative additional package and the second file has been updated (changed), the display control unit 16 refers to the second file and displays the type and specified quantity of the instrument in the preoperative additional package. The display control unit 16 also displays the appliances and the specified quantities included in the original set. The specified quantities of the original set may refer to the first file, or, if the specified quantities of the appliances included in the set are recorded in the second file, the second file may be referenced. On the other hand, if there is no preoperative additional package (step S6: NO), the display control unit 16 refers to the first file or the second file and displays a list including only the instruments included in the set and their specified quantities.

[0098] The operator's signal to start counting is used as a trigger to start acquiring the specified quantity of each instrument by voice. The user's utterance is recognized by the voice recognition unit 12, and the input quantity for "preoperative", including preoperative additional single packages, is recorded in the second file (step S9).

[0099] FIG. 7 is a specific example of the second file in which the preoperative input quantities are recorded. The input quantities are recorded in the preoperative column 70E of the data 24B. The data 24B is updated by adding the preoperative input quantities to the data 24A. In data 24B, the instrument 70K (micro scissors round handle) added as a preoperative additional single package is added to the end, and the specified quantity input in step S7 is recorded in the constant column 70L (specified quantity). There is no numerical data in the assembly column 70M (quantity input at the time of pick-up). In the preoperative column 70N, the quantity input in step S9, "1", is recorded.

[0100] Next, the collation unit 14 compares the specified quantity recorded in the second file with the input quantity (step S10). Since the second file also reflects the specified quantity of preoperative additional single packages, the input quantity before surgery must match the specified quantity recorded in the immediately preceding second file. If there is a mismatch, an alert is displayed on the display device 32. The procedure for changing the quantity when a mismatch occurs is the same as that already explained. With the above, the preoperative count is completed, and all input data is recorded in the second file and stored in the second storage unit 24. The set of instruments for which the counting has been completed and the preoperative additional single package are then used in the surgery.

[0101] When the surgery is started using the set of instruments counted and prepared before the surgery and the preoperative additional single package, the intraoperative counting is started in step S11. The method of starting the intraoperative counting is the same as the start of the pick-up counting in step S1, so the explanation is omitted.

[0102] When the intraoperative count is started, the display control unit 16 displays an inquiry screen on the display device 32 as to whether or not there are any additional intraoperative single packages (step S12). If there are any additional intraoperative single packages (step S12: YES), the operator operates the operation device 34 or the screen of the display device 32 to input the type and quantity of instruments in the additional intraoperative single package. This input may also be performed by voice. When the type and quantity of the additional intraoperative single package are input, the input control unit 18 (or the voice recognition unit 12) adds the instruments and the quantity to the second file (data 24B) and updates the file. At this time, the quantity is recorded as the specified quantity of the additional intraoperative single package.

[0103] Since intraoperative additional single packs are not included in the menu table (data 22A), neither the instrument nor the specified quantity is recorded in the first file. Therefore, the type of intraoperative additional single pack and the specified quantity are recorded in the second file (data 24B). Note that the types of additional intraoperative single packages and the specified quantities may be added to the first file, but it is preferable to use the menu table (data 22A) of the first file as a universal one (a template-like one) corresponding to the surgical procedure; in other words, it is preferable to record the additional single packages only in the second file (data 24B), as this allows for flexibility in responding to special instrument setups.

[0104] Next, for the listed instruments, including intraoperative additional single packages (and preoperative additional single packages, if any), the quantities spoken out in accordance with the screen display, similar to the pick-up count, are recorded in a second file (step S13). Next, the display control unit 16 displays a table of the instruments to be counted on the display device 32 (step S14). At this time, if there is an additional intraoperative package and the second file has been updated (changed), the display control unit 16 refers to the second file and displays the type and specified quantity of the instruments in the additional intraoperative package. Also, if there is a preoperative package in the previous process, the type and specified quantity of the instruments in the additional preoperative package are also displayed.

[0105] The display control unit 16 also displays the appliances and the specified quantities included in the original set. The specified quantities of the original set may refer to the first file, or, if the specified quantities of the appliances included in the set are recorded in the second file, the second file may be referenced. On the other hand, if there is no intraoperative additional single package (step S12: NO), the display control unit 16 refers to the first file or the second file and displays a list including only the instruments included in the set and the specified quantities thereof. Note that even if there is no intraoperative additional single package, if there is a preoperative additional single package, the second file is referenced and the instruments included in the set and the specified quantities of the preoperative additional single package are displayed.

[0106] When the table is displayed, the operator's signal to start counting is used as a trigger to start acquiring the specified quantity of each instrument by voice. The operator's utterance is recognized by the voice recognition unit 12, and the input quantity for "intraoperative" is recorded in the second file, including the intraoperative additional single package (and preoperative additional single package, if any) (step S15).

[0107] FIG. 8 is a specific example of the second file in which the input quantities for the intraoperative period are recorded. The input quantities are recorded in the intraoperative column 70F of the data 24C. The data 24C is updated by adding the intraoperative input quantities to the data 24B. In data 24C, instrument 70P (Lambert-Kay aortic forceps) added as an intraoperative additional single package is added to the end, and the quantity entered in step S13 is recorded in its constant column 70Q (prescribed quantity). There is no numerical data in the assembly column 70R (quantity entered at time of pick-up) and preoperative column 70S. The input quantity of "1" is recorded in the intraoperative column 70T.

[0108] Next, the collation unit 14 compares the specified quantity recorded in the second file with the input quantity (step S16). Since the second file also reflects the specified quantity for intraoperative additional single packages (and the specified quantity for preoperative additional single packages, if there is one), the input quantity during surgery must match the specified quantity recorded in the immediately preceding second file. If there is a mismatch, an alert is displayed on the display device 32. The procedure for changing the quantity when a mismatch occurs is the same as above. With the above, the intraoperative counting is completed, and all input data is recorded in the second file and stored in the second storage unit 24.

[0109] When the surgery is completed, the postoperative count is then started in step S17. The method for starting the postoperative count is similar to the method for starting the pick-up count in step S1, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0110] When the intraoperative count is started, the display control unit 16 displays a list of the corresponding set of instruments on the display device 32 (step S18). This list is created based on the first file or the second file. If there are preoperative additional single packages and / or intraoperative additional single packages, the specified quantity is displayed based on the most recently updated second file. On the other hand, if there are no preoperative additional single packages and / or intraoperative additional single packages, the specified quantity is displayed based on the first file (menu table) or the second file.

[0111] The operator's signal to start counting is used as a trigger to start acquiring the specified quantity of each instrument by voice. The user's utterance is recognized by the voice recognition unit 12, and the input quantity for "postoperative" including preoperative additional single packages is recorded in the second file (step S19).

[0112] FIG. 9 is a specific example of the second file in which the input quantities for postoperative periods are recorded. The input quantities in step S19 are recorded in postoperative column 70G of data 24D. Note that data 24D is updated by adding the input quantities of postoperative items to data 24C. At the end of data 24D, a preoperative additional single-package instrument 70K (micro scissors round handle) and a postoperative additional single-package instrument 70P (Lambert-Kay aortic forceps) have been added, and the prescribed quantities of each are recorded in the constant column 70C.

[0113] Next, the collation unit 14 compares the specified quantity recorded in the second file with the input quantity (step S20). Since the second file also reflects the specified quantities of intraoperative additional single packages (and preoperative additional single packages, if applicable), the input quantity after surgery must match the specified quantity recorded in the immediately preceding (latest) second file. If there is a mismatch, an alert is displayed on the display device 32. The procedure for changing the quantity when a mismatch occurs is as described above. With the above, the postoperative count is completed, and all input data is recorded in the second file and stored in the second storage unit 24.

[0114] When the postoperative count is completed, the instruments are collected for cleaning, etc. At this time, a collection count is started in step S21. The method for starting the postoperative count is the same as the start of the pickup count in step S1, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0115] When the collection count is started, the display control unit 16 displays a list of the corresponding set of instruments on the display device 32 (step S22). This list is created based on the first file or the second file. If there are preoperative additional single packages and / or intraoperative additional single packages, the specified quantity is displayed based on the most recently updated second file. On the other hand, if there are no preoperative additional single packages and / or intraoperative additional single packages, the specified quantity is displayed based on the first file (menu table) or the second file.

[0116] The operator's signal to start counting is used as a trigger to start acquiring the specified number of each instrument by voice. The user's utterance is recognized by the voice recognition unit 12, and the input number of "collected" items, including preoperative additional single packages, is recorded in the second file (step S23).

[0117] FIG. 10 is a specific example of the second file in which the input quantity of collected items is recorded. The input quantities in step S23 are recorded in the collection column 70H of the data 24E. The data 24E is updated by adding the input quantity of collection to the data 24D. At the end of data 24E, a preoperative additional single-package instrument 70K (micro scissors round handle) and a postoperative additional single-package instrument 70P (Lambert-Kay aortic forceps) have been added, and the prescribed quantities of each are recorded in the constant column 70C.

[0118] Next, the collation unit 14 compares the specified quantity recorded in the second file with the input quantity (step S24). Since the second file also reflects the specified quantities of intraoperative additional single packages (and preoperative additional single packages, if applicable), the input quantity after surgery must match the specified quantity recorded in the immediately preceding (latest) second file. If there is a mismatch, an alert is displayed on the display device 32. The procedure for changing the quantity when a mismatch occurs is as described above. With the above, the collection count is completed, and all the input data is recorded in the second file and stored in the second storage unit 24.

[0119] According to the instrument counting support system 100, the number of instruments can be counted by voice input during each operation of picking up, pre-operative, intra-operative, post-operative, and retrieval, and the inputted quantity can be easily corrected by voice input. This allows for more accurate instrument counting. Furthermore, even when there is only one operator (especially in pre-operative and intra-operative counting), input and correction can be done hands-free, realizing efficient counting.

[0120] Fig. 11 is a configuration diagram of another embodiment of the tool count support system. The tool count support system 200 is similar to the embodiment of Fig. 1 in that it includes a main body 110 and a remote server 120 connected to the main body 110. The functions shared by the main body 110 and the remote server 120 are different from those of the embodiment of Fig. 1.

[0121] First, a microphone 30, a display device 32, an operation device 34, and a remote server 120 are connected to a main body 110. The main body 110 includes a communication unit 10 that communicates with the remote server 120. The main body 110 also includes a device control unit 82 that includes device drivers for the microphone 30, the display device 32, and the input control unit 18, and controls each device.

[0122] Next, the remote server 120 includes a storage unit 20 that stores various files, programs, software components, etc., and provides a storage location for data, etc., to the processor, and a collation unit 14 that collates the contents of files. The storage unit 20 also includes a first storage unit 22 that stores a first file, and a second storage unit 24 that stores a second file.

[0123] The remote server 120 also includes a voice recognition engine 36, a voice recognition unit 12 that analyzes voice collected by the microphone 30 and converts it into text data, a display control unit 16 that controls the display content of the display device 32, and an input control unit 18 that receives input from the operation device 34. The voice recognition unit 12, the display control unit 16, and the input control unit 18 in the instrument counting support system 200 do not have a function to control devices (this function is assigned to the device control unit 82), and are specialized for application functions.

[0124] The number of remote servers 120 connected to the main body 110 does not need to be one, and may be multiple. In that case, some of the functions of the remote server 120 in Fig. 11 may be performed by another remote server. For example, the voice recognition engine 36 may be provided by another remote server. In the instrument counting support system 200 configured as described above, the main unit 110, which is the client terminal, does not require special application software, etc., and a general-purpose terminal can be used, which has the advantage that it is easier to change and expand the overall configuration of the system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 10. Communications Department 12 Voice Recognition Unit 14. Matching section 16 Display control section 18 Input control section 20 Memory section 22 First Storage Section 24 Second Storage Section 30 Microphones 32 Display device 34 Operating device 36 Voice Recognition Engine 38 Virtual Machines 82 Device control section 100, 200 Instrument counting support system 110 Main unit 120 Remote Server

Claims

1. An instrument counting support system that supports counting the number of instruments included in a set of instruments for a surgery by a predetermined surgical procedure, A first storage unit in which a first file including a specified quantity of each of the devices included in the set is stored; A display control unit that displays at least the names of the devices constituting the set and the specified quantities on a display device as a table; a speech recognition unit that analyzes voice collected by a microphone and converts it into text data; a second storage unit for storing a second file in which the quantity for each appliance included in the collected voice is recorded as an input quantity relative to the specified quantity; A collation unit that collates the specified quantity with the input quantity, When the voice recognition unit receives a signal indicating the start of voice input for counting the appliances, the voice recognition unit recognizes the quantities contained in the collected voice in the order of description in the table as the input quantities for each of the appliances and records the quantities in a second file; and When the voice includes an identification symbol predetermined for each appliance, the appliance counting support system begins accepting corrections to the input quantity of the appliance corresponding to the identification symbol, and records the quantity that is voice recognized immediately after the identification symbol in a second file as the corrected input quantity for the appliance that is the subject of the correction.

2. The input quantity is recorded in the second file each time the count is performed; The counting is performed a first time when the instruments are picked up for preparation of the set, and a second or subsequent time at least one time selected from the group consisting of pre-operative, intra-operative, post-operative, and retrieval; The instrument counting support system according to claim 1 , wherein the comparison unit compares the input quantity with the specified quantity each time the counting is performed.

3. When the counting is performed before the surgery and during the surgery, a predetermined signal is received indicating the addition of a new instrument not included in the set and / or the addition of a quantity of the instruments included in the set. The instrument counting support system according to claim 2 , wherein the number of the added instruments is recorded as a new specified quantity.

4. The instrument counting support system according to claim 3 , wherein the specified quantity for each instrument is also recorded in the second file, and the new specified quantity is recorded only in the second file.

5. The appliance counting support system according to claim 4, wherein when the new specified quantity is recorded in the second file, the display control unit causes the display device to display the table by referring to the names of the appliances and the specified quantities recorded in the second file during subsequent counting.

6. The instrument counting support system according to claim 4, wherein when there is a change in the specified quantity recorded in the second file, the comparison unit compares the input quantity recorded thereafter with the specified quantity after the change recorded in the second file.

7. The first file further includes image information for each of the instruments; The instrument counting support system according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit causes the image information to be displayed on the display device together with the table, and when the corresponding input quantity for a given instrument is recognized by the voice recognition unit, the image information displayed on the display device is updated to image information of the instrument for which the input quantity is to be obtained next.

8. the first file further includes the set of image information; The instrument counting support system of claim 6, wherein the display control unit causes the display device to display the set of image information together with the table, and continues to cause the display device to display the set of image information together with the table regardless of updates to the image information of the instrument.

9. The display control unit displays, in the table, a button for displaying and / or editing additional information for each of the appliances, The instrument counting support system according to claim 1 , wherein the buttons are individually recognized by the voice recognition unit by specifying the names of the buttons by voice input.

Images