Image processing device and program

Abstract

To enable a doctor to easily and objectively grasp seriousness and progression of a disease.SOLUTION: A control unit 31 of an image processing device 3 acquires a dynamic image consisting of a plurality of frame images obtained by executing kymography of a radiation ray to a subject, measures information on a shape of a measurement object in at least two or more frame images of the plurality of frame images of the dynamic image upon designation of the measurement object in the dynamic image, and displays information on the shape of the two or more measurement objects that has been measured, in a display unit 34.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a program.

Background Art

[0002] When diagnosing bones, joints, etc., at present, manual examinations and radiographic still image shootings (simple X-ray shootings, stress X-ray shootings) are mostly used. However, since manual examinations depend on the subjective judgment of the evaluator, the reproducibility of the evaluation is poor. In addition, in radiographic still image shootings, since the actual timing and speed of displacement of bones and joints are unknown, it is difficult to analyze the cause of pain and grasp the severity.

[0003] Also, in large hospitals, etc., there are cases where a fluoroscopic apparatus is used to perform a load shooting (shooting in a state where a load is applied to a joint (for example, the movement of going up and down stairs, etc.)) and visually observe the movement of the knee joint at that time. However, quantitative analysis is not being performed, and there is a lack of objectivity. In addition, there are problems such as difficulty in reserving a fluoroscopic apparatus, the need for a doctor to be present and the inability to easily perform shootings, and difficulty in positioning with a fluoroscopic apparatus and the need for time for shooting in the standing position, so it is not suitable for actual operation.

[0004] Also, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a method of automatically extracting the bone axes of the femur and tibia of the knee joint from a lower limb fluoroscopic image and automatically calculating the femorotibial angle (FTA).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in Patent Document 1, only a method for automatically calculating the femorotibial angle (FTA) from a lower limb fluoroscopic image is described. By the way, for example, there is a desire to see the severity and progression of diseases such as compression fractures of bones. However, no method has been proposed that allows doctors to easily and objectively grasp such information.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to enable doctors to easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of diseases.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, an image processing apparatus according to the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject; a measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of a measurement target in at least two or more of the plurality of frame images; an output unit that outputs the result measured by the measurement unit. and is provided with.

[0009] The invention according to claim 2 is the invention according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs a temporal change in information regarding the shape of the measurement target.

[0010] The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit outputs the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the movement angle of the subject.

[0011] The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the measurement target is a bone or a joint.

[0012] The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes at least any one of the length, area, and angle representing the shape.

[0013] The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes the difference information between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the first frame image of the plurality of frame images and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the second frame image.

[0014] The invention according to claim 7 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a determination unit that determines whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target based on the information regarding the shape of the measurement target; and a notification unit that notifies that there is an abnormality when the determination unit determines that there is an abnormality.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to claim 7, wherein the determination unit further specifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred, and the notification unit further notifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred.

[0016] The invention according to claim 9 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the measurement target is a vertebra, and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes at least any one of the length of the front edge and the rear edge of the vertebral body in the vertebra, the area of the vertebral body, and the angle formed by the upper side and the lower side of the vertebral body.

[0017] The invention according to claim 10 is the invention according to claim 9, wherein the moving image is an image obtained by dynamically photographing the subject while changing the subject from a posterior flexion position to an anterior flexion position, and the output unit further outputs the ratio of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the anterior flexion position and the posterior flexion position of the subject.

[0018] The invention according to claim 11 is the invention according to claim 10, wherein the output unit further outputs the time or the operation angle of the subject at the timing when the change rate of the anterior edge of the vertebra is the largest.

[0019] The program of the invention according to claim 12 causes a computer to function as an acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject, a measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of a measurement target in at least two or more of the plurality of frame images, and an output unit that outputs the result measured by the measurement unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, it becomes possible for a doctor to easily and objectively grasp the severity and progress of a disease.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments and drawings.

[0023] <Configuration of the Radiographic Imaging System 100> First, the schematic configuration of the radiation imaging system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the radiation imaging system 100.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the radiation imaging system 100 of the present embodiment includes a radiation generator 1, a radiation detector 2, an image processing device 3, and a server 4. These can communicate with each other via a communication network N.

[0025] Note that the radiation imaging system 100 may be connected to a hospital information system (HIS) not shown, a radiology information system (RIS), a picture archiving and communication system (PACS), etc. IS), a picture archiving and communication system (PACS), etc.

[0026] Although not shown, the radiation generator 1 includes a generator that applies a voltage according to preset radiation irradiation conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time (mAs value), etc.) based on the operation of an irradiation instruction switch, and a radiation source that generates a dose of radiation (for example, X-rays) corresponding to the applied voltage when the voltage is applied from the generator. And the radiation generator 1 is configured to generate radiation in a manner corresponding to the radiation image to be taken (dynamic image in the present embodiment). Note that the radiation generator 1 may be installed in the imaging room, or may be configured to be movable, such as a mobile cart together with the image processing device 3, etc.

[0027]

[0028] ​Although not shown in the drawings, the radiation detector 2 includes a substrate on which pixels each having a radiation detection element that generates charges corresponding to the dose by receiving radiation and a switch element that accumulates and discharges the charges are two-dimensionally (matrix-wise) arranged, a scanning circuit that switches on / off each switch element, a readout circuit that reads out the amount of charges emitted from each pixel as a signal value, a control unit that generates a radiation image from a plurality of signal values read out by the readout circuit, an output unit that outputs data of the generated radiation image and the like to the outside, and the like. The radiation detector 2 is configured to generate a radiation image corresponding to the irradiated radiation in synchronization with the timing of irradiation with radiation from the radiation generator 1.

[0029] Note that the radiation detector 2 may incorporate a scintillator or the like, convert the irradiated radiation into light of another wavelength such as visible light using the scintillator, and generate charges corresponding to the converted light (so-called indirect type), or may generate charges directly from the radiation without using a scintillator or the like (so-called direct type). Further, the radiation detector 2 may be a dedicated type integrated with the imaging table or a portable (cassette type).

[0030] The image processing device 3 is configured by a PC, a dedicated device, or the like. Note that the image processing device 3 may be a console that sets various imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time (mAs value), frame rate, subject physique, presence or absence of grid, etc.) for the radiation generator 1, the radiation detector 2, etc. based on imaging order information acquired from other systems (such as HIS and RIS) and operations by the user. Details of this image processing device 3 will be described later.

[0031] The server 4 is configured by a PC, a dedicated device, a virtual server on the cloud, or the like. Further, the server 4 has a database (DB) 41. The database 41 is capable of accumulating dynamic images generated by the radiation detector 2 and the processing results of the image processing device 3. In the present embodiment, the database 41 is provided in a server 4 independent of the image processing apparatus 3 or the like. However, the database 41 may be provided in the image processing apparatus 3 or may be provided in another apparatus included in the radiation imaging system 100. Further, when another system such as a PACS is connected to the radiation imaging system 100, it may be provided in the other system.

[0032] The radiation imaging system 100 according to the present embodiment configured as described above has the radiation source of the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2 arranged to face each other with a space therebetween, and irradiates a subject arranged therebetween with radiation from the radiation source, whereby the subject can be radiographically imaged. In the present embodiment, for one imaging operation, pulsed radiation irradiation from the radiation source and image generation by the radiation detector 2 are repeated a plurality of times (for example, 15 times per second) in a short time to perform dynamic imaging for generating a plurality of images showing the dynamics of the subject. A series of images obtained by the dynamic imaging is called a dynamic image. Each of the plurality of images constituting the dynamic image is called a frame image. Note that the dynamic imaging may be performed by continuously irradiating the subject with radiation from the radiation source at a low dose rate for a predetermined time without interruption (continuous irradiation), and generating a plurality of frame images by the radiation detector 2 during that time. Note that the dynamic imaging may be performed by continuously irradiating the subject with radiation from the radiation source at a low dose rate for a predetermined time without interruption (continuous irradiation), and generating a plurality of frame images by the radiation detector 2 during that time.

[0033] <Configuration of Image Processing Apparatus 3> Next, the specific configuration of the image processing apparatus 3 included in the radiation imaging system 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the image processing apparatus 3.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the image processing apparatus 3 according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, a storage unit 33, a display unit 34, and an operation unit 35. Each of the units 31 to 35 is electrically connected by a bus or the like. Note that, instead of providing the display unit 34 and the operation unit 35 in the image processing apparatus 3, a display device (such as a tablet terminal) equipped with a display unit and an operation unit may be connected to the image processing apparatus 3.

[0035] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory ), etc. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 33, expands them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and centrally controls the operations of each part of the image processing apparatus 3. Further, the control unit 31 executes measurement processing described later in cooperation with the programs stored in the storage unit 33, and functions as an acquisition unit and a measurement unit.

[0036] The communication unit 32 is composed of a communication module or the like. The communication unit 32 transmits and receives various signals and various data to and from other devices (such as the radiation detector 2) connected via a communication network N (LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, etc.).

[0037] The storage unit 33 is composed of a non-volatile semi-dynamic memory, a hard disk, or the like. Further, the storage unit 33 stores various programs executed by the control unit 31, parameters necessary for the execution of the programs, and the like. Note that the storage unit 33 may be capable of storing radiation images.

[0038] The display unit 34 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), or the like. The display unit 34 displays a moving image, a measurement result, etc. based on a control signal input from the control unit 31. The display unit 34 functions as an output unit and a notification unit.

[0039] The operation unit 35 is configured to be operable by a user through a keyboard having cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of a display device, and the like. The operation unit 35 is adapted to output a control signal corresponding to an operation made by the user to the control unit 31.

[0040] The control unit 31 of the image processing apparatus 3 configured as described above has a function of executing the measurement process shown in FIG. 3, for example, triggered by a predetermined start operation being made.

[0041] <Operation> Next, the operation of the radiation imaging system 100 will be described. First, dynamic imaging is performed on a subject by the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images is acquired. Examples of the site to be imaged include bones and joints with diseases such as the cervical vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, bones of the hands and feet, knee joints, hip joints, elbow joints, wrist joints, and ankle joints. The dynamic imaging is performed, for example, while moving the subject or while applying stress (load) to the subject. The stress (load) is applied while moving the subject or while applying stress (load) to the subject.

[0042] To each of the frame images of the dynamic image generated by the radiation detector 2 by dynamic imaging, information such as an identification ID for identifying the dynamic image, patient information, examination information (imaging site, radiation irradiation conditions, image reading conditions, number indicating the imaging order (frame number)) is attached (for example, written in the header area of the image data in DICOM format), and is sequentially transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3. Note that the frame images of the dynamic image may be collectively transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3.

[0043] In the image processing apparatus 3, the measurement process shown in FIG. 3 is executed on the dynamic image transmitted by the radiation detector 2, and information regarding the shape of the measurement target is measured and output. The measurement process is executed in cooperation with the program stored in the control unit 31 and the storage unit 33. Hereinafter, the measurement process will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0044] First, the control unit 31 acquires the dynamic image transmitted from the radiation detector 2 (step S1).

[0045] Next, the control unit 31 receives the designation of the measurement target for the information regarding the shape (step S2). For example, the control unit 31 displays options of the structure to be the measurement target on the display unit 34, and receives the designation of the measurement target by the operation of the user's operation unit 35. Examples of the measurement target include structures such as the cervical vertebra, lumbar vertebra, shoulder joint, elbow joint, hand bones (radius, scaphoid bone, middle hand bone, ···), hand joint, hip joint, knee joint, foot bones (talus, calcaneus, middle foot bone, ···), and foot joint. Note that when it is not possible to specify which bone it is for the hand bones or foot bones, it may be possible to roughly specify them as hand bones or foot bones. Also, the control unit 31 may automatically specify the measurement target based on the imaging order information. Further, when a measurement target with a plurality of disease types is designated, after the measurement target is designated, the control unit 31 may display options of the diseases on the display unit 34 and receive the designation of the diseases by the operation unit 35.

[0046] Next, the control unit 31 measures the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in two or more frame images of the dynamic image (step S3). The frame images to be the measurement target (for which measurement is to be performed) may be all the frame images of the dynamic image, may be frame images at predetermined intervals, or may be two or more predetermined frame images. The information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes at least any one of a predetermined part length, area, and angle representing the shape of the measurement target. Also, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (top) frame image), a frame image temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image temporally separated by a predetermined number of images is calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as the information regarding the shape of the measurement target.

[0047] Then, the control unit 31 displays (outputs) the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the display unit 34 (step S4), and ends the measurement process.

[0048] In step S4, for example, the numerical values of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target are displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of shooting or the frame number. As a result, since the doctor can grasp the change in the shape of the measurement target, which is difficult to notice in the reading of the dynamic image, as a numerical value, it becomes possible to easily and objectively grasp whether there is a disease in the measurement target, and if there is a disease, its severity and progress. The diagnosis time can also be shortened. Alternatively, it may be possible to display a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of shooting on the horizontal axis. As a result, it becomes easier for the doctor to grasp the presence or absence and situation of the disease.

[0049] Also, the information indicating at what point the subject is operated to what extent and a change (or an abnormality) occurs in the shape of the measurement target is effective for diagnosis, treatment judgment, confirmation of treatment effect, life guidance, etc. Therefore, it may be possible to display the numerical values of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the operation angle of the subject. Alternatively, it may be possible to display a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the operation angle of the subject on the horizontal axis.

[0050] ​Furthermore, the control unit 31 may determine whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target based on the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, and cause the display unit 34 to display notification information notifying that there is an abnormality when it is determined that there is an abnormality. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from each frame image is compared with a predetermined threshold value, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target. Also, when it is determined that there is an abnormality, based on the comparison result between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from each frame image and the predetermined threshold value, the time at which the abnormality occurred (or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred) is specified, and it may be notified the time at which the abnormality occurred or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred.

[0051] Hereinafter, specific examples of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target and its output method will be described.

[0052] (When the measurement target is a vertebra) When a compression fracture occurs in a vertebra such as the cervical vertebra or the lumbar vertebra, the brittle bone collapses and deforms when a load is applied. In the posterior flexion position, since little load is applied, the bone deformation is small or almost none, but in the anterior flexion position, since a load is applied, the bone deforms. In the initial stage of the compression fracture, the bone on the anterior edge side becomes brittle, and as shown in Fig. 4(a), the anterior edge portion collapses and deforms in the anterior flexion position where a load is applied to the anterior edge portion of the vertebral body. As the disease progresses, the entire vertebral body becomes brittle, and as shown in Fig. 4(b), it collapses as a whole in the anterior flexion position. Also, as the disease progresses, the timing at which the vertebral body deforms becomes earlier.

[0053] Therefore, when the object to be measured is a vertebra such as the cervical vertebra or lumbar vertebra, the imaging operator places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging of the side while changing the bending angle of the subject for the subject (in this embodiment, while changing from the posterior flexion position to the anterior flexion position) to obtain a dynamic image. In the image processing apparatus 3, when a dynamic image is received and vertebrae such as the cervical vertebra and lumbar vertebra are specified as the measurement object, the control unit 31 recognizes the vertebral body by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frame images of the dynamic image, and as information regarding the shape of the measurement object, measures at least one of the lengths of the anterior edge and posterior edge of the vertebral body, the area of the vertebral body, and the angle θ (see FIG. 4(a)) formed by the upper edge and lower edge of the vertebral body. The lengths of the upper edge and lower edge of the vertebral body may also be included. Further, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement object measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement object measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (top) frame image), a frame image temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image temporally separated by a predetermined number of images may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information regarding the shape of the measurement object. Regarding which vertebral body of which of the plurality of vertebrae to measure information regarding the shape from, for example, if the measurement object is the cervical vertebra, it may be predetermined such as the vertebral body of the 〇th cervical vertebra, and if the measurement object is the lumbar vertebra, it may be the vertebral body of the △th lumbar vertebra. Alternatively, the frame image in which the vertebral body is recognized may be displayed on the display unit 34, and information regarding the shape of the measurement object may be measured from the vertebral body selected by the operation unit 35. Alternatively, information regarding the shape of the measurement object may be measured for all vertebral bodies. Then, the temporal change of the information regarding the shape of the measurement object is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0054] As a method for displaying the information regarding the shape of the measurement object, for example, the numerical value of the information regarding the shape of the measurement object may be displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of imaging or the frame number, or a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement object is plotted may be displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object on the vertical axis and the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of imaging on the horizontal axis.

[0055] For example, when performing dynamic imaging while changing the subject from a posterior flexion position to an anterior flexion position, if there is no compression fracture, even when changing from the posterior flexion position to the anterior flexion position, none of the length of the anterior and posterior edges of the vertebral body, the area of the vertebral body, or the angle formed by the upper and lower edges of the vertebral body will change much. However, if there is an initial compression fracture, as shown in Fig. 4(a), when in the anterior flexion position, the anterior edge will collapse. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5(a), in the graph of information regarding the shape of the measurement object, from a certain point in time (t1) in the anterior flexion position, the length of the anterior edge (anterior edge length) and the area of the vertebral body will become smaller. The length of the posterior edge (posterior edge length) does not change. On the other hand, when the symptoms progress and become severe, as shown in Fig. 4(b), when in the anterior flexion position, the entire vertebra will collapse. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5(b), in the graph of information regarding the shape of the measurement object, from a certain point in time (t2) in the anterior flexion position, both the length of the anterior edge (anterior edge length), the vertebral body area, and the length of the posterior edge (posterior edge length) will become smaller. As the symptoms progress and the severity increases, the vertebra will collapse immediately even with a slight anterior flexion, so changes will appear in the graph in a short time. Also, the amount of change will increase. By referring to such temporal changes in the information regarding the shape of the measurement object, the doctor can easily and objectively grasp whether a compression fracture has occurred, as well as the severity and progression of the compression fracture.

[0056] In addition, information indicating at what angle the subject is anteriorly flexed when a change (abnormality) occurs in the shape of the vertebra is effective for the diagnosis and treatment judgment of compression fractures and the confirmation of treatment effects. Therefore, the control unit 31 may measure the flexion angle as the movement angle of the subject together with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object from each frame image of the measurement object, and for example, display the information regarding the shape of the measurement object in association with the flexion angle. For example, display the information regarding the shape of the measurement object numerically in association with the flexion angle. Alternatively, plot and display the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement object on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object on the vertical axis and the flexion angle on the horizontal axis. Thereby, it becomes possible for the doctor to easily and objectively grasp at what angle the subject is anteriorly flexed when symptoms appear.

[0057] Here, when the measurement target is the lumbar spine, the flexion angle is, for example, as shown in FIG. 6. Taking an arbitrary vertical line (here, a line parallel to the vertical direction of the image) in the frame image as the reference line L1, and taking the line passing through the midpoint of the line segment passing through the center of the first lumbar vertebral body (the intersection of the straight line passing through the front end of the upper edge and the rear end of the lower edge and the straight line passing through the rear end of the upper edge and the front end of the lower edge) and the centers of both femoral heads as the target line L2, the angle formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2 is defined as the flexion angle. Anterior tilt relative to the reference line L1 is represented by a positive value. Alternatively, the straight line passing through the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra and the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra may be used as the target line L2. Alternatively, on the dynamic image, a straight line passing through any two points on the lumbar spine specified by the user using the operation unit 35 may be used as the target line L2.

[0058] When the measurement target is the cervical spine, the flexion angle is, for example, as shown in FIG. 7. Taking an arbitrary vertical line (here, a line parallel to the vertical direction of the image) in the frame image as the reference line L1, and taking the straight line connecting the posterior edge (upper end) of the odontoid process and the center of the C7 vertebral body (lower end) as the target line L2, the angle formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2 is defined as the flexion angle. Anterior tilt relative to the reference line L1 is represented by a positive value. The reference line L1 is preferably a vertical line passing through the center of the C7 vertebral body. Alternatively, on the dynamic image, a straight line passing through any two points on the cervical spine specified by the user using the operation unit 35 may be used as the target line L2.

[0059] Also, based on the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, the control unit 31 determines whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target and, if it determines that there is an abnormality, may cause the display unit 34 to display notification information notifying of that fact. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from each frame image is compared with a predetermined threshold value, and based on the comparison result, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target. Also, if it is determined that there is an abnormality, based on the comparison result between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from each frame image and the predetermined threshold value, the time when the abnormality occurred or the movement angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred is specified, and it may be notified of the time when the abnormality occurred or the movement angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred. Thereby, the doctor can more easily and objectively grasp whether there is an abnormality (compression fracture) in the vertebra that is the measurement target and the timing (time or flexion angle) at which the symptoms of the abnormality appear.

[0060] Further, the control unit 31 may calculate the ratio of the information on the shape of the measurement target in the forward flexion position (the most forward flexed state) and the backward flexion position (the most backward flexed state), and cause the display unit 34 to display it. Thereby, it becomes possible to more easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of the compression fracture.

[0061] Further, the control unit 31 may specify the timing at which the change rate of the leading edge with the adjacent frame image is the largest, and output the time or flexion angle at that timing to the display unit 34. Thereby, it becomes possible to more easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of the compression fracture.

[0062] (When the measurement target is a bone in the hand or foot (fracture)) In a fracture with a slight crack, since there is almost no change in the shape of the bone, it is difficult to find it in a radiographic image. However, when the bone is moved, the fracture part may shift or the fracture part may open at a certain timing, so it becomes possible to find the abnormality even in a radiographic image. It is difficult to take a still image of the radiographic image at the timing when the bone shifts or opens, but by performing dynamic imaging while moving the bone, a timing occurs when a load is applied to the fracture part, and it becomes possible to obtain a radiographic image in which the displacement of the bone increases or the fracture part opens at that time. In addition, by applying stress (load) to the fracture part and performing dynamic imaging, displacement and opening become easier to observe (the amount of displacement and opening increases, and displacement occurs for a long time). When performing dynamic imaging while applying stress, there are cases where dynamic imaging is performed while moving the bone while applying stress of a certain stress value (fixed value), cases where the state of moving the bone while applying stress of a certain stress value is dynamically imaged multiple times while changing the stress value, cases where the movement of the bone is fixed and dynamic imaging is performed while gradually applying stress, and the like. Respective cases can show at what level of stress an abnormality occurs and what level of displacement there is.

[0063] Therefore, the photographer places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while moving the bone to be measured and / or applying stress to obtain a dynamic image. In the image processing device 3, when a dynamic image is received and the bone of the hand or foot is designated as the measurement target, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement target by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frame images of the dynamic image, and as information regarding the shape of the measurement target, measures at least one of the length of the deviation (step) from the straight line of the edge portion of the bone to be measured (refer to the arrow in Fig. 8(a)), the width and length of the depression (gap due to fracture) (refer to the arrow in Fig. 8(b)). Also, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (initial) frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image that is temporally separated by a predetermined number of images may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Then, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from a plurality of frame images is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0064] As a method for displaying the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, for example, the numerical value of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of imaging or the frame number, or a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted may be displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of imaging on the horizontal axis. By referring to the temporal change of such information regarding the shape of the measurement target, a doctor can easily and objectively grasp whether a fracture has occurred, as well as the severity and progress of the fracture.

[0065] ​In addition, information indicating how much the subject needs to be moved before a change (abnormality) occurs in the shape of the subject is effective for fracture diagnosis, treatment judgment, confirmation of treatment effect, etc. Therefore, when imaging is performed while moving the subject including the measurement target, the control unit 31 may measure the operation angle of the subject together with information regarding the shape of the measurement target from each frame image of the measurement target, and display the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the operation angle. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is displayed numerically in association with the operation angle. Alternatively, the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted and displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the operation angle on the horizontal axis.

[0066] Here, when the measurement target is a fracture of the radius, dynamic imaging is performed while flexing and ulnar deviating the hand. In this case, the operation angle (flexion angle) of the subject is, for example, the angle formed by a reference line L1 passing through the center of the radius in the frame image and a target line L2 passing through the center of the middle phalanx of the middle finger. The flexed side with respect to the reference line L1 is represented by a positive value, and the ulnar deviated side is represented by a negative value. When the hand is imaged from the front, as shown in Fig. 9(a), it is easy to distinguish between flexion and ulnar deviation, and the flexion angle can be easily obtained. However, it is also possible to measure the flexion angle by imaging the hand from the side, as shown in Fig. 9(b).

[0067] In addition, for example, when the measurement target is a finger, dynamic imaging is performed from the side while bending the fractured finger. This is because when the finger is bent, it is possible to observe that the part where the tendon (muscle) is pulled and broken opens or shifts. In this case, the operation angle (flexion angle) of the subject is, for example, as shown in Fig. 10, the smaller of the angles formed by a reference line L1 passing through the center of the proximal (closer to the palm) bone and a target line L2 passing through the center of the distal (fingertip side) bone among the fractured bone and the bone adjacent to it.

[0068] Also, for example, when the measurement target is the bones of the foot, dynamic imaging is performed from the side while bending and stretching the ankle. In this case, the movement angle (flexion angle) of the subject is, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, with the line passing through the center of the tibia as the reference line L1 and the line passing through the center of the talus as the target line L2, taking the larger of the angles formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2.

[0069] Alternatively, in any case where the measurement target is concerned, on the dynamic image, the user may specify the reference line L1 and the target line L2 by operating unit 35, and the angle formed by the specified reference line and target line may be used as the movement angle of the subject.

[0070] Also, when imaging is performed while applying stress to the measurement target, the control unit 31 may display information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the applied stress value. For example, display information regarding the shape of the measurement target numerically in association with the stress value. Alternatively, plot and display the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement target on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the stress value on the horizontal axis.

[0071] In this way, by displaying information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the movement angle or stress value of the subject, not only the presence or absence of a fracture, but also how much the subject was moved (or how much stress was applied) and to what extent symptoms appeared can be easily and objectively grasped by the doctor. As a result, fracture diagnosis becomes possible, and it becomes possible to grasp the healing condition during follow-up observation after treatment from the degree of bone displacement and depression. Also, if displacement or the like is observed with a certain amount of movement or stress, the patient can be instructed regarding movement restrictions in daily life (for example, bending more than... will cause the fractured part that is healing to shift), and the worsening of symptoms can be prevented.

[0072] Further, for example, when information regarding the shape of the measurement target (e.g., the width or length of a step or a depression of a bone) measured in each frame image exceeds a predetermined threshold value (e.g., 0), the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality and notify the same. Further, the time, bending angle, or stress value at the timing when the abnormality occurred may be specified and the time, bending angle, or stress value at the timing when the abnormality occurred may be notified. Thereby, a doctor can more easily and objectively grasp whether an abnormality (fracture) has occurred in the bone that is the measurement target and the timing (time, bending angle, or stress value) at which the symptoms of the abnormality appear.

[0073] (When the measurement target is the knee joint, elbow joint, or hip joint (osteoarthritis)) Osteoarthritis is a disease in which cartilage, which is a component of joints such as the knee joint, elbow joint, and hip joint, wears away, and the shape of the joint is significantly deformed. Since cartilage does not appear in a radiographic image, osteoarthritis is evaluated by measuring the gap between bones as cartilage. Normally, the interosseous distance (joint space) is regarded as the width of the cartilage, but since cartilage is also three-dimensional, there are thick and thin portions. Therefore, when the joint is moved at a certain angle, the width (length) of the cartilage or the integral value of the cartilage area over time at that time becomes an index indicating the whole of the cartilage. How much this value is and how much it has decreased are important indices indicating the severity and progression of osteoarthritis.

[0074] Therefore, the photographer places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while moving the joint to be measured to obtain a dynamic image. In the image processing device 3, when a dynamic image is received and joints such as the knee joint, elbow joint, and hip joint are specified as the measurement targets, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement targets by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frame images of the dynamic image, and as information regarding the shape of the measurement targets, measures the distance between bones, the area between bones (cartilage area), or the time integral value thereof (the area may be integrated or averaged over time) in the joint of the measurement target. Also, since the timing when the cartilage area is the smallest is considered to be the timing most related to pain, the smallest cartilage area may be used as information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Further, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (initial) frame image), a frame image temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image separated by a predetermined number of frames in time may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information regarding the shape of the measurement target.

[0075] As an example, when the measurement target is the knee joint, as the distance between bones, the shortest distance between the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia, or the shortest distance between the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia is measured (see the arrow in FIG. 12). Also, as the area of the cartilage, for example, in the case of a side image, a tangent is drawn between the femur and the tibia, and the area surrounded by the two tangents and the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia (or the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia) (the area surrounded by the dotted line and the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 12) is measured. In the case of a front image, a tangent is drawn between the femur and the tibia, and the area surrounded by the two tangents and the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia, and the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia is measured. Then, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from a plurality of frame images is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0076] As a method of displaying information regarding the shape of the measurement object, for example, the numerical values of the information regarding the shape of the measurement object may be displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of shooting or the frame number, or the information regarding the shape of the measurement object may be used as the vertical axis and the elapsed time from the start of shooting (or the frame number) may be used as the horizontal axis It is also possible to display a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement object is plotted on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object as the vertical axis and the elapsed time from the start of shooting (or the frame number) as the horizontal axis. By referring to such a time change in the information regarding the shape of the measurement object, a doctor can easily and objectively grasp whether it is osteoarthritis and the severity and progression of osteoarthritis

[0077] In addition, information indicating how much the subject is moved when a change (abnormality) occurs in the shape of the subject is effective for the diagnosis and treatment determination of osteoarthritis and the confirmation of the treatment effect. Therefore, the control unit 31 may measure the operation angle of the subject together with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object from each frame image of the measurement object and display the information regarding the shape of the measurement object in association with the operation angle. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement object is displayed numerically in association with the operation angle. Alternatively, the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement object is plotted and displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement object as the vertical axis and the operation angle as the horizontal axis

[0078] Here, for example, when the measurement object is the knee joint, dynamic imaging is performed while bending the knee. It does not matter whether the knee is imaged from the front or the side, but when displaying the information regarding the shape of the measurement object in association with the operation angle (bending angle) of the subject, it is preferable to perform imaging from the side. This is because it is easy to capture the bending angle. In this case, the operation angle (bending angle) of the subject is, for example, as shown in FIG. 13, with the line passing through the center of the femur in the frame image as the reference line L1 and the line passing through the center of the tibia as the target line L2, taking the smaller angle formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2. Alternatively, on the dynamic image, the user may specify the reference line L1 and the target line L2 using the operation unit 35, and the angle formed by the specified reference line L1 and the target line L2 may be used as the operation angle of the subject

[0079] In this way, by associating and displaying information about the shape of the measurement object with the operating angle of the subject, it becomes possible for a doctor to easily and objectively grasp how much the cartilage shrinks when the subject moves. As a result, it becomes possible to diagnose osteoarthritis, and it also becomes possible to grasp the degree of recovery during follow-up observation from the width and area of the cartilage. Further, when the information about the shape of the measurement object is the cartilage area, since the doctor can easily grasp the cartilage area at the timing when the cartilage area is the smallest, it becomes possible for the doctor to easily grasp the timing most related to pain.

[0080] Further, for example, when the information about the shape of the measurement object (for example, the distance between bones, the area between bones (cartilage area), or its time integral value) measured in each frame image becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality and notify the fact. Further, it may specify the time or bending angle at the timing when the abnormality occurred, and notify the time at the timing when the abnormality occurred or the operating angle of the subject. Thereby, the doctor can more easily and objectively grasp whether an abnormality (osteoarthritis) has occurred in the measurement object and the timing when the symptoms of the abnormality appear.

[0081] (When the measurement object is the wrist joint) For example, when the hand is flexed and ulnarly deviated (rotated left and right), the scaphoid bone (indicated by a dashed circle in FIG. 14) rotates, so its shape changes as shown in FIG. 14. The other bones only move and their shapes do not change. The scaphoid bone of the wrist joint moves as described above if the ligament is normal, but if the ligament is damaged and the pulling force decreases, the scaphoid bone does not rotate and its shape (for example, the length indicated by the arrow in FIG. 14) does not change. The degree of ligament damage can be diagnosed from the degree of this shape change.

[0082] Therefore, the imaging operator places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, performs dynamic imaging while flexing and ulnarly deviating the hand, and acquires a dynamic image. The image processing device 3 In this case, when a moving image is received and the wrist joint is specified as the measurement target, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement target by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frame images of the moving image, and measures at least one of the length, width, and area of the scaphoid bone as information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Further, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (top) frame image), a frame image temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image that is a predetermined number of frames away temporally may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as the information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Then, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from a plurality of frame images is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0083] As a method for displaying the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, for example, the numerical value of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of shooting or the frame number, or a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted may be displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of shooting on the horizontal axis. By referring to such a temporal change in the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, a doctor can easily grasp whether or not a ligament injury has occurred and the degree thereof.

[0084] Further, when shooting is performed while moving the subject, the control unit 31 may measure the operation angle of the subject together with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target from each frame image of the measurement target, and display the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the operation angle. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is displayed numerically in association with the operation angle. Alternatively, the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted and displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the operation angle on the horizontal axis.

[0085] Here, when the measurement target is the wrist joint, dynamic imaging is performed while the hand is flexed and bent. For the movement angle (flexion angle) of the subject, for example, as shown in FIG. 9(a), a line passing through the center of the radius is defined as the reference line L1, and a line passing through the center of the middle phalanx of the middle finger is defined as the target line L2, and the angle formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2 is used. The flexion side relative to the reference line L1 is represented by a positive value, and the ulnar flexion side is represented by a negative value. Alternatively, on the dynamic image, the user may specify the reference line L1 and the target line L2 using the operation unit 35, and the angle formed by the specified reference line and the target line may be used as the movement angle of the subject.

[0086] In this way, by associating and displaying information regarding the shape of the measurement target with the movement angle of the subject, it becomes possible for the doctor to easily and objectively grasp how much the shape of the scaphoid bone changes (or does not change) when the subject moves. As a result, it becomes possible to diagnose ligament injuries and to grasp the progress of recovery during follow-up observation.

[0087] Further, when the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image of the measurement target (for example, the length, width, or area of the scaphoid bone) and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in the first frame image is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality (ligament injury) and notify the same. Thereby, the doctor can more easily and objectively grasp whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the measurement target.

[0088] (When the measurement target is the hip joint (acetabular dysplasia (coxa valga))) When the upper outer edge of the acetabulum is shallow and the CE angle (Center-Edge angle) is 20 degrees or less, it is acetabular dysplasia It is determined. Here, as shown in FIG. 15, the CE angle is the angle formed by a perpendicular line passing through the center of the bone and a line connecting the center of the bone and the upper outer edge (outer edge of the acetabulum) of the acetabulum. If this acetabular dysplasia is severe, it may lead to osteoarthritis due to this factor. The diagnosis of acetabular dysplasia is made by determining whether the "space (joint gap)" of the hip joint is narrow. By taking a dynamic image of the hip joint and measuring the area and distance (interval) of the "space (joint gap)" of the hip joint in two or more frame images, the diagnosis can be performed. However, by measuring the dynamic CE angle as an extension of the conventional index, it becomes possible to more accurately estimate the degree of progression of the symptoms.

[0089] Therefore, the imaging operator places the subject (hip joint) between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2 and performs dynamic imaging while moving the hip joint to obtain a dynamic image. In the image processing apparatus 3, when a dynamic image is received and the hip joint (acetabular dysplasia) is designated as the measurement target, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement target by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frame images of the dynamic image, and measures the area and distance (interval) of the hip joint, or the CE angle, as information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Also, the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image for which measurement is performed and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first (top) frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image for which measurement is performed, or a frame image that is a predetermined number of frames away temporally may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information regarding the shape of the measurement target. Then, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target measured from a plurality of frame images is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0090] As a method of displaying information regarding the shape of the measurement target, for example, the numerical value of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be displayed in association with the elapsed time from the start of shooting or the frame number. Alternatively, a graph in which the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted may be displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of shooting on the horizontal axis. By referring to such a time change of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target, a doctor can easily and objectively grasp whether there is acetabular dysplasia, and the severity and progression of acetabular dysplasia.

[0091] Alternatively, the control unit 31 may measure the Sharp angle as the operation angle of the subject together with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target from each frame image of the measurement target, and display the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the Sharp angle. As shown in FIG. 15, the Sharp angle is an angle formed by a line connecting the lower edge of the tear trough and the upper outer edge of the acetabulum and a horizontal line (a line connecting the lower edges of the left and right tear troughs). For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target is displayed numerically in association with the Sharp angle. Alternatively, the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement target is plotted and displayed on a graph with the information regarding the shape of the measurement target on the vertical axis and the Sharp angle on the horizontal axis.

[0092] Further, for example, when the information regarding the shape of the measurement target (for example, the CE angle) measured in each frame image is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality and notify the fact. Furthermore, the time or Sharp angle at the timing when the abnormality occurs may be specified and the time or Sharp angle at the timing when the abnormality occurs may be notified. Thereby, a doctor can more easily and objectively grasp whether there is an abnormality in the hip joint and the timing at which the abnormality occurs.

[0093] In addition, by measuring the Sharp angle, the severity and progression of acetabular dysplasia can also be estimated. Therefore, the Sharp angle may be measured as information regarding the shape of the measurement target, and may be displayed in association with the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of imaging or the CE angle.

[0094] As described above, according to the control unit 31 of the image processing apparatus 3, a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject is acquired. When a measurement target in the dynamic image is specified, information regarding the shape of the measurement target in at least two or more frame images of the dynamic image is measured, and the measurement result is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0095] Therefore, since a doctor can easily and objectively grasp the change in the shape of the specified measurement target, the doctor can easily and objectively grasp the severity and progress of the disease related to the measurement target.

[0096] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and the like, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the display unit 34 is used as an output unit and information regarding the shape of the measurement target is displayed on the display unit 34 has been described as an example. However, for example, the output unit may be the communication unit 32, and information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be output to an external device by the communication unit 32, and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be displayed on the external device. Further, the image processing apparatus 3 may be configured to include a printing unit, and information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be output to a sheet by the printing unit.

[0097] Also, the present invention can be applied to the following (example) diseases and their measurements even outside the above-described embodiments. · When the measurement target is a vertebra, the degree of slip (movement) is measured to diagnose cervical spine instability / subluxation Measure quantities, displacement angles, etc., measure Meyerding, measure the anteroposterior diameter of the cervical (lumbar) spinal canal to diagnose cervical (lumbar) spinal stenosis, measure Cobb angle and triangular Cobb angle to diagnose scoliosis. · When the measurement target is the wrist joint, measure the Radiolunate angle to diagnose main carpal bone instability, measure the trajectory of the proximal carpal row to diagnose carpal bone dislocation, measure displacement to diagnose rheumatism, and measure the Carpal height ratio to diagnose osteoarthritis. · When the measurement target is the ankle joint, measure the anterior ankle displacement to diagnose ankle joint instability, measure the Tibial angle to diagnose osteoarthritis, measure the Boehler angle to diagnose fracture reduction, measure the tibial-talar angle to diagnose equinus deformity, measure the anterior ankle displacement to diagnose ankle joint instability, measure the long axis arch (foot vault) to diagnose flat feet, measure the hallux valgus angle to diagnose hallux valgus, and measure the talocalcaneal angle to diagnose flat feet. · When the measurement target is the elbow joint, measure the joint gap (stress radiograph) to diagnose ligament injury, measure the ulnar nerve groove inclination angle to diagnose (sub) dislocation, measure the Baumann angle to diagnose fracture reduction, and measure the joint gap to diagnose ligament injury. · When the measurement target is the knee joint, measure the Patellofemoral index to diagnose patellar dislocation, measure the FTA (knee lateral angle) to diagnose osteoarthritis, measure the Sulcus angle to diagnose (sub) dislocation, and measure the tibial displacement to diagnose ligament injury. · When the measurement target is the hip joint, measure the CE angle to diagnose femoral head slippage (non-centering position) and femoral head slippage (non-centering position), measure the distance between the femoral head and the ischial edge to diagnose (sub) dislocation, measure the inclination angle of the outer edge of the acetabular roof to diagnose osteoarthritis of the hip joint, measure the distance between the femoral head and the ischial edge to diagnose (sub) dislocation, and measure the AHI (acetabular head index) to diagnose acetabular dysplasia. · When the measurement target is the hip joint, · When the measurement target is the hip joint, · When the measurement target is the shoulder joint, the humeral head descent rate and the Arm angle are measured to diagnose unstable shoulder (non-centering position), the Glenoid tilting angle and the joint gap are measured to diagnose (sub)dislocation, the GH angle and the Scapulothoracic angle are measured to diagnose unstable shoulder, and the Acromiohumeral interval is measured to diagnose tendon plate rupture.

[0098] Also, for example, in the above description, an example of using a hard disk, a semiconductor non-volatile memory, etc. as a computer-readable medium of the program according to the present invention was disclosed, but it is not limited to this example. As other computer-readable media, portable recording media such as CD-ROM can be applied. Also, a carrier wave is applied as a medium for providing the data of the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0099] In addition, regarding the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting the radiographic system, it can be appropriately changed within a range not departing from the gist of the present invention.

Explanation of Signs

[0100] 100 Radiographic system 1 Radiation generator 2 Radiation detector 3 Image processing device 31 Control unit 32 Communication unit 33 Storage unit 34 Display unit 35 Operation unit 4 Server 41 Database N Communication network

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject; A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of a measurement target in at least two or more of the plurality of frame images; An output unit that outputs the result measured by the measurement unit; An image processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs a temporal change of information regarding the shape of the measurement target.

3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the output unit outputs the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in association with the operation angle of the subject.

4. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the measurement target is a bone or a joint.

5. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes at least any one of a length, an area, and an angle representing the shape.

6. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes information on the difference between the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the first frame image of the plurality of frame images and the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the second frame image.

7. A determination unit that determines whether there is an abnormality in the measurement target based on the information regarding the shape of the measurement target; The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a notification unit that notifies that there is an abnormality when it is determined by the determination unit that there is an abnormality.

8. The determination unit further specifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred; The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the notification unit further notifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the operation angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred.

9. The measurement target is a vertebra; The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the information regarding the shape of the measurement target includes at least any one of the length of the front edge and the rear edge of the vertebral body in the vertebra, the area of the vertebral body, and the angle formed by the upper side and the lower side of the vertebral body.

10. The dynamic image is an image obtained by dynamically imaging the subject while changing the subject from a posterior flexion position to an anterior flexion position; The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the output unit further outputs a ratio of the information regarding the shape of the measurement target in the anterior flexion position and the posterior flexion position of the subject.

11. The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the output unit further outputs a time or an operation angle of the subject at a timing when a change rate of a leading edge in the vertebra is the largest.

12. A computer, An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image composed of a plurality of frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject, A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of a measurement target in at least two or more frame images among the plurality of frame images, An output unit that outputs a result measured by the measurement unit, A program for causing the computer to function as the above.

Images