Medical image diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

To reduce a time required from performing main imaging to displaying an output image.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic apparatus includes: a region-of-interest setting unit for setting a region of interest for a positioning image; an acquisition unit for acquiring anatomical characteristic position information on an anatomical characteristic position of a human body characteristic local structure on the basis of the region of interest; an imaging control unit for controlling imaging of a subject on the basis of the region of interest; a reconstruction image generation unit for generating a reconstruction image on the basis of imaging data collected by the imaging; and an output image generation unit for generating an output image on the basis of the reconstruction image generated by the reconstruction image generation unit and the anatomical characteristic position information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical image diagnostic apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in image diagnosis of medical images taken using various medical image diagnostic devices such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices and X-ray computed tomography (CT) devices, MPR (Multi Planar Reconstruction) images, particularly curved MPR images and radial MPR images, have been used to observe blood vessels, organs, bones, etc. in detail.

[0003] The operator manually sets the display cross sections for displaying MPR images such as curved MPR images and radial MPR images after performing the actual imaging to acquire images used mainly for diagnosis, which places a heavy burden on the operator and requires a significant amount of time from the actual imaging to displaying the MPR images.

[0004] Furthermore, such problems arise not only in the generation of MPR images but also in the generation of output images such as images obtained by cutting a three-dimensional image generated by volume rendering or surface rendering at an arbitrary position. Therefore, it is desired to reduce the burden on the operator in generating output images and to shorten the time required from the time of actual imaging to the time of generating output images. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2012-510317 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-148868 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-131403 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the time required from taking an actual image to generating an output image. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A medical image diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a region of interest setting unit that sets a region of interest in a positioning image, an acquisition unit that acquires anatomical feature position information related to anatomical feature positions of characteristic local structures of the human body based on the region of interest, an imaging control unit that controls imaging of a subject based on the region of interest, a reconstructed image generation unit that generates a reconstructed image based on imaging data collected by the imaging, and an output image generation unit that generates an output image based on the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generation unit and the anatomical feature position information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a PAS selection screen displayed on a display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an imaging condition editing screen displayed on a display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image generated in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image displayed on a display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image in which a region of interest is set in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image generated in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image with a reference line superimposed thereon, displayed on a display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a PAS selection screen displayed on a display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image generated in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image displayed on a display of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image in which a region of interest is set, in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image in which anatomical feature positions are extracted, displayed on the display of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image generated in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image with a reference line superimposed thereon, displayed on a display of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a medical image diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus will be used as an example of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations will be given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations will be given only when necessary. Note that the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment is not limited to a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, and can be appropriately implemented in, for example, an X-ray CT apparatus, a nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus, etc.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is configured to include a static magnetic field magnet 101, a gradient magnetic field coil 103, a gradient magnetic field power supply 104, a bed 105, a bed control circuit 106, a transmission coil 107, a transmission circuit 108, a reception coil 109, a reception circuit 110, a sequence control circuit 120, and a computer system 130.

[0011] The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 does not include a subject P. The configuration of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 is not limited to the configuration shown in Fig. 1. That is, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 may have any configuration. For example, the sequence control circuit 120 and each unit in the computer system 130 may be configured as an integrated or separate unit, as appropriate.

[0012] The static magnetic field magnet 101 is a magnet formed in a hollow, approximately cylindrical shape, and generates a static magnetic field in the internal space. The static magnetic field magnet 101 is, for example, a superconducting magnet, and is excited by receiving a current from a static magnetic field power supply. The static magnetic field power supply supplies power to the static magnetic field magnet 101. As another example, the static magnetic field magnet 101 may be a permanent magnet, in which case the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 does not need to include a static magnetic field power supply. Furthermore, the static magnetic field power supply may be provided separately from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10.

[0013] The gradient magnetic field coil 103 is a coil formed in a hollow cylindrical shape and is disposed inside the static magnetic field magnet 101. The gradient magnetic field coil 103 is formed by combining three coils corresponding to the mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes. The Z-axis direction is the same direction as the static magnetic field. The Y-axis direction is the vertical direction, and the X-axis direction is the direction perpendicular to the Z and Y axes. The gradient magnetic field coil 103 generates a gradient magnetic field to be superimposed on the static magnetic field. Specifically, the three coils in the gradient magnetic field coil 103 are individually supplied with power from a gradient magnetic field power supply 104 to generate a gradient magnetic field whose magnetic field strength changes along each of the X, Y, and Z axes. The gradient magnetic field power supply 104 supplies current to the gradient magnetic field coil 103 under the control of a sequence control circuit 120.

[0014] The bed 105 has a top plate 105a on which the subject P is placed. Under the control of a bed control circuit 106, the bed 105 inserts the top plate 105a into the imaging opening with the subject P placed on the top plate 105a. Under the control of a computer system 130, the bed control circuit 106 drives the bed 105 to move the top plate 105a in the longitudinal direction and the up-down direction.

[0015] The transmission coil 107 receives RF pulses from the transmission circuitry 108, generates a high-frequency magnetic field, and applies the high-frequency magnetic field to the subject P. The transmission circuitry 108 supplies RF pulses to the transmission coil 107 under the control of the sequence control circuit 120.

[0016] The receiving coil 109 is disposed inside the gradient magnetic field coil 103, and receives magnetic resonance signals (MR signals) emitted from the subject P due to the influence of the high frequency magnetic field. The receiving coil 109 outputs the received magnetic resonance signals to a receiving circuit 110. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the receiving coil 109 also serves as a transmitting coil.

[0017] The receiving circuit 110 detects the magnetic resonance signal output from the receiving coil 109 and generates magnetic resonance data based on the detected magnetic resonance signal. Specifically, the receiving circuit 110 performs analog-to-digital (AD) conversion on the analog magnetic resonance signal output from the receiving coil 109 to generate magnetic resonance data (MR data). The receiving circuit 110 also transmits the generated magnetic resonance data to the sequence control circuit 120. The receiving circuit 110 may be provided on the gantry side including the static magnetic field magnet 101, the gradient magnetic field coil 103, etc. The magnetic resonance data corresponds to imaging data in this embodiment.

[0018] The sequence control circuit 120 performs imaging of the subject P by driving the gradient magnetic field power supply 104, the transmission circuitry 108, and the reception circuitry 110 based on sequence information transmitted from the computer system 130. Here, the sequence information is information that defines a procedure for performing imaging. The sequence information defines the strength of the current that the gradient magnetic field power supply 104 supplies to the gradient magnetic field coil 103 and the timing of supplying the current, the strength of the RF pulse that the transmission circuitry 108 supplies to the transmission coil 107 and the timing of applying the RF pulse, the timing at which the reception circuitry 110 detects a magnetic resonance signal, etc.

[0019] The sequence control circuit 120 is, for example, an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0020] The computer system 130 performs overall control of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10, generates magnetic resonance images, etc. As shown in Fig. 1, the computer system 130 is configured to include a memory 131, an input device 132, a display 133, and a processing circuit 134.

[0021] The memory 131 is configured by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 131 may be configured by a portable medium such as a universal serial bus (USB) memory or a digital video disk (DVD). The memory 131 stores various processing programs (including application programs, an operating system (OS), etc.) used in the processing circuitry 134, data required for executing the programs, magnetic resonance data transmitted from the sequence control circuit 120, k-space data arranged in k-space by the imaging control function 1341, output images, etc.

[0022] The input device 132 accepts various instructions and information input from an operator. The input device 132 is, for example, a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball, a selection device such as a mode changeover switch, or an input device such as a keyboard. The input device 132 also includes a touch command screen formed on a display 133, which will be described later. This input device 132 corresponds to the input unit in this embodiment.

[0023] The display 133 displays various types of information. For example, the display 133 displays a positioning image or an output image, or a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various input operations from an operator. For example, the display 133 is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or the like. The display 133 corresponds to the display unit in this embodiment.

[0024] The processing circuitry 134 is a control circuit that performs overall control of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10, and also serves as an arithmetic circuit that performs various calculations. For example, the processing circuitry 134 according to this embodiment has an imaging control function 1341, a positioning image generation function 1342, a region of interest setting function 1343, an acquisition function 1344, a storage control function 1345, a reconstruction image generation function 1346, an identification function 1347, a display control function 1348, an editing function 1349, and an output image generation function 1350. The imaging control function 1341 corresponds to the imaging control unit in this embodiment, the positioning image generation function 1342 corresponds to the positioning image generation unit in this embodiment, the region of interest setting function 1343 corresponds to the region of interest setting unit in this embodiment, the acquisition function 1344 corresponds to the acquisition unit in this embodiment, the storage control function 1345 corresponds to the storage control unit in this embodiment, the reconstructed image generation function 1346 corresponds to the reconstructed image generation unit in this embodiment, the identification function 1347 corresponds to the identification unit in this embodiment, the display control function 1348 corresponds to the display control unit in this embodiment, the editing function 1349 corresponds to the editing unit in this embodiment, and the output image generation function 1350 corresponds to the output image generation unit in this embodiment.

[0025] 1, each processing function performed by the imaging control function 1341, the positioning image generation function 1342, the region of interest setting function 1343, the acquisition function 1344, the storage control function 1345, the reconstruction image generation function 1346, the identification function 1347, the display control function 1348, the editing function 1349, and the output image generation function 1350 is stored in the memory 131 in the form of a computer-executable program. The processing circuitry 134 is a processor that reads out and executes the program from the memory 131 to realize the function corresponding to each program. In Figure 1, it has been described that the imaging control function 1341, the positioning image generation function 1342, the region of interest setting function 1343, the acquisition function 1344, the storage control function 1345, the reconstruction image generation function 1346, the identification function 1347, the display control function 1348, the editing function 1349, and the output image generation function 1350 are realized by a single processing circuit 134, but it is also possible to configure the processing circuit 134 by combining multiple independent processors, and realize these functions by each processor executing a program.

[0026] The imaging control function 1341 controls imaging of the subject based on the region of interest. Specifically, the imaging control function 1341 controls imaging of the subject based on the region of interest set for the positioning image by the region of interest setting function 1343. This imaging control function 1341 causes the sequence control circuit 120 to perform positioning imaging. Specifically, the imaging control function 1341 generates sequence information based on imaging conditions for positioning imaging and transmits the generated sequence information to the sequence control circuit 120, thereby causing the sequence control circuit 120 to perform positioning imaging. Furthermore, as a result of the positioning imaging, the imaging control function 1341 arranges the magnetic resonance data transmitted from the sequence control circuit 120 two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally according to the phase encoding amount and frequency encoding amount imparted by the gradient magnetic field. The arranged magnetic resonance data is called k-space data. Then, the imaging control function 1341 stores the k-space data in the memory 131. In this positioning imaging, volume imaging of the subject P, such as two-dimensional multi-slice imaging or three-dimensional imaging, is performed. The positioning imaging is mainly performed prior to the main imaging to collect a positioning image to be referenced when setting the imaging range of the main imaging, and is also called locator imaging. The positioning image is also called a locator image or a scout image.

[0027] The imaging control function 1341 also generates sequence information based on imaging conditions for the main imaging and transmits the generated sequence information to the sequence control circuit 120, thereby causing the sequence control circuit 120 to execute the main imaging. As a result of the main imaging, the imaging control function 1341 arranges the magnetic resonance data transmitted from the sequence control circuit 120 two-dimensionally or three-dimensionally according to the phase encoding amount and frequency encoding amount imparted by the gradient magnetic field. The imaging control function 1341 then stores the k-space data in the memory 131. In the main imaging, volume imaging of the subject P is also performed, such as two-dimensional multi-slice imaging or three-dimensional imaging. The main imaging is imaging for collecting images mainly used for diagnosis, and is also called a main scan or the like.

[0028] Here, the imaging conditions are conditions set when performing imaging such as positioning imaging or main imaging. The imaging conditions include acquisition conditions for acquiring imaging data, reconstruction conditions related to reconstruction, and output image generation conditions related to output images. The acquisition conditions include, for example, an imaging region including an imaging position and an imaging direction, a field of view (FOV), a matrix size, the number of acquired slices, and the acquired slice thickness. The reconstruction conditions also include information such as a reconstruction algorithm, a reconstruction function, a reconstruction range, and a reconstruction slice thickness used when performing reconstruction. The output image generation conditions also include output image generation conditions for cross-sectional images such as axial, sagittal, and coronal images, as well as curved MPR and radial MPR. The output image generation conditions may also include at least one of a display region of the output image, an output image slice thickness, the number of output image slices, an output image slice interval, and an angle between output image slices.

[0029] The positioning image generation function 1342 generates a positioning image based on magnetic resonance data collected by positioning imaging. The region of interest setting function 1343 sets a region of interest in the positioning image. The region of interest setting function 1343 according to this embodiment receives a first input operation from the operator via the input device 132 to set a region of interest in the positioning image, and sets the region of interest in the positioning image in accordance with the received first input operation.

[0030] The acquisition function 1344 acquires anatomical feature position information based on the region of interest. Here, the anatomical feature position information is information about the anatomical feature position of a characteristic local structure of the human body. This anatomical feature position information is, for example, the coordinates of the anatomical feature position relative to an origin set at a predetermined position on the image.

[0031] The save control function 1345 controls so that the anatomical feature position information acquired by the acquisition function 1344 is saved in the auxiliary information of the positioning image. For example, the save control function 1345 controls so that the coordinates of the anatomical feature position are saved in the DICOM tag of the positioning image.

[0032] The reconstructed image generating function 1346 generates a reconstructed image based on imaging data collected by imaging. Specifically, in the actual imaging, the reconstructed image generating function 1346 generates a reconstructed image by performing reconstruction processing on the k-space data, which is the magnetic resonance data arranged by the imaging control function 1341. For example, FFT (Fast Fourier Transfer) or the like is used as the reconstruction processing.

[0033] The identifying function 1347 identifies the position of an anatomical feature in the reconstructed image based on the anatomical feature position information. The display control function 1348 controls the display 133 to superimpose a reference line, which serves as a reference when generating an output image, on the reconstructed image based on the anatomical position identified by the identifying function 1347.

[0034] The editing function 1349 receives a second input operation related to editing of the reference line and edits the reference line in accordance with the received second input operation. The output image generation function 1350 generates an output image based on the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generation function 1346 and the anatomical feature position information.

[0035] Here, the output image is an image generated by performing three-dimensional image processing. In this embodiment, the output image is, for example, an image generated by identifying anatomical feature positions on a reconstructed image and performing three-dimensional image processing based on the anatomical feature positions. This three-dimensional image processing is, for example, a multiplanar reconstruction method. That is, the output image is an image displayed using the multiplanar reconstruction method (hereinafter referred to as an MPR image). This MPR image includes cross-sectional images such as an axial image, a sagittal image, and a coronal image, as well as curved MPR images, which are images displayed using a curved surface reconstruction method in the multiplanar reconstruction method, and radial MPR images, which generate radial MPR images. That is, the output image may be a curved MPR image or a radial MPR image.

[0036] Here, the curved MPR image includes three types of images: an extruded image, which is an image that maintains the anatomical shape to some extent, a stretched image, which is an image generated to linearly display the reference line, and a crosscut image, which is an image of a cross section perpendicular to the reference line. Note that the curved MPR image does not need to include all three types of images: the extruded image, the stretched image, and the crosscut image; it is sufficient for the curved MPR image to include at least one of the extruded image, the stretched image, and the crosscut image.

[0037] 2 and 3 are flowcharts illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. In the output image generation process shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest (ROI) for a positioning image, acquires anatomical feature position information based on the ROI, controls imaging of the subject based on the ROI, generates a reconstructed image based on magnetic resonance data acquired by the imaging, and generates an output image based on the reconstructed image and the anatomical feature position information. For example, this output image generation process is executed when a selection of a PAS (Programmable Anatomical Scan) is accepted. Here, the PAS is information including pulse sequences for various anatomical imaging regions (e.g., the spine, knees, head, etc.). In the output image generation process according to this embodiment, the operator is assumed to be performing a spinal examination.

[0038] 2, first, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts the selection of a PAS (step S11). This process of accepting the selection of a PAS is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts the selection of a PAS according to the examination order from the operator via the input device 132.

[0039] 4 is a diagram showing an example of a PAS selection screen displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the imaging control function 1341 accepts from the operator on the PAS selection screen SC1 the selection of the spine as the imaging region, and also accepts from the operator the selection of "FFE3D" as the PAS capable of performing a spinal examination.

[0040] 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 receives settings of imaging conditions (step S13). This process of receiving settings of imaging conditions is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 receives settings of imaging conditions in the PAS received in step S11 from the operator via the input device 132.

[0041] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an imaging condition editing screen displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 opens an imaging condition editing screen SC2 for editing the imaging conditions in the PAS accepted in step S11, in response to an input operation by the operator via the input device 132. Then, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts settings of acquisition conditions, reconstruction conditions, and output image generation conditions on this imaging condition editing screen SC2.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 5 , the imaging condition editing screen SC2 displays a dropdown DD1 for selecting one output image generation condition from multiple output image generation conditions. The operator clicks on the dropdown DD1 to display a dropdown list containing multiple output image generation conditions. The operator then selects one output image generation condition from the dropdown list. In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the dropdown list displays Off, Curved MPR, and Radial MPR as output image generation conditions. For example, when Off is selected as the output image generation condition, three cross-sectional images, namely, an axial image, a sagittal image, and a coronal image, are generated as output images. When Curved MPR is selected as the output image generation condition, three Curved MPR images, namely, an extruded image, a stretched image, and a crosscut image, are generated. When Radial MPR is selected as the output image generation condition, a Radial MPR image is generated. Note that in the following description, the output image generation process according to this embodiment will be described assuming that Curved MPR image is selected as the output image generation condition in step S13.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 5, when Off is selected as the output image generation condition, three cross-sectional images, an axial image, a sagittal image, and a coronal image, are generated. However, a cross-sectional image selection screen for selecting the cross-sectional image to be generated may be displayed, and at least one of the axial image, sagittal image, and coronal image selected via the cross-sectional image selection screen may be generated.

[0044] 5, when Curved MPR is selected as the output image generation condition, three Curved MPR images are generated: an Extruded image, a Stretched image, and a Crosscut image. However, a Curved MPR selection screen for selecting the Curved MPR to be generated may be displayed, and at least one of the Extruded image, the Stretched image, and the Crosscut image selected via the Curved MPR selection screen may be generated. Furthermore, in the example shown in FIG. 5, the imaging condition editing screen SC2 may allow the operator to set at least one of the output image display area, the output image slice thickness, the number of output image slices, the output image slice interval, and the output image inter-slice angle as the output image generation condition.

[0045] 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 performs positioning imaging (step S15). The process of imaging this positioning image is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 performs positioning imaging based on the acquisition conditions in the imaging conditions related to positioning imaging set in step S13.

[0046] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a positioning image (step S17). This process of generating a positioning image is realized by the positioning image generation function 1342 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a positioning image based on the imaging data from the positioning imaging performed in step S15 and the reconstruction conditions in the imaging conditions for the positioning image set in step S13. Note that the positioning images generated in step S17 also include positioning images generated by performing a stitching process on each piece of volume data imaged at multiple positions. For example, this is a positioning image generated by performing a stitching process on volume data for three regions, namely the neck, chest, and lumbar region, and stitching together the volume data for the three regions, namely the neck, chest, and lumbar region.

[0047] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image generated by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, in this embodiment, a spine examination is performed, and therefore the positioning image IM1 according to this embodiment is an image in which the spine of the subject P is visualized. Also, as shown in Fig. 6, the positioning image IM1 generated in this embodiment is volume data. The positioning image IM1 according to this embodiment is an image in which the spine is visualized.

[0048] 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays a positioning image IM1 (step S19). The process of displaying this positioning image IM1 is realized by the display control function 1348 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays the positioning image IM1 generated in step S17 on the display 133. In step S19, when displaying the positioning image on the display 133, the display control function 1348 may perform the MPR method on the positioning image IM1, and display the positioning image IM1 that has been subjected to the MPR method on the display 133.

[0049] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image IM1 displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 7, only a sagittal image is displayed on the display 133. Note that, although only a sagittal image is displayed on the display 133 in the example shown in Fig. 7, the positioning image IM1 displayed on the display 133 is not limited to a sagittal image. In other words, any image may be displayed on the display 133, and axial images and / or coronal images may be displayed together with or instead of sagittal images, and images subjected to volume rendering or surface rendering may be displayed on the display 133 together with sagittal images.

[0050] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest (step S21). This process of setting a region of interest is realized by the region of interest setting function 1343 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest in the positioning image IM1 generated in step S17. More specifically, the region of interest setting function 1343 according to this embodiment receives a first input operation from the operator via the input device 132 to set a region of interest in the positioning image IM1, and sets the region of interest in the positioning image IM1 in accordance with the received first input operation. This first input operation is, for example, an input operation to superimpose a figure indicating the region of interest on the positioning image IM1.

[0051] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image IM1 in which regions of interest have been set in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the region of interest setting function 1343 receives a first input operation from the operator to superimpose, on the positioning image IM1, rectangles that are figures indicating the regions of interest RO1 to RO6 for the intervertebral discs included in the spine depicted in the positioning image IM1, and thereby sets the regions of interest RO1 to RO6 for the positioning image IM1 depicting the intervertebral discs in accordance with the received first input operation.

[0052] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 acquires anatomical feature position information (step S23). The process of acquiring this anatomical feature position information is realized by the acquisition function 1344 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 acquires anatomical feature position information based on the regions of interest set by the region of interest setting function 1343 in step S21. More specifically, the acquisition function 1344 extracts anatomical feature positions included in the regions of interest RO1 to RO6 and acquires the coordinates of the extracted anatomical feature positions as the anatomical feature position information. The coordinates of the anatomical feature positions are coordinates relative to an origin set at a predetermined position on the positioning image IM1. In the example shown in FIG. 8, in step S23, for example, the acquisition function 1344 extracts and acquires the coordinates of the center positions of each intervertebral disc included in the regions of interest RO1 to RO6 set in the positioning image IM1 as the anatomical feature position information. Anatomical feature position information including the coordinates of the center position of each intervertebral disc included in the region of interest set in the positioning image is also called spinal cross-section imaging positioning ROI information. In other words, the anatomical feature position information according to this embodiment is spinal cross-section imaging positioning ROI information.

[0053] 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 stores the anatomical feature position information (step S25). This process of storing the anatomical feature position information is realized by the storage control function 1345 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 stores the anatomical feature position information acquired in step S23 in the supplementary information of the positioning image IM1.

[0054] Next, as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets an imaging range (step S27). This process of setting the imaging range is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets the imaging range of the actual imaging by accepting input of the imaging range of the actual imaging for the positioning image IM1. More specifically, the imaging control function 1341 sets the imaging range of the actual imaging by accepting input of the imaging range of the actual imaging, which includes the region of interest in the imaging range, based on the region of interest set in step S21. Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment accepts input of the imaging range of the multi-slab imaging for the positioning image, thereby setting imaging conditions for the multi-slab imaging, such as the imaging range and the number of images. This multi-slab imaging refers to dividing the imaging range and performing multiple imaging. Note that when accepting the setting of the imaging conditions in step S13, the setting of the imaging conditions for the multi-slab imaging may also be accepted.

[0055] Next, as shown in Fig. 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 performs multi-slab imaging (step S29). The process of performing this multi-slab imaging is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 performs multi-slab imaging based on the regions of interest and imaging conditions set in step S21. In the multi-slab imaging according to this embodiment, cross-sectional images are acquired in the regions of interest RO1 to RO6 shown in Fig. 8.

[0056] 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a multi-slab image (step S31). The process of generating this multi-slab image is realized by the positioning image generation function 1342 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates the multi-slab image based on the reconstruction conditions of the multi-slab image. The generated multi-slab image may be displayed on the display 133.

[0057] 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 executes the actual imaging (step S33). The process of executing the actual imaging is realized by the imaging control function 1341 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 executes the actual imaging based on the imaging range set based on the region of interest in step S25. More specifically, based on the imaging range set in step S27, sequence information according to the acquisition conditions in the imaging conditions for the actual imaging set in step S13 is generated, and the generated sequence information is transmitted to the sequence control circuit 120. The sequence control circuit 120 drives the gradient magnetic field power supply 104, the transmission circuitry 108, and the reception circuitry 110, thereby executing the actual imaging of the subject P.

[0058] Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a reconstructed image (step S35). This process of generating a reconstructed image is realized by the reconstructed image generating function 1346 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a reconstructed image based on the reconstruction conditions in the imaging conditions set in step S13. More specifically, the reconstructed image generating function 1346 performs reconstruction processing on k-space data, which is arranged magnetic resonance data, from the magnetic resonance data collected by the actual imaging, to generate a reconstructed image. Note that the reconstructed image generated in step S35 also includes a reconstructed image generated by performing a stitching process on each of the volume data imaged at multiple positions, similar to the positioning image IM1.

[0059] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image generated by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the reconstructed image according to this embodiment is an image in which the spine of the subject P is depicted. The reconstructed image IM2 shown in Fig. 9 is an image of higher image quality than the positioning image shown in Fig. 6. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9, the reconstructed image IM2 is volume data.

[0060] Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 identifies the position of an anatomical feature (step S37). This process of identifying the position of an anatomical feature is realized by the identifying function 1347 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 identifies the position of an anatomical feature in the reconstructed image IM2 based on the anatomical feature position information stored in the supplementary information of the positioner image IM1 in step S25. More specifically, because the origin in the positioner image IM1 and the origin in the reconstructed image IM2 coincide with each other, the identifying function 1347 can identify the position of the anatomical feature in the reconstructed image IM2 by applying the coordinates of the anatomical feature position relative to the origin position in the reconstructed image IM2 to the reconstructed image IM2. In this embodiment, the identifying function 1347 identifies the center position of the intervertebral disc in the image depicting the spine as the position of the anatomical feature based on the anatomical feature position information.

[0061] Next, as shown in FIG. 3 , the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays the reconstructed image IM2 and the reference line (step S39). This process of displaying the reconstructed image IM2 and the reference line is realized by the display control function 1348 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 controls the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2 generated in step S35 and to superimpose the reference line on the reconstructed image IM2 based on the anatomical feature position identified by the identification function 1347 in step S37. More specifically, in this embodiment, the display control function 1348 controls the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2 on the display 133 and to superimpose a line connecting the center positions of the intervertebral discs as the reference line on the reconstructed image IM2. In step S37, the display control function 1348 may perform the MPR method on the reconstructed image when displaying the reconstructed image on the display 133, and display the reconstructed image subjected to the MPR method on the display 133.

[0062] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image IM2 with a reference line superimposed thereon, displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, the display control function 1348 causes the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2 on the display 133. In the example shown in FIG. 10, only a sagittal image of the reconstructed image IM2 is displayed on the display 133. The display control function 1348 also controls the display 133 to superimpose an approximate curve connecting the center positions of the intervertebral discs as the reference line BL1, which is a line connecting the center positions of the intervertebral discs, on the reconstructed image IM2. Note that, in the example shown in FIG. 10, only a sagittal image is displayed on the display 133 as the reconstructed image IM2, but the cross-sectional image displayed on the display 133 is not limited to a sagittal image. That is, the image displayed on the display 133 is arbitrary, and an axial image and / or a coronal image may be displayed together with or instead of a sagittal image, and an image that has been subjected to volume rendering or surface rendering may be displayed on the display 133 together with a sagittal image.

[0063] 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 determines whether or not to edit the reference line BL1 (step S41). The process of determining whether or not to edit the reference line BL1 is implemented by the editing function 1349 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 determines whether or not to edit the reference line BL1 by determining whether or not an editing start button (not shown) displayed on the display 133 has been pressed via the input device 132.

[0064] Then, in step S41, if the reference line BL1 is to be edited (step S41: Yes), the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts a second input operation related to editing the reference line BL1 (step S43). The process of accepting the second input operation related to editing the reference line BL1 is realized by the editing function 1349 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts, from the operator via the input device 132, the second input operation for editing the reference line BL1 superimposed on the reconstructed image IM2, and edits the reference line BL1 based on the second input operation.

[0065] This second input operation is, for example, a drag-and-drop operation using a mouse, which is an example of the input device 132. Specifically, the operator moves the mouse cursor onto the reference line BL1 displayed on the display 133 and presses the mouse button. Then, while keeping the mouse button pressed, the operator moves the mouse cursor to an arbitrary position. At this time, the editing function 1349 may move a point constituting the reference line BL1 at the position where the mouse button was pressed relative to the reference line BL1, or may move a line constituting the reference line BL1 at the position where the mouse button was pressed. While this point or line is being moved, the editing function 1349 continues to calculate an approximate curve and superimposes the calculated approximate curve on the reconstructed image IM2. Then, the operator releases the mouse button at an arbitrary position on the reconstructed image IM2. In this manner, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 edits the reference line BL1.

[0066] The second input operation may be, for example, a click operation using a mouse, which is an example of the input device 132. Specifically, for example, the mouse cursor is moved to an arbitrary position on the reference line BL1 displayed on the display 133, and the mouse button is pressed. Next, in order to move the arbitrary position on the reference line BL1, the mouse button is pressed again at an arbitrary position on the reconstructed image IM2. As a result, the editing function 1349 may move, with respect to the reference line BL1, a point constituting the reference line BL1 at the position where the mouse button was pressed to the position where the mouse button was pressed again, or may move a line constituting the reference line BL1 at the position where the mouse button was pressed to the position where the mouse button was pressed again. In this way, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 may edit the reference line BL1.

[0067] 3, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 determines whether the editing of the reference line BL1 is completed (step S45). The process of determining whether the editing of the reference line BL1 is completed is implemented by the editing function 1349 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 determines whether the editing of the reference line BL1 is completed by determining whether the operator has pressed an editing completion button (not shown) displayed on the display 133 via the input device 132. If the editing of the reference line BL1 is not completed (step S45: No), the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 returns to the above-mentioned step S43 and waits, repeatedly performing the process of accepting an input operation related to the editing of the reference line BL1 (step S43) and the process of determining whether the editing is completed (step S45).

[0068] On the other hand, if the reference line BL1 is not edited in step S39 (step S41: No), or if the editing of the reference line BL1 is completed in step S45 (step S45: Yes), the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates an output image (step S47). The process of generating this output image is realized by the output image generation function 1350 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates the output image based on the reconstructed image and anatomical feature position information. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates the output image within the range of the FOV (Field Of View) (imaging range) of the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generation function 1346 in step S35.

[0069] More specifically, the output image generation function 1350 according to this embodiment generates three types of images as output images based on the reconstructed image and the reference line BL1 generated based on the anatomical feature position information: an extruded image that maintains the anatomical shape to some extent, a stretched image that displays the reference line BL1 in a straight line, and a crosscut image that is a cross section perpendicular to the reference line BL1.

[0070] Next, as shown in FIG. 3 , the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays an output image (step S49). This process of displaying the output image is realized by the display control function 1348 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays the output image generated in step S47 on the display 133. More specifically, the display control function 1348 according to this embodiment displays three images, namely, an extruded image, a stretched image, and a crosscut image, which are the output images generated in step S45, on the display 133. Note that when the output image includes multiple crosscut images, one crosscut image may be displayed on the display 133 and can be switched to another crosscut image based on an input operation by the operator, or each of the multiple crosscut images may be displayed on the display 133 together with the extruded image and the stretched image.

[0071] In step S49, the output image is displayed on the display 133, thereby completing the output image generation process according to this embodiment.

[0072] As described above, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment sets a region of interest RO1 in the positioning image IM1, acquires anatomical feature positions based on the set region of interest RO1, controls imaging of the subject P based on the acquired region of interest RO1, generates a reconstructed image IM2 based on imaging data acquired by imaging, and generates an output image based on the generated reconstructed image IM2 and anatomical feature position information. This reduces the time required from the actual imaging to the display of the output image. That is, in this embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 acquires anatomical feature positions from the region of interest RO1 set in the positioning image IM1, identifies anatomical feature positions in the reconstructed image IM2 based on the anatomical feature position information, and generates a curved MPR image based on the reference line BL1 generated based on the identified anatomical feature positions. Therefore, the output image can be generated without manually configuring the curved MPR image after generating the reconstructed image IM2. This reduces the burden on the operator when generating the curved MPR image and reduces the time required from the actual imaging to generating the curved MPR image.

[0073] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment described above, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a curved MPR image as an output image when a spine examination is performed, but this is not limited to this. In the second embodiment, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 that generates a radial MPR image as an output image when a knee examination is performed will be described. Differences from the first embodiment described above will be described below. The configuration of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. 1, and therefore will not be described again.

[0074] 11 and 12 are flowcharts illustrating the contents of an output image generation process executed by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to a second embodiment, and correspond to FIGS. 2 and 3 in the first embodiment. In the output image generation process according to this embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest (ROI) on a positioning image, acquires anatomical feature position information based on the ROI, controls imaging of the subject based on the ROI, generates a reconstructed image based on magnetic resonance data acquired by the imaging, and generates an output image based on the reconstructed image and the anatomical feature position information. For example, this output image generation process is executed when a programmable anatomical scan (PAS) is selected. In the output image generation process according to this embodiment, the operator is assumed to be performing a knee examination.

[0075] As shown in Fig. 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts a selection of a PAS (step S51). Specifically, the imaging control function 1341 accepts a selection of a PAS corresponding to an examination order from the operator via the input device 132. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a PAS selection screen displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 4 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 13, the imaging control function 1341 according to this embodiment accepts a selection of the knee as an imaging region from the operator on the PAS selection screen SC1a, and accepts a selection of "FFE3D," similar to that for a spine examination, from the operator as a PAS capable of performing a knee examination.

[0076] Next, as shown in Fig. 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts the setting of imaging conditions (step S53). Specifically, the imaging control function 1341 accepts the setting of imaging conditions in the PAS accepted in step S51 from the operator via the input device 132. In the following explanation, the output image generation process according to this embodiment will be explained assuming that a Radial MPR image is selected as the output image generation condition in the imaging conditions in step S53. Note that the process of step S15 shown in Fig. 11 is the same as that in Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be explained again.

[0077] 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a positioning image (step S55). Specifically, the positioning image generation function 1342 generates a positioning image based on the imaging data from the positioning imaging performed in step S15 and the reconstruction conditions in the imaging conditions for the positioning image set in step S53. Note that other explanations for step S55 are the same as those for step S17 shown in FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0078] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image generated by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 14, in this embodiment, a knee examination is performed, and therefore the positioning image IM1a according to this embodiment is an image depicting the knee of the subject P. Also, as shown in Fig. 14, the positioning image IM1a generated in this embodiment is volume data.

[0079] 11 , the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays a positioning image IM1a (step S57). The process of displaying this positioning image is realized by the display control function 1348 in the processing circuitry 134. Specifically, the display control function 1348 displays the positioning image IM1a generated in step S55 on the display 133. Also in this step S57, when displaying the positioning image IM1a on the display 133, the display control function 1348 may perform the MPR method on the positioning image IM1a, and display the positioning image IM1a that has been subjected to the MPR method on the display 133.

[0080] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image IM1a displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 15, a coronal image (Co cross section) of the positioning image IM1a is displayed on the display 133. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 15, the coronal image is displayed on the display 133, but this is not limiting. That is, the image displayed on the display 133 is arbitrary, and three images, namely, an axial image, a coronal image, and a sagittal image, may be displayed, or two images out of the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image may be displayed. That is, it is sufficient that at least one image out of the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image is displayed. Furthermore, an image other than the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image that has been subjected to volume rendering or surface rendering may be displayed on the display 133.

[0081] 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest (step S59). Specifically, the region of interest setting function 1343 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets a region of interest in the positioning image IM1a generated in step S55. More specifically, the region of interest setting function 1343 according to this embodiment receives a first input operation from the operator via the input device 132 to set a region of interest in the positioning image IM1a, and sets the region of interest in the positioning image IM1a in accordance with the received first input operation.

[0082] Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image IM1a in which a region of interest has been set in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 16, the region of interest setting function 1343 receives a first input operation from the operator to superimpose a rectangle, which is a figure indicating the region of interest RO1a, on the positioning image IM1a at a predetermined position of the knee depicted in the positioning image IM1a, and thereby sets the region of interest RO1a in the positioning image IM1a depicting the knee in accordance with the received first input operation.

[0083] 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 acquires anatomical feature position information (step S61). Specifically, the acquisition function 1344 acquires the anatomical feature position information based on the region of interest RO1a set by the region of interest setting function 1343 in step S59. More specifically, the acquisition function 1344 extracts anatomical feature positions included in the region of interest RO1a as the anatomical feature position information, and acquires the coordinates of the extracted anatomical feature positions. The coordinates of the anatomical feature positions are coordinates relative to an origin set at a predetermined position on the positioning image IM1a.

[0084] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a positioning image IM1a from which anatomical feature positions have been extracted, displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the coordinates of the center of gravity G1 of the region of interest RO1a set in the positioning image IM1a are extracted and acquired as anatomical feature position information. Note that, hereinafter, this center of gravity G1 of the region of interest RO1a is also referred to as the positioning center position. In addition, in this embodiment, anatomical feature position information including the coordinates of the knee positioning center position is also referred to as knee positioning ROI information. In other words, the anatomical feature position information according to this embodiment is knee positioning ROI information. Note that the processing of step S25 shown in FIG. 11 is equivalent to that shown in FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and therefore, description thereof will be omitted.

[0085] Next, as shown in FIG. 11, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 sets an imaging range (step S63). Specifically, the imaging control function 1341 sets the imaging range of the main imaging by accepting input of the imaging range of the main imaging for the positioning image IM1a. More specifically, the imaging control function 1341 sets the imaging range of the main imaging by accepting input of the imaging range of the main imaging including the region of interest RO1a in the imaging range based on the region of interest RO1a set in step S37. The other configurations are the same as those in step S27 shown in FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. Note that the processes in steps S29 and S31 shown in FIG. 11 and step S33 shown in FIG. 12 are the same as those in FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] 12, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates a reconstructed image (step S65). Specifically, the reconstructed image generation function 1346 generates a reconstructed image based on the reconstruction conditions in the imaging conditions set in step S53. Note that other explanations of step S65 are the same as those of step S35 shown in FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0087] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image generated in the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the reconstructed image according to this embodiment is an image depicting the knee of the subject P. The reconstructed image IM2a shown in FIG. 18 is an image of higher image quality than the positioning image IM1a shown in FIG. 14. As shown in FIG. 18, the reconstructed image IM2a is volume data. Note that the processing of step S37 shown in FIG. 12 is the same as that in FIG. 3 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0088] Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 identifies an anatomical feature position (step S67). Specifically, the identification function 1347 identifies a feature position in the reconstructed image IM2a based on the anatomical feature position information stored in the supplementary information of the positioner image in step S25. More specifically, because the origin in the positioner image IM1a and the origin in the reconstructed image IM2a coincide with each other, the identification function 1347 can identify the anatomical feature position by applying the coordinates of the anatomical feature position relative to the origin position in the reconstructed image IM2a to the reconstructed image IM2a. In this embodiment, the identification function 1347 identifies the positioning center position in the image depicting the knee as the anatomical feature position based on the anatomical feature position information.

[0089] Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays the reconstructed image IM2a and the reference line (step S69). Specifically, the display control function 1348 controls the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2a generated in step S65 and to superimpose the reference line on the reconstructed image IM2a based on the anatomical feature position identified by the identification function 1347 in step S67 and the number of output image slices or the output image slice angle of the output image generation conditions in the imaging conditions set in step S53. More specifically, in this embodiment, the display control function 1348 controls the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2a on the display 133 and to superimpose a line indicating the cutting position passing through the positioning center position on the reconstructed image IM2a as the reference line. Note that the rest of the description of step S69 is the same as that of step S39 shown in FIG. 2 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0090] 19 is a diagram showing an example of a reconstructed image IM2a with a reference line superimposed thereon, displayed on the display 133 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, the display control function 1348 according to the present embodiment causes the display 133 to display the reconstructed image IM2a. In the example shown in FIG. 19, an axial image (Ax cross section), a coronal image (Co cross section), and a sagittal image (Sg cross section) of the reconstructed image IM2a are displayed on the display 133. In addition, the display control function 1348 controls the display 133 to superimpose straight lines ST1-ST6, ST7-ST12, and ST13-ST18 indicating cut positions passing through the center of gravity G1 of the region of interest RO1a as lines indicating cut positions passing through the reference line BL1a, which is the positioning center position, on the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 19, for example, in order to generate six Radial MPR images for each of the axial image, coronal image, and sagittal image, the straight lines ST1-ST6, ST7-ST12, and ST13-ST18, which are the reference line BL1a, are arranged at 60° intervals.

[0091] 19, an axial image, a coronal image, and a sagittal image are displayed on the display 133 as the reconstructed image IM2a, but the images displayed on the display 133 are not limited to this. For example, it is sufficient that at least one of the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image is displayed on the display 133, and an image that has been subjected to volume rendering processing and / or surface rendering processing may be displayed on the display 133 together with at least one of the axial image, the coronal image, and the sagittal image.

[0092] Although six Radial MPR images are generated for each of the axial, coronal, and sagittal images, the number of Radial MPR images generated is not limited to six. That is, the number of Radial MPR images generated is arbitrary, and may be five or less, or seven or more. Note that the processing of step S41 shown in Fig. 12 is the same as that shown in Fig. 2 in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] Then, in step S41, if the reference line is to be edited (step S41: Yes), the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 accepts a second input operation related to editing the reference line BL1a (step S71). Specifically, the editing function 1349 accepts, from the operator via the input device 132, a second input operation for editing the reference line BL1a superimposed on the reconstructed image IM2a, and edits the reference line BL1a based on the second input operation.

[0094] The second input operation in this embodiment is, for example, a drag-and-drop operation using a mouse, which is an example of the input device 132. Specifically, the operator moves the mouse cursor onto one of the lines ST1-ST6, ST7-ST12, and ST13-ST18, which indicate the cutting position passing through the positioning center position and are the reference line BL1a displayed on the display 133, and presses the mouse button. Then, while keeping the mouse button pressed, the operator moves the mouse cursor to an arbitrary position. At this time, the line moving with the mouse rotates around the center of gravity position G1. The operator then releases the mouse button at an arbitrary position on the reconstructed image IM2a. The editing function 1349 then rearranges the other lines in the reconstructed image IM2a, which are superimposed on the moved line, at predetermined intervals, based on the moved line. In this way, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 edits the reference line BL1a. The processing of step S45 shown in FIG. 12 is the same as that of FIG. 2 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described again.

[0095] If the reference line BL1 is not edited in step S39 (step S41: No), or if the editing of the reference line BL1 is completed in step S45 (step S45: Yes), the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates an output image (step S73). Specifically, the output image generation function 1350 generates an output image based on the reconstructed image and anatomical feature position information. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 generates an output image within the range of the FOV (Field Of View) (imaging range) of the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generation function 1346 in step S65.

[0096] More specifically, the output image generation function 1350 of this embodiment generates, as output images, six Radial MPR images obtained by cutting the reconstructed image with each of the lines ST1-ST6 indicating the cutting positions superimposed on the axial image, six Radial MPR images obtained by cutting the reconstructed image with each of the lines ST7-ST12 indicating the cutting positions superimposed on the coronal image, and six Radial MPR images obtained by cutting the reconstructed image with each of the lines ST13-ST18 indicating the cutting positions superimposed on the sagittal image, based on the reconstructed image and the straight lines ST1-18 indicating the cutting positions, which are reference lines BL1 generated based on anatomical feature position information.

[0097] 12, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 displays the output image (step S75). Specifically, the display control function 1348 displays the output image generated in step S73 on the display 133. More specifically, the display control function 1348 according to this embodiment displays 18 Radial MPR images, which are the output images generated in step S73, on the display 133.

[0098] In step S75, the output image is displayed on the display 133, thereby completing the output image generation process according to this embodiment.

[0099] As described above, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to this embodiment sets a region of interest RO1a in the positioning image IM1a, acquires anatomical feature positions based on the set region of interest RO1a, controls imaging of the subject P based on the acquired region of interest RO1a, generates a reconstructed image IM2a based on imaging data acquired by the imaging, and generates an output image based on the generated reconstructed image IM2a and anatomical feature position information. This reduces the time required from the actual imaging to the display of the output image. That is, in this embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 acquires anatomical feature positions from the region of interest RO1a set in the positioning image IM1a, identifies anatomical feature positions in the reconstructed image IM2a based on the anatomical feature position information, and generates a Radial MPR image based on the reference line BL1a generated based on the identified anatomical feature positions. Therefore, an output image can be generated without manually configuring the Radial MPR image after generating the reconstructed image IM2a. This reduces the burden on the operator in generating the Radial MPR image and reduces the time required from the actual imaging to generating the Radial MPR image.

[0100] [Other Modifications of the First and Second Embodiments] The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first and second embodiments described above may receive a first input operation from the operator via the input device 132 to set a region of interest in the positioning images IM1, IM1a in step S21 of the output image generation processing of Fig. 2 and step S59 of the output image generation processing of Fig. 11, and instead of setting a region of interest in the positioning image IM1 in accordance with the received first input operation, may set the region of interest in the positioning images IM1, IM1a by performing an analysis process on the positioning images IM1, IM1a. For example, in the first embodiment described above, the region of interest setting function 1343 may perform an analysis process on the positioning image IM1 to automatically extract intervertebral discs, and set regions of interest RO1 to RO6 in the positioning image IM1 for the automatically extracted intervertebral discs.

[0101] Furthermore, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 10 according to the first and second embodiments described above performs multi-slab imaging and generates a multi-slab image in steps S29 and S31 in the output image generation process shown in Figures 2 and 11, but the execution of multi-slab imaging and the generation of a multi-slab image may not be performed in the output image generation process shown in Figures 2 and 12. In this case, after the imaging range for the main imaging is set in step S27 in the output image generation process shown in Figures 2 and 11, the main imaging may be performed in step S33 in the output image generation process shown in Figures 3 and 12.

[0102] In the first embodiment, a curved MPR image is generated as an output image in the case of performing a spinal examination, but the generation of a curved MPR image as an output image is not limited to the case of performing a spinal examination. For example, a curved MPR image may be generated as an output image in an examination of the jawbone, dentition, etc.

[0103] In the second embodiment described above, a Radial MPR image is generated as an output image in the case of performing a knee examination, but the generation of a Radial MPR image as an output image is not limited to the case of performing a knee examination. For example, a Radial MPR image may be generated as an output image in a shoulder examination.

[0104] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in memory 131. Instead of storing the program in memory 131, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program into its circuitry. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuitry. The processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may also be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its functions. Furthermore, multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0105] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and method described herein may be embodied in various other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the forms of the apparatus and method described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms and modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 10...magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, 101...static magnetic field magnet, 103...gradient magnetic field coil, 104...gradient magnetic field power supply, 105...bed, 106...bed control circuit, 107...transmitting coil, 108...transmitting circuit, 109...receiving coil, 110...receiving circuit, 120...sequence control circuit, 130...computer system, 131...memory, 132...input device, 133...display, 134...processing circuit, 1341...imaging control function, 1342...positioning image generation function, 1343...region of interest setting function, 1344...acquisition function, 1345...storage control function, 1346...reconstruction image generation function, 1347...identification function, 1348...display control function, 1349...editing function, 1350...output image generation function

Claims

1. a region of interest setting unit that sets a region of interest in the positioning image; an acquisition unit that acquires anatomical feature position information regarding anatomical feature positions of characteristic local structures of the human body based on the region of interest; an imaging control unit that controls imaging of the subject based on the region of interest; a reconstructed image generating unit that generates a reconstructed image based on the imaging data collected by the imaging; an output image generation unit that generates an output image based on the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generation unit and the anatomical feature position information; A medical image diagnostic device comprising:

2. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the output image is an MPR (Multi Planar Reconstruction) image.

3. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the output image is a curved MPR image or a radial MPR image.

4. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the anatomical feature position information is imaging positioning ROI information for a spinal cross section or knee positioning ROI information.

5. 2. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the region of interest setting unit receives a first input operation from an operator via an input unit to set a region of interest in a positioning image, and sets the region of interest in the positioning image in accordance with the received first input operation.

6. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the region of interest setting unit sets the region of interest by performing an analysis process on the positioning image.

7. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a storage control unit that controls the anatomical feature position information acquired by the acquisition unit to be stored in the supplementary information of the positioning image.

8. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the output image generating unit generates the output image within a range of an FOV of the reconstructed image generated by the reconstructed image generating unit.

9. an identifying unit that identifies the anatomical feature position in the reconstructed image based on the anatomical feature position information; 2. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a display control unit that controls the display unit to superimpose a reference line, which is a line that serves as a reference when generating the output image, on the reconstructed image, based on the anatomical feature position identified by the identification unit.

10. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the output image generating unit generates the output image based on the reconstructed image and the reference line generated based on the anatomical feature position information.

11. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , further comprising an editing unit that receives a second input operation related to editing the reference line and edits the reference line in accordance with the received second input operation.

12. the reconstructed image is an image depicting a spine, the specifying unit specifies, as the anatomical feature position, a center position of an intervertebral disc in the image depicting the spine, based on the anatomical feature position information; The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the display control unit controls the display unit to superimpose a line connecting center positions of the intervertebral discs as the reference line on the reconstructed image.

13. the reconstructed image is an image depicting a knee, the specifying unit specifies, based on the anatomical feature position information, a positioning center position in the image in which the knee is depicted, as the anatomical feature position; The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the display control unit controls the display unit to superimpose, as the reference line, a line indicating a cutting position passing through the positioning center position on the reconstructed image.

14. 2. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein output image generation conditions for generating the output image include at least one of a display area of ​​the output image, an output image slice thickness, a number of output image slices, an output image slice interval, and an angle between output image slices.

15. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the curved MPR image includes at least one of an extruded image, a stretched image, and a crosscut image.

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