X-ray diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

To reduce unintended occurrence of discharge of static electricity in an inspection chamber.SOLUTION: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray tube for irradiating X-rays, an X-ray detector for detecting the X-rays transmitted through a subject, and a first contact part which has conductivity and receives the contact of an operator.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings relate to an X-ray diagnostic device. [Background technology]

[0002] In X-ray imaging using an X-ray diagnostic device, it is desirable from the characteristics of X-ray examination that the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube pass only through the subject and enter the X-ray detector without passing through foreign objects such as clothing, so the operator positions the subject in the X-ray diagnostic device with the subject undressed or with only the part of the subject that is to be X-ray examined exposed. When the operator positions the subject in this way, there are cases where the operator touches the X-ray diagnostic device, the exposed part of the subject touches the X-ray diagnostic device, or the operator touches the exposed part of the subject.

[0003] In extremely dry environments, such as winter, when preparing for an examination in an examination room, a subject may become charged with static electricity when undressing or when exposing only the area to be examined by X-ray. Operators may also become charged with static electricity due to friction of clothing. When the subject or operator becomes charged with static electricity, a potential difference may occur between the operator or subject and the X-ray diagnostic equipment, or between the subject and the operator, resulting in static discharge in at least one of the operator and the subject.

[0004] In this way, the occurrence of electrostatic discharge can increase stress and tension in the subject, reducing the efficiency of the examination, or can increase stress on the operator due to anxiety about the occurrence of electrostatic discharge or the need to care for the subject when electrostatic discharge occurs, reducing the efficiency of the examination. For this reason, it is desirable to reduce the unintentional occurrence of electrostatic discharge in the examination room. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-217645 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 unintentional occurrence of electrostatic discharge in an examination room. 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] The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes an X-ray tube that irradiates X-rays, an X-ray detector that detects X-rays that have passed through a subject, and a first contact unit that is conductive and accepts contact by an operator. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a workflow of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an operator who operates the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a subject positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining how a subject's breast is positioned on a breast support table of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining that the first contact portion and the second contact portion of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment are grounded to a reference point of electric potential. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a workflow of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a partial configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of conductive rubber forming a first contact portion and a second contact portion in Modification 1. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a third modification. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a fourth modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be given only when necessary.

[0010] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is a mammography apparatus. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes a base 101, a stand 103, an X-ray tube support arm 105, an X-ray tube 107, a movable X-ray diaphragm 109, a breast support table 111, an X-ray detector 113, a compression paddle 115, a face guard 117, an operation panel 119, a compression operation knob 121, a first arm operation unit 123A, a second arm operation unit 123B, and an armrest 125.

[0011] The entire X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 is placed on a base 101, which is installed, for example, on the floor of an examination room. A stand 103 is erected on the base 101 so as to be movable up and down, and supports an X-ray tube support arm 105. When the stand 103 moves up and down in the direction of arrow D1 shown in Fig. 1, the X-ray tube support arm 105 and the breast support table 111 move up and down in the direction of arrow D1 shown in Fig. 1.

[0012] The X-ray tube support arm 105 supports the X-ray tube 107. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray tube support arm 105 houses the X-ray tube 107 at one end. The X-ray tube support arm 105 is rotatably supported on the stand 103 via an arm support section (not shown). The X-ray tube support arm 105 is rotatable independently of the breast support table 111 while maintaining the position of the breast support table 111, and can also rotate together with the breast support table 111 depending on the settings. In other words, the X-ray tube support arm 105 can rotate in the R direction shown in FIG. 1 relative to the stand 103, either independently of the breast support table 111 or together with the breast support table 111. The X-ray tube support arm 105 corresponds to the support arm in this embodiment.

[0013] The X-ray tube 107 emits X-rays. This X-ray tube 107 is a vacuum tube having a cathode (filament) that generates thermal electrons and an anode (target) that generates X-rays upon collision with the thermal electrons, and generates X-rays. Specifically, the X-ray tube 107 is connected to a high-voltage device that supplies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 107, and generates X-rays by irradiating thermal electrons from the cathode to the anode using the high voltage supplied from the high-voltage device.

[0014] The movable X-ray diaphragm 109 has an X-ray aperture for limiting the irradiation range of X-rays, and allows X-rays to pass through the X-ray aperture while restricting the passage of X-rays in areas other than the X-ray aperture. In this embodiment, the movable X-ray diaphragm 109 has diaphragm blades.

[0015] The aperture blades have a blade-like aperture made of lead etc. The aperture blades are arranged at the exit port of the X-ray tube 107, and limit the irradiation range of the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 107 by moving the aperture.

[0016] The breast support table 111 is a table that supports the breast of the subject, and has a support surface on which the breast is supported. The breast support table 111 is supported by the stand 103 via an arm support section, and the stand 103 moves up and down to adjust the height according to the subject's height. The breast support table 111 according to this embodiment is also provided with a second contact section, the details of which will be described later. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, the breast support table 111 has an X-ray detector 113 inside. This breast support table 111 corresponds to the mounting table in this embodiment.

[0017] The X-ray detector 113 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 107 and transmitted through the subject. The X-ray detector 113 is, for example, an X-ray flat panel detector (FPD) having detecting elements arranged in a matrix. The X-ray detector 113 according to this embodiment is housed in the breast support table 111 and disposed so as to face the X-ray tube 107. The X-ray detector 113 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 107 and transmitted through the breast of the subject supported by the breast support table 111, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose. The X-ray detector 113 may be an indirect conversion type detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array, or may be a direct conversion type detector having a conversion film that converts incident X-rays into electric charge signals.

[0018] The compression plate 115 compresses the breast of the subject. Specifically, the compression plate 115 is a compression device provided above the breast support table 111 in order to compress the breast of the subject between it and the breast support table 111 during X-ray imaging. The compression plate 115 is made of transparent resin and is supported so that it can move toward and away from the breast support table 111. In other words, the compression plate 115 can move up and down in the direction D2 shown in FIG. 1. The compression plate 115 also compresses the breast of the subject by moving toward the breast support table 111, making it possible to make the thickness of the breast of the subject supported by the breast support table 111 thin and approximately uniform.

[0019] The face guard 117 is a protective device that prevents a part of the subject from entering an X-ray irradiation area where X-rays are irradiated, thereby protecting that part of the subject from X-rays. Here, the part of the subject refers to the face, hair, head, or other parts of the subject. The face guard 117 is formed, for example, from a plate-like transparent resin. The face guard 117 is configured to be detachable from the X-ray tube support arm 105 or the breast support table 111.

[0020] The operation panel 119 receives operation inputs relating to setting the left and right sides of the breasts. Various types of information are also displayed on the operation panel 119. The operation panel 119 according to this embodiment is provided with a first contact portion, the details of which will be described later.

[0021] The compression operation knob 121 accepts operations related to the up and down movement of the compression plate 115. Specifically, the compression operation knob 121 accepts operations by the operator to finely adjust the compression plate 115 up and down. More specifically, in this embodiment, the operator moves the compression plate 115 up and down by rotating the compression operation knob 121. The compression operation knob 121 according to this embodiment is provided with a first contact portion, the details of which will be described later. The compression operation knob 121 corresponds to the compression operation portion in this embodiment.

[0022] The first arm operation unit 123A and the second arm operation unit 123B receive operation inputs related to the operation of the X-ray tube support arm 105. Specifically, the first arm operation unit 123A and the second arm operation unit 123B receive operation inputs for moving the X-ray tube support arm 105 up and down and for rotating the X-ray tube support arm 105. As shown in FIG. 1, the first arm operation unit 123A is disposed on the side of the X-ray tube support arm 105. Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the second arm operation unit 123B is disposed on the stand 103. Note that, hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first arm operation unit 123A and the second arm operation unit 123B, they will simply be referred to as the arm operation unit 123. The arm operation unit 123 according to this embodiment is provided with a first contact unit, the details of which will be described later.

[0023] The armrest 125 is used to maintain the posture of the subject during X-ray imaging. As shown in FIG. 1, the armrest 125 includes a right armrest 125R and a left armrest 125L. The right armrest 125R supports the patient's right forearm during MLO imaging by, for example, hooking the middle finger, ring finger, etc. of the right hand up to the second joint around its edge. The left armrest 125L supports the patient's left forearm during MLO imaging by, for example, hooking the middle finger, ring finger, etc. of the left hand up to the second joint around its edge. In this way, the armrest 125 maintains the subject's posture during X-ray imaging. The armrest 125 according to this embodiment is provided with a second contact portion, the details of which will be described later.

[0024] Next, the first contact portion and the second contact portion included in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the configuration of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment includes, in addition to the configuration described above, a first contact portion 127A, a first contact portion 127B, a first contact portion 127C, a second contact portion 129A, a second contact portion 129B, and a second contact portion 129C. In the following, when the first contact portion 127A, the first contact portion 127B, and the first contact portion 127C are not distinguished from each other, they will simply be referred to as the first contact portion 127. In the following, when the second contact portion 129A, the second contact portion 129B, and the second contact portion 129C are not distinguished from each other, they will simply be referred to as the second contact portion 129.

[0025] The first contact portion 127 is conductive and receives contact from the operator. In this embodiment, the first contact portion 127 is conductive and has a first contact surface PL1 that comes into contact with the operator. The first contact portion 127 according to this embodiment is formed from a conductive material. Specifically, the conductive material that forms the first contact portion 127 is a metal material or carbon that has a moderate resistance. Here, a metal material that has a moderate resistance is a metal material that can slowly discharge static electricity.

[0026] This first contact unit 127 is provided at a portion that the operator contacts before positioning the subject in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. The portion that the operator contacts before positioning the subject in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus is, for example, an operation unit such as the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, or the arm operation unit 123. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the first contact unit 127 according to this embodiment is provided at the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, and the arm operation unit 123 as a portion that the operator contacts before positioning the subject in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1.

[0027] Here, the first contact portion 127 being provided at a portion that the operator T contacts before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a includes a case where the first contact portion 127 is provided at the portion itself that the operator T contacts before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, and a case where the first contact portion 127 is provided near a portion that the operator T contacts before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2, the first contact portion 127A is provided in a ring shape near the operation panel 119 so as to surround the operation panel 119, the first contact portion 127B is provided on the surface of the compression operation knob 121 itself, and the first contact portion 127C is provided in a ring shape near the second arm operation portion 123B so as to surround the second arm operation portion 123B.

[0028] 2, first contact portion 127A is provided in a ring shape so as to surround operation panel 119, and first contact portion 127C is provided in a ring shape so as to surround second arm operation portion 123B of arm operation portion 123, but the arrangement positions of first contact portion 127A and first contact portion 127C are not limited to this. That is, the arrangement positions of first contact portion 127A and first contact portion 127C are arbitrary, and first contact portion 127A may be provided on operation panel 119 itself, i.e., on the operation surface of operation panel 119, and first contact portion 127C may be provided on second arm operation portion 123B itself, i.e., on the operation surface of second arm operation portion 123B.

[0029] 2, the first contact portion 127 according to this embodiment is grounded to a reference point of electric potential. Specifically, the first contact portion 127 is grounded to a reference point of electric potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via a conductor and a resistor (not shown), for example.

[0030] The second contact portion 129 is conductive and receives contact from the subject. In this embodiment, the second contact portion 129 is conductive and has a second contact surface PL2 with which the subject comes into contact. The second contact portion 129 according to this embodiment is made of a conductive material, similar to the first contact portion 127. Specifically, the conductive material forming the second contact portion 129 is a metal material or carbon with an appropriate resistance, similar to the first contact portion 127.

[0031] The second contact unit 129 is provided at a portion that the subject comes into contact with when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1. Here, the portion that the subject comes into contact with when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 refers to a portion that the subject comes into contact with when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, or a portion that the subject comes into contact with in the process of positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the second contact unit 129 according to this embodiment is provided on the armrest 125 and the breast support table 111 as a portion that the subject comes into contact with when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the second contact portion 129A is provided on a first side surface S1 of the breast support table 111 that is perpendicular to the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111 and faces the subject positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, the second contact portion 129B is provided on a second side surface S2 of the breast support table 111 that is perpendicular to the support surface SS1 and the first side surface S1 of the breast support table 111, and the second contact portion 129C is provided on a portion of the armrest 125 where the subject's fingers are hooked.

[0032] Furthermore, the second contact unit 129 included in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment has an area larger than half the area of ​​the surface where the subject comes into contact with the breast support table 111. Since the second contact unit 129 has an area larger than half the area of ​​the surface where the subject comes into contact with the breast support table 111, the subject can unconsciously touch the second contact unit 129, and static electricity accumulated in the operator can be discharged.

[0033] Although the second contact portion 129 has an area larger than half the area of ​​the surface where the subject contacts the breast support table 111, the area of ​​the second contact portion 129 is not limited to this. In other words, the area of ​​the second contact portion 129 is arbitrary, and the area of ​​the second contact portion 129 may be half or less of the area of ​​the surface where the subject contacts the breast support table 111.

[0034] 2, the second contact portion 129 according to this embodiment is grounded to a reference point of electric potential. Specifically, the second contact portion 129 is grounded to a reference point of electric potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via a conductor and a resistor (not shown), similar to the above-described first contact portion 127.

[0035] 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the workflow of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Here, the workflow is exemplified when MLO (MedioLateral Oblique: medial-lateral oblique direction) imaging is performed using a mammography apparatus, which is the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0036] First, as shown in FIG. 3, the subject undresses in order to place the subject's breast on the breast support table 111 (step S11). In step S11, if the subject has long hair, the operator instructs the subject to tie her hair up with a scrunchie or the like to prevent the hair from getting into the X-ray irradiation field and appearing in the image. Also in step S11, the operator sets the left and right sides of the breasts by operating the operation panel 119. When touching the operation panel 119, the operator touches the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion 127A. If the operator is charged, static electricity accumulated within the operator is discharged from the first contact portion 127A, which is provided in a ring shape surrounding the operation panel 119. Note that if the left and right sides of the breasts are set using a console device (not shown), the operator does not need to operate the operation panel 119 in step S11.

[0037] 3, the operator operates the second arm operating unit 123B to move the stand 103 up and down, and also moves the X-ray tube support arm 105 up and down, thereby adjusting the height of the breast support table 111 to the physique of the subject (step S13). In this step S13, when contacting the second arm operating unit 123B, the operator contacts the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact unit 127C, and if the operator is charged, the static electricity accumulated in the operator is discharged from the first contact unit 127C that is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the second arm operating unit 123B.

[0038] In step S13, the compression plate 115 has automatically moved upward after the previous imaging, allowing the subject's breast to be placed on the support surface of the breast support table 111. If the position of the compression plate 115 is changed in advance, the operator will contact the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion 127B when contacting the compression operation knob 121, and if the operator is charged, the static electricity accumulated within the operator will be discharged from the first contact portion 127B provided on the surface of the compression operation knob 121.

[0039] 3, the operator T rotates the X-ray tube support arm 105 by operating the arm operation unit 123 (step S15). In this case as well, when the operator comes into contact with the second arm operation unit 123B, the operator comes into contact with the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact unit 127C, and if the operator is charged, the static electricity accumulated in the operator is discharged from the first contact unit 127C that is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the second arm operation unit 123B.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operator operating the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, in step S11, if the left and right sides of the breasts have not been set when the subject is not positioned relative to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, the operator T sets the left and right sides of the breasts by operating the operation panel 119. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, in step S13, when the subject is not positioned relative to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, the operator T operates the second arm operating unit 123B to move the stand 103 up and down, and move the X-ray tube support arm 105 up and down, thereby adjusting the height of the breast support table 111. Also, as shown in FIG. 4, if the compression paddle 115 has not moved upward in step S13, the operator T moves the compression paddle 115 upward by operating the compression operation knob 121 or a foot switch shown in FIG. 15 (described later) when the subject is not positioned relative to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1. 4, in step S15, in a state in which the subject has not yet been positioned relative to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, the operator T rotates the X-ray tube support arm 105 by 60° to 70° and tilts the X-ray tube support arm 105 for MLO imaging by operating the second arm operating unit 123B. That is, in any of the above-mentioned operations, the operator T comes into contact with the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact unit 127 at a timing before the subject is positioned relative to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, so that the static charge accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact unit 127.

[0041] Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator positions the subject (step S17). Specifically, the operator T positions the subject by issuing instructions to the subject. At this time, the subject contacts the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact portion 129B provided on the second side surface S2 of the breast support table 111 and the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact portion 129C provided on the armrest 125. Therefore, if the subject is charged, the static charge accumulated in the subject P is discharged from the second contact portion 129B and the second contact portion 129C. Note that in step S17, if the subject contacts the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact portion 129A provided on the first side surface S1 of the breast support table 111, the static charge accumulated in the subject P is also discharged from the second contact portion 129A.

[0042] 5 is a diagram for explaining a subject being positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, in step S17, the subject P is positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 while aligning the armpits of the subject P with the corners 111a of the breast support table 111 and contacting the second contact surfaces PL2 of the second contact units 129B provided on the second side surface S2 of the breast support table 111 and the second contact surfaces PL2 of the second contact units 129C provided on the armrest 125 with their fingers or arms, and static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged from the second contact units 129B and 129C. That is, when the subject P is positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, the subject P comes into contact with the second contact surfaces of the second contact units 129, and the static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged from the second contact units 129.

[0043] Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator T withdraws the breast of the subject P (step S19). FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the state of positioning the breast of the subject P on the breast support table 111 of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the operator T presses the breast B of the subject P against the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111 to bring it into close contact with the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111, and then withdraws the breast B of the subject P with the fingers of the operator T and spreads it on the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111. That is, in step S19, the operator T touches the breast B of the subject P, which may cause static electricity to be generated between the operator T and the subject P. However, at least in steps S13 and S15, static electricity accumulated in the operator T has been discharged, and static electricity accumulated in the subject P has been discharged in step S17. Therefore, there is less concern about static electricity being generated between the operator T and the subject P.

[0044] 3, the operator T fixes the breast B of the subject P (step S21). Specifically, the operator T fixes the breast B of the subject P, which has been advanced on the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111, with the compression paddle 109.

[0045] 3, the operator T applies pressure to the breast B of the subject P (step S23). Specifically, the operator T operates the compression operation knob 121 to check the shape of the breast extended on the support surface SS1 of the breast support table 111, and applies pressure to the breast B with the compression plate 115 by moving the compression plate 115 toward the breast B as needed.

[0046] 3, the operator T performs X-ray imaging (step S25). Specifically, the operator T irradiates X-rays onto the subject P to perform X-ray imaging. Then, upon completion of the X-ray imaging, the operator T moves the compression paddle 115 upward to release the compression of the breast B of the subject P.

[0047] In step S25, operator T performs X-ray imaging, thereby completing the workflow of MLO imaging using the mammography apparatus.

[0048] As described above, the mammography device of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is provided with the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, and the first contact portion 127 that receives contact from the operator T on the arm operation portion 123, thereby reducing the risk of unintentional discharge of static electricity to the operator T in the examination room.

[0049] Furthermore, according to the mammography device of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the breast support table 111 and the armrest 125 are provided with the second contact portion 129 that accepts contact from the subject P, thereby reducing the unintentional discharge of static electricity to the subject P in the examination room.

[0050] Furthermore, the mammography device, which is the X-ray diagnostic device 1 according to this embodiment, is provided with both the first contact portion 127 and the second contact portion 129, thereby reducing the unintentional discharge of static electricity between the operator T and the subject P in the examination room.

[0051] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the workflow when the operator T performs MLO imaging has been described. However, the operator T may also perform CC (Cranio-Caudal) imaging. When the operator T performs CC imaging on the subject P, the operator T does not perform step S15 in the workflow of MLO imaging shown in FIG. 3. However, by performing the up and down movement of the stand 103 in step S13, the operator T comes into contact with the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact unit 127C that is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the second arm operating unit 123B. This reduces the risk of unintentional discharge of static electricity to the operator T and the subject P in the examination room.

[0052] Furthermore, in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the first contact unit 127 is provided on the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, and the arm operation unit 123. However, the first contact unit 127 does not have to be provided on all of the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, and the arm operation unit 123. In other words, the first contact unit 127 only needs to be provided on at least one of the operation panel 119, the compression operation knob 121, and the arm operation unit 123 as a portion that the operator T comes into contact with before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1.

[0053] Furthermore, in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the second contact portion 129 is provided on the armrest 125 and the breast support table 111, but the second contact portion 129 does not have to be provided on both the armrest 125 and the breast support table 111. In other words, the second contact portion 129 only needs to be provided on at least one of the armrest 125 and the breast support table 111 as a portion that the subject P comes into contact with when positioning the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1.

[0054] Second Embodiment In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 is a mammography apparatus, but the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 is not limited to a mammography apparatus. In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 is a general X-ray imaging apparatus. The second embodiment is a case in which this modified example is applied to the first embodiment, and the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to this embodiment is a general X-ray imaging apparatus. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to this embodiment is configured to include an imaging device 50, a bed 70, and a standing stand 90. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the imaging device 50 according to this embodiment is configured to include an imaging unit 501, a moving mechanism 503, an X-ray tube support unit 505, an X-ray tube operation panel 507, and an operation handle 509.

[0056] The imaging unit 501 includes an X-ray tube 5011 that irradiates X-rays, and an X-ray variable aperture 5013 that has an X-ray aperture for limiting the X-ray irradiation range, and allows X-rays to pass through the X-ray aperture while restricting the passage of X-rays in areas other than the X-ray aperture.

[0057] The movement mechanism 503 moves the imaging unit 501 via the X-ray tube support part 505. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the movement mechanism 503 is composed of a first rail 5031 and a second rail 5033. The first rail 5031 is installed on the ceiling surface, and can move the imaging unit 501 in the Z-axis direction via the second rail 5033 and the X-ray tube support part 505. The second rail 5033 is installed movably on the first rail 5031, and can move the imaging unit 501 in the X-axis direction via the X-ray tube support part 505.

[0058] The X-ray tube support unit 505 movably supports the X-ray tube 5011. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the X-ray tube support unit 505 is composed of a support column 5051 and a support base 5053. The support column 5051 holds the imaging unit 501 including the X-ray tube 5011 so as to be rotatable around an axis parallel to the X-axis shown in FIG. 7. The other end of the support column 5051 is attached to the support base 5053. The support column 5051 is configured to be extendable and retractable in the vertical direction. The support base 5053 supports the imaging unit 501 including the X-ray tube 5011 via the support column 5051. The support base 5053 is installed on the second rail 5033.

[0059] The X-ray tube operation panel 507 has a display function for displaying various types of information and an operation reception function for receiving operations from an operator. For example, the X-ray tube operation panel 507 receives operation inputs related to the X-ray tube 5011 through the operation reception function. Specifically, the X-ray tube operation panel 507 receives, as operation inputs related to the X-ray tube 5011, operation inputs related to the movement and rotation of the X-ray tube 5011 and operation inputs related to the opening of the X-ray adjustable diaphragm 5013. Furthermore, the X-ray tube operation panel 507 displays, through its display function, the X-ray irradiation conditions, the current opening of the X-ray adjustable diaphragm 5013, the current rotation angle of the X-ray tube 5011 in the tube rotation direction (tube rotation angle), and the rotation angle of the X-ray tube support unit 505 in the column rotation direction (column rotation angle). The X-ray tube operation panel 507 is an electronic component that combines a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display with a position input device such as a touchpad. The X-ray tube operation panel 507 is provided with a first contact portion, the details of which will be described later.

[0060] The operating handle 509 is an operating member for moving the imaging unit 501 including the X-ray tube 5011. For example, an operator holds the operating handle 509 and moves the operating handle 509 in a direction in which the operator wants to move the X-ray tube 5011, thereby moving the X-ray tube 5011. For example, the operator T moves the operating handle 509 in the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions, or rotates it in the support rotation direction, thereby moving the position of the X-ray tube 5011 in the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions, or rotating it in the support rotation direction. This moves the position of the X-ray tube 5011 to a position suitable for X-ray imaging. Furthermore, the operator T rotates the operating handle 509 in the tube rotation direction, thereby adjusting the orientation (posture) of the X-ray tube 5011 and adjusting the X-ray irradiation direction to a direction suitable for imaging. The operating handle 509 is provided with a first contact portion, which will be described later.

[0061] More specifically, for example, when operator T moves operation handle 509 in a direction parallel to the Z-axis, X-ray tube support part 505 moves along movement mechanism 503 in a direction parallel to the Z-axis, and therefore the position of X-ray tube 5011 held by X-ray tube support part 505 moves in a direction parallel to the Z-axis. Also, when T moves operation handle 509 in a direction parallel to the X-axis, X-ray tube support part 505 moves along movement mechanism 503 in a direction parallel to the X-axis, and therefore the position of X-ray tube 5011 moves in a direction parallel to the X-axis. Also, when operator T moves operation handle 509 in a direction parallel to the Y-axis, support part 5051 expands and contracts in the vertical direction, and therefore the position of X-ray tube 5011 held by support part 5051 moves in the vertical direction. Furthermore, when the operator T rotates the operating handle 509 around an axis parallel to the X-axis, the X-ray tube 5011 rotates around an axis parallel to the X-axis, and the orientation of the X-ray tube 5011 changes.

[0062] In the example shown in FIG. 7, the bed 70 is configured to include a base 701, a tabletop 703, tabletop rails 705, a bed control unit 707, and an X-ray detector 709. The base 701 is a housing that supports the tabletop 703 via the tabletop rails 705 so that the tabletop 703 can move vertically. The tabletop 703 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. The tabletop rails 705 support the tabletop 703. The tabletop rails 705 are provided with second contact portions, the details of which will be described later. The tabletop rails 705 correspond to the support frame in this embodiment.

[0063] The bed operation unit 707 accepts operation input related to the bed 70. Specifically, the bed operation unit 707 accepts operation input for changing the height or position of the tabletop 703 as operation input related to the bed 70. The bed operation unit 707 is provided with a first contact unit, the details of which will be described later.

[0064] The X-ray detector 709 is attached below the tabletop 703 on which the subject P is placed and is movable in the longitudinal direction of the tabletop 703. The X-ray detector 709 is detachable. The X-ray detector 709 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 5011 and transmitted through the subject P. The X-ray detector 709 includes, for example, a flat panel detector (FPD) capable of detecting X-rays. The FPD has multiple semiconductor detection elements. The semiconductor detection elements are classified into indirect conversion type and direct conversion type. The indirect conversion type converts incident X-rays into light using a scintillator such as a phosphor, and then converts the converted light into an electrical signal. The direct conversion type directly converts incident X-rays into an electrical signal. The electrical signals generated by the multiple semiconductor detection elements in response to the incidence of X-rays are output to an analog-to-digital converter (A / D converter) (not shown). The A / D converter converts the electrical signal into digital data. The A / D converter outputs the digital data to a processing circuit.

[0065] The standing stand 90 is a device for holding an X-ray detector 709 for detecting X-rays irradiated from an X-ray tube 5011 and for imaging a standing subject P. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the standing stand 90 includes a support unit 901, an X-ray detector 903, a grip 905, and a standing stand operation unit 907.

[0066] The support unit 901 movably supports the X-ray detector 903. The support unit 901 has a detector support unit 9011 and a stand support unit 9013. One side of the detector support unit 9011 supports the X-ray detector 903, and the other side of the detector support unit 9011 is attached to the stand support unit 9013. The detector support unit 9011 is moved in the longitudinal direction of the stand support unit 9013 by a drive unit (not shown), thereby moving the X-ray detector 903 in a direction parallel to the Y-axis. The stand support unit 9013 is installed on the floor. The stand support unit 9013 supports the detector support unit 9011, thereby supporting the X-ray detector 903.

[0067] The X-ray detector 903 is attached to a support part 901. The X-ray detector 903 is configured to be movable relative to the detector support part 9011 in a direction parallel to the Y-axis shown in FIG. 7, which is the long axis of the stand support part 9013. The X-ray detector 903 is used to image a subject P in a standing position. The rest of the configuration of the X-ray detector 903 is the same as the configuration of the X-ray detector 709 described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] The grip 905 is held by the subject P in a standing position during X-ray imaging. The grip 905 is provided on the surface of the X-ray detector 903 opposite to the surface facing the X-ray tube 5011, or on the detector support part 9011. The grip 905 corresponds to the holding part in this embodiment.

[0069] The standing stand operation unit 907 accepts operation inputs related to the standing stand. Specifically, the standing stand operation unit 907 accepts, as operation inputs related to the standing stand, operation inputs for moving the X-ray detector 903 in a direction parallel to the Y-axis, operation inputs for setting and releasing a lock that mechanically restricts the movement of the X-ray detector 903, and operation inputs for switching between a mode for manually moving the X-ray detector 903 and a mode in which the movement of the X-ray detector 903 follows the movement of the X-ray tube 5011.

[0070] Next, the first contact portion and the second contact portion included in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment will be described. FIGS. 8 and 9 are enlarged views of a portion of the configuration of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to this embodiment is configured to include, in addition to the above-described configuration, a first contact portion 511A, a first contact portion 511B, a first contact portion 511C, a first contact portion 511D, a first contact portion 511E, and a second contact portion 711. Hereinafter, when the first contact portion 511A, the first contact portion 511B, the first contact portion 511C, the first contact portion 511D, and the first contact portion 511E are not to be distinguished from one another, they will simply be referred to as the first contact portion 511.

[0071] The first contact portion 511 is conductive and receives contact from the operator. In this embodiment, the first contact portion 511 is conductive and has a first contact surface PL1 that comes into contact with the operator, similar to the first contact portion 127 according to the first embodiment described above. The first contact portion 511 according to this embodiment is formed of a conductive material. Specifically, the conductive material that forms the first contact portion 511 is a metal material or carbon having a suitable resistance.

[0072] The first contact unit 511 is provided at a portion that the operator T comes into contact with before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. The portion that the operator T comes into contact with before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a is, for example, an operation unit such as the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, or the bed operation unit 707. In the example shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the first contact unit 511 according to this embodiment is provided at the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, and the bed operation unit 707 as a portion that the operator T comes into contact with before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a.

[0073] Here, the provision of the first contact part 511 at a portion that the operator T contacts before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a includes cases where the first contact part 511 is provided on the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, or the bed operation unit 707 itself, and cases where the first contact part 511 is provided near the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, or the bed operation unit 707. More specifically, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the first contact part 511A is provided in a ring shape near the X-ray tube operation panel 507 so as to surround the X-ray tube operation panel 507, and the first contact part 511B, the first contact part 511C, and the first contact part 511D are provided on the surface of the operation handle 509 and the surface of the bed operation unit 707.

[0074] 2, first contact portion 511A is provided in a ring shape so as to surround X-ray tube operation panel 507, but the arrangement positions of first contact portion 511A and first contact portion 511E are not limited to this. That is, first contact portion 511A may be arranged in any position, and first contact portion 511A may be provided on X-ray tube operation panel 507 itself, i.e., on the operation surface of X-ray tube operation panel 507.

[0075] The second contact portion 711 is conductive and receives contact from the subject. In this embodiment, the second contact portion 711 is conductive, similar to the second contact portion 129 according to the first embodiment described above, and has a second contact surface PL2 that comes into contact with the subject. Since the second contact portion 711 according to this embodiment is conductive, it is formed of a conductive material, similar to the first contact portion 511. Specifically, the conductive material that forms the second contact portion 711 is a metal material or carbon that has appropriate resistance.

[0076] The second contact portion 711 is provided at a portion that the subject P comes into contact with when positioning the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. Specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 9, the second contact portion 711 according to this embodiment is provided on the top rail 705 as a portion that the subject P comes into contact with when positioning the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 9, in this embodiment, the second contact portion 711 is provided on the surface of the top rail 705 so as to surround the top 703.

[0077] 10 is a diagram illustrating that the first contact 511 and the second contact 711 of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment are grounded to the reference point of the potential. As shown in FIG. 10, the first contact 511 and the second contact 711 according to this embodiment are grounded to the reference point of the potential. Specifically, the first contact 511 and the second contact 711 are grounded to the reference point of the potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via, for example, a conductor and a resistor (not shown). As shown in FIG. 10, when the operator contacts the first contact 511 and the subject contacts the second contact 711, static electricity accumulated in the operator T and the subject P is discharged toward the reference point of the potential.

[0078] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a workflow of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment. Here, the workflow is exemplified when performing abdominal general imaging in a supine position using a general X-ray imaging apparatus, which is the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment.

[0079] First, as shown in Fig. 11, the subject enters the examination room (step S31). Specifically, the subject enters the examination room after changing into examination clothes.

[0080] 11 , the operator T moves the X-ray tube 5011 (step S33). Specifically, the operator T operates the X-ray tube operation panel 507 or the operation handle 509 to move the imaging unit 501 to a position suitable for the examination so that the subject P can get on and off the bed 70 without any trouble, thereby moving the X-ray tube 5011. The operator T also operates the bed operation unit 707 to change the height and position of the tabletop 703 so that the subject P can get on and off the bed 70 without any trouble. When touching the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, or the bed operation unit 707, the operator T touches the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact unit 511. If the operator T is charged, the static electricity accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact unit 511. In other words, when the operator T contacts the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion 511 at a timing before positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, the static charge accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact portion 511.

[0081] Next, as shown in FIG. 11 , the operator T explains the examination to the subject P (step S35). Specifically, the operator T has the subject P sit on the top board 703 of the bed 70, confirms the subject's name, and then explains the examination. At this time, the subject P sits on the top board 703 and comes into contact with the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact unit 711 when coming into contact with the top board rails 705. If the subject P is charged, the static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged from the second contact unit 711 provided on the surface of the top board rails 705. In other words, when the subject P comes into contact with the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact unit 711 during the process of positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, the static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged from the second contact unit 711.

[0082] 11, the operator T positions the subject P (step S37). Specifically, the operator T positions the subject P so that the subject P is in a supine position on the top board 703 of the bed 70. At this time, when the operator T positions the subject P by directly contacting the subject P, static electricity may be generated between the operator T and the subject P. However, since the static electricity accumulated in the operator T is discharged in step S33 and the static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged in step S35, there is less concern about static electricity being generated between the operator T and the subject P.

[0083] 11, the operator T determines the imaging field (step S39). Specifically, the operator T moves the imaging unit 501 to move the X-ray tube 5011, thereby positioning the X-ray tube 5011 relative to the subject P so that the X-ray tube 5011 is aligned with the subject P, thereby determining the imaging field.

[0084] 11, the operator T performs X-ray imaging (step S41). Specifically, the operator T irradiates the subject P with X-rays to perform X-ray imaging.

[0085] In step S41, the operator T performs X-ray photography, thereby completing the workflow of supine position photography using a general X-ray photography apparatus.

[0086] As described above, the general X-ray imaging apparatus, which is the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to this embodiment, is provided with the first contact portion 511 that receives contact from the operator T on the X-ray tube operation panel 507 and the operation handle 509. Therefore, similar to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of unintentional discharge of static electricity to the operator T in the examination room.

[0087] Furthermore, the general X-ray imaging device, which is the X-ray diagnostic device 1a according to this embodiment, is provided with a second contact portion 711 that accepts contact with the subject P on the top rail 705, so that, similar to the X-ray diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce the unintentional discharge of static electricity to the subject P in the examination room.

[0088] Furthermore, the general X-ray imaging device, which is the X-ray diagnostic device 1a according to this embodiment, is provided with both the first contact part 511 and the second contact part 711, similar to the X-ray diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore, it is possible to reduce the unintentional discharge of static electricity between the operator T and the subject P in the examination room.

[0089] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment described above, a first contact portion and a second contact portion with the standing stand 90 may be provided. Fig. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the configuration of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 12, the standing stand 90a in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to this embodiment includes a first contact portion 511a and a second contact portion 711a in addition to the configuration of the standing stand 90 according to the second embodiment described above.

[0090] 12, the first contact part 511a according to this embodiment is provided on the standing stand operation part 907 as a part that the operator T contacts before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the first contact part 511a is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the standing stand operation part 907.

[0091] 12, the first contact portion 511a is provided in a ring shape so as to surround the standing stand operation unit 907, but the arrangement position of the first contact portion 511a is not limited to this. That is, the arrangement position of the first contact portion 511a is arbitrary, and the first contact portion 511a may be provided on the standing stand operation unit 907 itself, i.e., on the operation surface of the standing stand operation unit 907.

[0092] 12, the second contact portion 711a according to this embodiment is provided on the grip 905 as a portion that comes into contact with the subject P when positioning the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the second contact portion 711a is provided on the surface of the grip 905.

[0093] The position where the second contact portion 711a is provided is not limited to the grip 905; that is, the position where the second contact portion 711a is provided is arbitrary, and the second contact portion 711a may be provided on the surface facing the subject P positioned on the standing stand 90a of the X-ray detector 903.

[0094] When performing standing position imaging using the standing stand 90a provided with the first contact portion 511a and the second contact portion 711a, in step S33 described above, the operator T operates the X-ray tube operation panel 507 or the operation handle 509 to move the imaging unit 501 to a position suitable for the examination so that the subject P can be introduced into the standing stand 90a without any hindrance, thereby moving the X-ray tube 5011. When the operator T is electrically charged by contacting the first contact portion 511A, the first contact portion 511B, the first contact portion 511C, or the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion 511D when contacting the X-ray tube operation panel 507 or the operation handle 509, the static electricity accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact portion 511A provided in a ring shape surrounding the X-ray tube operation panel 507 or the first contact portions 511B-511D provided on the surface of the operation handle 509. In other words, when the operator T contacts the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion 511a at a timing before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, the static charge accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact portion 511a.

[0095] Next, in step S35, the operator T explains the examination to the subject P, and then in step S37, the operator T inputs operations into the standing stand operation unit 907 of the standing stand 90a to move the X-ray detector 903 to a position that suits the physique of the subject P, gives instructions to the subject P, brings the subject P into contact with the X-ray detector 903, and has the subject P grasp the grip 905, thereby positioning the subject P on the standing stand 90a.

[0096] When the operator T comes into contact with the standing stand operation unit 907, the operator T comes into contact with the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact part 511a, and if the operator T is charged, the static charge accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact part 511a, which is provided in a ring shape to surround the standing stand operation unit 907. In other words, when the operator T comes into contact with the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact part 511a at a timing before the operator T positions the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, the static charge accumulated within the operator T is discharged from the first contact part 511a. Furthermore, when the subject P comes into contact with the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact part 711a, and if the subject P is charged, if the subject P comes into contact with the grip 905, the static charge accumulated within the subject P is discharged from the second contact part 711a, which is provided on the surface of the grip 905. In other words, when the subject P is positioned on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a, the subject P comes into contact with the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact portion 711a, and the static electricity charge accumulated within the subject P is discharged from the second contact portion 711a.

[0097] Then, in step S39, the operator T moves the imaging unit 501 to move the X-ray tube 5011, thereby positioning the X-ray tube 5011 relative to the subject P so as to align the X-ray tube 5011 with the subject P. At this time, when the operator T directly contacts the subject P to adjust the position and determine the imaging field, static electricity may be generated between the operator T and the subject P. However, since the static electricity accumulated in the operator T is discharged in steps S33 and S35, and the static electricity accumulated in the subject P is discharged in step S37, there is less concern about static electricity being generated between the operator T and the subject P.

[0098] As described above, even when performing standing radiography using the standing stand 90a of the general X-ray imaging apparatus, which is the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment, it is possible to reduce the unintentional discharge of static electricity to the operator T and the subject P in the examination room.

[0099] Furthermore, in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a according to the second embodiment described above, the first contact unit 511 is provided on the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, and the bed operation unit 707, but the first contact unit 511 does not have to be provided on all of the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, and the bed operation unit 707. In other words, the first contact unit 511 only needs to be provided on at least one of the X-ray tube operation panel 507, the operation handle 509, and the bed operation unit 707 as a part that the operator T comes into contact with before positioning the subject P in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1a.

[0100] [Modification 1 of the first and second embodiments] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1 and 1a according to the first and second embodiments described above, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are formed from a metal material or carbon having a suitable resistance, but they may also be formed from a material whose resistance decreases when pressed by the operator T or the subject P when they come into contact with each other. Hereinafter, as an example of a material whose resistance decreases when pressed by the operator T or the subject P when they come into contact with each other, the first contact portion and the second contact portion may be formed from conductive rubber.

[0101] Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of conductive rubber forming the first contact portion and the second contact portion in Modification 1. Fig. 13(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the conductive rubber when not pressed by the operator T or the subject P. Fig. 13(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of the state of the conductive rubber when pressed by the operator T or the subject P. As shown in Fig. 13, the conductive rubber CR has a first electrode EL1, a second electrode EL2, and conductive particles PA contained between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2.

[0102] As shown in Fig. 13(a), when not pressed by an operator T or a subject P, the conductive particles PA of the conductive rubber CR are contained in a dispersed state between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2. Then, as shown in Fig. 13(b), when pressed by an operator T or a subject P, the distance between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2 narrows, and the conductive particles PA of the conductive rubber CR are contained in a tightly adhered state between the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2 while contacting the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2. Then, by contacting the first electrode EL1 and the second electrode EL2 while being tightly adhered, the conductive rubber CR forms a conductive path, and can discharge static electricity accumulated in the operator T or the subject P who is in contact with the conductive rubber CR.

[0103] As described above, since the first contact portion and the second contact portion are made of a material such as conductive rubber CR, whose resistance decreases when pressed when the operator T or the subject P comes into contact with them, when the operator T or the subject P begins to touch the first contact surface or the second contact surface, no charge flows and no discharge occurs. However, when the operator T or the subject P presses the first contact portion or the second contact portion, charge begins to flow, resulting in a gradual discharge, which reduces the risk of static electricity being unintentionally discharged to the operator T or the subject P within the examination room.

[0104] [Modification 2 of the First and Second Embodiments] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a according to the first and second embodiments described above, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are formed of a metal material or carbon having a suitable resistance. However, instead of a metal material or carbon, the first contact portion and the second contact portion may be formed by applying a conductive paint having a suitable electrical resistance to the portion that the operator T or the subject P comes into contact with, or to the entire surface of the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a.

[0105] [Modification 3 of the first and second embodiments] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1 and 1a according to the first and second embodiments described above, when an electric charge flows through the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the operator T may be notified of the discharge by sound or light. This modification applied to the first embodiment will be referred to as Modification 3, and differences from the first embodiment described above will be described. This modification can also be similarly applied to the second embodiment, Modification 1, and Modification 2 described above.

[0106] Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 3, and corresponds to Fig. 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 14, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this modification is configured by adding a light-emitting unit 131 to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above. The light-emitting unit 131 is an example of a notification unit according to this modification. The configuration other than the light-emitting unit 131 is the same as that in Fig. 1 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The light-emitting unit 131 emits light in a predetermined color. The light-emitting unit 131 is configured as, for example, a light-emitting diode. The light-emitting unit 131 according to this modification is electrically connected to the first contact portion and the second contact portion, and emits light in a predetermined color when an electric charge flows through at least one of the first contact portion and the second contact portion, that is, when a discharge occurs. In this way, by including the light-emitting unit 131, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 may notify the operator T that a discharge has occurred.

[0108] The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third modification is provided with the light emitting unit 131, which emits light in a predetermined color when a discharge occurs, thereby notifying the operator T that a discharge has occurred. However, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 may be provided with a speaker instead of the light emitting unit 131, so that when a discharge occurs, a predetermined sound is output from the speaker, thereby notifying the operator T that a discharge has occurred. In this case, the speaker is an example of a notifying unit.

[0109] [Modification 4 of the First and Second Embodiments] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a according to the first and second embodiments described above, the first contact unit that receives contact from the operator T may be provided on a foot switch, and the second contact unit that receives contact from the subject P may be provided on a scrunchie that is attached to the hair of the subject P or a mat that is placed under the feet of the subject P. This modification example, applied to the first embodiment, is referred to as Modification Example 4, and differences from the first embodiment described above will be described. This modification example can also be similarly applied to the second embodiment and Modification Examples 1 to 3 described above.

[0110] Fig. 15 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 4, and corresponds to Fig. 1 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 15, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this modification is configured by adding a foot switch 133, a mat 135, and a scrunchie 137 to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above. Note that the configuration other than the foot switch 133, the mat 135, and the scrunchie 137 is the same as that in Fig. 1 in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0111] The foot switch 133 receives operations related to the up and down movement of the compression plate 115 and the up and down movement of the X-ray tube support arm 105. That is, the operator T can operate the up and down movement of the compression plate 115 and the up and down movement of the X-ray tube support arm 105 by stepping on the foot switch 133 with his or her foot. This foot switch 133 is used, for example, when the operator T is unable to manually operate the compression operation knob 121 or the arm operation unit 123 when positioning the subject P. In the example shown in FIG. 15 , the foot switch 133 has four operation switches 1311-1314. Note that, although the foot switch 133 has four operation switches in this modification, the number of operation switches included in the foot switch 133 is not limited to four. That is, the number of operation switches included in the foot switch 133 is arbitrary and may be one to three or less, or may be five or more.

[0112] The mat 135 is placed on the floor, and the subject P, who is positioned in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, is placed on it.

[0113] The scrunchie 137 is a component that is attached to the hair of the subject P when tying up the hair of the subject P. By using the scrunchie 137 to tie up the hair of the subject P, it is possible to prevent the hair from getting into the X-ray irradiation field and appearing in the image.

[0114] Next, the first contact portion and the second contact portion included in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 4 will be described with reference to FIG. 15 . The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 4 includes first contact portions 127D-127G and second contact portions 129D-E in addition to the first contact portions 127A-127C and second contact portions 129A-129C in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above. Hereinafter, when the first contact portions 127A-127G are not to be distinguished, they will simply be referred to as first contact portion 127. Also, when the second contact portions 129A-129E are not to be distinguished, they will simply be referred to as second contact portion 129. Note that the configurations of the first contact portions 127A-127C and the second contact portions 129A-129C are the same as those of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0115] The first contact portions 127D-127G are provided on the foot switch 133 as portions that the operator contacts before positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. Specifically, the first contact portions 127D-127G are provided on the operation surfaces of the four operation switches 1311-1314 of the foot switch 133. Note that, although the first contact portions 127D-127G are provided on the operation surfaces of the four operation switches 1311-1314 in the example shown in Fig. 15, the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, the number of first contact portions 127D-127G provided for the four operation switches 1311-1314 is arbitrary, and a first contact portion may be provided for one to three of the four operation switches 1311-1314.

[0116] 15, the first contact portions 127D-127G according to this modification are grounded to a reference point of potential, similar to the first embodiment described above. Specifically, the first contact portions 127D-127G are grounded to a reference point of potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via, for example, a conductor (not shown) and a resistor (not shown). The configuration other than the configuration of the first contact portions according to the above-described modification 4 is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0117] The second contact portions 129D-129E are provided at portions that the subject P comes into contact with when positioning the subject P on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1. Specifically, in the example shown in Fig. 15 , the second contact portion 129D is provided on the mat 135 as a portion that the subject P comes into contact with when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1, and the second contact portion 129E is provided on the scrunchy 137. More specifically, the second contact portion 129D is provided on the placement surface of the mat 135 on which the subject P is placed, and the second contact portion 129E is provided on the entire scrunchy 137.

[0118] 15, the second contact portion 129 according to this embodiment is grounded to a reference point of potential. Specifically, the second contact portion 129D is grounded to a reference point of potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via a conductor and a resistor (not shown), and the second contact portion 129E is grounded to a reference point of potential, such as the floor of an examination room, via a conductor and a resistor (not shown). The configuration other than the configuration of the second contact portion according to the fourth modification is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0119] As described above, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the fourth modification can also reduce the risk of unintentional discharge of static electricity to the operator T in the examination room.

[0120] [Other Modifications of the First and Second Embodiments] In the first and second embodiments described above, the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1 and 1a are described as mammography apparatuses or general X-ray imaging apparatuses, but the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1 and 1a are not limited to mammography apparatuses or general X-ray imaging apparatuses. In other words, the type of X-ray diagnostic apparatus is arbitrary, and the X-ray diagnostic apparatus may be, for example, an X-ray TV bed apparatus.

[0121] Furthermore, although the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a according to the first and second embodiments described above are provided with both the first contact portion and the second contact portion, the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a do not necessarily have to be provided with both the first contact portion and the second contact portion. The X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a are only required to be provided with at least the first contact portion. In this way, the X-ray diagnostic apparatuses 1, 1a provided with only the first contact portion can reduce the risk of unintentional static electricity discharge occurring to the operator T in the examination room, thereby reducing anxiety about static electricity discharge.

[0122] Furthermore, in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first and second embodiments described above, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are grounded to the reference point of the electric potential, but the first contact portion and the second contact portion do not necessarily have to be grounded to the reference point of the electric potential. For example, the first contact surface PL1 of the first contact portion and / or the second contact surface PL2 of the second contact portion may have a predetermined area, so that the first contact portion and / or the second contact portion naturally discharges static electricity flowing from the operator T or the subject P.

[0123] 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]

[0124] 1, 1a...X-ray diagnostic apparatus, 50...imaging apparatus, 70...bed, 90, 90a...standing stand, 101...base, 103...stand, 105...X-ray tube support arm, 107...X-ray tube, 109...compression plate, 111...breast support table, 111a...corner, 113...X-ray detector, 115...compression plate, 117...face guard, 119...operation panel, 121...compression operation knob, 123...arm operation unit, 123A...first arm operation unit, 123B...second arm operation unit, 125...armrest, 125L...left armrest, 125R ...Right armrest, 127, 511, 511a...first contact portion, 129, 711, 711a...second contact portion, 131...light emitting portion, 133...foot switch, 135...mat, 137...scrunchie, 501...imaging portion, 503...movement mechanism, 505...X-ray tube support portion, 507...X-ray tube operation panel, 509...operation handle, 701...base, 703...top plate, 705...top plate rail, 707...bed operation portion, 709...X-ray detector, 901...support portion, 903...X-ray detector, 905...grip, 907...standing stand operation portion

Claims

1. an X-ray tube that emits X-rays; an X-ray detector that detects X-rays that have passed through the subject; a first contact portion that is conductive and receives contact from an operator; An X-ray diagnostic apparatus comprising:

2. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a second contact portion that is conductive and receives contact from the subject.

3. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first contact portion is provided at a portion that the operator contacts before positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

4. 4. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first contact unit is provided on at least one of an operation panel that receives operational input related to setting the left and right sides of the subject's breast, a compression operation unit that receives operation related to up and down movement of a compression plate that compresses the subject's breast, and an arm operation unit that receives operational input related to movement of a support arm that supports the X-ray tube, as a part that the operator comes into contact with before positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

5. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the second contact portion is provided at a portion that comes into contact with the subject when the subject is positioned on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

6. 6. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the second contact portion is provided on at least one of an armrest used by the subject to maintain posture during X-ray imaging and a mounting table on which the subject's breast is placed, as a portion with which the subject comes into contact when positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

7. a placement table on which the breast of the subject is placed, The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the second contact portion has an area larger than half the area of ​​the surface of the subject that is in contact with the stage.

8. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising a notification unit that notifies when a discharge occurs in at least one of the first contact portion and the second contact portion.

9. 4. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first contact portion is provided on at least one of an operation handle for moving the X-ray tube, an X-ray tube operation panel that receives operation input related to the X-ray tube, and a bed operation unit that receives operation input related to a bed having a top plate on which the subject is placed, as a portion that the operator comes into contact with before positioning the subject in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

10. a standing stand for holding an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube and for imaging the subject in a standing position; 4. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first contact portion is provided on a stand operation portion that receives operation input related to the stand and that is a portion that the operator contacts before positioning the subject on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

11. a standing stand for holding an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube and for imaging the subject in a standing position; the standing stand includes a gripping portion to be gripped by the subject in a standing position during X-ray imaging; The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the second contact portion is provided on the gripping portion as a portion that comes into contact with the subject when the subject is positioned on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

12. a bed having a tabletop on which the subject is placed and a support frame supporting the tabletop; The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the second contact portion is provided on the support frame as a portion that comes into contact with the subject when the subject is positioned on the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

13. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first contact portion is grounded to a reference point of electric potential.

14. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the second contact portion is grounded to a reference point of electric potential.

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