Medical image diagnostic system, medical information processing apparatus, medical image diagnostic apparatus, and medical image diagnostic method

Abstract

To efficiently perform a medical image diagnostic examination.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic system includes an acquisition part and a change part. The processing circuitry acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room in which a first medical image diagnostic apparatus is arranged. The processing circuitry changes at least one of a position and an imaging condition of each unit of a second medical image diagnostic apparatus arranged in a second examination room different from the first examination room based on the imaging support sensing data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, during health checkups, medical checkups, etc., a single subject may be imaged using multiple types of X-ray diagnostic equipment (e.g., general X-ray equipment, X-ray TV equipment, mammography equipment, etc.). In this case, in the examination room where each equipment is installed, a medical professional such as a radiologist manually sets the positioning and imaging conditions for each equipment according to the subject's physique (height, position of each part of the body (e.g., distance from the floor to the chest), etc.).

[0003] It is generally known that positioning the device and setting the imaging conditions to suit the subject's physique takes time. It also places a significant burden on the radiologist. Furthermore, if positioning and setting the imaging conditions take too long, the subject may have to wait in the examination room, which can hinder the smoothness of the examination and extend the examination time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-031179 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to efficiently perform diagnostic imaging examinations. 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]

[0006] A medical image diagnostic system according to an embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a change unit. The acquisition unit acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room where a first medical image diagnostic device is placed. The change unit changes at least one of the positions of components and imaging conditions of a second medical image diagnostic device placed in a second examination room different from the first examination room, based on the imaging support sensing data. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray TV device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where a sensor is installed in the X-ray TV device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where a sensor is installed in the general X-ray imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the mammography apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where a sensor is installed in the mammography apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray TV device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a general X-ray imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a mammography apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of a medical image diagnostic system, a medical information processing device, a medical image diagnostic device, and a medical image diagnostic method will be described in detail. Note that the embodiments are not limited to the following description and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit thereof. In addition, in the drawings described below, components having the same functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description may be omitted.

[0009] (First embodiment) In the first embodiment, a medical image diagnostic system 1 including a plurality of X-ray diagnostic apparatuses and medical information processing apparatuses will be described as an example.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the medical image diagnostic system 1 includes an X-ray TV device 10, a general X-ray imaging device 30, a mammography device 50, and a medical information processing device 70. In this embodiment, the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, and the mammography device 50 are each installed in a different examination room.

[0011] 1, the general X-ray imaging device 30, the mammography device 50, and the medical information processing device 70 are connected via a network 90. ​​Here, the network 90 may be configured as a closed local network within a hospital, or may be a network via the Internet. For example, the network 90 includes a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0012] Note that the configuration of the medical image diagnostic system 1 is not limited to the above. For example, the medical image diagnostic system 1 may also include a server for an information management system such as a Radiology Information System (RIS), a Hospital Information System (HIS), or a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS).

[0013] The X-ray TV device 10 is an X-ray diagnostic device that allows for real-time observation of fluoroscopic images of a subject. The configuration of the X-ray TV device 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray TV device 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0014] The X-ray TV device 10 includes an imaging system 11, a bed 12, an imaging system drive unit 13, a tabletop drive unit 14, an operation unit 15, an X-ray high voltage generator 17, a communication interface 22, an input interface 23, a display unit 24, a memory 25, a processing circuit 26, and a sensor 101. The processing circuit 26, the memory 25, and the input interface 23 are built into, for example, the console 16. The sensor 101 will be described later.

[0015] 1, the width direction of the top plate of the bed 12 is the X-axis direction, the longitudinal direction of the top plate of the bed 12 is the Y-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the top plate of the bed 12 is the Z-axis direction. The XY plane corresponds to the detection surface of the X-ray detector 20.

[0016] The imaging system 11 includes an X-ray tube 18 that irradiates the subject P with X-rays, an X-ray aperture 19, an X-ray detector 20 that detects the X-rays, and a grid 21 that is attached to the detection surface of the X-ray detector 20. The imaging system 11 further includes a support arm that supports the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray aperture 19. The bed 12 is provided with an operation unit 15 for operating the imaging system 11 and the bed 12.

[0017] The imaging system drive unit 13 moves a support arm that supports an X-ray tube 18 and an X-ray diaphragm 19 .

[0018] The tabletop driving unit 14 moves the tabletop of the bed 12 and other components.

[0019] The X-ray high voltage device 17 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, a high voltage generator, and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has the function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 18 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 18. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 18. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type.

[0020] The X-ray tube 18 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermions from a cathode (filament) toward an anode (target) when a high voltage is applied from the X-ray high voltage device 17 and a filament current is supplied. X-rays are generated when thermions collide with the target. The X-ray tube 18 is, for example, a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermions. Note that the type of X-ray tube 18 is not limited to the rotating anode type, and any type of X-ray tube can be used.

[0021] The X-ray diaphragm 19 is provided in front of the X-ray radiation window in the X-ray tube 18. The X-ray diaphragm 19 has four diaphragm blades made of metal plates such as lead. The diaphragm blades are driven by a driving device (not shown) in accordance with a region of interest input by the user via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23.

[0022] The X-ray diaphragm 19 adjusts the area where X-rays are blocked to any size by sliding these diaphragm blades with a drive device. With the adjusted diaphragm blades, the X-ray diaphragm 19 blocks X-rays outside the opening area. In this way, the X-ray diaphragm 19 narrows down the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 18 so that they are irradiated onto the region of interest of the subject P.

[0023] The X-ray detector 20 detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 18. The X-ray detector 20 is, for example, a flat panel detector (hereinafter also referred to as FPD). The X-ray detector 20 as an FPD has a plurality of semiconductor detection elements. The semiconductor detection elements are of a direct conversion type that directly converts X-rays into an electrical signal, and an indirect conversion type that converts X-rays into light using a phosphor and then converts the light into an electrical signal. Either type may be used for the FPD.

[0024] Electrical signals generated by the multiple semiconductor detection elements in response to incidence of X-rays are output to an analog to digital converter (hereinafter referred to as the A / D converter), not shown. The A / D converter converts the electrical signals into digital data. The A / D converter outputs the digital data to the processing circuit 26. Note that an image intensifier may also be used as the X-ray detector 20.

[0025] The grid 21 is provided, for example, on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 20 and removes scattered rays incident on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 20 .

[0026] The communication interface 22 is configured by, for example, a network card such as a LAN card, a network adapter, etc. The communication interface 22 transmits and receives various information to and from devices connected via the network 90 under the control of the processing circuit 26.

[0027] The input interface 23 accepts various input operations from the user, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuitry 26. For example, the input interface 23 accepts from the user an operation for operating at least one of the imaging system 11 and the bed 12, X-ray conditions related to the generation of X-rays, conditions related to image processing executed by the image generation function 265, and the like.

[0028] As the input interface 23, for example, a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, foot switch, touch pad, touch panel display, etc. can be appropriately used. The input interface 23 is mounted on, for example, a console 16 installed in an operation room separate from the examination room.

[0029] In this embodiment, the input interface 23 is not limited to one equipped with physical operation parts such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad, and touch panel display.

[0030] For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 26 is also included in examples of the input interface 23. Note that the input interface 23 may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like that is capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 26.

[0031] The display unit 24 is composed of a display 241 that displays medical images and the like, an internal circuit that supplies display signals to the display 241, and peripheral circuits such as connectors and cables that connect the display 241 to the internal circuitry.

[0032] The internal circuitry generates display data by superimposing additional information such as subject information and projection data generation conditions on the image data. Next, the internal circuitry performs D / A conversion and TV format conversion on the obtained display data. The internal circuitry displays the display data after these conversions as a medical image on the display 241. In addition, the display unit 24 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) and the like for receiving various operations from the user.

[0033] As the display 241, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescence display (OLED), a plasma display, or any other display can be used as appropriate.

[0034] The display 241 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 26.

[0035] The memory 25 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an integrated circuit storage device that stores various information, or is a circuit that combines a plurality of such storage devices.

[0036] The memory 25 includes, for example, a storage for primary storage and a storage for long-term storage. The medical images sequentially stored in the primary storage are updated, for example, periodically. The memory 25 also stores, for example, projection data, image data, and programs corresponding to various functions read and executed by the processing circuitry 26.

[0037] In addition to HDDs and SSDs, memory 25 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various information to portable storage media such as CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), and flash memories, or semiconductor memory elements such as RAMs (Random Access Memory).

[0038] The memory 25 may also be in an external storage device connected via a network. Furthermore, when the memory 25 includes multiple storage devices, some of the storage devices may be storage devices connected via a network.

[0039] The memory 25 also stores images acquired by fluoroscopy or photography using the X-ray TV device 10. Here, "fluoroscopy" refers to a photography technique in which X-rays are continuously irradiated from the X-ray tube 18 to acquire images (typically moving images) of the inside of a subject in real time. "Photography" refers to a photography technique in which X-rays with higher intensity than those used in fluoroscopy are irradiated to acquire more detailed images (still images) of the inside of a subject.

[0040] The processing circuitry 26 controls the overall operation of the X-ray TV device 10 .

[0041] For example, the processing circuitry 26 has, as hardware resources, processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0042] Various processing functions executed by the processing circuit 26 are stored in the memory 25 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The processing circuit 26 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 25. In other words, each circuit that has read each program has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0043] Specifically, the processing circuitry 26 executes an operation control function 261, an acquisition function 262, a transmission function 263, a reception function 264, and an image generation function 265 by a processor that executes a program loaded in memory.

[0044] Here, the operation control function 261 is an example of a receiving unit and a changing unit. The acquisition function 262 is an example of an acquisition unit. The transmission function 263 is an example of a transmission unit. The reception function 264 is an example of a reception unit.

[0045] The operation control function 261, the acquisition function 262, the transmission function 263, the reception function 264, and the image generation function 265 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the operation control function 261, the acquisition function 262, the transmission function 263, the reception function 264, and the image generation function 265 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0046] The operation control function 261 controls each part of the X-ray TV device 10 based on an input operation received from a user via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23. Specifically, the operation control function 261 reads out a control program stored in the memory 25, expands it on the memory in the processing circuit 26, and controls each part of the X-ray TV device 10 in accordance with the expanded control program.

[0047] For example, the operation control function 261 receives an instruction to start imaging from a user via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23. In this embodiment, the instruction to start imaging includes input of a subject ID for identifying the subject P and information representing an examination protocol.

[0048] The examination protocol is information indicating the procedure of an examination in the X-ray TV device 10, and defines the region to be imaged and the order in which various types of imaging are performed. For example, a plurality of examination protocols may be stored in advance in the memory 25, and the user may select an examination protocol to be used when imaging the subject P via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23.

[0049] The operation control function 261 may receive input of the subject ID by reading a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the like with an optical reader (not shown) that receives an instruction to start imaging.

[0050] At this time, the operation control function 261 may acquire the examination order for the subject P corresponding to the input subject ID from an external device that manages examination orders via the communication interface 22 and the network 90. ​​In this case, the operation control function 261 may specify an examination protocol to be used for imaging the subject P from among a plurality of examination protocols based on the examination order.

[0051] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 261 receives an instruction to perform imaging from a user via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23, it controls the imaging system 11, the imaging system drive unit 13, etc., and performs X-ray imaging of the subject P in accordance with the examination protocol.

[0052] The acquisition function 262 acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing the subject P with an imaging support sensor in the examination room where the device is located. For example, when the acquisition function 262 is requested by the medical information processing device 70 to acquire imaging support sensing data, the acquisition function 262 controls the sensor 101 via the operation control function 261 to sense the subject P and acquire imaging support sensing data.

[0053] Here, the first examination room in the claims is the examination room where the imaging support sensing data is acquired, and the first medical image diagnostic device in the claims is the medical image diagnostic device arranged in the examination room where the imaging support sensing data is acquired.

[0054] Furthermore, the second medical image diagnostic apparatus in the claims is a medical image diagnostic apparatus other than the first medical image diagnostic apparatus, and the second examination room in the claims is an examination room in which the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is placed.

[0055] For example, when the acquisition function 262 acquires imaging support data for the subject P, the X-ray TV device 10 is an example of a first medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the X-ray TV device 10 is placed is an example of a first examination room. Also, the general X-ray imaging device 30 and the mammography device 50 are examples of a second medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the general X-ray imaging device 30 is installed and the examination room in which the mammography device 50 is installed are examples of a second examination room.

[0056] The sensor 101 is a sensor for supporting photography, and is, for example, a laser scanner (such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)), a depth-sensing camera, or a plurality of optical cameras.

[0057] In this embodiment, for the sake of specificity, the sensor 101 will be described as a laser scanner. The laser scanner is, for example, an imaging support scanner that acquires spatial position information of an object by irradiating it with a laser. In this embodiment, data obtained by scanning the subject P with the laser scanner is referred to as imaging support scan data. The imaging support scan data is an example of imaging support sensing data.

[0058] The imaging support scan data is, for example, information representing a three-dimensional point cloud obtained by scanning the subject P. Note that the imaging support scan data may also be a 3D model that reproduces the physique of the subject P.

[0059] In this embodiment, the sensor 101 is provided near the X-ray irradiation port of the X-ray TV device 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the installation of the sensor 101 in the X-ray TV device 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor 101 is provided near the X-ray tube 18. This allows the sensor 101 to scan the entire body of the subject P placed on the top board of the bed 12.

[0060] The position where the sensor 101 is provided is not limited to the above. For example, the sensor 101 may be movably provided on the ceiling of the examination room where the X-ray TV device 10 is provided.

[0061] Returning to Fig. 2, the description will continue. The transmission function 263 transmits various information to other devices. For example, the transmission function 263 transmits the imaging support scan data acquired by the acquisition function 262 to the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90. ​​At this time, the transmission function 263 transmits the imaging support scan data in association with the subject ID.

[0062] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 261 receives an instruction to start imaging, the transmission function 263 transmits a setting information request including information indicating the type of device, the subject ID included in the instruction to start imaging, and information indicating the examination protocol to the medical information processing device 70, as described above. The setting information is information including information for positioning each part of the X-ray TV device 10 (hereinafter also referred to as positioning information) and information indicating imaging conditions for imaging the subject P. The setting information is an example of control information.

[0063] If the medical image diagnostic system 1 is configured to include a plurality of X-ray TV devices 10, the transmission function 754 transmits a setting information request including a device ID for identifying the X-ray TV device 10 to the medical information processing device 70 in addition to the above. This allows the medical information processing device 70 to identify the sender of the setting information request (X-ray TV device 10).

[0064] The positioning information of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 is, for example, information indicating the height and position of the table top of the bed 12, the position of the imaging system 11, etc. The imaging conditions are, for example, conditions that should be changed depending on the physique of the subject P, such as tube voltage, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time.

[0065] The receiving function 264 receives various information from other devices. For example, the receiving function 264 receives a request for imaging support sensing data from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90. ​​Also, for example, the receiving function 264 receives setting information from the medical information processing device 70 in the same manner as described above.

[0066] When the receiving function 264 receives the setting information, the operation control function 261 controls the imaging system driving unit 13, the tabletop driving unit 14, the X-ray high voltage device 17, the X-ray diaphragm 19, etc., and executes the positioning of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 and the setting of imaging conditions according to the setting information. After that, the user checks (adjusts if necessary) the position and imaging conditions of each part of the X-ray TV device 10, and inputs an imaging execution instruction to instruct the execution of imaging processing.

[0067] The image generation function 265 generates image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 20 .

[0068] Specifically, the image generation function 265 generates projection data based on the output from the X-ray detector 20. Next, the image generation function 265 receives an input signal from the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23, and performs image processing such as filtering on the projection data to generate image data. The image data is, for example, a fluoroscopic image or a photographed image of the subject P.

[0069] Furthermore, the image generation function 265 uses the image data to perform synthesis processing, subtraction processing, etc. The image generation function 265 outputs the generated image data to the display unit 24 and the memory 25.

[0070] Continuing the explanation, returning to Fig. 1, the general X-ray imaging device 30 is an X-ray diagnostic device that performs general X-ray imaging. The configuration of the general X-ray imaging device 30 will be explained below with reference to Figs.

[0071] 4 and 5, the general X-ray imaging device 30 includes an imaging device 31 and a console 39. The imaging device 31 includes an X-ray tube 45 that generates X-rays, and an X-ray detector 34 that detects the X-rays that are emitted from the X-ray tube 45 and have passed through the subject P.

[0072] When X-raying a standing subject P, as shown in FIG. 4, the imaging device 31 includes a stand 32, an X-ray tube holding device 33, an X-ray detector 34 supported so as to be freely movable relative to the stand 32, a high-voltage power supply 35, an aperture control device 36, a drive circuit 37, and a controller 38.

[0073] On the other hand, when X-raying a subject P in a supine position, as shown in Fig. 5, the imaging device 31 has a bed 49 equipped with a tabletop 48 on which the subject P is placed, instead of the stand 32. The tabletop 48 moves up and down under the control of the controller 38 via the drive circuit 37. Similarly, the tabletop 48 moves in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction).

[0074] The X-ray tube holding device 33 of the imaging device 31 has an X-ray tube 45 , a diaphragm 46 , and an operation panel 47 .

[0075] When X-ray imaging is performed on a standing subject P, the subject P is positioned in front of the stand 32 as shown in Fig. 4. The X-ray tube holding device 33 and the X-ray detector 34 are controlled by a controller 38 via a drive circuit 37, and can be interlocked to maintain the positional relationship between the center position of the X-ray tube 45 and the X-ray detector 34. For example, the X-ray detector 34 supported by the stand 32 moves along the stand 32 in conjunction with the movement of the X-ray tube holding device 33 so as to maintain the state in which the center position of the X-ray tube 45 and the approximate center position of the X-ray detector 34 face each other.

[0076] When X-ray imaging is performed on a subject P in a supine position, the subject P is placed on a tabletop 48 as shown in Fig. 5. In this case, as in the case of upright imaging, the X-ray tube holding device 33 and the X-ray detector 34 are controlled by the controller 38 via the drive circuit 37, and can be linked to maintain the positional relationship between the center position of the X-ray tube 45 and the X-ray detector 34.

[0077] The X-ray detector 34 is configured with a flat panel detector (FPD) having a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged two-dimensionally, detects X-rays that have passed through the subject P and are irradiated onto the X-ray detector 34, and outputs X-ray imaging data based on the detected X-rays. This imaging data is provided to a console 39 via a controller 38. The X-ray detector 34 may also include an image intensifier, a TV camera, etc.

[0078] The X-ray tube 45 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by application of high voltage from the high-voltage power supply 35. The X-ray tube 45 is disposed opposite the X-ray detector 34 across the subject P. The X-ray tube 45 is controlled by the controller 38 via a drive circuit 37, and moves in conjunction with the movement of the X-ray detector 34 so as to maintain a state in which the center position of the X-ray tube 45 faces the approximate center position of the X-ray detector 34.

[0079] The high voltage power supply 35 is composed of electrical circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and is also composed of a high voltage generator that has the function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 45, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube 45.

[0080] The aperture 46 has multiple blades made of a metal that blocks X-rays, such as lead, and has a mechanism for adjusting the irradiation field of the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 45. The aperture 46 is controlled by the controller 38 via the aperture control device 36, and adjusts the irradiation range of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 45.

[0081] The operation panel 47 is provided on the housing of the X-ray tube holding device 33 and has hard keys such as buttons that, when pressed by a user, send unique instruction signals to the processor, and a display input device. The display input device has a display and a touch sensor provided near the display.

[0082] The display of the operation panel 47 displays various images, such as images showing information about the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30. In addition, the user can input various instructions for the images displayed on the display to the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 via the touch sensor or hard keys of the operation panel 47. The operation panel 47 outputs signals corresponding to the user's inputs to the processing circuitry 44 of the console 39.

[0083] The controller 38 includes at least a processor and a memory circuit. The controller 38 is controlled by a console 39 in accordance with a program stored in the memory circuit, and controls all components of the imaging device 31.

[0084] On the other hand, the console 39 has a communication interface 40, an input interface 41, a display unit 42, a memory 43, and a processing circuit 44. In this embodiment, the console 39 is installed outside the examination room. Note that the console 39 does not have to be installed independently. For example, the functions of the input interface 41 and the display unit 42 of the console 39 may be performed by an operation panel 47 of the imaging device 31, and the functions of the memory 43 and the processing circuit 44 may be performed by a storage circuit and a processor of a controller 38 of the imaging device 31, respectively.

[0085] Detailed description will be omitted for the communication interface 40, the input interface 41, the display unit 42, and the memory 43. For example, the communication interface 40, the input interface 41, the display unit 42, and the memory 43 can be configured in the same manner as the communication interface 22, the input interface 23, the display unit 24, and the memory 25 shown in FIG.

[0086] The processing circuitry 44 controls the overall operation of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 .

[0087] For example, the processing circuitry 44 has, as hardware resources, a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU, and a memory such as a ROM or RAM.

[0088] Various processing functions executed by the processing circuitry 44 are stored in the memory 43 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The processing circuitry 44 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 43. In other words, each circuit that has read each program has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0089] Specifically, the processing circuitry 44 executes an operation control function 441, an acquisition function 442, a transmission function 443, a reception function 444, and an image generation function 445 by a processor that executes a program loaded in memory.

[0090] Here, the operation control function 441 is an example of a receiving unit and a changing unit. The acquisition function 442 is an example of an acquisition unit. The transmission function 443 is an example of a transmission unit. The reception function 444 is an example of a reception unit.

[0091] The operation control function 441, the acquisition function 442, the transmission function 443, the reception function 444, and the image generation function 445 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and the operation control function 441, the acquisition function 442, the transmission function 443, the reception function 444, and the image generation function 445 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0092] The operation control function 441 controls each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 based on an input operation received from a user via the input interface 41. Specifically, the operation control function 441 reads out a control program stored in the memory 43, expands it on the memory in the processing circuitry 44, and controls each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 in accordance with the expanded control program.

[0093] For example, the operation control function 441 receives an instruction to start imaging from a user via the input interface 41. As with the X-ray TV device 10, the instruction to start imaging for the general X-ray imaging device 30 includes input of information representing the subject ID and the examination protocol.

[0094] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 441 receives an instruction to perform imaging from a user via the input interface 41, it controls the X-ray tube 45, the X-ray detector 34, the aperture 46, etc., and performs X-ray imaging of the subject P in accordance with the examination protocol.

[0095] Specifically, when the operation control function 441 receives an instruction to perform imaging from a user, it controls the X-ray tube 45, the X-ray detector 34, and the aperture 46 to move the center of the X-ray tube 45 to a position corresponding to the imaging region of the subject P and perform X-ray imaging of the subject P at that position. Furthermore, when performing long-length imaging, the operation control function 441 performs X-ray imaging by moving the center of the X-ray tube 45 to positions corresponding to each of a plurality of imaging regions that make up the imaging range of the long image.

[0096] The acquisition function 442 acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing the subject P with an imaging support sensor in the examination room where the device is located. For example, when the acquisition function 442 is requested by the medical information processing device 70 to acquire imaging support sensing data, the acquisition function 442 controls the sensor 102 via the operation control function 441 to sense the subject P and acquire imaging support sensing data.

[0097] Here, for example, when the acquisition function 442 acquires imaging support data for the subject P, the general X-ray imaging device 30 is an example of a first medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the general X-ray imaging device 30 is placed is an example of a first examination room. Also, the X-ray TV device 10 and the mammography device 50 are examples of a second medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the X-ray TV device 10 is installed and the examination room in which the mammography device 50 is installed are examples of a second examination room.

[0098] Here, the sensor 102 is an imaging support sensor, similar to the sensor 101. In this embodiment, the sensor 102 is described as being a laser scanner, similar to the sensor 101, but the sensor 102 may be an imaging support sensor of a different type from the sensor 101.

[0099] In this embodiment, the sensor 102 is provided near the X-ray irradiation port of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of installing the sensor 102 in the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the sensor 102 is provided near the X-ray tube 45. This allows the sensor 102 to scan the entire body of the subject P standing near the X-ray detector 34 of the stand 32 or the subject P placed on the tabletop 48.

[0100] The position where the sensor 102 is provided is not limited to the above. For example, the sensor 102 may be movably provided on the ceiling of the examination room in which the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 is provided.

[0101] 4 and 5, the description will be continued. The transmission function 443 transmits various information to other devices. For example, the transmission function 443 transmits the imaging support scan data acquired by the acquisition function 442 to the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 40 and the network 90. ​​At this time, the transmission function 443 transmits the imaging support scan data in association with the subject ID.

[0102] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 441 receives an instruction to start imaging, the transmission function 443 transmits, as described above, a setting information request including information indicating the type of device, the subject ID included in the instruction to start imaging, and information indicating the examination protocol to the medical information processing device 70. The setting information is information including positioning information of each part of the general X-ray imaging device 30 and information indicating imaging conditions for imaging the subject P.

[0103] The positioning information of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 is, for example, information indicating the position of the X-ray detector 34, the position of the X-ray tube holding device 33, etc. in the case of upright position imaging. Also, for example, in the case of supine position imaging, it is information indicating the position of the tabletop 48, the position of the X-ray tube holding device 33, etc. Also, the imaging conditions are conditions that should be changed depending on the physique of the subject P, such as tube voltage, tube current, X-ray irradiation time, etc.

[0104] The receiving function 444 receives various information from other devices. For example, the receiving function 444 receives a sensing data request from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 40 and the network 90. ​​Also, for example, the receiving function 444 receives setting information from the medical information processing device 70 in the same manner as described above.

[0105] When the receiving function 444 receives the setting information, the operation control function 441 controls the drive circuit 37, the controller 38, etc., and executes the setting of the positioning and imaging conditions of each part of the general X-ray imaging device 30 according to the setting information. After that, the user checks (adjusts if necessary) the position and imaging conditions of each part of the general X-ray imaging device 30, and inputs an imaging execution instruction to instruct the execution of imaging processing.

[0106] The image generation function 445 generates an X-ray image based on the X-ray photography. For example, when long-length photography is performed, the image generation function 445 generates a long-length image based on the X-ray photography performed in each of a plurality of photography regions. The image generation function 445 outputs the generated X-ray image and long-length image to the display unit 42 and the memory 43.

[0107] The explanation will continue by returning to Figure 1. The mammography apparatus 50 is an X-ray diagnostic apparatus that acquires mammography images from a subject P. The configuration of the mammography apparatus 50 will be explained below with reference to Figure 7.

[0108] The mammography apparatus 50 shown in Figure 7 has a base 501 and a stand 502. The stand 502 is erected on the base 501 and supports an imaging table 503, a compression paddle 504, an X-ray tube 505, an X-ray aperture 506, an X-ray detector 507, and a signal processing circuit 508. The stand 502 supports the imaging table 503, the compression paddle 504, the X-ray detector 507, and the signal processing circuit 508 so that they can move up and down.

[0109] The imaging table 503 is a table that supports the breast of the subject P and has a support surface on which the breast is placed. The compression plate 504 is disposed above the imaging table 503 and is provided so as to face parallel to the imaging table 503. The compression plate 504 is provided so as to be movable in a direction toward and away from the imaging table 503. For example, the compression plate 504 compresses the breast supported on the imaging table 503 by moving in a direction toward the imaging table 503. The breast compressed by the compression plate 504 is spread thinly, reducing the overlap of the mammary glands within the breast.

[0110] The X-ray tube 505 is a vacuum tube having a cathode (filament) that generates thermoelectrons and an anode (target) that generates X-rays upon impact of the thermoelectrons. The X-ray tube 705 generates X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from the cathode to the anode using a high voltage supplied from the X-ray high voltage device 570.

[0111] The X-ray aperture 506 is disposed between the X-ray tube 505 and the compression plate 504, and controls the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 505. For example, the X-ray aperture 506 has a collimator that narrows the irradiation range of the X-rays, and a filter that adjusts the X-rays.

[0112] The collimator in the X-ray aperture 506 has, for example, four slidable aperture blades, and by sliding these aperture blades, the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 505 are narrowed down and irradiated onto the breast. Here, the aperture blades are plate-shaped members made of lead or the like, and are provided near the X-ray irradiation port of the X-ray tube 505 in order to adjust the irradiation range of the X-rays.

[0113] The filter in the X-ray aperture 506 changes the radiation quality of the transmitted X-rays depending on its material and thickness, in order to reduce the radiation dose to the subject and improve image quality, thereby reducing soft ray components that are easily absorbed by the subject and high energy components that cause a decrease in image contrast. Furthermore, the filter changes the X-ray dose and irradiation range depending on its material, thickness, position, etc., and attenuates the X-rays so that the X-rays irradiated to the subject P have a predetermined distribution.

[0114] For example, the X-ray aperture 506 has a drive mechanism such as a motor and an actuator, and controls the irradiation of X-rays by operating the drive mechanism under the control of the processing circuitry 515 described later. For example, the X-ray aperture 506 applies a drive voltage to the drive mechanism in accordance with a control signal received from the processing circuitry 515, thereby adjusting the opening of the aperture blades of the collimator and controlling the irradiation range of the X-rays irradiated onto the subject P.

[0115] Furthermore, for example, the X-ray aperture 506 controls the distribution of the X-ray dose irradiated onto the subject P by adjusting the position of the filter by applying a drive voltage to the drive mechanism in accordance with a control signal received from the processing circuit 515.

[0116] The X-ray detector 507 is, for example, an X-ray flat panel detector (FPD) having detection elements arranged in a matrix. The X-ray detector 507 detects X-rays that are irradiated from the X-ray tube 505 and transmitted through the breast of the subject P, and outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose to the signal processing circuit 508.

[0117] The X-ray detector 507 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 semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electrical signal.

[0118] For example, the X-ray detector 507 detects X-ray pulses irradiated from the X-ray tube 505 and generates a detection signal corresponding to the detected X-ray dose. Here, the X-ray detector 507 holds the generated detection signal. After irradiating the X-ray pulse, the X-ray detector 507 outputs the detection signal to the signal processing circuit 508. Then, the signal processing circuit 508 generates projection data based on the detection signal output from the X-ray detector 507 and stores the projection data in the memory 514.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 2, the mammography apparatus 50 also includes an elevator drive device 509, an X-ray high voltage device 570, a communication interface 511, an input interface 512, a display unit 513, a memory 514, and a processing circuit 515.

[0120] The lifting drive device 509 is connected to the imaging table 503 and the compression plate 504. For example, the lifting drive device 509 raises and lowers the imaging table 503 in the vertical direction. Also, for example, the lifting drive device 509 raises and lowers the compression plate 504 in the vertical direction (the direction toward and away from the imaging table 503). For example, the lifting drive device 509 has a drive mechanism such as a motor and an actuator, and controls the elevation of the imaging table 503 and the compression plate 504 by operating the drive mechanism under the control of the processing circuit 515.

[0121] The X-ray high voltage device 570 supplies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 505 under the control of the processing circuit 515. For example, the X-ray high voltage device 570 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and includes a high voltage generator that generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 505, and an X-ray control device that controls the output voltage according to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 505. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type.

[0122] Detailed description will be omitted for the communication interface 511, the input interface 512, the display unit 513, and the memory 514. For example, the communication interface 511, the input interface 512, the display unit 513, and the memory 514 can be configured in the same manner as the communication interface 22, the input interface 23, the display unit 24, and the memory 25 shown in FIG.

[0123] The processing circuitry 515 controls the overall operation of the mammography device 50 .

[0124] For example, the processing circuitry 515 has, as hardware resources, a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU, and a memory such as a ROM or RAM.

[0125] Various processing functions executed by the processing circuit 515 are stored in the memory 514 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The processing circuit 515 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 514. In other words, each circuit that has read each program has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0126] Specifically, the processing circuit 515 executes an operation control function 5151, an acquisition function 5152, a transmission function 5153, a reception function 5154, and an image generation function 5155 by a processor that executes a program loaded in memory.

[0127] Here, the operation control function 5151 is an example of a change unit. The acquisition function 5152 is an example of an acquisition unit. The transmission function 5153 is an example of a transmission unit. The reception function 5154 is an example of a reception unit.

[0128] The operation control function 5151, the acquisition function 5152, the transmission function 5153, the reception function 5154, and the image generation function 5155 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and the operation control function 5151, the acquisition function 5152, the transmission function 5153, the reception function 5154, and the image generation function 5155 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0129] The operation control function 5151 controls each part of the mammography apparatus 50 based on input operations received from the user via the input interface 512. Specifically, the operation control function 5151 reads out a control program stored in the memory 514, expands it into the memory in the processing circuitry 515, and controls each part of the mammography apparatus 50 according to the expanded control program.

[0130] For example, the operation control function 5151 receives an instruction to start imaging from the user via the input interface 512. The instruction to start imaging of the mammography apparatus 50 includes input of a subject ID.

[0131] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 5151 receives an instruction to perform imaging from a user via the input interface 512, it controls the X-ray tube 505, the X-ray detector 507, and the X-ray aperture 506 to image the subject P and collect mammography images. Specifically, the operation control function 5151 controls the X-ray tube 505, the X-ray detector 507, and the X-ray aperture 506 to collect multiple projection data with the X-ray irradiation angle relative to the breast of the subject P changed.

[0132] The acquisition function 5152 acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing the subject P with an imaging support sensor in the examination room where the device is located. For example, when the acquisition function 5152 is requested by the medical information processing device 70 to acquire imaging support sensing data, the acquisition function 5152 controls the sensor 103 via the operation control function 5151 to sense the subject P and acquire imaging support sensing data.

[0133] Here, for example, when the acquisition function 5152 acquires imaging support data for the subject P, the mammography device 50 is an example of a first medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the mammography device 50 is placed is an example of a first examination room. Also, the X-ray TV device 10 and the general X-ray imaging device 30 are examples of a second medical image diagnostic device. Also, the examination room in which the X-ray TV device 10 is installed and the examination room in which the general X-ray imaging device 30 is installed are examples of a second examination room.

[0134] The sensor 103 is an imaging support sensor, similar to the sensors 101 and 102. In this embodiment, the sensor 103 is described as being a laser scanner, similar to the sensor 101, but the sensor 103 may be an imaging support sensor of a different type from the sensor 101.

[0135] In this embodiment, the sensor 103 is provided on the front side of the mammography device 50. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of installing the sensor 103 on the mammography device 50 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the sensor 103 is provided on the front side of the mammography device 50 (the side where the subject P is located) near the X-ray tube 505. This allows the sensor 103 to scan the entire body of the subject P standing in front of the mammography device 50.

[0136] The position where the sensor 102 is provided is not limited to the above. For example, the sensor 102 may be movably provided on the ceiling of the examination room in which the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 is provided.

[0137] In this embodiment, a sensor is provided in each of the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, and the mammography device 50 (or the examination room in which the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, and the mammography device 50 are installed), but there may be devices (or examination rooms) that are not provided with a sensor. It is sufficient that a sensor is provided in at least one device (or examination room).

[0138] 7, the description will be continued. The transmission function 5153 transmits various information to other devices. For example, the transmission function 5153 transmits the imaging support scan data acquired by the acquisition function 5152 to the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 511 and the network 90. ​​At this time, the transmission function 5153 transmits the imaging support scan data in association with the subject ID.

[0139] Furthermore, for example, when the operation control function 5151 receives an instruction to start imaging, the transmission function 5153, similarly to the above, transmits a setting information request including the subject ID included in the instruction to start imaging to the medical information processing device 70. The setting information is information including positioning information of each part of the mammography device 50 and information indicating imaging conditions for imaging the subject P.

[0140] The positioning information of the mammography apparatus 50 is information indicating, for example, the position of the stand 502, the position of the imaging table 503, the position of the X-ray tube 505, etc. The imaging conditions are, for example, conditions that should be changed depending on the physique of the subject P, such as tube voltage, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time.

[0141] The receiving function 5154 receives various information from other devices. For example, the receiving function 5154 receives a sensing data request from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 511 and the network 90. ​​Furthermore, for example, the receiving function 5154 receives setting information from the medical information processing device 70 in the same manner as described above.

[0142] When the receiving function 5154 receives the setting information, the operation control function 5151 controls the elevator drive device 509 and the like, and sets the positioning and imaging conditions of each part of the mammography device 50 according to the setting information. The user then checks (and adjusts, if necessary) the position and imaging conditions of each part of the mammography device 50, and inputs an imaging execution command to instruct the execution of the imaging process.

[0143] The image generation function 5155 generates a mammography image of the subject (breast) P. For example, the image generation function 5155 reconstructs a plurality of mammography images (slices) from a plurality of projection data collected by the operation control function 5151. The image generation function 5155 outputs the generated mammography image to the display unit 513 or the memory 514.

[0144] Returning to FIG. 1 , the explanation will be continued. The medical information processing device 70 efficiently supports diagnostic imaging examinations by utilizing sensing data from an imaging support sensor through processing by a processing circuitry 75. The medical information processing device 70 is realized by computer equipment such as a server or a workstation. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the medical information processing device 70 has a communication interface 71, an input interface 72, a display unit 73, a memory 74, and a processing circuitry 75.

[0145] Detailed description will be omitted for the communication interface 71, the input interface 72, and the display unit 73. For example, the communication interface 71, the input interface 72, and the display unit 73 can be configured in the same manner as the communication interface 22, the input interface 23, and the display unit 24 shown in FIG.

[0146] The memory 74 stores various types of information. For example, the memory 74 can be configured in the same manner as the memory 25 shown in FIG.

[0147] The physique information DB741 is a database that manages physique information. The physique information is information that represents the physique of the subject P. The physique information is, for example, information that represents the height, body thickness, and the position of each part of the subject P in three-dimensional space. The information included in the physique information may be determined arbitrarily, but it shall include at least information that represents the height. The physique information DB741 stores a subject ID and physique information for each subject P in association with each other.

[0148] The processing circuitry 75 controls the overall operation of the medical information processing device 70 .

[0149] For example, the processing circuitry 75 has, as hardware resources, a processor such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU, and a memory such as a ROM or RAM.

[0150] Various processing functions executed by the processing circuit 75 are stored in the memory 74 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The processing circuit 75 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the memory 74. In other words, each circuit that has read each program has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0151] Specifically, the processing circuitry 75 executes a receiving function 751, a specifying function 752, a generating function 753, and a transmitting function 754 by a processor that executes a program loaded in memory.

[0152] Here, the identifying function 752 is an example of a identifying unit. The generating function 753 and the transmitting function 754 are examples of a changing unit. The receiving function 751 is an example of a receiving unit. The transmitting function 754 is an example of a transmitting unit.

[0153] The receiving function 751, the identifying function 752, the generating function 753, and the transmitting function 754 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the receiving function 751, the identifying function 752, the generating function 753, and the transmitting function 754 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0154] The receiving function 751 receives various types of information from other devices. For example, the receiving function 751 receives imaging support scan data from the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90. ​​Also, for example, the receiving function 751 receives a setting information request from the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50, in the same manner as described above.

[0155] The identification function 752 identifies physique information of the subject P based on the imaging support sensing data. For example, when imaging support scan data is received by the receiving function 751, the identification function 752 identifies physique information of the subject P identified by the subject ID associated with the imaging support scan data based on the imaging support scan data.

[0156] More specifically, the identification function 752 identifies the position in three-dimensional space of each part of the body of the subject P (for example, the top of the head, chin, chest, crotch, heel, etc.) from the imaging support scan data. Based on the identification result of each part, the identification function 752 identifies the height, body thickness, and the position of each part in three-dimensional space with the top of the head as the base point (hereinafter also referred to as the three-dimensional position of each part), etc. of the subject P.

[0157] The identification function 752 outputs the identified information such as the height, body thickness, and three-dimensional position of each part of the subject P as physique information of the subject P to the memory 74 in association with the subject ID.

[0158] The generating function 753 generates the setting information. For example, the generating function 753 generates the setting information when the receiving function 751 receives a setting information request from the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50.

[0159] More specifically, the generation function 753 first identifies a target device for which the setting information is to be generated from the information indicating the type of device included in the setting information request. In this embodiment, the generation function 753 identifies whether the target device is the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50.

[0160] Next, the generating function 753 identifies a target subject for the setting information generation process from the subject ID included in the setting information request. The generating function 753 refers to the physique information DB 741 and identifies physique information corresponding to the subject ID of the target subject. At this time, if the subject ID included in the setting information does not exist in the physique information DB 741, the transmitting function 754 described below transmits a sensing data request.

[0161] Next, the generation function 753 generates setting information corresponding to the target device based on the physique information of the identified target subject.

[0162] For example, if the target device is the X-ray TV device 10, the generation function 753 determines the appropriate position of the top plate of the bed 12 in the height direction (Z-axis direction in FIG. 2) during imaging based on the height of the target subject.

[0163] Furthermore, based on the three-dimensional position of each part and information indicating the examination protocol included in the setting information request, the generation function 753 estimates the position of the imaging part of the target subject when the target subject is placed at a predetermined position on the top board of the bed 12. The generation function 753 determines the position of the imaging system 11 in the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 2), the position in the depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 2), and the position in the height direction according to the estimated position of the imaging part.

[0164] The generating function 753 uses the information indicating the position of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 determined as described above as information for positioning each part of the X-ray TV device 10.

[0165] Furthermore, the generation function 753 determines the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray exposure time, etc. based on the height and body thickness of the target subject. The generation function 753 may determine the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray exposure time, etc. by taking into account information not included in the physique information, such as the weight of the target subject. In this case, the generation function 753 may acquire information from an external device, such as an electronic medical record server, via the communication interface 71 and the network 90.

[0166] The generation function 753 sets the imaging conditions for imaging the target subject determined as above, and generates positioning information and imaging conditions of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 as setting information.

[0167] Also, for example, if the target device is a general X-ray imaging device 30 and upright imaging is performed, the generation function 753 determines the appropriate height direction (Z-axis direction in Figure 4) position of the X-ray detector 34 during imaging based on the height of the target subject.

[0168] Furthermore, based on the three-dimensional position of each part and the information indicating the examination protocol included in the setting information request, the generation function 753 estimates the position of the imaging part of the target subject when the target subject is standing at a predetermined position near the stand 32. The generation function 753 determines the position of the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 4), depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 4), and height direction of the X-ray tube holding device 33 according to the estimated position of the imaging part.

[0169] The generating function 753 uses the information indicating the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 determined as described above as information for positioning each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 during imaging in the standing position.

[0170] Furthermore, when performing supine position imaging, the generation function 753 determines the appropriate position of the tabletop 48 in the height direction (Z-axis direction in FIG. 5) during imaging based on the height of the subject.

[0171] Furthermore, based on the three-dimensional position of each part and the information indicating the examination protocol included in the setting information request, the generation function 753 estimates the position of the imaging part of the target subject when the target subject is placed at a predetermined position on the tabletop 48. The generation function 753 determines the position of the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 5), depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 5), and height direction of the X-ray tube holding device 33 according to the estimated position of the imaging part.

[0172] The generation function 753 sets the information indicating the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging device 30 determined as described above as positioning information of each part of the general X-ray imaging device 30 during supine position imaging. The imaging conditions are the same as when the target device is the X-ray TV device 10.

[0173] Also, for example, if the target device is a mammography device 50, the generation function 753 determines the height position of the stand 502, the height position of the imaging table 503, and the height position of the X-ray tube 505 based on the height of the target subject and the height position of the chest (Z-axis direction in Figure 5) when the target subject is standing at a predetermined position near the stand 502, estimated from the three-dimensional position of the target subject's chest.

[0174] The generation function 753 uses the information indicating the position of each part of the mammography apparatus 50 determined as described above as positioning information for each part of the mammography apparatus 50 .

[0175] Furthermore, the generation function 753 determines the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray irradiation time, etc. based on the compressed breast thickness estimated from the three-dimensional position of the chest of the subject.

[0176] In this embodiment, the generation function 753 generates setting information that includes both positioning information and imaging conditions, but it may also generate setting information that includes only one of the positioning information and imaging conditions.

[0177] The transmission function 754 transmits various information to other devices. For example, the transmission function 754 transmits a sensing data request to the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90, requesting that sensing data be acquired.

[0178] More specifically, when the receiving function 751 receives a setting information request and the physique information DB 741 does not contain physique information corresponding to the subject ID included in the setting information request, the transmitting function 754 transmits a sensing data request requesting the acquisition of scan data for imaging support to a device identified from the information indicating the type of device included in the setting information request.

[0179] Also, for example, the transmission function 754 transmits the setting information generated by the generation function 753 to the X-ray TV device 10, the general X-ray imaging device 30, or the mammography device 50 in response to a setting information request, in the same manner as described above.

[0180] Next, a description will be given of the processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system 1. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0181] First, the operation control function 261 of the X-ray TV device 10 receives an instruction to start imaging from a user (step S1). For example, the operation control function 261 receives the instruction to start imaging, including input of information representing a subject ID and an examination protocol, from the user via the operation unit 15 or the input interface 23.

[0182] Next, the transmission function 263 transmits a setting information request to the medical information processing device 70 (step S2). For example, the transmission function 263 transmits the setting information request including information indicating the type of device (that the type of device is the X-ray TV device 10), the subject ID received in step S1, and the examination protocol, via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0183] Next, the receiving function 751 of the medical information processing device 70 receives the setting information request (step S3). For example, the receiving function 751 receives the setting information request transmitted by the transmitting function 263 of the X-ray TV device 10 in step S2 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90.

[0184] Next, the generating function 753 determines whether physique information of the target subject exists (step S4). For example, the generating function 753 refers to the physique information DB 741 in the memory 74 and determines whether physique information corresponding to the subject ID included in the setting information request received in step S3 exists. If physique information exists (step S4: Yes), the process proceeds to step S11, which will be described later.

[0185] On the other hand, if there is no physique information (step S4: No), the transmission function 754 transmits a sensing data request to the X-ray TV device 10 (step S5). For example, the transmission function 754 transmits a sensing data request requesting acquisition of scan data for imaging support via the communication interface 71 and the network 90 to a device (the X-ray TV device 10 in the example of FIG. 9) identified by the information indicating the type of device included in the setting information request received in step S3.

[0186] Next, the receiving function 264 of the X-ray TV device 10 receives the sensing data request (step S6). For example, the receiving function 264 receives the sensing data request transmitted from the medical information processing device 70 in step S5 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0187] Next, the acquisition function 262 acquires sensing data for imaging support (step S7). For example, the acquisition function 262 controls the sensor 101 to scan the target subject placed on the top board of the bed 12 and acquires scan data for imaging support.

[0188] Next, the transmission function 263 transmits the imaging support sensing data to the medical information processing device 70 (step S8). For example, the transmission function 263 associates the imaging support scan data acquired in step S7 with the subject ID accepted in step S1 and transmits the data to the medical information processing device 70.

[0189] Next, the receiving function 751 of the medical information processing device 70 receives the imaging support sensing data (step S9). For example, the receiving function 751 receives the imaging support scan data associated with the subject ID transmitted from the X-ray TV device 10 in step S8.

[0190] Next, the identification function 752 identifies physique information (step S10). For example, the identification function 752 identifies the height, body thickness, three-dimensional position of each part, etc. of the target subject based on the imaging support scan data received in step S9. The identification function 752 associates the subject ID associated with the imaging support scan data with the identified information and outputs the result to the memory 74, thereby registering the physique information of the target subject in the physique information DB 741.

[0191] Next, the generating function 753 generates setting information (step S11). For example, the generating function 753 determines positioning information and imaging conditions based on the physique information of the target subject identified in step S10 or the physique information of the target subject registered in the physique information DB 741, and generates the determined positioning information and imaging conditions as setting information.

[0192] Next, the transmission function 754 transmits the setting information (step S12). For example, the transmission function 754 associates the setting information generated in step S11 with the subject ID included in the setting information request received in step S3, and transmits the result to the X-ray TV device 10.

[0193] Next, the receiving function 264 of the X-ray TV device 10 receives the setting information (step S13). For example, the receiving function 264 receives the setting information associated with the subject ID transmitted from the medical information processing device 70 in step S12. The operation control function 261 compares the subject ID with the subject ID included in the most recently received imaging start instruction, thereby being able to confirm whether the received setting information corresponds to the subject to be imaged.

[0194] Next, the operation control function 261 sets the positioning of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 and the imaging conditions (step S14). For example, the operation control function 261 changes the height and position of the tabletop of the bed 12 and the position of the imaging system 11 according to the setting information received in step S13. The operation control function 261 also sets the imaging conditions according to the setting information received in step S13.

[0195] Thereafter, the user checks the positions of the various parts of the X-ray TV device 10 and the imaging conditions, and makes adjustments if necessary.

[0196] Next, the operation control function 261 performs X-ray imaging of the target subject (step S15). For example, when an instruction to perform imaging is received from the user, the operation control function 261 controls the imaging system 11, the imaging system driving unit 13, etc., and performs X-ray imaging of the subject P in accordance with the examination protocol.

[0197] Next, the image generation function 265 generates image data (step S16). For example, the image generation function 265 generates projection data based on the output from the X-ray detector 20. The image generation function 265 performs image processing such as filtering on the generated projection data to generate image data (a fluoroscopic image or a photographed image of the target subject).

[0198] Next, the image generating function 265 outputs the image data (step S17) and ends this process. For example, the image generating function 265 outputs the image data generated in step S16 to the display unit 24 or the memory 25.

[0199] In Figure 9, the processing performed by the X-ray TV device 10 and the medical information processing device 70 is described, but the processing performed by the general X-ray imaging device 30 and the medical information processing device 70, and the processing performed by the mammography device 50 and the medical information processing device 70 are also approximately similar.

[0200] The medical image diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment described above acquires imaging support sensing data by sensing the subject with a sensor (101, 102, or 103) in an examination room where one of the X-ray diagnostic devices (X-ray TV device 10, general X-ray imaging device 30, or mammography device 50) in the system is located, and based on the imaging support sensing data, changes at least one of the positions of each part of the X-ray diagnostic device and the imaging conditions that are located in an examination room other than the examination room where the imaging support sensing data was acquired.

[0201] As a result, the medical image diagnostic system 1 according to this embodiment can automatically change at least one of the positions of each part of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus and the imaging conditions to suit the subject P, for example, when performing an examination on the same subject P using an X-ray diagnostic apparatus after acquiring imaging support sensing data for the subject P. At this time, it is considered that the settings of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus are automatically changed to those that are generally considered appropriate for the subject P to be examined. Therefore, medical professionals such as radiologists are more likely to be able to complete the work of positioning each part of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus and setting the imaging conditions with only minor adjustments, thereby reducing the burden and work time associated with the work of positioning each part of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus and setting the imaging conditions, etc. In other words, the medical image diagnostic system 1 according to this embodiment enables efficient X-ray diagnostic examinations.

[0202] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, the medical information processing device 70 generates setting information for each X-ray diagnostic apparatus. In the second embodiment, each X-ray diagnostic apparatus changes its own setting to a setting appropriate for the subject P based on imaging support scan data.

[0203] In the following, differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described, and detailed descriptions of commonalities with the contents already described will be omitted. Furthermore, each embodiment described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0204] First, the configuration of a medical image diagnostic system 1A according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the medical image diagnostic system 1A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 10, the medical image diagnostic system 1A includes an X-ray TV device 10A, a general X-ray imaging device 30A, a mammography device 50A, and a medical information processing device 70A.

[0205] Next, the configuration of the X-ray TV device 10A will be described. Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray TV device 10A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 11, the X-ray TV device 10A has substantially the same configuration as the X-ray TV device 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2, but differs from the X-ray TV device 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a console 16A.

[0206] The console 16A has substantially the same configuration as the console 16 shown in Fig. 2, but differs from the console 16A in that it includes a processing circuit 26A. The processing circuit 26A includes an operation control function 261, an acquisition function 262, a transmission function 263A, a reception function 264A, an image generation function 265, a specification function 266, and a change function 267. The operation control function 261 and the specification function 266 are examples of a specification unit. The change function 267 is an example of a change unit.

[0207] The operation control function 261, the acquisition function 262, and the image generation function 265 are substantially the same as those in FIG. 2, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0208] The transmission function 263A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70 A. For example, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from a user, the transmission function 263A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70 A via the communication interface 22 and the network 90, the sensing data transmission request including the subject ID received by the operation control function 261 and information indicating the type of device, and requesting transmission of imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID.

[0209] Also, for example, when the acquisition function 262 acquires scan data for imaging support, the transmission function 263A transmits the scan data for imaging support associated with the subject ID corresponding to the subject P scanned by the sensor 101 to the medical information processing device 70, in the same manner as described above.

[0210] The receiving function 264A receives sensing data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70. For example, the receiving function 264A receives scan data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0211] The identification function 266 identifies physique information of the subject P. For example, when the acquisition function 262 acquires scan data for imaging support, or when the reception function 264A receives scan data for imaging support, the identification function 266A identifies physique information of the subject P in a manner similar to that of the identification function 752 of the medical information processing device 70 in FIG.

[0212] The identification function 266 may cooperate with the transmission function 263A to associate the subject ID of the subject P with the physique information of the identified subject P and transmit the information to the medical information processing device 70. In this case, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from the user, the transmission function 263A may transmit a physique information request to the medical information processing device 70 to request transmission of the physique information.

[0213] The change function 267 changes at least one of the positions of the components of the X-ray TV device 10A and the imaging conditions based on the physique information of the subject P.

[0214] For example, the change function 267 determines the appropriate position of the top plate of the bed 12 in the height direction (Z-axis direction in FIG. 11) during imaging based on the height of the target subject included in the physique information identified by the identification function 266.

[0215] Furthermore, the change function 267 estimates the position of the imaging region of the subject P when the subject is placed at a predetermined position on the top board of the bed 12, based on the three-dimensional position of each region of the subject P included in the physique information identified by the identification function 266 and information representing the examination protocol accepted by the operation control function 261. The change function 267 determines the position of the imaging system 11 in the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 11), the position in the depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 11), and the position in the height direction, according to the estimated position of the imaging region.

[0216] The change function 267 cooperates with the operation control function 261 to change the position of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A based on the information indicating the position of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A determined as described above.

[0217] Furthermore, the change function 267 determines the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray exposure time, etc. based on the height and body thickness of the target subject included in the physique information identified by the identification function 266. Note that the change function 267 may determine the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray exposure time, etc. by taking into consideration information not included in the physique information, such as the weight of the target subject. In this case, the receiving function 264A may acquire information from an external device, such as an electronic medical record server, via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0218] Then, the change function 267 cooperates with the operation control function 261 to change the imaging conditions for X-ray imaging of the subject P to the imaging conditions determined as described above.

[0219] In this embodiment, the change function 267 changes both the position of each part and the imaging conditions, but it may change only one of the position of each part and the imaging conditions.

[0220] Next, the configuration of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A will be described. Figures 12 and 13 are block diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A has substantially the same configuration as the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, but differs from the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a console 39A.

[0221] 4 and 5, but differs from console 39A in that it includes a processing circuit 44A. Processing circuit 44A includes an operation control function 441, an acquisition function 442, a transmission function 443A, a reception function 444A, an image generation function 445, a specification function 446, and a change function 447. Operation control function 441 and specification function 446 are examples of a specification unit. Change function 447 is an example of a change unit.

[0222] The operation control function 441, the acquisition function 442, and the image generation function 445 are substantially the same as those in FIGS. 4 and 5, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0223] The transmission function 443A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70 A. For example, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from a user, the transmission function 443A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70 A via the communication interface 40 and the network 90, the sensing data transmission request including the subject ID received by the operation control function 261 and information indicating the type of device, and requesting transmission of imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID.

[0224] Also, for example, when imaging support scan data is acquired by the acquisition function 442, the transmission function 443A transmits the imaging support scan data associated with the subject ID corresponding to the subject P scanned by the sensor 102 to the medical information processing device 70, as described above.

[0225] The receiving function 444A receives sensing data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70. For example, the receiving function 444A receives scan data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 40 and the network 90.

[0226] The identification function 446 identifies physique information of the subject P. For example, when the acquisition function 262 acquires scan data for imaging support, or when the reception function 264A receives scan data for imaging support, the identification function 266A identifies the physique information of the subject P in a manner similar to that of the identification function 752 of the medical information processing device 70 in FIG.

[0227] The identification function 446 may cooperate with the transmission function 443A to associate the subject ID of the subject P with the physique information of the identified subject P and transmit the information to the medical information processing device 70. In this case, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from the user, the transmission function 443A may transmit a physique information request to the medical information processing device 70 to request transmission of the physique information.

[0228] The change function 447 changes at least one of the positions of the components of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A and the imaging conditions based on the physical information of the subject P.

[0229] For example, when performing standing position imaging, the change function 447 determines the appropriate position of the X-ray detector 34 in the height direction (Z-axis direction in Figure 12) during imaging based on the height of the target subject included in the physique information identified by the identification function 446.

[0230] Furthermore, the change function 447 estimates the position of the imaging region of the target subject when the target subject is standing at a predetermined position near the stand 32, based on the three-dimensional position of each region included in the physique information identified by the identification function 446 and information representing the examination protocol accepted by the operation control function 261. The change function 447 determines the position of the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 12), depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 12), and height direction of the X-ray tube holding device 33 according to the estimated position of the imaging region.

[0231] The change function 447 cooperates with the operation control function 441 to change the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A during upright position imaging based on the information indicating the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A determined as described above.

[0232] Furthermore, for example, when performing supine position imaging, the change function 447 determines an appropriate position of the tabletop 48 in the height direction (Z-axis direction in FIG. 5) during imaging based on the height of the subject.

[0233] Furthermore, based on the three-dimensional position of each part and information indicating the examination protocol, the change function 447 estimates the position of the imaging part of the target subject when the target subject is placed at a predetermined position on the tabletop 48. The change function 447 determines the position of the X-ray tube holding device 33 in the width direction (X-axis direction in FIG. 13), the position in the depth direction (Y-axis direction in FIG. 13), and the position in the height direction, according to the estimated position of the imaging part.

[0234] The change function 447 cooperates with the operation control function 441 to change the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A in the supine position imaging based on the information indicating the position of each part of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A determined as described above. The imaging conditions are the same as when the change function 267 of the X-ray TV device 10A changes the imaging conditions.

[0235] In this embodiment, the change function 447 changes both the position of each part and the imaging conditions, but it may change only one of the position of each part and the imaging conditions.

[0236] Next, the configuration of the mammography apparatus 50A will be described. Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the mammography apparatus 50A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 14, the mammography apparatus 50A has a configuration substantially similar to that of the mammography apparatus 50 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 7, but differs from the mammography apparatus 50 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a processing circuit 515A.

[0237] The processing circuit 515A includes an operation control function 5151, an acquisition function 5152, a transmission function 5153A, a reception function 5154A, an image generation function 5155, a specification function 5156, and a change function 5157. The operation control function 5151 and the specification function 5156 are examples of a specification unit. The change function 5157 is an example of a change unit. The operation control function 5151, the acquisition function 5152, and the image generation function 5155 are substantially the same as those in FIG. 7, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0238] The transmission function 5153A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70 A. For example, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from a user, the transmission function 5153A transmits, via the communication interface 511 and the network 90 to the medical information processing device 70 A, a sensing data transmission request that includes the subject ID received by the operation control function 261 and information indicating the type of device and requests transmission of imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID.

[0239] Also, for example, when imaging support scan data is acquired by the acquisition function 5152, the transmission function 5153A transmits the imaging support scan data associated with the subject ID corresponding to the subject P scanned by the sensor 103 to the medical information processing device 70, as described above.

[0240] The receiving function 264A receives sensing data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70. For example, the receiving function 264A receives scan data for imaging support from the medical information processing device 70 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0241] The identification function 5156 identifies physique information of the subject P. For example, when the acquisition function 5152 acquires scan data for imaging support, or when the reception function 5154A receives scan data for imaging support, the identification function 5156A identifies the physique information of the subject P in a manner similar to that of the identification function 752 of the medical information processing device 70 in FIG.

[0242] The identifying function 5156 may cooperate with the transmitting function 5153A to associate the subject ID of the subject P with the physique information of the identified subject P and transmit the information to the medical information processing device 70. In this case, when receiving an instruction to start imaging from the user, the transmitting function 5153A may transmit a physique information request to the medical information processing device 70 to request transmission of the physique information.

[0243] The change function 5157 changes at least one of the positions of the components of the mammography apparatus 50A and the imaging conditions based on the physical information of the subject P.

[0244] For example, the change function 5157 determines the height position of the stand 502, the height position of the imaging table 503, and the height position of the X-ray tube 505 based on the height of the target subject included in the physique information identified by the identification function 5156 and the height position of the chest (Z-axis direction in Figure 14) of the target subject when standing at a specified position near the stand 502, estimated from the three-dimensional position of the target subject's chest.

[0245] The change function 5157 cooperates with the operation control function 5151 to change the position of each part of the mammography apparatus 50A based on the information indicating the position of each part of the mammography apparatus 50A determined as described above.

[0246] In addition, the change function 5157 determines the tube voltage, tube current, X-ray exposure time, etc. based on the compressed breast thickness estimated from the three-dimensional position of the chest of the target subject included in the physique information identified by the identification function 5156.

[0247] Then, the change function 5157 cooperates with the operation control function 5151 to change the imaging conditions for X-ray imaging of the subject P to the imaging conditions determined as described above.

[0248] In this embodiment, the change function 5157 changes both the position of each part and the imaging conditions, but it may change only one of the position of each part and the imaging conditions.

[0249] Returning to Fig. 10, the configuration of the medical information processing device 70A will be described. As shown in Fig. 10, the medical information processing device 70 has substantially the same configuration as the medical information processing device 70 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, but differs from the medical information processing device 70 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a memory 74A and a processing circuit 75A.

[0250] The memory 74A stores a sensing data DB 742 instead of the physique information DB 741. The sensing data DB 742 is a database that stores, for example, a subject ID and imaging support scan data for each subject P in association with each other. Note that the memory 74A may store the physique information DB 741, as in the first embodiment. In this case, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the physique information is identified on the side of each X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

[0251] Processing circuitry 75A includes a receiving function 751A and a transmitting function 754A.

[0252] The receiving function 751A receives a sensing data transmission request. For example, the receiving function 751A receives a sensing data transmission request from the X-ray TV device 10A, the general X-ray imaging device 30A, or the mammography device 50A via the communication interface 71 and the network 90.

[0253] Furthermore, for example, when imaging support scan data is acquired by the X-ray TV device 10A, the general X-ray imaging device 30A, or the mammography device 50A, the receiving function 751A receives the imaging support scan data from the device that acquired the imaging support scan data. The receiving function 751A outputs the received imaging support scan data to the memory 74A together with the subject ID associated with the imaging support scan data.

[0254] The memory 74A stores the subject ID and the imaging support scan data output from the receiving function 751A in the sensing data DB 742 in association with each other.

[0255] In addition, when the physical information DB741 is stored in the memory 74A and the receiving function 751A receives the physical information of the subject P from the X-ray TV device 10A, the general X-ray imaging device 30A, or the mammography device 50A, the receiving function 751A outputs the received physical information to the memory 74A together with the subject ID associated with the physical information.

[0256] In this case, the memory 74A stores the subject ID and the physique information output from the receiving function 751A in the physique information DB 741 in association with each other.

[0257] The transmission function 754A transmits a sensing data request and also transmits sensing data.

[0258] For example, when the receiving function 751A receives a sensing data transmission request, the transmitting function 754A refers to the sensing data DB 742 and determines whether or not there is imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID included in the sensing data transmission request. If there is imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID, the transmitting function 754A transmits the imaging support scan data to the device that transmitted the sensing data transmission request.

[0259] On the other hand, if there is no imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID, the transmission function 754A sends a sensing data request to the device that sent the sensing data transmission request, requesting that the imaging support scan data of the subject P identified by the subject ID be obtained.

[0260] If the physique information DB 741 is stored in the memory 74A, the transmission function 754A refers to the physique information DB 741 and performs the same process as above.

[0261] Next, the processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system 1A will be described. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the medical image diagnostic system 1A according to the second embodiment. Step S21 is the same as step S1 in Fig. 9, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted.

[0262] After step S21, the transmission function 263A of the X-ray TV device 10A transmits a sensing data transmission request to the medical information processing device 70A (step S22). For example, the transmission function 263A transmits the sensing data transmission request including information indicating the type of device (that the type of device is the X-ray TV device 10A) and the subject ID accepted in step S21 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0263] Next, the receiving function 751A of the medical image processing device 70A receives the sensing data transmission request (step S23). For example, the receiving function 751A receives the sensing data transmission request transmitted by the transmitting function 263A of the X-ray TV device 10A in step S22 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90.

[0264] Next, the transmission function 754A determines whether sensing data of the target subject exists (step S24). For example, the transmission function 754A refers to the sensing data DB 742 in the memory 74A and determines whether imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID included in the sensing data transmission request received in step S23 exists.

[0265] If the sensing data exists (step S24: Yes), the transmission function 754A transmits the sensing data (step S28). For example, the transmission function 754A associates the subject ID included in the sensing data transmission request received in step S23 with the imaging support scan data corresponding to the subject ID, and transmits the associated data to the X-ray TV device 10A.

[0266] Next, the receiving function 264A of the X-ray TV device 10A receives the sensing data (step S29). For example, the receiving function 264A receives the imaging support scan data transmitted from the medical information processing device 70A in step S28 via the communication interface 22 and the network 90.

[0267] Next, the specifying function 266 specifies the physique information of the target subject (step S30). For example, the physique information is specified in a manner similar to that of the specifying function 752 of the medical information processing device 70 in Fig. 1. Next, the changing function 267 changes the positions and imaging conditions of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A (step S31).

[0268] For example, the change function 267 determines the position and imaging conditions of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A (e.g., the height and position of the table top of the bed 12, the position of the imaging system 11, etc.) based on the physique information of the target subject identified in step S30.

[0269] The change function 267 cooperates with the operation control function 261 to change the position of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A to the determined position of each part of the X-ray TV device 10A. In addition, the change function 267 cooperates with the operation control function 261 to change the imaging conditions to the determined imaging conditions.

[0270] Thereafter, the user checks the positions and imaging conditions of each part of the X-ray TV device 10 and makes adjustments if necessary. The processes of steps S32 to S34 are similar to those of steps S15 to S17, and therefore their explanations will be omitted. After the process of step S34, the transmission function 263A determines whether sensing data has been acquired (step S35).

[0271] For example, if imaging support scan data has been acquired in step S27 described below, the transmission function 263A determines that sensing data has been acquired. On the other hand, if imaging support scan data has been received in step S29, the transmission function 263A determines that sensing data has not been acquired. If sensing data has not been acquired (step S35: No), this process ends.

[0272] On the other hand, if sensing data is being acquired (step S35: Yes), the transmission function 263A transmits the sensing data to the medical information processing device 70A (step S36). For example, the transmission function 263A associates the imaging support scan data acquired in step S27 with the subject ID accepted in step S21 and transmits the data to the medical information processing device 70A.

[0273] Next, the receiving function 751A of the medical information processing device 70A receives the sensing data (step S37) and ends this process. For example, the receiving function 751A receives the imaging support scan data transmitted from the X-ray TV device 10A in step S36 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90.

[0274] The receiving function 751A also outputs the imaging support scan data and the subject ID associated with the imaging support scan data to the memory 74A. The memory 74A stores the output subject ID and imaging support scan data in the sensing data DB 742 in association with each other.

[0275] On the other hand, if there is no sensing data in step S24 (step S24: No), the transmission function 754A transmits a sensing data request to the X-ray TV device 10 (step S25).

[0276] For example, the transmission function 754A transmits a sensing data request requesting acquisition of scan data for imaging support to a device (the X-ray TV device 10 in the example of FIG. 15) identified by the information indicating the type of device included in the setting information request received in step S3 via the communication interface 71 and the network 90. ​​The processing of step S26 is similar to step S6 in FIG. 9, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0277] After step S26, the acquisition function 262 acquires sensing data for imaging support (step S27). For example, the acquisition function 262 controls the sensor 101 to scan the target subject placed on the top of the bed 12 and acquires scan data for imaging support. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S30 described above. The processes from step S31 onwards are the same as those described above, and therefore will not be described again.

[0278] The medical image diagnostic system 1A according to the second embodiment described above identifies physique information of the target subject from imaging support scan data on the X-ray diagnostic device (X-ray TV device 10A, general X-ray imaging device 30A, or mammography device 50A) side, and changes at least one of the positions of each part of the X-ray diagnostic device and the imaging conditions based on the physique information.

[0279] As a result, the medical information processing device 70A only needs to transmit and receive data, and does not need to perform processes such as identifying physique information or generating setting information tailored to the X-ray diagnostic device. In other words, the medical image diagnostic system 1A according to this embodiment can reduce the processing load on the medical information processing device 70A.

[0280] The first and second embodiments described above can be modified as needed by changing part of the configuration or function of each device included in the medical image diagnostic system 1 (1A). Therefore, some modifications of the above-described embodiments will be described below as other embodiments. Differences from the above-described embodiments will be mainly described below, and detailed descriptions of commonalities with the contents already described will be omitted. The modifications described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0281] (Variation 1) In the first and second embodiments described above, at least one of the positions of each part and the imaging conditions of an X-ray TV device, a general X-ray imaging device, and a mammography device is changed based on imaging support sensing data. In this modified example, an embodiment that targets devices other than these will be described.

[0282] For example, the target device that is the subject of the process of changing at least one of the position of each part and the shooting conditions based on the sensing data for shooting support may be an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) device, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) device, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) device, a SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) device, etc.

[0283] As an example, the medical image diagnostic system 1 (1A) may change the height of the bed of the above-mentioned device based on the height of the subject P identified from the imaging support scan data. Furthermore, if the target device is an X-ray CT device, the medical image diagnostic system 1 (1A) may change imaging conditions such as tube voltage and tube current based on the body thickness of the subject P identified from the imaging support scan data.

[0284] The medical image diagnostic system 1 (1A) according to this modification can change at least one of the position of each part and the imaging conditions based on imaging support scan data for medical image diagnostic devices other than X-ray TV devices, general X-ray imaging devices, and mammography devices. In other words, the medical image diagnostic system 1 (1A) according to this modification can efficiently perform various medical image diagnostic examinations.

[0285] (Variation 2) In the above-described second embodiment, a configuration has been described in which the medical image diagnostic system 1A includes the medical information processing device 70A. In this modification, a configuration will be described in which the medical image diagnostic system 1A does not include the medical information processing device 70A.

[0286] In this modification, the memory of at least one of the X-ray TV device 10A, the general X-ray imaging device 30A, and the mammography device 50A stores the physique information DB741 or the sensing data DB742.

[0287] Furthermore, the processing circuitry of at least one of the general X-ray imaging apparatus 30A and the mammography apparatus 50A realizes the functions of the receiving function 751A and the transmitting function 754A.

[0288] According to this modification, even if the medical image diagnostic system 1A does not include the medical information processing device 70A, it is possible to efficiently perform X-ray diagnostic examinations.

[0289] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU, a 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)).

[0290] If the processor is a CPU, for example, it performs its functions by reading and executing programs stored in memory. On the other hand, if the processor is an ASIC, for example, instead of storing programs in memory, the functions are directly built into the processor circuitry as logic circuits.

[0291] Each processor in the embodiments is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits, and may also be configured to realize its functions.Furthermore, multiple components in each diagram may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0292] The components of each device according to the above-described embodiments are conceptual and functionally independent, and are not necessarily physically configured as shown in the drawings. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the drawings, and all or part of each device can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of the processing functions performed by each device can be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0293] The medical information processing method described in the above-described embodiment can be realized by executing a prepared medical information processing program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This medical information processing program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. This medical information processing program can also be recorded on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, flexible disk (FD), CD-ROM, MO, or DVD, and executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer.

[0294] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, medical image diagnostic examinations can be performed efficiently.

[0295] Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0296] 1. 1A Medical imaging diagnostic system 10, 10A X-ray TV device 22 Communication Interface 23 Input Interface 24 Display 25 memory 26, 26A processing circuit 261 Motion Control Function 262 Acquisition Function 263, 263A transmission function 264, 264A receiving function 265 Image Generation Function 266 Specific Functions 267 Change Function 30, 30A General X-ray equipment 40 Communication Interface 41 Input Interface 42 Display section 43 Memory 44, 44A processing circuit 441 Motion Control Function 442 Retrieval Function 443, 443A transmission function 444, 444A receiving function 445 Image Generation Function 446 Specific Functions 447 Change Function 50, 50A Mammography Machine 511 Communication Interface 512 input interface 513 Display section 514 memory 515, 515A processing circuit 5151 Motion control function 5152 Acquisition Function 5153, 5153A transmission function 5154, 5154A receiving function 5155 Image generation function 5156 Specific Functions 5157 Change Function 70, 70A Medical information processing device 71 Communication Interface 72 Input Interface 73 Display section 74, 74A memory 741 Physique information DB 742 Sensing Data DB 75 Processing circuit 751, 751A receiving function 752 Specific Functions 753 Generation function 754, 754A transmission function 90 Network

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room where the first medical image diagnostic apparatus is placed; a change unit that changes at least one of the positions of components and the imaging conditions of a second medical image diagnostic apparatus disposed in a second examination room different from the first examination room, based on the imaging support sensing data; and A medical image diagnostic system comprising:

2. an identification unit that identifies physique information representing a physique of the subject, including at least a height of the subject, based on the imaging support sensing data; The medical image diagnostic system according to claim 1 .

3. the sensor is provided in the first medical image diagnostic apparatus; The medical image diagnostic system according to claim 1 .

4. the first medical image diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and the sensor is provided near an X-ray irradiation port of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. The medical image diagnostic system according to claim 3 .

5. the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray diagnostic apparatus of a different type from the first medical image diagnostic apparatus; The medical image diagnostic system according to claim 4 .

6. the first medical image diagnostic device is any one of a general X-ray imaging device, an X-ray TV device, and a mammography device; the second medical image diagnostic device is any one of a general X-ray imaging device, an X-ray TV device, and a mammography device; The medical image diagnostic system according to claim 4 .

7. the second medical image diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, The apparatus further includes a reception unit that receives an input of an examination protocol including information indicating an imaging region, the change unit estimates a position of the imaging region of the subject when the subject is present at a predetermined position based on the imaging support sensing data and the examination protocol, and changes a position of a tube of an X-ray tube that irradiates X-rays of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus to a position suitable for irradiating X-rays to the estimated position of the imaging region.

7. A medical image diagnostic system according to claim 1.

8. the second medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a bed having a top board on which the subject is placed, the change unit specifies a height of the subject based on the imaging support sensing data, and changes the height of the tabletop in accordance with the specified height of the subject.

7. A medical image diagnostic system according to claim 1.

9. a receiving unit that receives imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room in which a first medical image diagnostic apparatus is placed, from the apparatus in the first examination room; a generation unit that generates control information for changing at least one of the positions of components of a second medical image diagnostic apparatus and imaging conditions of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus disposed in a second examination room different from the first examination room, based on the imaging support sensing data; and a transmitter that transmits the control information to the second medical image diagnostic apparatus; A medical information processing device comprising:

10. an acquisition unit that acquires imaging support sensing data acquired by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room where the device is located; a generation unit that generates control information for changing at least one of the positions of components of a second medical image diagnostic apparatus and imaging conditions of the second medical image diagnostic apparatus disposed in a second examination room different from the first examination room, based on the imaging support sensing data; and a transmitter that transmits the control information to the second medical image diagnostic apparatus; A medical image diagnostic device comprising:

11. an acquiring step of acquiring imaging support sensing data by sensing a subject with a sensor in a first examination room where the first medical image diagnostic apparatus is arranged; a changing step of changing at least one of the positions of the components of a second medical image diagnostic apparatus disposed in a second examination room different from the first examination room and the imaging conditions based on the imaging support sensing data; A computer-aided medical image diagnosis method comprising:

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