Radiography device, decision support method and program

Abstract

After the rounds of radiography, the image quality level of the radiographic image data must be guaranteed (for example, it must be possible to appropriately determine whether or not re-photography is necessary for a defective image). [Solution] The radiography system 100 (medical rounds cart RC) as a radiography device is equipped with a control unit that acquires radiography information regarding radiography of a subject during radiography rounds, and outputs judgment support information that supports the judgment of whether the radiography image data generated by the radiography meets a specified image quality based on the radiography information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiographic apparatus, a decision support method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, when a user such as a radiographer visits patients in a ward of a medical facility such as a hospital, a mobile radiography device (medical visit cart) is used to take radiological (X-ray) images of the patient using an FPD (Flat Panel Detector) at each visit location.

[0003] Compared to general radiography using fixed radiography equipment in general radiography rooms at medical institutions, mobile radiography involves a large number of seriously ill patients (patients who are immobile), making it difficult to repeat previous scans. For example, due to the layout of the beds and equipment, the placement of the mobile radiography carts is often unstable, making it impossible to perform scans with a fixed tube / FPD position and distance, as is the case with general radiography. In many cases, the user makes the rounds alone, and must independently determine the success or failure of the scan. Furthermore, because the destinations for the rounds are different locations, such as wards or operating rooms, it can be time-consuming if it is later discovered that a re-scan is necessary. Furthermore, because the communication networks at the destinations are often weak or radiography is performed in a wireless environment, external information such as the HIS (Hospital Information System), RIS (Radiology Information System), or electronic medical records cannot be obtained.

[0004] For this reason, an X-ray imaging device is known that adjusts the density of the captured image to make it easier for inexperienced radiographers to realize that re-photographing of defective images is unnecessary, by performing gradation processing on the captured radiation image data and displaying it in multiple different windows (median value and width of the image density) (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-172558 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the X-ray imaging device of Patent Document 1, images of different gradations are displayed to inexperienced radiographers as information for determining whether or not an image should be rejected, and a proposal is made based on a single judgment criterion, in which a judgment is made on the application of a specific process to the image.

[0007] However, in mobile radiography, the location of each visit and the condition of each patient are different each time, making it difficult to maintain the same radiography environment as the previous time, and simply changing the gradation level is often insufficient to ensure reproducibility. For example, not only emergency and operation departments, but even general ward patients are subject to radiography because they are unable to come to the general radiography room (cannot move), and as their condition changes daily, the range of possibility (operational range) for radiography varies each time. For this reason, radiography results cannot necessarily be judged by a single standard, and users must set criteria (evaluation standards) for each patient one by one.

[0008] On the other hand, unlike general radiography, radiographers at the local radiography rounds have no other sources of consultation, such as other radiographers or clinicians nearby, or the ability to refer to electronic medical records or PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System).As a result, radiographers with little experience cannot rely solely on the information they receive to determine whether an image is defective during general radiography, which can result in unnecessary work such as having to return to the local radiography rounds to take more images after returning from rounds, and there is a risk that they will not be able to provide the quality of images that clinicians require.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to ensure the image quality level of radiation image data after performing radiography rounds (for example, to make it possible to appropriately determine whether or not re-photographing of a failed image is necessary). [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to solve the above problem, the radiation imaging apparatus of the invention described in claim 1 comprises: The system is equipped with a control unit that acquires rounds imaging information related to the radiography of a subject during rounds, and outputs judgment support information that supports the judgment of whether the radiographic image data generated by the radiography meets a predetermined image quality based on the rounds imaging information.

[0011] The invention described in claim 2 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 1, The control unit determines the type of judgment support information to be generated based on the rounds imaging information.

[0012] The invention described in claim 3 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 1 or 2, The control unit generates the judgment support information using the rounds imaging information.

[0013] The invention described in claim 4 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 3, The control unit generates judgment support information by selecting one of the following: using the rounds imaging information as is; processing the rounds imaging information; or combining and processing the radiation image data of the radiation imaging and the rounds imaging information.

[0014] The invention described in claim 5 is the radiation imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The mobile radiography information is at least one of information for performing the radiography, information accompanying the radiography image data obtained by performing the radiography, and information regarding the radiography device.

[0015] The invention described in claim 6 is the radiation imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The judgment support information is support information for determining whether or not the radiographic image data requires re-photographing.

[0016] The invention described in claim 7 is the radiation imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The control unit displays the decision support information on a display unit.

[0017] The invention described in claim 8 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 7, the judgment support information includes past radiation image data of the subject or another subject; The control unit displays the generated radiation image data and the past radiation image data in association with each other.

[0018] The invention described in claim 9 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 8, The past radiation image data of the subject or other subjects includes past radiation image data of normal or abnormal disease.

[0019] The invention described in claim 10 is the radiation imaging apparatus described in claim 8 or 9, The control unit displays an auxiliary image for assisting the judgment superimposed on the radiation image data.

[0020] The decision support method of the invention described in claim 11 comprises: The method includes a control process of acquiring rounds imaging information related to radiography of a subject by rounds, and outputting judgment support information based on the rounds imaging information to assist in determining whether the radiography image data generated by the radiography meets a predetermined image quality.

[0021] The program of the invention described in claim 12 is Computer, a control unit that acquires rounds imaging information related to radiography of a subject performed by rounds, and outputs judgment support information that supports a judgment as to whether or not the radiographic image data generated by the radiography satisfies a predetermined image quality based on the rounds imaging information; Function as. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, the image quality level of the radiation image data can be guaranteed after the mobile radiography is performed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a radiation imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an FPD. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a medical cart. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a photography purpose table. [Figure 5] 1(a) is a block diagram showing the data flow of the medical cart before radiography, and FIG. 1(b) is a block diagram showing the data flow of the medical cart after radiography. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a first quality information acquisition process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a navigation process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a decision support process. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a decision support screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a decision support screen. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a second quality information acquisition process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0025] First, the configuration of the device according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a radiography system 100. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an FPD 1. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a medical examination cart RC.

[0026] As shown in Fig. 1, a radiography system 100 as a radiography apparatus according to this embodiment is installed in a medical facility such as a hospital. When making rounds on patients, a user U such as a radiographer at the medical facility moves with the radiography system 100 to the destination, such as a ward or operating room, where the patient is located, and performs radiography on the patient. Here, an example will be described in which the destination is a ward, a bed B is installed in the ward, and radiography is performed on a patient S as a subject, who is in a supine position on the bed B with its back raised.

[0027] The radiography system 100 includes an FPD 1 and a medical examination cart RC. The medical examination cart RC has a radiation generator 2 and a console 3. The FPD 1 and the medical examination cart RC can communicate with each other, for example, via wireless communication. Furthermore, the medical examination cart RC can connect to a communication network (such as a LAN (Local Area Network)) within the medical facility at a waiting area (storage area) before rounds, but at the medical examination destination, it is assumed that it cannot connect to the communication network or communication with the communication network is weak.

[0028] Furthermore, the medical cart RC can communicate with external devices such as the HIS, RIS 60, and external device 70 (FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b)) via the above-mentioned communication network. The communication network is assumed to be wireless, but may also be wired.

[0029] The FPD 1 is a device that generates radiation image data corresponding to the radiation R emitted from the radiation generating device 2, and is configured in a panel shape and is portable. Therefore, the FPD 1 can not only be used by being mounted on an imaging table, but also by being placed horizontally between the subject S who is lying on the bed B and the bed B, or by being placed upright between the subject S who is sitting on the bed B with the back raised or the backrest of a wheelchair, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0030] The radiation incident surface (surface facing the subject S) of the FPD 1 mounted on the imaging table is parallel or perpendicular to the horizontal plane, but in imaging without using an imaging table (on bed B or in a wheelchair), the radiation incident surface may not necessarily be parallel or perpendicular to the horizontal plane (it may be tilted). Furthermore, when the FPD 1 is positioned between a soft device such as bed B and the subject S, it may move in accordance with the movement of the subject S.

[0031] The radiation generating device 2 includes a generator main body 21, an irradiation instruction switch 22, a tube 23, a tube support part 24, a collimator 25, and an FPD storage part 26. The radiation generating device 2 is movable by wheels provided on the housing of the generator main body 21.

[0032] When the irradiation instruction switch 22 is operated (pressed) by the user U, it outputs an operation signal to the generator main body 21. Note that, although Fig. 1 illustrates a state in which the irradiation instruction switch 22 is connected to the generator main body 21 by wire, the irradiation instruction switch 22 and the generator main body 21 may be connected wirelessly.

[0033] When irradiation instruction switch 22 is operated, tube 23 generates radiation R (such as X-rays) at a dose corresponding to the preset imaging conditions in a manner corresponding to the imaging conditions, and irradiates it from the irradiation port.

[0034] Tube support 24 is an arm that supports tube 23. Tube support 24 has support part 241 extending upward from generator main body 21 to its tip, and support part 242 extending forward from the top of support part 241. The tip of support part 242 supports tube 23. Tube support 24 also has a joint mechanism (not shown) that enables tube 23 to be moved in the X-axis direction (the front-to-rear direction of radiation generator 2 (left-to-right direction in FIG. 1 )), the Y-axis direction (the width direction of radiation generator 2 (direction perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 1 )) perpendicular to the X-axis, and the Z-axis direction (the vertical direction (up-down direction in FIG. 1 )) perpendicular to the X-axis. Tube support 24 also uses the joint mechanism (not shown) to rotate tube 23 around rotation axes parallel to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, thereby changing the orientation of the radiation R irradiation port.

[0035] Collimator 25 is attached to the irradiation port of tube 23 and is configured to narrow down radiation R so that the irradiation field of radiation R irradiated from the irradiation port has a predetermined rectangular shape. Collimator 25 also has a lamp button (not shown). When the lamp button is operated by a user, visible light is irradiated onto the range that will become the irradiation field of radiation R.

[0036] The FPD storage unit 26 stores the FPD 1 when not in use, and is provided on the side of the generator main body 21. The FPD storage unit 26 is capable of storing multiple FPDs 1. A connector (not shown) may be provided inside the FPD storage unit 26, and may be configured to connect to the connector 16a (FIG. 2) of the FPD 1 when the FPD 1 is stored.

[0037] The console 3 is configured as a personal computer (PC), a mobile terminal, or a dedicated device, and is mounted on the radiation generator 2. The console 3 can set imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current and irradiation time or current-time product (mAs value), imaging region, imaging direction, etc.) for at least one of the FPD 1 and the radiation generator 2 based on an imaging order obtained from an external device (such as the RIS 60 (FIG. 5(a))) or an operation performed on the operation unit 32 by a user U. The imaging order is information regarding radiation imaging requested by a clinician to a user, and includes the specified date and time of radiation imaging, subject information of the subject to be imaged (such as a patient ID described below), imaging region (such as an imaging region ID described below), a purpose ID described below, information on imaging content, etc. The console 3 can also acquire radiation image data generated by the FPD 1, store it internally, or transmit it to another external device (such as a PACS).

[0038] Radiography (sitting position radiography) using the thus configured radiography system 100 (mobile cart RC) is performed as follows. First, the user U places the radiography system 100 near the subject S (beside the bed B). Then, the user U has the subject S assume a sitting position. If the subject S is sitting on an angle-adjustable device (such as a partially upright bed B), the user U adjusts the angle of the backrest of the bed B as appropriate. Then, the user U adjusts the approximate position and orientation of the tube 23 so that the irradiation port of the tube 23 faces the region to be imaged on the subject S. Then, the user U removes the FPD 1 from the FPD storage unit 26 and places the FPD 1 between the back of the subject S and the backrest. Then, the user U fine-tunes the orientation and irradiation field of the tube 23 so that the irradiation axis of the radiation R is perpendicular to the radiation incident surface of the FPD 1. Then, radiation imaging is performed (radiation R is irradiated onto the imaging region of the subject S, and radiation image data of a still image or dynamic image showing the diagnostic region is generated on the FPD 1).

[0039] The radiation generating device main body 21 and the console 3 are configured as an integrated unit (they may be housed in a single housing), but they may also be separate units. The radiation generating device 2 may be movable by means other than wheels. For example, the radiation generating device 2 may be lightweight enough to be carried by a person or to be mountable on a commercially available dolly, or may have a smooth bottom surface that slides on the floor. In the radiation imaging system 100, one of the FPD 1 and the radiation generating device 2 may be installed in a room in a medical facility (the other device may be freely movable).

[0040] Next, the internal configuration of the FPD 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the FPD 1 includes a radiation detection unit 11, a scan driver 12, a readout unit 13, a control unit 14, a storage unit 15, a communication unit 16, and a sensor unit 17. The various units of the FPD 1 are connected for communication.

[0041] The radiation detection unit 11 includes a scintillator (not shown) and a photoelectric conversion panel 111. The scintillator is formed into a flat plate shape using, for example, columnar crystals of CsI. When the scintillator receives radiation, it emits electromagnetic waves (for example, visible light) with a wavelength longer than that of the radiation, with an intensity corresponding to the dose (mAs) of the received radiation. The scintillator is arranged so as to extend parallel to the radiation incident surface of the housing of the radiation detection unit 11.

[0042] The photoelectric conversion panel 111 is disposed on the side of the scintillator opposite the surface facing the radiation incidence surface, extending parallel to the scintillator. The photoelectric conversion panel 111 includes a substrate 111a and a plurality of charge accumulation sections 111b. The plurality of charge accumulation sections 111b are arranged two-dimensionally (e.g., in a matrix) on the surface of the substrate facing the scintillator, corresponding to each pixel of the radiation image. Each charge accumulation section 111b includes a semiconductor element that generates an amount of charge corresponding to the intensity of the electromagnetic waves generated by the scintillator, and a switch element provided between each semiconductor element and wiring connected to the readout section 13. A bias voltage is applied to each semiconductor element from a power supply circuit (not shown). Each charge accumulation section stores and releases charge to be read out as a signal value according to the received radiation by switching the switch element between on and off.

[0043] The scan driver 12 applies an on voltage or an off voltage to each scanning line 111c of the radiation detection unit 11 to switch each switch element between an on state and an off state.

[0044] The readout unit 13 reads out, as a signal value, the amount of charge that has flowed in from the charge accumulation unit 111b via each signal line 111d of the radiation detection unit 11. The readout unit 13 may perform binning when reading out the signal value.

[0045] The control unit 14 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) (not shown). The CPU reads out various processing programs stored in the storage unit 15, loads them into the RAM, and executes various processes in cooperation with the loaded processing programs, thereby comprehensively controlling the operation of each unit of the FPD 1. The control unit 14 also generates radiation image data based on the multiple signal values ​​read out by the readout unit 13.

[0046] The storage unit 15 is configured with a semiconductor memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), etc., and stores various programs executed by the control unit 14, parameters required for executing the programs, and various file data. The storage unit 15 may also be capable of storing image data of radiographic images.

[0047] The communication unit 16 is configured with a wireless communication module, etc. The communication unit 16 transmits and receives various signals and various data to and from an external device such as the medical cart RC connected via wireless communication.

[0048] Sensor unit 17 is a detector for detecting information required to calculate the opposing angle between FPD 1 and tube 23. Sensor unit 17 is a triaxial acceleration sensor. The triaxial acceleration sensor detects acceleration acting in each of the three axial directions (x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis) and outputs acceleration information of the detected acceleration in the three axial directions to control unit 14. Only gravitational acceleration acts on the triaxial acceleration sensor in a stationary state. Therefore, when the triaxial acceleration sensor is stationary, it detects each of the three axial components of gravitational acceleration.

[0049] The sensor unit 17 may be a 6-axis sensor or a 9-axis sensor. The 6-axis sensor is the 3-axis acceleration sensor to which a function for detecting angular velocity (gyro) on each of the 3 axes is added. The 9-axis sensor is the 6-axis sensor to which a function for detecting orientation on each of the 3 axes (north, south, east, and west) is added.

[0050] The control unit 14 causes the sensor unit 17 to repeatedly detect acceleration information of gravitational acceleration in the three axial directions, for example, when a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition may include, for example, the power of the detector 1 being turned on, the receipt of a predetermined control signal from another device (such as the medical cart RC), or a predetermined operation being performed on the operation unit (not shown) of the FPD 1. Each time the sensor unit 17 detects acceleration information of gravitational acceleration, the control unit 14 transmits the detected acceleration information of gravitational acceleration to the medical cart RC via the communication unit 16.

[0051] As an operation of the control unit 14, for example, the control unit 14 controls the scan driver 12 to accumulate and release charges in the radiation detection unit 11 in synchronization with the timing of irradiation of radiation R from the radiation generation device 2. The control unit 14 also controls the readout unit 13 to read signal values ​​based on the charges released by the radiation detection unit 11. The control unit 14 also generates radiation image data of a still image or a dynamic image corresponding to the dose distribution of the irradiated radiation R based on the signal values ​​read out by the readout unit 13. When generating radiation image data of a still image, the control unit 14 generates radiation image data only once per press of the irradiation instruction switch 22. When generating radiation image data of a dynamic image, the control unit 14 repeats the generation of radiation image data of frames constituting a dynamic image multiple times per predetermined time (e.g., 15 times per second) per press of the irradiation instruction switch 22. The control unit 14 also transmits the generated radiation image data to an external device (such as a medical cart RC) via the communication unit 16.

[0052] The FPD 1 is not limited to the indirect conversion type that converts radiation into an electrical signal via a scintillator as described above, but may be a direct conversion type that converts radiation directly into an electrical signal using a semiconductor element.

[0053] Next, the internal configuration of the radiation generator 2 and console 3 of the medical cart RC will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the radiation generator 2 includes a generator main body 21, an irradiation instruction switch 22, a tube 23, a tube support section 24, a collimator 25, and an FPD storage section 26, as well as a sensor section 27, a sub-display section 28, a distance measurement section 29, and an optical imaging section 2A. The generator main body 21 also includes a control section 211, a memory section 212, a generator 213, and a communication section 214. Each section of the radiation generator 2 except for the tube 23 is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0054] Sensor unit 27 is provided in tube 23 and is a three-axis acceleration sensor similar to sensor unit 17. Sensor unit 27 may be a six-axis sensor or a nine-axis sensor. The type of sensor constituting sensor unit 27 may be different from that of the sensor constituting sensor unit 17. Control unit 211 calculates the opposing angle between FPD1 (its radiation incident surface) and tube 23 (a surface perpendicular to the radiation irradiation direction) from the acceleration information of gravitational acceleration in the three-axis direction received from stationary FPD1 via communication unit 214 and the acceleration information of gravitational acceleration in the three-axis direction detected by sensor unit 27 in stationary tube 23.

[0055] Sub-display unit 28 is composed of a display unit such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and is provided, for example, near tube 23. Sub-display unit 28 displays display information such as various images according to display information input from control unit 211. Sub-display unit 28 and optical imaging unit 2A are provided in the housing of collimator 25. Note that sub-display unit 28 and optical imaging unit 2A may also be configured to be provided in the housing of tube 23 or in tube support unit 24. The display content of sub-display unit 28 is separate from the display content of main display unit 31.

[0056] The distance measurement unit 29 is a measurement unit that measures the SID (Source Image Distance) and outputs the measured SID to the control unit 211. The SID is the distance between the focus F of the radiation R and the imaging surface of the FPD 1 (the surface on which the charge accumulation unit 111b in the radiation detection unit 11 is provided). The distance measurement unit 29 may also be configured to measure the SSD (Source Skin Distance). The SSD is the distance between the focus F of the radiation R and the body surface of the subject S, and is approximately equal to the difference between the SID and the body thickness of the subject S. The distance measurement unit 29 is provided in the collimator 25.

[0057] The distance measurement unit 29 may be configured, for example, with a light-emitting unit that emits laser light, a detection unit that detects the reflected laser light, and a calculation unit that calculates the distance from the light-emitting unit to the reflection point based on the time between emitting the laser light and detecting the reflected laser light. Alternatively, the distance measurement unit 29 may be configured with a calculation unit that calculates the SID based on the size information of the FPD 1 and an optical image of the FPD 1 generated by the optical imaging unit 2A that optically captures the FPD 1 in the direction of radiation irradiation. Furthermore, because the laser light is reflected by the body surface of the subject S, the distance measured by the distance measurement unit 29 using the laser light is often the SSD. In this case, the SID is calculated by adding the measured SSD to the body thickness of the subject S. The body thickness may be a predetermined reference value, a value input by the user U, or a value automatically calculated from information about the subject S.

[0058] The control unit 211 calculates alignment information including three-axis acceleration information of the FPD1 obtained by the sensor unit 17 (tilt information (attitude) of the radiation incidence surface of the FPD1 relative to the horizontal plane calculated from the information), three-axis acceleration information of the tube 23 obtained by the sensor unit 27 (tilt information (attitude) of the plane perpendicular to the radiation irradiation direction of the tube 23 (collimator 25) relative to the horizontal plane calculated from the information), and the distance between the FPD1 and the tube 23 obtained by the distance measurement unit 29. The tilt information of the FPD1 may be expressed as a difference value from the tilt information of the tube 23 (collimator 25). The user can understand the arrangement of the FPD1 and the tube 23 for that radiation imaging from the alignment information obtained during previous radiation imaging and adjust the arrangement of the FPD1 and the tube 23 (collimator 25). Note that the alignment information may be a standalone alignment based only on the tilt information of the tube 23.

[0059] The optical photographing unit 2A has an optical system such as a lens, and an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). Under the control of the control unit 211, the optical photographing unit 2A optically photographs the subject S as a subject using visible light to generate optical image data and outputs the data to the control unit 211, etc. For example, the optical photographing unit 2A optically photographs the subject S to generate optical image data of a still image or dynamic images (such as live images).

[0060] The control unit 211 is configured with a CPU, RAM, etc. The CPU reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 212, loads them into the RAM, and executes various processes in cooperation with the loaded programs to control each unit of the radiation generating device 2 and the console 3.

[0061] The storage unit 212 is configured with a non-volatile memory, an HDD, etc., and stores various programs executed by the control unit 211 and various data such as parameters and files required for executing the programs. In particular, the storage unit 212 stores a first quality information acquisition program for executing a first quality information acquisition process described below, a navigation program for executing a navigation process described below, a judgment support program for executing a judgment support process described below, and an imaging purpose table 400 described below.

[0062] Upon receiving an imaging instruction signal from the control unit 211, the generator 213 applies a voltage according to the preset imaging conditions to the tube 23 and also passes a current according to the imaging conditions to the tube 23.

[0063] The communication unit 214 is configured with a communication module, etc. The communication unit 214 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from the wirelessly connected FPD 1 and external devices such as the RIS 50 via a communication network.

[0064] The console 3 includes a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, a main display unit 31, an operation unit 32, and an audio output unit 33. The control unit, storage unit, and communication unit of the console 3 are respectively served as the control unit 211, storage unit 212, and communication unit 214 of the radiation generating device 2. Note that the console 3 may be configured to include dedicated control units, storage units, and communication units.

[0065] The main display unit 31 is configured with an LCD, an EL display, etc. The main display unit 31 displays various information in accordance with display information input from the control unit 211.

[0066] The operation unit 32 is composed of, for example, a keyboard with various keys, a pointing device for inputting position information, and a touch panel integrally formed on the display screen of the main display unit 31, and accepts operation input from the user U and outputs the operation information to the control unit 211.

[0067] The audio output unit 33 is composed of an amplifier, a speaker, etc., and outputs audio in response to audio information input from the control unit 211. For example, the audio output unit 33 outputs a synthesized voice message as imaging support information, which is information for supporting the user U in radiography. The imaging support information is information based on quality information, and is information for supporting (assisting) the radiography of the subject to be imaged and for improving the image quality of the radiographic image data. The quality information is information for evaluating the image quality of the radiographic image data according to the purpose of radiography.

[0068] Next, the information stored in the medical cart RC will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the radiography purpose table 400.

[0069] The storage unit 212 of the medical cart RC stores an imaging purpose table 400. The imaging purpose table 400 is a table that defines quality information of image quality corresponding to the imaging purpose acquired by the medical cart RC during radiography during rounds. The imaging purpose refers to the type of examination for which the radiographic image data of the subject captured during rounds is used, and includes "follow-up observation," "initial examination," "disease identification," "checking the position of an intubated object such as a tube," and "checking the condition of a patient transported by ambulance." The imaging purpose may also differ depending on the medical department or the type of disease. Furthermore, when making ward rounds and the wards are divided into medical departments, it is possible to narrow down the imaging purpose to some extent by specifying the ward instead of the medical department.

[0070] Image quality refers to the quality of the radiographic image data, such as the visibility of lesions, catheters, and other medical instruments, necessary and sufficient for clinicians' examination and diagnosis purposes, and / or the quality of the data that satisfies the requirements for image analysis using radiographic image data (including dynamic images). Requirements include, for example, signal value, graininess, contrast, positioning of the area to be analyzed, and the presence or absence of streaks and artifacts. For example, in the case of dynamic radiographic image data, image quality also includes whether a certain number of frames that meet the requirements are obtained, whether the minimum acquisition time (frames) required for image analysis is secured, whether patient movement (such as breathing) is maintained for a certain period of time, whether there are gaps, and whether the frame rate is appropriate. A gap refers to an area of ​​radiographic image data where there is no subject (the imaged area of ​​the patient) (a portion containing only air). Because a gap in the image data exposes a large amount of radiation due to the absence of obstacles, comparing pixel values ​​with the area of ​​the subject will result in inaccurate averages and maximum values. Therefore, for example, gaps and artifacts are excluded from calculations during analysis. Even for the same imaging region (imaging order), the observed region and the comparison target of the radiation image data (past radiation image data of the same patient, radiation image data of other patients, etc.) differ depending on the imaging purpose, and the index for determining imaging defects of the radiation image data after imaging also differs. The quality information is not information for setting imaging conditions as in Patent Document 1, but information for evaluating the image quality of the captured radiation image data.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 4, the imaging purpose table 400 has items (columns) of purpose ID 401 and quality information 402. The purpose ID 401 is identification information for the imaging purpose of radiography. The quality information 402 is the content of the quality information that the medical cart RC acquires from an external device (RIS60 (FIG. 5(a))) corresponding to the imaging purpose (and imaging region) of the purpose ID 401. In the example of the quality information 402 in FIG. 4, the "patient" is the subject. The "imaging region" is the region to be imaged of the subject, for example, the chest supine position AP (radiography in which radiation is irradiated from the anterior (ventral side) to the posterior (dorsal side)). The "alignment adjustment history" is history information of adjustment of the alignment information of the tube 23 and the FPD1. The "EI (Exposure Index)" is an index indicating the incident dose to the FPD1. The "S value" is the sensitivity equivalent to the radiation dose during radiography.

[0072] In the imaging purpose table 400, for example, if the imaging site is the chest in the supine position AP and the imaging purpose is "follow-up observation," the purpose ID 401 is "0001." Also, if the imaging site is the chest in the supine position AP and the imaging purpose is "initial examination," the purpose ID 401 is "0002." The purpose ID 401 (quality information) may be associated with at least one of the imaging site (imaging site ID), subject (patient ID), user (radiographer user ID), and clinician (clinician ID). While the quality information 402 for the purpose ID 401 has multiple items in FIG. 4 as an example, an ID may be assigned to each piece of quality information, and the IDs may be grouped under the purpose ID. Furthermore, the unit and setting range (or threshold value) of each item may be defined relative to the quality information 402. For example, the "past" data may be set to include examinations up to a certain number of generations ago.

[0073] An example of the imaging purpose, quality information, and judgment support information in this embodiment is shown in the following Table I. The judgment support information is information based on the quality information, and is support (auxiliary) information for the user to determine whether or not the radiation image data obtained by radiation imaging satisfies a predetermined image quality (whether or not re-imaging of a defective image is necessary), and is information for improving the image quality of the radiation image data. [Table 1]

[0074] The image data (,images) in Table I are radiographic image data (,radiographic images), but may also include optical image data (,optical images).

[0075] Next, the operation of the radiography system 100 will be described with reference to Figs. 5(a) to 10. Fig. 5(a) is a block diagram showing the data flow of the medical examination cart RC before radiography. Fig. 5(b) is a block diagram showing the data flow of the medical examination cart RC after radiography. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the first quality information acquisition process. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the navigation process. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the judgment support process. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the judgment support screen 500. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the judgment support screen 600.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 5(a), in advance, in a medical facility, a terminal device 50, a RIS 60, an external device 70, and a medical cart RC in a waiting area are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other via a relay device (an access point connected to a communication network, another medical cart, a console, etc.). The terminal device 50 is a terminal device such as a PC used by a clinician. The RIS 60 is a server for the RIS (Radiology Information System) and may also be a server for the HIS (Hospital Information System). The external device 70 is a server that manages quality information and stores the quality information. The external device 70 may also be the same as the RIS 60 and the HIS.

[0077] When performing radiography on a subject at a clinician's destination, the terminal device 50 accepts operational inputs from the clinician, such as the radiography date and time, designated information on at least one subject (patient) to be radiographed, the radiography body part, and the radiography purpose, and issues a radiography order including the radiography date and time, a patient ID corresponding to the designated information of the patient, a radiography body part ID corresponding to the radiography body part, and a purpose ID corresponding to the radiography purpose, and transmits the radiography order to the RIS 60. The radiography order issued by the terminal device 50 is an order for one radiography unit, and is for one radiography unit (image unit) since it targets radiography conditions, etc. The RIS 60 receives the radiography order from the terminal device 50, stores it in its own memory, issues a radiography order (RIS order) based on the received radiography order, and transmits it to the radiography cart RC. The radiography order (RIS order) issued by the RIS 60 is an order for one radiography examination unit, and is roughly an examination order. An examination order is an order for one examination unit, and includes multiple radiography orders (issued by the terminal device 50).

[0078] A user such as a radiographer goes to a waiting area where the FPD 1 and the medical cart RC are located. Then, triggered by the medical cart RC (console 3) starting to receive an imaging order from the RIS 60 via the communication unit 214, for example, the control unit 211 executes a first quality information acquisition process in accordance with a first quality information acquisition program stored in the storage unit 212.

[0079] 6, first, the control unit 211 completes receiving and acquires the radiography order from the RIS 60 via the communication unit 214 (step S11). Then, the control unit 211 refers to the radiography purpose table 400 stored in the storage unit 212, and determines the quality information to be acquired from the quality information 402 corresponding to the purpose ID 401 of the radiography order acquired in step S11 (step S12).

[0080] Then, the control unit 211 transmits a request for the quality information determined in step S12, including the patient ID, purpose ID, and imaging region ID of the radiography order, to the external device 70 via the communication unit 214, and receives and acquires the quality information from the external device 70 (step S13). In response to step S13, the external device 70 receives the request for quality information from the medical examination cart RC, reads out the quality information corresponding to the patient ID, purpose ID, and imaging region ID in the request for quality information from its own memory unit, and transmits it to the medical examination cart RC.

[0081] Then, the control unit 211 stores the quality information acquired in step S13 in the storage unit 212 in association with the imaging order (step S14), and ends the first quality information acquisition process.

[0082] In addition, if the communication environment allows a communication network to be used at the destination of the rounds or on the route between the waiting area and the destination of the rounds, the control unit 211 of the medical cart RC may be configured to execute the first quality information acquisition process not at the waiting area but at the destination of the rounds or while traveling from the waiting area to the destination of the rounds.

[0083] After the first quality information acquisition process is executed, the user goes from the waiting area to the destination where the subject to be imaged is located with the medical cart RC containing the FPD1, and starts radiography of the subject. At this time, the user inputs an instruction to execute the navigation process, for example, via the operation unit 32, in the medical cart RC (console 3) at the destination, which triggers the control unit 211 to execute the navigation process in accordance with the navigation program stored in the storage unit 212.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 7, first, the control unit 211 reads out all imaging orders from the storage unit 212 and displays them on the main display unit 31, and receives a selection input of an imaging order for a subject (patient) to be imaged from the displayed imaging orders from the user via the operation unit 32 (step S21).

[0085] Then, the control unit 211 reads and acquires quality information for supporting radiography from the storage unit 212 in accordance with the radiography order selected and input in step S21, and acquires rounds radiography information including the acquired quality information and various information about the current radiography (step S22). The quality information in step S22 is, for example, optical image data from past radiography. The various information about the current radiography in step S22 is information about the current radiography, such as alignment information between the FPD1 and the tube 23 (panel alignment) and the dose of the tube 23. The control unit 211 then generates radiography support information for supporting radiography of the subject to be radiographed from the rounds radiography information acquired in step S22 (step S23). The control unit 211 then displays the generated radiography support information on the main display unit 31 in step S24 to navigate the radiography (step S24).

[0086] Then, the control unit 211 performs radiography of the subject using the FPD 1 and the radiation generator 2 in response to operation input related to radiography from the user via the operation unit 32 and the irradiation instruction switch 22, and acquires radiographic image data of the photographed subject from the FPD 1 (step S25). Then, the control unit 211 associates various pieces of information obtained during the radiography of step S25 (radiographic image data, radiography order, alignment information based on alignment measurement of the tube 23 and FPD1 by optical imaging by the optical imaging unit 2A, dose of the tube 23, optical image data, EI, S value, etc.) and stores them in the storage unit 212 (step S26), and the navigation process ends.

[0087] When evaluating the image quality of the radiation image data using the quality information, after radiography in step S25 of the navigation process, the control unit 211 performs image processing on the radiation image data to convert it into radiation image data that can be easily compared with past radiation image data for quality information, thereby supporting the evaluation of the captured radiation image data (determination of imaging defects of the radiation image data, which will be described later). Image processing includes, for example, region extraction, contour extraction, temporal subtraction, bone removal, calculation of displacement amount, and left / right determination. Furthermore, based on the evaluation of the radiation image data, the control unit 221 may automatically make an imaging defect determination and proceed to a re-imaging step, without proceeding to the next step of the user's imaging defect determination.

[0088] After the navigation process is executed, the user starts to judge whether the radiation image data captured during the navigation process is defective. At this time, the control unit 211 executes the navigation process in accordance with the judgment support program stored in the storage unit 212, triggered by the user inputting an instruction to execute the judgment support process via, for example, the operation unit 32 in the medical cart RC (console 3) at the destination of the rounds.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 8, first, the control unit 211 reads and acquires quality information from the storage unit 212 corresponding to the radiography order (of the subject (patient)) selected and input in step S21 of the navigation process, for supporting determination of radiographic errors in the radiographic image data, acquires rounds radiography information including the acquired quality information and various information about the current radiography, and acquires patient-specific information about the subject of the radiography rounds from the selected radiography order and the acquired rounds radiography information (step S41). The rounds radiography information in step S41 includes information for performing radiography, information associated with the radiographic image data obtained by performing radiography, and information about the radiography apparatus. Note that the rounds radiography information may include at least one of information for performing radiography, information associated with the radiographic image data obtained by performing radiography, and information about the radiography apparatus. The patient-specific information may include at least one of disease information indicating the disease of the subject (patient) and previous radiography information as various information about the previous radiography of the subject.

[0090] Then, the control unit 211 determines whether or not the patient-specific information acquired in step S41 contains disease information indicating a disease of the subject to be imaged (step S42). If disease information is present (step S42; YES), the control unit 211 acquires past reference data (normal / abnormal disease) of other patients corresponding to the disease information of step S42 from the quality information acquired in step S22 (step S43). The reference data (normal / abnormal) of step S43 includes radiation image data (normal / abnormal) from past radiation imaging of other patients with the disease, imaging conditions such as alignment information during medical round imaging, patient information of the subject (body position / physique), etc.

[0091] If there is no disease information (step S42; NO), the control unit 211 acquires past general reference data (normal for disease) of other healthy patients from the patient-specific information acquired in step S41 (step S44). The reference data (normal) in step S44 includes radiation image data of other patients during past radiation imaging (normal), imaging conditions such as alignment information during radiography rounds, patient information of the subject (body position / physique), etc.

[0092] Then, the control unit 211 determines whether or not the patient-specific information acquired in step S41 includes previous imaging information as various information from the previous radiation imaging of the subject (step S45). If previous imaging information is present (step S45; YES), the control unit 211 acquires imaging conditions such as alignment information from the previous radiation imaging, radiation image data, and the like from the previous imaging information of step S45 (step S46).

[0093] Then, the control unit 211 reads and acquires various information including the radiation image data stored in step S26 of the navigation process from the storage unit 212 as imaging result information (step S47).

[0094] The control unit 211 then checks the selection rule for the radiation image data to be displayed in the judgment support information (step S48). The selection rule for the judgment support information in step S48 may be configured to be set in advance and stored in the storage unit 212, or may be configured to be input by the user via the operation unit 32 in step S42. The selection rule for the judgment support information includes information on whether or not to prioritize (past radiation image data of) the same disease information regarding past radiation image data to be displayed together with the captured radiation image data.

[0095] Then, the control unit 211 determines whether to prioritize the disease information based on the selection rule for the judgment support information confirmed in step S48 (step S49). If the disease information is to be prioritized (step S49; YES), the control unit 211 performs a comparison setting between the reference data (normal / abnormal) of other patients with the same disease as the subject to be imaged acquired in step S43, or the general reference data (normal) of other patients acquired in step S44, and the imaging result information of the subject to be imaged acquired in step S47 (step S50).

[0096] If disease information is not prioritized (step S49; NO), the control unit 211 compares and sets the imaging conditions at the previous imaging time acquired in step S46 with the imaging result information of the subject to be imaged acquired in step S47 (step S51).

[0097] Then, the control unit 211 checks the display rules for the radiation image data to be displayed in the judgment support information (step S52). The display rules for the judgment support information may be configured to be set in advance and stored in the storage unit 212, or may be configured to be input by the user via the operation unit 32 in step S52. The display rules for the judgment support information include information on how to arrange and display various information in the screen information of the judgment support information for determining imaging defects regarding past radiation image data (comparison image data) to be displayed together with the captured radiation image data and other imaging result information, and include, for example, the display method of the radiation images / comparison images (parallel / superimposed / sequential), the display frame (two / three / multiple), and the application conditions of image processing.

[0098] Then, the control unit 211 generates judgment support information (screen data) that supports judgment of imaging errors in the radiation image data stored in step S26, including the rounds imaging information acquired in step S41, the imaging result information including the radiation image data acquired in step S47, and the reference data for the target disease that was compared and set in step S50, or the imaging conditions and radiation image data of the previous imaging set in step S51, in accordance with the display rules confirmed in step S52, and displays the generated judgment support information on the main display unit 31 (step S53).

[0099] In step S53, for example, a judgment support screen 500 shown in Fig. 9 is displayed. The judgment support screen 500 is an example of a judgment support screen for a radiographic error in radiography of the chest (lung field) as the imaging region of the subject. The judgment support screen 500 has a captured radiographic image area 510, a comparison radiographic image area 520, a judgment support information area 530, etc.

[0100] The captured radiation image area 510 is a display area for a captured radiation image 511 based on radiation image data of the imaging region (chest) of the subject obtained by radiation imaging using the FPD 1 and the radiation generating device 2 in the navigation processing. The captured radiation image 511 is a radiation image of the chest of the subject that is the imaging target, obtained by radiation imaging. A body axis extension line 512 of the subject, which is generated by image analysis of the captured radiation image 511 by the control unit 211, is superimposed on the captured radiation image 511.

[0101] The comparison radiographic image area 520 is a display area for a comparison radiographic image 521 based on past radiographic image data of the radiographed region (chest) of another patient. A body axis auxiliary line 522 of the subject patient is superimposed on the comparison radiographic image 521. The captured radiographic image 511 and the comparison radiographic image 521 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, facilitating a visual comparison by the user. Note that by operating a UI (User Interface) (not shown) or by setting display rules in advance, it may be possible to make either the captured radiographic image 511 or the comparison radiographic image 521 a transparent image, and display a composite image in which the two images are superimposed.

[0102] The judgment support information area 530 is a display area for text information to support judgment of imaging defects in the radiographic image data based on the rounds radiography information (quality information), and displays, for example, error information of various information of the captured radiographic image 511 relative to the comparison radiographic image 521. The error information of various information includes, for example, an error in the alignment information of the captured radiographic image 511 relative to the alignment information of the comparison radiographic image 521 (panel alignment error), an amount of deviation of the body axis extension line 512 relative to the body axis extension line 522 (body axis deviation), an EIT (target Exposure Index) of the radiography conditions of the comparison radiographic image 521, differences in the EIT and S values ​​of the radiography conditions of the captured radiographic image 511 relative to the S value (EIT, S value difference), and a judgment of predetermined information of the lung fields of the comparison radiographic image 521 and the captured radiographic image 511 (lung field XX judgment). For example, if the purpose ID of the radiography order changes, the contents of the comparison radiographic image area 520 and the judgment support information area 530 are also changed to information corresponding to the purpose ID.

[0103] 9, not only the items to be displayed and their display positions, but also the presentation (color, font size), warnings, and linking notations indicating association with images may be configurable, and may be switched depending on the imaging purpose (purpose ID), etc. For example, conditions may be set such that panel alignment error and body axis misalignment are displayed only when they are equal to or greater than a certain value, while differences in EIT and S value may be displayed regardless of their magnitude. For example, body axis misalignment may not only be displayed as text information in the determination support information area 530 as shown in FIG. 9, but also, in consideration of cases where the comparison radiographic image area 520 is not displayed, an image of the body axis from the previous imaging may be superimposed on the radiographic image area to display not only the current body axis but also the body axis from the previous imaging, and color identification and the width and angle between the body axes (body axis misalignment) may be expressed on the image.

[0104] In addition, instead of or in addition to the EI, EIT, and S values ​​of the imaging conditions, an exposure index related to noise in a radiographic image described in JP 2020-130796 A may be used.

[0105] 9, the control unit 211 combines and processes the captured radiographic image data and the rounds imaging information to generate the judgment support screen 500 as judgment support information. Note that the configuration is not limited to this, and the control unit 211 may be configured to generate the judgment support information by selecting one of using the rounds imaging information as is, processing the rounds imaging information, and combining and processing the captured radiographic image data and the rounds imaging information.

[0106] As shown in steps S41 to S53, the control unit 211 determines the type of determination support information to be generated based on the rounds imaging information, and generates the determination support information using the rounds imaging information.

[0107] Then, the control unit 211 accepts input of the result of the judgment on whether or not the radiation image data needs to be rejected from the user via the operation unit 32, and stores the judgment support information in the memory unit 212 in association with the radiation image data and the result of the judgment on whether or not the radiation image data needs to be rejected (step S54).

[0108] Then, the control unit 211 transmits the radiation image data associated with the patient ID, imaging region ID, and purpose ID of the radiography order to the RIS 60 via the communication unit 214 (step S56). In step S56, as shown in FIG. 5(b), the RIS 60 receives the radiation image data associated with the radiography order from the medical cart RC, stores it in its own memory, and transmits it to the terminal device 50. The terminal device 50 receives the radiation image data associated with the radiography order from the RIS 60 and displays it on its display. The clinician observes the radiation image of the radiation image data of the subject at the destination of the clinician's visit displayed on the terminal device 50.

[0109] Then, the control unit 211 transmits the judgment support information and the radiography result information associated with the patient ID, radiography region ID, and purpose ID of the radiography order to the external device 70 via the communication unit 214 (step S56), and ends the judgment support information. The radiography result information includes radiation image data associated with the patient ID, radiography region ID, and purpose ID of the radiography order, the result of the radiography rejection judgment, various other information (optical image data, etc.) stored in step S26 of the navigation processing, and the radiography date and time. In step S56, as shown in FIG. 5(b), the RIS 60 receives the judgment support information and the radiography result information associated with the radiography order from the medical round cart RC and stores them in its own memory. This radiography result information will also be used as quality information for the next time and thereafter.

[0110] Furthermore, the quality information stored in the external device 70 and utilized next time is not limited to imaging result information, but may also be judgment support information or memo information of matters to be handed over (such as memos on failure cases or points to note when imaging linked to a patient ID) input by the user via the operation unit 32. Preferably, the memo information can be stored in the storage unit 212 and the external device 70 simply by the user checking a checkbox displayed on the main display unit 31 via the operation unit 32. The medical rounds cart RC may also be equipped with an audio input unit such as a microphone, and the user may input memo information via the audio input unit.

[0111] In addition, in the radiography result information, the radiation image data of the radiography and the optical image data optically captured by the radiography are associated with each other. In addition, in the quality information, the allowable range of the quality information level may be expanded depending on the condition of the patient.

[0112] Furthermore, the external device 70 may be configured to calibrate the quality information stored therein. For example, a user may consult with a clinician based on the quality information stored in the external device 70. The external device 70 then corrects the stored standard (comparison) radiation image data (or optical image data) for the quality information and various other data in response to operational input from the user or clinician. Outliers (noise) in the quality information are excluded. For example, radiation imaging that was unavoidably performed under conditions that did not satisfy the quality standards due to the patient's condition, or operational test radiation imaging, may be excluded or corrected as outliers in the quality information.

[0113] The information saved in the external device 70 may also be stored in the storage unit 212 and reused the next time imaging is performed. Depending on the capacity of the storage unit 212, the quality information acquired in step S13 may also be continuously stored, thereby reducing the cost of pre-acquisition processing the next time the same patient (subject) is examined. The external device 70 may also be used as a portable storage unit for the medical cart RC, such as an external semiconductor memory (e.g., SSD (Solid State Drive)) or HDD. This separates the transmission process from the medical cart RC to the external device 70 (step S56), and the control unit 211 of the medical cart RC only performs the process of saving the judgment support information, imaging result information, quality information, etc. to the external semiconductor memory or HDD, thereby reducing the transmission processing load on the external device 70. The control unit 211 may then read the judgment support information, imaging result information, etc. from the external semiconductor memory or HDD and output (transmit) them to the external device 70 at any time.

[0114] Next, an example of the decision support processing will be described with reference to FIG. 10. The subject is an inpatient with a lung disease, and radiography is performed during ward rounds (for example, rounds in a coronavirus ward). When radiography is performed during deep breathing (inhalation state), the lung field in the radiographic image is smaller than expected (the diaphragm is in a higher position), and the user is unsure whether to perform re-imaging depending on whether the subject is breathing properly. The rounds radiography information includes, for example, radiographic image data from the previous scan, radiographic image data of the same case (normal / abnormal), and similar radiographic image data. The decision support information includes, for example, comparison radiographic image data displayed side by side, and an auxiliary line indicating the position of the diaphragm.

[0115] In step S53 of the judgment support processing, for example, a judgment support screen 600 shown in Fig. 10 is displayed on the main display unit 31. The judgment support screen 600 has a patient information area 610, a selection button 620, a captured radiation image area 630, and comparison radiation image areas 640 and 650.

[0116] The patient information area 610 is a display area for patient information (patient ID, patient name, sex, date of birth, requesting department) based on the imaging order. The selection button 620 is a button that accepts input of the imaging region and image data type (still image, dynamic image). Here, for example, it is possible to switch between "chest video PA" and "abdominal video PA".

[0117] The captured radiation image area 630 is a display area for a captured radiation image 631 based on radiation image data of the imaging region (chest) of the subject obtained by radiation imaging using the FPD 1 and radiation generating device 2 in the navigation processing. The captured radiation image 631 is a radiation image of the chest (chest moving image PA) of the subject that is the imaging target. An auxiliary line 632 indicating the position of the subject's diaphragm, which is generated by image analysis of the captured radiation image 631 by the control unit 211, is superimposed on the captured radiation image 631.

[0118] The comparison radiographic image area 640 is a display area for a comparison radiographic image 641 based on past radiographic image data of the radiographed region (chest) of another patient who is normal (healthy). An auxiliary line 642 indicating the position of the diaphragm of the subject patient is superimposed on the comparison radiographic image 641. The comparison radiographic image area 650 is a display area for a comparison radiographic image 651 based on past radiographic image data of the radiographed region (chest) of another patient who is abnormal (for example, has excess visceral fat). An auxiliary line 652 indicating the position of the diaphragm of the subject patient is superimposed on the comparison radiographic image 651. The radiographed radiographic image 631 and the comparison radiographic images 641, 651 are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, making it easy for the user to compare them visually.

[0119] As a criterion for determining the position of the diaphragm, the posterior edge of the 11th rib is highlighted (e.g., a black line) with auxiliary lines 632, 642, 652. The position of the lower lung (lower lobe), where reduced transparency is likely to be observed, may be initially displayed or may be enlarged by operating the operation unit 32. On the other hand, if there is no initial appearance in an emergency or initial radiography, identification is not possible, and only reference information is displayed. For example, the comparative radiological image 651 for abnormalities may be a reference image for interstitial pneumonia or an example of reduced diaphragmatic movement due to excessive visceral fat.

[0120] 10, auxiliary lines 632, 642, and 652 are drawn to indicate the position of the diaphragm, but the confirmation points may be drawn by encircling them with a circle or a rectangle, by indicating them with an arrow, or by writing a word indicating that they are the diaphragm. In this case, the same object may be indicated by a shape, symbol, or text not only on the captured radiographic image 630 but also on the past images and reference images (comparison radiographic image areas 640 and 650) serving as comparison radiographic images, thereby improving visibility of the comparison object. Alternatively, the shape or color of a portion of the drawn portion may be changed to make it possible to distinguish whether the drawn portion indicates an abnormality or a normality (for example, a normal sample may be drawn with a blue dashed line and an abnormal sample with a red dashed line, and although the captured radiographic image is displayed with a solid line, the threshold judgment can be seen at a glance by whether the color is leaning red or blue).

[0121] Next, another example of the radiography judgment process will be described. This is the case of a follow-up observation of a subject who was transported after a traffic accident and diagnosed with a fracture. The radiography information for rounds includes, for example, information on the requesting department / physician, bed angle / alignment information during radiography, and information from the previous radiography. The judgment support information includes, for example, information on a specified ROI (Region of Interest) on the radiographic image (e.g., rotator cuff width), a threshold comparison result for the rotator cuff width value, and tolerance corrections associated with the radiography environment and the diagnosing physician.

[0122] Each medical facility defines the points at the time of radiography and radiological image diagnosis as criteria for determining fractures, tendon ruptures, etc. In doing so, clinicians must consider whether or not the information necessary for diagnosis is captured in the radiological image.

[0123] <Example of response> For example, if RS (RaySum (Ray Summent)) processing is added to determine whether the width of the rotator cuff is 5 mm or less, the control unit 211 will not only simply indicate whether it is 5 mm or less, but will also display whether or not to correct the measurement value in combination with the bed angle and alignment information during radiography.

[0124] Furthermore, the control unit 211 changes the allowable range of the irradiation angle (alignment) when imaging a patient according to clinician information (which may be just the name of the clinician who ordered the imaging, or request information, etc.), or displays both the normal allowable range and the reference allowable range according to the clinician as additional information. For example, information such as the following may be displayed: Clinician A1 was able to make a diagnosis last time even though the bed was slightly tilted due to the patient's physical condition, resulting in a deviation of about 5° from the perpendicular, but Clinician B1 deemed the deviation inappropriate and ordered a re-imaging (specifically, the irradiation angle when imaging was unsuccessful or successful in the past may be displayed according to the clinician who ordered the imaging, or may be used as a threshold for error judgment).

[0125] Next, another example of the radiography judgment process will be described. This is a case where the subject is a patient undergoing surgery for acute myocardial infarction and undergoing postoperative observation. The radiography round information includes, for example, information on the presence or absence of a tube, image analysis results for the captured images (such as a tube presence / absence determination), handover from the user (radiographer) regarding the radiography round, radiography conditions during the previous radiography, and information on the electrocardiogram and pulse oximeter measurement results of previous radiography image data when there was no tube. The judgment support information includes, for example, image data obtained by tube removal analysis processing for the captured radiographic image data, previous radiography image data when there was no tube, handover from the user regarding the radiography round, and information on the electrocardiogram and pulse oximeter measurement results.

[0126] As a simple alternative to cardiac catheterization, cardiac motion assessment (ventricular wall motion assessment) is performed using a dynamic mobile radiology cart. For example, the cardiac expansion rate is calculated and it is confirmed whether it is maintained above a certain value. In this case, if the patient is on ECMO (ExtraCorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) or has a drain attached, it is unclear whether the imaging area is being properly radiographed due to these tubes.

[0127] <Example of response> The control unit 211 determines the position of the tube by image analysis of the radiation image data or prior information (with / without tube). Accordingly, the control unit 211 displays, as comparative radiation images, previous radiation images without a tube and radiation images that have undergone tube removal analysis processing, in addition to the radiation image data of normal imaging. The tube removal analysis processing involves image interpolation of the tube position in previous and subsequent frames.

[0128] Furthermore, the control unit 211 associates the previous imaging conditions (position of the medical cart, SID, alignment information, dose) with user comments (notes, handover) and stores them as a set in the storage unit 212 and the external device 70. The previous imaging conditions and user comments can be displayed, for example, on the imaging screen before radiography. Furthermore, if the imaging location is near the bed, a bedside monitor or the like may be used to additionally display information such as electrocardiogram and pulse oximeter measurement results.

[0129] The contents of the decision support information will now be summarized. The decision support information may include radiation image data from the current radiography and past radiation image data of the subject / other patient (normal (radiographic image as a typical example) / abnormal) of the disease as comparison radiation image data with the current radiography. The comparison radiation image data may be preoperative radiation image data.

[0130] The decision support information may also include comparison information with past radiography results, such as the previous one. The comparison information may include, for the previous / current radiography, the radiography range, position, orientation, specific ROI (range, size (area), position, orientation, pixel value, amount of change over time), information indicating the positional relationship with specific structures (body axis, ribs, diaphragm, thorax, immovable structures), radiation irradiation conditions, irradiation results (mAs value, irradiation time, SID, EIT, S value, angle of tube 23, alignment information, aperture of collimator 25, whether or not a grid is used), radiography method (subject's radiography position, breathing method, whether or not assistive devices are used, gravity method), and subject's condition (estimated body thickness, radiography time (time elapsed since meal), whether or not there are appendages (such as a ventilator or tube), whether or not there is consciousness, whether or not there is body movement).

[0131] The decision support information may also include comparative information before and after specific processing. Specific processing may include the attachment and detachment of a ventilator or ECMO, removal of stitches, removal of gauze, etc. The decision support information may also include information on changes over time in multiple past radiation image data. Information on changes over time may be, for example, comparative information on the amount of change from "the previous image to the present" or "two images ago to the previous image," or comparative information at an annual level as follow-up observation (such as the same day one year ago and the same day two years ago).

[0132] The judgment support information may also include presentation information indicating the presence or absence of a grid and the need for scattered radiation correction processing. This presentation information may be, for example, information encouraging the user to turn on scattered radiation correction in cases where turning it on would provide judgment support even if the scattered radiation correction is off by default, or information encouraging the user to turn it on even if the grid is present but the image quality would provide judgment support if additional scattered radiation correction processing is performed.

[0133] The decision support information may also include information on cases that may lead to imaging failure (imaging failure), such as confirmation information on whether the results of radiation imaging match any failure cases, dose adjustment according to the subject's body thickness, and irradiation angle in orthopedic images.

[0134] The decision support information may also include recorded information of the user (radiographer), such as cautions for the same patient, cautions from the previous radiography, and cautions specific to the medical cart used.

[0135] The decision support information may also include information about the requesting / receiving clinician, such as the clinician's requirements for image quality, satisfaction with the level of completion, requests and comments about previously captured radiographic images, diagnostic points (such as image processing used to make the points easier to see), and the required level of alignment.

[0136] The judgment support information may also include other examination information of the subject to be imaged, such as respiratory condition information from oxygen concentration measured by a pulse oximeter or the like, and electrocardiogram information (resting state, stress test, etc.).

[0137] Next, the display patterns of the decision support information will be described with regard to how the decision support information is presented to the user. The control unit 211 may be configured to display the decision support information so as to be superimposed on the radiation image of the radiation image data, or may be configured to display the decision support information separately from the radiation image (parallel / individual / switchable) as in the decision support screens 500 and 600.

[0138] The control unit 211 may also be configured to simply switch and display radiation image data as judgment support information using a hanging protocol (sequential display), limited to re-photography judgment points. For example, with a single button, the judgment support information may be displayed by sequentially switching (enlarging / compressing and image processing) the judgment points of past unsuccessful radiation image data. Furthermore, when displaying still radiation image data, the gaze point may be switched by enlarging the ROI, and when displaying dynamic radiation image data, the frames that may be judgment targets may be displayed sequentially. For example, the display may be switched as follows: chest: full display → body movement → image failure judgment (presence or absence of cut-off of the thorax or diaphragm, etc.) → case candidate (appropriate dose for ROI). Additionally, the display of judgment support information may be switched depending on the display switching. For example, in the case of full display, an auxiliary line indicating the position of the diaphragm is displayed, but is not displayed when body movement is judged, and an auxiliary line enclosing the area that should not be cut off is displayed when cut-off is judged. The judgment support information may be displayed in a form that matches the display area.

[0139] Furthermore, as a hanging protocol, radiation image data may be combined with the result information of simple measurements and sequentially switched. For example, ankle: full display → joint angle measurement → bone overlap area → distance of specific location switched display. Also, a configuration may be adopted in which the switching order of radiation image data can be preset for each user, each imaging part, and each imaging condition. Furthermore, in cases where switching display is not required (such as when there is no body movement), a configuration may be adopted in which the display order of switching display is shortcut.

[0140] The control unit 211 may also be configured to display, as the discrimination support information, the imaging conditions, irradiation conditions, and numerical information from the imaging results of the captured radiation image data and the past comparative radiation image data side by side or to display the difference.

[0141] The control unit 211 may also set whether or not to enlarge the initial display of decision support information depending on the conditions (ward, operation / display item). The control unit 211 may also be configured to select and display an initial display image according to the imaging conditions and the purpose of the examination. For example, after confirming the need for wipe or preview, the captured radiographic image data may be displayed as the actual image. More specifically, if the purpose of the operation is to check the remaining gauze status, wipe / preview may be prioritized. However, if the purpose of the imaging is to perform an initial diagnosis in an emergency, or when a medical cart RC is connected to an external monitor, the initial display may be a diagnostic image that can be immediately confirmed by the attending clinician. The captured radiographic image data may also be displayed together with the decision support information. For example, in operations that do not require user judgment, the decision support information may be postponed and only the captured image may be displayed immediately. On the other hand, in NICUs (Neonatal Intensive Care Units), the subject neonates are small and difficult to align, so the radiographic image data with an enlarged ROI may be displayed from the beginning together with the decision support information.

[0142] The control unit 211 may also be configured to initially display wipe / preview of the decision support information or to limit the display of the decision support information depending on the display destination of the decision support information (main display unit 31, sub-display unit 28, bedside monitor, external monitor, etc.). The control unit 211 may also be configured to distinguish between the decision support information to be displayed on the main display unit 31, the sub-display unit 28, the bedside monitor, or the external monitor (for example, to utilize the bedside monitor or external monitor for information on examinations other than radiography).

[0143] Furthermore, the control unit 211 may be configured to change the setting of whether or not to display the decision support information (in response to an operation input via the operation unit 32) depending on the ease of visual judgment. Furthermore, the control unit 211 may be configured to display the decision support information with a time lag depending on the priority of the decision support information.

[0144] Furthermore, in the case of dynamic radiography, the control unit 211 may be configured to display only a specific frame of the captured dynamic radiographic image data as the judgment support information. The specific frame is, for example, one frame suitable for defect determination, or a group of frames in a range necessary for defect determination. The comparison image data displayed as judgment support information is a specific frame in the same range as the specific frame of the captured dynamic radiographic image data.

[0145] The control unit 211 may also be configured to extract two or more frames (two or more ranges) for comparison from one dynamic image of one captured dynamic radiation image data set and display them as comparison image data for the judgment support information. The frames to be extracted are, for example, a frame with maximum expiration / maximum inspiration, a frame with maximum / minimum pixel value within a specific ROI range, a frame with the diaphragm at the highest / lowest position, and a frame with a joint extended / bent.

[0146] The control unit 211 may also be configured to display, as the decision support information, position designation information using an overlay, an indicator, a heat map, etc. The position designation information may be combined with numerical information, or may be linked to a graph or the like in association with a selection operation.

[0147] The control unit 211 may also be configured to enlarge and display a gaze point (ROI) of the captured radiation image data as the judgment support information. The enlarged display is performed, for example, from the time of initial display, when there is a gaze point according to a pre-setting or detection of a point of caution, when there is a gaze point according to a radiography order by a clinician, when there is a point that is likely to be judged as a failure depending on the radiography part or radiography conditions, when there is a gaze point selected in combination with Deep Learning, or when, in addition to the designated location, a range (frame) where an abnormality exists in the designated location is initially displayed (such as in the case of pixel abnormality or cut-off).

[0148] Furthermore, the control unit 211 may be configured to display the reasons for selecting the captured radiographic image data and past comparison radiographic image data to be displayed as judgment support information. By displaying the reasons for selecting the frames and ranges (e.g., ROI expansion) of the captured radiographic image data and past comparison image data on or in the margins of the images, the reasons for selection can be clarified, making it easier for the user to understand the areas that should be looked at. In particular, by linking and displaying the reasons for selecting the comparison target (comparison radiographic image data) with the points that should be looked at, the user's awareness of judgment of defective images is improved.

[0149] The control unit 211 may also be configured to limit and display defect judgment support items in the judgment support information. For example, defect judgment support items may be set for each imaging region or imaging condition, or for each user (preference / level), or radiation image data within a diagnosable range (a range that the user can recognize as a defect at a glance) may be excluded from the target of judgment support processing, and only portions that the user cannot determine may be displayed, thereby streamlining the judgment support processing.

[0150] Furthermore, the control unit 211 may be configured to display the decision support information on a display unit other than the main display unit 31. For example, examples of displaying the decision support information on a display unit other than the main display unit 31 include the following cases (1) and (2). (1) Case where decision support information is displayed on the sub-display unit 28 For example, when the radiographer (user) is taking an image while assisting the subject's position and is unable to immediately return to the console 3 side after the image has been taken (cannot check), decision support information is displayed on the sub-display unit 28. More specifically, the sub-display unit 28 is used when, by utilizing a foot switch or the like, the user is present on the subject's side, and at the very least, simply needs to check whether or not an image should be rejected (also in FIG. 1, the sub-display unit 28 is configured near the tube 23). (2) Displaying decision support information on an external monitor (not shown) In emergency situations or operations, when it is difficult to view the decision support information on the small screen of the main display unit 31 or sub-display unit 28 of the console 3, or when multiple clinicians or surgeons view the decision support information, the decision support information is displayed on an external monitor. In this case, it is further divided into the following two cases (2)-1 and (2)-2. (2)-1. Cases where part of the decision support information is hidden Since the information displayed on the external monitor can be seen by the subject, the quality judgment results, such as the judgment support information for determining whether the image is defective, are not displayed to avoid causing anxiety. (2)-2. Cases where decision support information is displayed In this case, the quality assessment results are displayed as a priority (highlighted) to prevent surgeons and clinicians from making decisions based on failed images.

[0151] The control unit 211 may also be configured to highlight the judgment support information. The highlighting may be, for example, highlighting by changing the color, thickness, or blinking of the frame or ROI mark or overlay of the radiation image data or comparison image data, highlighting by changing the color, thickness, or blinking of the frame border, displaying a message (dialog display, modal (a window that does not allow other operations until closed) to force confirmation), or displaying with varying intensity depending on the priority of the information that the user wants to see. Instead of displaying the message, the message may be output as sound (including voice) by the audio output unit 33, or as light output or vibration output if the medical rounds cart RC (the generator main body 21, the irradiation instruction switch 22, etc.) has a light source and a vibration unit.

[0152] As described above, according to this embodiment, the radiography system 100 (medical rounds cart RC) as a radiography device is provided with a control unit 211 that acquires radiography information related to radiography of a subject as a subject during radiography, and outputs judgment support information that assists in determining whether or not the radiography image data generated by radiography satisfies a predetermined image quality based on the acquired radiography information.

[0153] Therefore, after performing the rounds of radiography, the user can use the decision support information to determine whether the radiographic image data satisfies a predetermined image quality, thereby ensuring the image quality level of the radiographic image data.

[0154] Furthermore, the control unit 211 determines the type of decision support information to be generated based on the rounds imaging information, so that an appropriate type of decision support information can be generated.

[0155] Furthermore, the control unit 211 generates the decision support information using the rounds imaging information, which allows appropriate decision support information to be generated.

[0156] Furthermore, the control unit 211 generates the judgment support information by selecting one of the following: using the rounds imaging information as is; processing the rounds imaging information; and processing the combination of the radiation image data of the radiation imaging and the rounds imaging information. Therefore, the judgment support information can be generated by an appropriate method.

[0157] The radiography information for the rounds includes at least one of information for performing radiography, information accompanying the radiography image data obtained by performing radiography, and information about the radiography device, which allows appropriate decision support information to be generated.

[0158] The judgment support information is information for supporting the determination of whether or not the radiographic image data requires re-photography due to a defect, and therefore, after the radiographic rounds are performed, the user can appropriately determine whether or not re-photography is required to ensure the image quality level of the radiographic image data.

[0159] Furthermore, the radiography support information includes radiation image data of the previous subject or other subjects. In this case, the control unit 211 displays the radiation image data of the subject acquired in the current radiography in association with the radiation image data of the previous subject or other subjects (for example, arranged side by side). This allows the user to easily and accurately compare the radiation image of the current radiography with the radiation image of the previous subject or other subjects, and based on the comparison, determine whether the radiation image data meets a predetermined image quality, thereby ensuring the image quality level of the radiation image data.

[0160] Furthermore, the radiation image data of the previous subject or other subjects includes radiation image data of past subjects with normal or abnormal diseases. This allows the user to easily and accurately compare the radiation image of the current radiography with the radiation image of past subjects with normal or abnormal diseases, and based on the comparison, determine whether the radiation image data meets a predetermined image quality, thereby ensuring the image quality level of the radiation image data.

[0161] Furthermore, the control unit 211 superimposes auxiliary lines 632, 642, and 652 as auxiliary images to assist in judgment on the radiation image data, and displays them. Therefore, the user can properly determine whether the radiation image data satisfies a predetermined image quality by using the auxiliary lines 632, 642, and 652, and the image quality level of the radiation image data can be properly ensured.

[0162] (Variation) A modification of the above embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the second quality information acquisition process.

[0163] In the above embodiment, the medical examination cart RC acquires the quality information using the purpose ID, but in this modified example, the medical examination cart RC determines and acquires the quality information from the content information of the radiography of the radiography order. For this reason, in this modified example, the purpose ID is not included in the radiography order. Furthermore, the radiography order includes, as the content information of the radiography, at least one of radiography purpose information related to the purpose of the radiography, radiography environment information related to the radiography environment, and radiography technique information related to the radiography technique.

[0164] The device configuration of this modified example is the same as that of the above embodiment, and uses the radiography system 100. However, instead of the first quality information acquisition program, a second quality information acquisition program for executing a second quality information acquisition process (described later) is stored in the storage unit 212 of the medical cart RC, and the radiography purpose table 400 is not stored.

[0165] Next, the operation of the radiography system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. As in the above embodiment, when a subject is radiographed at a destination, the control unit 211 executes the second quality information acquisition process in accordance with the second quality information acquisition program stored in the storage unit 212, triggered by the start of reception of an imaging order from the RIS 60 via the communication unit 214 in the radiography cart RC (console 3) at the waiting area before moving, for example.

[0166] 9, step S61 is the same as step S11 of the first quality information acquisition process of FIG. 6 in the above-described embodiment. Then, the control unit 211 determines whether or not imaging purpose information is included in the imaging order acquired in step S61 (step S62). If imaging purpose information is included (step S62; YES), the control unit 211 determines, according to the imaging purpose information, past examination information (e.g., past radiation image data, optical image data) related to a past examination of the same subject to be acquired, other examination information (e.g., past radiation image data, optical image data) related to a past examination of another subject to be acquired, and so on, as quality information. The control unit 211 then transmits a request for the determined quality information, including the patient ID and the imaging region ID, to the external device 70 via the communication unit 214, and receives and acquires the quality information from the external device 70 (step S63).

[0167] If there is no imaging purpose information (step S62; NO), the control unit 211 determines whether or not there is imaging environment information in the imaging order acquired in step S61 (step S64). If there is imaging environment information (step S64; YES), the control unit 211 determines, according to the imaging environment information, past examination information related to a past examination of the same subject to be acquired, other examination information related to a past examination of another subject, etc., as quality information, transmits a request for the determined quality information including the patient ID and the imaging region ID to the external device 70 via the communication unit 214, and receives and acquires the quality information from the external device 70 (step S65).

[0168] If there is no imaging environment information (step S64; NO), the control unit 211 determines whether or not there is imaging technique information in the imaging order acquired in step S61 (step S66). If there is imaging technique information (step S66; YES), the control unit 211 determines, according to the imaging technique information, past examination information related to a past examination of the same subject to be acquired, other examination information related to a past examination of another subject, etc., as quality information, transmits a request for the determined quality information including the patient ID and the imaging region ID to the external device 70 via the communication unit 214, and receives and acquires the quality information from the external device 70 (step S67).

[0169] In response to steps S63, S65, and S67, the external device 70 receives a request for quality information from the medical examination cart RC, reads out the quality information corresponding to the patient ID and the imaging region ID in the request for quality information from its own storage unit, and transmits it to the medical examination cart RC. Then, the control unit 211 stores the quality information acquired in steps S63, S65, and S67 in the storage unit 212 in association with the imaging order (step S68), and ends the second quality information acquisition process.

[0170] Here, examples of the imaging environment information, imaging purpose information, medical round imaging information, and judgment support information in this modified example are shown in the following Table II. The "accessories" in Table II refer to ME (Medical Engineering) devices installed inside or near the subject's body, such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, and auxiliary circulatory pump catheters. [Table 2]

[0171] Moreover, examples of the imaging region, imaging technique information, round imaging information, and judgment support information in this modified example are shown in the following Table III. [Table 3]

[0172] The image data in Tables II and III are radiation image data, but optical image data may also be included. good.

[0173] Note that the priority (order of determination) of the imaging purpose information, imaging environment information, and determination of the presence or absence of an imaging technique in the imaging order is not limited to the example of the second quality information acquisition process in Fig. 9. Furthermore, the priority of the imaging purpose information, imaging environment information, and determination of the presence or absence of an imaging technique may be determined by a medical facility, a user, a medical department, etc.

[0174] Furthermore, the determination of the presence or absence of shooting purpose information, shooting environment information, and shooting technique information in the shooting order is not limited to the example of the second quality information acquisition process in Fig. 9. The determination of the presence or absence of shooting purpose information, shooting environment information, and shooting technique information in the shooting order may be a combination of any two of them, or may be any one of them.

[0175] In addition, the quality information to be acquired may be determined based solely on the acquired shooting order, or operation input regarding the content of the quality information to be added may be accepted from the user via the operation unit 32, or options regarding the content of the part of speech information to be added may be displayed on the main display unit 31 and selection operation input may be accepted, and the quality information to be acquired may be determined based on that operation information.

[0176] The types of quality information to be acquired are not limited to quality information based on imaging purpose information, quality information based on imaging environment information, and quality information based on imaging technique information. The control unit 211 may manage a combination of types of quality information to be acquired in advance using an internal ID such as a purpose ID, or may issue an ID for internally managing the acquired quality information itself.

[0177] As described above, according to this modification, the control unit 211 automatically determines and acquires quality information according to the imaging purpose from the imaging order. This simplifies the configuration of the imaging order and also makes it possible to acquire quality information according to the imaging purpose.

[0178] In the above description, an example has been disclosed in which the storage unit 212 (semiconductor memory, HDD) is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but this is not limiting. Portable recording media such as CD-ROMs can also be used as other computer-readable media. Furthermore, carrier waves can also be used as a medium for providing the program data according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0179] The above-described embodiments and modifications are merely examples of suitable radiographic apparatuses, decision support methods, and programs according to the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. For example, the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0180] In the above-described embodiment and modified example, the quality information includes past radiation image data and optical image data, but the present invention is not limited to this. The quality information may include image data of other examination information as image data. The image data of other examination information may be, for example, ultrasound image data obtained by an ultrasound diagnostic device or three-dimensional image data obtained by CT (Computed Tomography) for identifying the lesion position (specification of the radiation imaging position).

[0181] Furthermore, the detailed configurations and detailed operations of the components constituting the radiation imaging system 100 in the above-described embodiment and modified examples can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0182] 100 Radiography System 1 FPD 11 Radiation detection unit 12 Scanning driver 13 Readout section 14 Control Unit 15 Storage section 16 Communications Department 16a connector 17 Sensor section RC patrol car 2. Radiation generator 21 Generator body 211 Control Unit 212 Storage section 213 Generator 214 Communications Department 22 Irradiation instruction switch 23 Tube 24 Tube support part 241,242 Support part 25 Collimator 26 FPD storage section 27 Sensor section 28 Sub display 29 Distance measurement unit 2A Optical imaging unit 50 Terminal Equipment 60 RIS 70 External device

Claims

1. A radiographic imaging device that includes a control unit that acquires rounds imaging information related to radiographic imaging of a subject during rounds, and outputs judgment support information that supports the determination of whether or not the radiographic image data generated by the radiographic imaging meets a predetermined image quality based on the rounds imaging information.

2. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit determines the type of judgment support information to be generated based on the rounds radiographic information.

3. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit generates the judgment support information using the rounds imaging information.

4. The radiographic imaging device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit generates judgment support information by selecting one of the following: using the rounds imaging information as is; processing the rounds imaging information; and combining and processing the radiation image data of the radiation imaging and the rounds imaging information.

5. 5. The radiographic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the radiographic imaging information is at least one of information for performing the radiographic imaging, information accompanying the radiographic image data obtained by performing the radiographic imaging, and information relating to the radiographic imaging device.

6. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the determination support information is support information for determining whether or not the radiographic image data requires re-imaging.

7. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit displays the judgment support information on a display unit.

8. the judgment support information includes past radiation image data of the subject or another subject; The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the control unit displays the generated radiographic image data in association with the past radiographic image data.

9. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the past radiation image data of the subject or another subject includes past radiation image data of normal or abnormal disease.

10. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 8 , wherein the control unit displays an auxiliary image for assisting the judgment by superimposing it on the radiographic image data.

11. A decision support method including a control step of acquiring rounds imaging information relating to radiography of a subject by rounds, and outputting decision support information based on the rounds imaging information to assist in determining whether or not the radiography image data generated by the radiography meets a predetermined image quality.

12. Computer, a control unit that acquires rounds imaging information related to radiography of a subject performed by rounds, and outputs judgment support information that supports a judgment as to whether or not the radiographic image data generated by the radiography satisfies a predetermined image quality based on the rounds imaging information; A program to function as a

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