Image processing device and program

Abstract

To enable doctors to easily and objectively understand the severity and progression of a disease. [Solution] According to the control unit 31 of the image processing device 3, a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of a subject with radiation is acquired, and when a measurement target is specified in the dynamic image, information regarding the shape of the measurement target is measured in at least two or more frame images from the multiple frame images of the dynamic image, and the measured information regarding the shape of the two or more measurement targets is displayed on the display unit 34.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] Also, in large hospitals, etc., fluoroscopic devices are used to perform load imaging (imaging in a state where a load is applied to a joint (for example, the movement of climbing up and down stairs, etc.)), and there are cases where the movement of the knee joint at that time is visually observed. However, quantitative analysis is not being performed, and there is a lack of objectivity. In addition, it is difficult to make a reservation for a fluoroscopic device, a doctor's presence is required and imaging cannot be easily performed, and it is difficult to position the fluoroscopic device and it takes time to perform imaging in the standing position, so there is also a problem that it is not suitable for actual operation.

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

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, Patent Document 1 only describes a method for automatically calculating the lateral femoro-tibial angle (FTA) from lower limb fluoroscopic images. For example, there is a demand to see the severity and progression of diseases such as bone compression fractures. However, no method has been proposed that allows doctors to easily and objectively assess these conditions.

[0007] The objective of this invention is to enable physicians to easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of a disease. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the above problems, the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is: An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject, A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of the object to be measured in at least two or more frame images among the plurality of frame images, An output unit that outputs the results measured by the measurement unit, Equipped with, The object to be measured is a joint, The information relating to the shape of the object to be measured includes at least one of the following: the distance between bones in the joint of the object to be measured, the area between bones, and the time integral of the area between bones.

[0009] The program according to the present invention is Computers An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of a subject with radiation, A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of the object to be measured in at least two or more frame images among the plurality of frame images. An output unit that outputs the results measured by the measurement unit. To make it function as, The object to be measured is a joint, The information relating to the shape of the object to be measured includes at least one of the following: the distance between bones in the joint of the object to be measured, the area between bones, and the time integral of the area between bones. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, physicians can easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of a disease. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram representing a radiography system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram representing the image processing equipment included in the radiography system. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows the measurement process performed by the control unit in Figure 2. [Figure 4] (a) is a diagram showing the deformation of the vertebral body when the vertebra is moved from a posterior to a flexed position in the early stages of a compression fracture, and (b) is a diagram showing the deformation of the vertebral body when the vertebra is moved from a posterior to a flexed position in the advanced stages of a compression fracture. [Figure 5] (a) is a graph showing the time change in information regarding the shape of the vertebra when the vertebra is moved from a posterior to a flexed position in the early stages of a compression fracture, and (b) is a graph showing the time change in information regarding the shape of the vertebra when the vertebra is moved from a posterior to a flexed position in the advanced stages of a compression fracture. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the range of motion of a subject when the lumbar spine is the target of measurement. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the range of motion of a subject when the cervical spine is the object of measurement. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of information regarding the shape of the object being measured when the object being measured is a fracture of a bone in the hand or foot. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the range of motion of a subject when the measurement target is a radial fracture. [Figure 10]This is a diagram for explaining the operating angle of the subject when the measurement target is a finger fracture. [Figure 11] This is a diagram for explaining the operating angle of the subject when the measurement target is a foot fracture. [Figure 12] This is a diagram for explaining the width and area of cartilage when the measurement target is the knee joint. [Figure 13] This is a diagram for explaining the operating angle of the subject when the measurement target is the knee joint. [Figure 14] This is a diagram showing the change of the scaphoid bone of a normal wrist joint. [Figure 15] This is a diagram for explaining the CE angle and the Sharp angle.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments and drawings. <00001​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0016] The radiation generator 1, although not shown in the diagram, includes a generator that applies a voltage according to preset radiation irradiation conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time (mAs value), etc.) based on the operation of an irradiation instruction switch, and a radiation source that generates a dose of radiation (e.g., X-rays) corresponding to the applied voltage when a voltage is applied from the generator. Furthermore, the radiation generator 1 is configured to generate radiation in a manner corresponding to the radiation image to be captured (a dynamic image in this embodiment).

[0017] The radiation generator 1 may be installed in the imaging room, or it may be configured to be mobile, such as in a mobile medical unit, along with the image processing device 3, etc.

[0018] The radiation detector 2, although not shown in the diagram, includes a substrate in which pixels equipped with radiation detection elements that generate an electric charge corresponding to the dose when exposed to radiation, and switch elements that store and release electric charge, are arranged in a two-dimensional (matrix) manner; a scanning circuit that switches each switch element on and off; a readout circuit that reads out the amount of electric charge emitted from each pixel as a signal value; a control unit that generates a radiation image from the multiple signal values ​​read out by the readout circuit; and an output unit that outputs the generated radiation image data to the outside. Furthermore, the radiation detector 2 is configured to generate a radiation image corresponding to the irradiated radiation, in synchronization with the timing of radiation irradiation from the radiation generator 1.

[0019] Furthermore, the radiation detector 2 may be a so-called indirect type that incorporates a scintillator or the like and converts the irradiated radiation into light of other wavelengths such as visible light using the scintillator, and generates an electric charge corresponding to the converted light, or it may be a so-called direct type that generates an electric charge directly from the radiation without going through a scintillator or the like. Furthermore, the radiation detector 2 may be a dedicated unit integrated with the imaging table, or a portable (cassette type).

[0020] The image processing device 3 consists of a PC and dedicated equipment, etc. The image processing device 3 may also be a console that sets various imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time (mAs value), frame rate, subject size, presence or absence of grid, etc.) to the radiation generator 1, radiation detector 2, etc., based on imaging order information acquired from other systems (such as HIS or RIS) or user operations. Details of this image processing device 3 will be described later.

[0021] Server 4 consists of PCs, dedicated devices, virtual servers in the cloud, etc. Furthermore, server 4 has a database (DB) 41. The database 41 is capable of storing dynamic images generated by the radiation detector 2 and processing results from the image processing device 3. In this embodiment, the database 41 is provided on a server 4 that is independent of the image processing device 3, etc. However, the database 41 may be provided within the image processing device 3, or within other devices of the radiography system 100. Furthermore, if other systems such as PACS are connected to the radiography system 100, the PACS may be located within the other system.

[0022] In this embodiment, the radiography system 100 is configured such that the radiation source of the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2 are placed opposite each other with a space in between, and the subject is placed between them and the radiation source is irradiated with radiation, thereby enabling radiography of the subject. In this embodiment, motion imaging is performed by repeatedly irradiating the subject with pulsed radiation from a radiation source and generating an image using the radiation detector 2 multiple times in a short period of time (for example, 15 times per second) for each shooting operation, thereby generating multiple images that show the motion of the subject. The series of images obtained by motion imaging is called a motion image. Each of the multiple images that make up a motion image is called a frame image. Motion imaging may also be performed by continuously irradiating the subject with radiation at a low dose rate from a radiation source for a predetermined time without interruption (continuous irradiation), during which time the radiation detector 2 generates multiple frame images.

[0023] <Configuration of Image Processing Device 3> Next, the specific configuration of the image processing device 3 included in the above-mentioned radiography system 100 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram representing the image processing device 3.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the image processing apparatus 3 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, a storage unit 33, a display unit 34, and an operation unit 35. Parts 31-35 are electrically connected via a bus or similar device. Alternatively, instead of providing the image processing device 3 with a display unit 34 and an operation unit 35, a display device (such as a tablet terminal) equipped with a display unit and an operation unit may be connected to the image processing device 3.

[0025] The control unit 31 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and RAM (Random Access Memory). It consists of the following: The CPU of the control unit 31 reads various programs stored in the memory unit 33, expands them into RAM, executes various processes according to the expanded programs, and centrally controls the operation of each part of the image processing device 3. In addition, the control unit 31 works in cooperation with the programs stored in the memory unit 33 to execute the measurement process described later, and functions as an acquisition unit and a measurement unit.

[0026] The communication unit 32 consists of communication modules and the like. The communication unit 32 connects to other devices (such as the radiation detector 2) via a communication network N (such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet). It is designed to send and receive various signals and data between them.

[0027] The memory unit 33 is composed of non-volatile semi-dynamic memory, a hard disk, or the like. Furthermore, the memory unit 33 stores various programs executed by the control unit 31, as well as parameters necessary for program execution. The memory unit 33 may also be capable of storing radiation images.

[0028] The display unit 34 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), etc. The display unit 34 displays dynamic images, measurement results, etc., based on control signals input from the control unit 31. The display unit 34 also functions as an output unit and a notification unit.

[0029] The operation unit 35 is configured to be operable by the user via a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, number input keys, various function keys, a pointing device such as a mouse, or a touch panel laminated on the surface of a display device. The operation unit 35 is operated by the user. The system outputs control signals corresponding to the operation to the control unit 31.

[0030] The control unit 31 of the image processing device 3 configured in this way has the function of executing the measurement process shown in Figure 3, for example, when a predetermined start operation is performed.

[0031] <Operation> Next, the operation of the radiography system 100 will be described. First, the radiation generator 1 and radiation detector 2 are used to perform dynamic imaging on the subject, acquiring a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images. Examples of body parts that can be used as subjects include diseased bones and joints such as the cervical spine, lumbar spine, bones of the limbs, knee joints, hip joints, elbow joints, wrist joints, and ankle joints. Dynamic imaging is performed, for example, while moving the subject or while applying stress (load) to the subject.

[0032] Each frame image of the dynamic image generated by the radiation detector 2 through dynamic imaging is accompanied by information such as an identification ID for identifying the dynamic image, patient information, and examination information (imaging site, radiation irradiation conditions, image reading conditions, and a number indicating the order of imaging (frame number)) (for example, written in the header area of ​​the image data in DICOM format), and is transmitted sequentially to the image processing device 3. Alternatively, the frame images of the dynamic image may be transmitted to the image processing device 3 all at once.

[0033] In the image processing device 3, the measurement process shown in Figure 3 is performed on the dynamic image transmitted by the radiation detector 2, and information regarding the shape of the object to be measured is measured and output. The measurement process is performed in cooperation with the control unit 31 and the program stored in the storage unit 33. The measurement process will be described below with reference to Figure 3.

[0034] First, the control unit 31 acquires a dynamic image transmitted from the radiation detector 2 (step S1).

[0035] Next, the control unit 31 receives the designation of the measurement target for shape information (step S2). For example, the control unit 31 displays a selection of structures to be measured on the display unit 34 and accepts the user's specification of the measurement target via the operation unit 35. Examples of measurement targets include structures such as the cervical vertebrae, lumbar vertebrae, shoulder joint, elbow joint, bones of the hand (radius, scaphoid, metacarpal, ...), wrist joint, hip joint, knee joint, bones of the foot (talus, calcaneus, metatarsal, ...), and ankle joint. If it is not possible to identify which bone is being measured, the system may allow the user to specify a general category such as bones of the hand or bones of the foot. The control unit 31 may also automatically specify the measurement target based on the imaging order information. Furthermore, if a measurement target with multiple disease types is specified, the control unit 31 may, after the measurement target has been specified, display a selection of diseases on the display unit 34 and accept the user's specification of the disease via the operation unit 35.

[0036] Next, the control unit 31 measures information regarding the shape of the object to be measured in two or more frames of the dynamic image (step S3). The frame images to be measured (the frames on which the measurement is performed) may be all frames of the motion image, frames at predetermined intervals, or two or more predetermined frame images. Information regarding the shape of the object being measured includes at least one of the lengths, areas, or angles of predetermined parts that represent the shape of the object being measured. It also includes information regarding the shape of the object being measured in each frame image during measurement, and information regarding the shape of the object being measured in a predetermined frame image (e.g., the first frame image), a frame image temporally adjacent to each frame image during measurement, or a predetermined number of frame images separated by a predetermined number of frames. The difference between the two values ​​can be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information regarding the shape of the object being measured.

[0037] Then, the control unit 31 displays (outputs) information regarding the shape of the object to be measured using the display unit 34 (step S4), and terminates the measurement process.

[0038] In step S4, for example, numerical data related to the shape of the object being measured is displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of imaging and the frame number. This allows physicians to perceive changes in the shape of the object being measured, which are difficult to notice when interpreting dynamic images, as numerical data. As a result, it becomes possible to easily and objectively determine whether or not the object being measured has a disease, and if so, its severity and progression. This can also shorten the time required for diagnosis. Alternatively, a graph plotting information about the shape of the object being measured could be displayed on a graph where the vertical axis represents information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis represents the elapsed time since the start of shooting (or frame number). This would further facilitate the physician's understanding of the presence or absence and condition of disease.

[0039] Furthermore, information indicating the degree of movement required to determine whether a change (or abnormality) occurs in the shape of the object being measured is useful for diagnosis, treatment decisions, confirming the effectiveness of treatment, and providing lifestyle guidance. Therefore, numerical values ​​related to the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the subject's movement angle. Alternatively, a graph may be displayed in which the information related to the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the subject's movement angle.

[0040] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the object being measured based on information regarding the shape of the object being measured, and if an abnormality is determined, it may display notification information to that effect on the display unit 34. For example, it may compare information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured from each frame image with a predetermined threshold, and determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the object being measured based on the comparison result. If an abnormality is determined, it may also identify the time when the abnormality occurred (or the operating angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred) based on the comparison result between the information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured from each frame image and a predetermined threshold, and notify the user of the time when the abnormality occurred or the operating angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred.

[0041] The following provides specific examples illustrating information regarding the shape of the object to be measured and how to output that information.

[0042] (When the object being measured is the vertebrae) When a compression fracture occurs in the vertebrae, such as the cervical or lumbar vertebrae, the weakened bone collapses and deforms under weight-bearing. In extension, there is little weight-bearing, so bone deformation is small or almost nonexistent, but in flexion, weight-bearing occurs, causing bone deformation. In the early stages of a compression fracture, the bone on the anterior edge becomes weakened, and as shown in Figure 4(a), the anterior edge collapses and deforms in flexion, where weight is applied to the anterior edge of the vertebral body. As the disease progresses, the entire vertebral body becomes weakened, and as shown in Figure 4(b), the entire body collapses in flexion. Also, as the disease progresses, the timing of vertebral body deformation becomes earlier.

[0043] Therefore, when the measurement target is a vertebra such as the cervical or lumbar vertebrae, the person performing the imaging places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs lateral dynamic imaging while changing the flexion angle of the subject (in this embodiment, changing from a flexed position to a flexed position) to acquire dynamic images. When the dynamic images are received and a vertebra such as the cervical or lumbar vertebrae is specified as the measurement target in the image processing device 3, the control unit 31 recognizes the vertebral body in two or more frames of the dynamic images by image processing such as edge detection, and obtains information regarding the shape of the measurement target, such as the length of the anterior and posterior edges of the vertebral body, the area of ​​the vertebral body, and the angle θ between the upper and lower edges of the vertebral body (Figure 4). (a) The length of at least one of the above is measured. This may include the length of the upper and lower edges of the vertebral body. Alternatively, the difference between the information on the shape of the object measured in each frame image in which the measurement is performed and the information on the shape of the object measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image in which the measurement is performed, or a predetermined number of frame images that are temporally separated is calculated and used as the information on the shape of the object. The system may predetermine which of the multiple vertebrae from which shape information is measured, for example, the vertebral body of the ○th cervical vertebra if the measurement target is the cervical spine, or the vertebral body of the △th lumbar vertebra if the measurement target is the lumbar spine. Alternatively, the system may display frame images of recognized vertebral bodies on the display unit 34 and measure shape information from the vertebral body selected by the operation unit 35. Alternatively, shape information may be measured for all vertebral bodies. The system then displays the time change of the shape information of the measurement target on the display unit 34.

[0044] As for how to display information about the shape of the object being measured, for example, the numerical values ​​of the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of shooting or the frame number, or a graph may be displayed in which the information about the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the elapsed time since the start of shooting (or the frame number).

[0045] For example, when dynamic imaging is performed while changing the subject from a flexed position to a flexed position, if there is no compression fracture, the length of the anterior and posterior edges of the vertebral body, the area of ​​the vertebral body, and the angle between the upper and lower edges of the vertebral body will hardly change even when changing from a flexed position to a flexed position. However, if there is an early compression fracture, as shown in Figure 4(a), the anterior edge collapses when the vertebra is flexed, so as shown in Figure 5(a), the graph of information regarding the shape of the measured object shows that the length of the anterior edge (anterior edge length) and the area of ​​the vertebral body decrease from a certain point in the flexed position (t1). The length of the posterior edge (posterior edge length) does not change. On the other hand, as the symptoms progress and become severe, as shown in Figure 4(b), the entire vertebra collapses when the vertebra is flexed, so as shown in Figure 5(b), the graph of information regarding the shape of the measured object shows that the length of the anterior edge (anterior edge length), the vertebral area, and the length of the posterior edge (posterior edge length) all decrease from a certain point in the flexed position (t2). As the symptoms progress and the severity increases, the vertebral bodies collapse easily even with slight forward bending, so changes appear in the graph at an early stage. The amount of change also becomes larger. By referring to the time-dependent changes in information regarding the shape of the object being measured, physicians can easily and objectively determine whether or not a compression fracture has occurred, as well as the severity and progression of the compression fracture.

[0046] Furthermore, information indicating the angle at which the shape of the vertebrae changes (abnormalities occur) when the subject is bent forward is useful for diagnosing and treating compression fractures, and for confirming the effectiveness of treatment. Therefore, the control unit 31 may measure the flexion angle as the movement angle of the subject along with information about the shape of the subject from each frame image of the subject to be measured, and display the information about the shape of the subject in correspondence with the flexion angle, for example. For example, the information about the shape of the subject to be measured may be displayed numerically in correspondence with the flexion angle. Alternatively, the measured information about the shape of the subject to be measured may be plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the subject and the horizontal axis representing the flexion angle. This makes it possible for a physician to easily and objectively understand at what angle the subject is bent forward before symptoms appear.

[0047] Here, when the target of measurement is the lumbar spine, the flexion angle is defined as the angle between reference line L1 and symmetric line L2, for example, as shown in Figure 6. Reference line L1 is an arbitrary vertical line in the frame image (here, a line parallel to the vertical direction of the image), and symmetric line L2 is a line passing through the midpoint of the line segment passing through the center of the first lumbar vertebral body (the intersection of a line passing through the anterior end of the upper edge and the posterior end of the lower edge, and a line passing through the posterior end of the upper edge and the anterior end of the lower edge) and the centers of both femoral heads. Anterior tilt relative to reference line L1 is represented as a positive value. Alternatively, symmetric line L2 may be a line passing through the spinous process of the first thoracic vertebra and the spinous process of the fifth lumbar vertebra. Alternatively, in dynamic images... The symmetric line L2 may be a straight line passing through any two points on the lumbar vertebrae specified by the user via the control unit 35.

[0048] When the measurement target is the cervical spine, the flexion angle is defined as the angle between reference line L1 and symmetric line L2, where reference line L1 is an arbitrary vertical line in the frame image (here, a line parallel to the vertical direction of the image), and symmetric line L2 is a line connecting the posterior edge of the odontoid process (upper end) and the center of the C7 vertebral body (lower end), as shown in Figure 7. Anterior tilt beyond reference line L1 is represented as a positive value. Reference line L1 may be a vertical line passing through the center of the C7 vertebral body. Alternatively, symmetric line L2 may be a line passing through any two points on the cervical spine specified by the user using the control unit 35 on the dynamic image.

[0049] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the object being measured based on information regarding the shape of the object being measured, and if an abnormality is determined, it may display notification information to that effect on the display unit 34. For example, it may compare information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured from each frame image with a predetermined threshold, and determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the object being measured based on the comparison result. If an abnormality is determined, it may also identify the time when the abnormality occurred or the movement angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred based on the comparison result between information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured from each frame image and a predetermined threshold, and notify the user of the time when the abnormality occurred or the movement angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred. This allows a physician to more easily and objectively determine whether or not there is an abnormality (compression fracture) in the vertebra being measured, and the timing (time or flexion angle) when the symptoms of the abnormality appear.

[0050] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may calculate the ratio of information regarding the shape of the object being measured in the flexed position (most flexed position) and the extended position (most extended position), and display this ratio on the display unit 34. This makes it possible to more easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of compression fractures.

[0051] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may identify the timing at which the rate of change of the leading edge between adjacent frame images is greatest, and output the time or bending angle of that timing to the display unit 34. This makes it possible to grasp the severity and progression of compression fractures more easily and objectively.

[0052] (If the object being measured is a bone in the hand or foot (fracture)) A slight crack in the bone is difficult to detect with radiographic images because there is little change in the bone's shape. However, when the bone is moved, the fractured portion shifts or opens up at a certain point, making it possible to detect this abnormality with radiographic images. While it is difficult to capture a still image of the bone at the moment it shifts or opens up, dynamic radiographic imaging while moving the bone creates a moment when stress is applied to the fractured portion, making it possible to obtain radiographic images at that time when the bone shifts more or the fractured portion opens up. Furthermore, by applying stress (load) to the fracture site and performing dynamic imaging, displacement and opening become easier to observe (the amount of displacement or opening increases, and the displacement persists for a longer period). When performing dynamic imaging while applying stress, there are several methods, including applying a fixed stress level and performing dynamic imaging while moving the bone, applying a fixed stress level and performing dynamic imaging multiple times while changing the stress level, and fixing the bone movement and gradually increasing the stress while performing dynamic imaging. In each case, it is possible to see at what level of stress abnormalities occur and the extent of displacement, etc.

[0053] Therefore, the person performing the imaging places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while moving and / or applying stress to the bone to be measured, thereby acquiring a dynamic image. In the image processing device 3, when the dynamic image is received and the bones of the hand or foot are specified as the target of measurement, the control unit 31 uses two or more frames of the dynamic image. For example, the system recognizes the object to be measured using image processing such as edge detection, and measures at least one of the following as information about the shape of the object: the length of the deviation (step) from the straight line at the edge of the bone of the object to be measured (see arrow in Figure 8(a)), and the width and length of the depression (gap due to fracture) (see arrow in Figure 8(b)). Alternatively, the system may calculate the difference between the information about the shape of the object measured in each frame image during measurement and the information about the shape of the object measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image during measurement, or a predetermined number of frame images that are temporally separated, and use the calculated difference as information about the shape of the object. The information about the shape of the object measured from multiple frame images is then displayed on the display unit 34.

[0054] Regarding the display of information about the shape of the object being measured, for example, the numerical values ​​of the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of shooting or the frame number, or a graph may be displayed in which the information about the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the elapsed time since the start of shooting (or the frame number). By referring to such changes in the information about the shape of the object being measured, physicians can easily and objectively grasp whether or not a fracture has occurred, and the severity and progression of the fracture.

[0055] Furthermore, information indicating how much movement of a subject causes a change in its shape (i.e., an abnormality occurs) is useful for diagnosing fractures, deciding on treatment, and confirming the effectiveness of treatment. Therefore, when shooting is performed while moving a subject including the object to be measured, the control unit 31 may measure the movement angle of the subject along with information about the shape of the object to be measured from each frame image of the object to be measured, and display the information about the shape of the object to be measured in correspondence with the movement angle. For example, the information about the shape of the object to be measured may be displayed numerically in correspondence with the movement angle. Alternatively, the measured information about the shape of the object to be measured may be plotted and displayed on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the object to be measured and the horizontal axis representing the movement angle.

[0056] In this case, if the object of measurement is a fracture of the radius, dynamic imaging is performed while the hand is moved radially and ulnarly. In this case, the angle of movement of the subject (flexion angle) is defined as the angle between reference line L1, which is the line passing through the center of the radius in the frame image, and symmetric line L2, which is the line passing through the center of the metacarpal bone of the middle finger. A positive value is used for radial deviation and a negative value for ulnar deviation compared to reference line L1. When the hand is photographed from the front, as shown in Figure 9(a), it is easy to distinguish between radial and ulnar deviation and to determine the flexion angle. However, it is also possible to photograph the hand from the side and measure the flexion angle as shown in Figure 9(b).

[0057] Furthermore, for example, if the subject of measurement is a finger, dynamic imaging is performed from the side while the fractured finger is bent. This is because when the finger is bent, it is possible to observe how the fractured area opens or shifts due to the pulling of the tendons (muscles). In this case, the angle of movement (flexion angle) of the subject is, for example, as shown in Figure 10, the reference line L1 is the line passing through the center of the proximal (palm-side) bone and the adjacent bone, and the reference line L2 is the line passing through the center of the distal (fingertip-side) bone, and the smaller of the angles made between the reference line L1 and the reference line L2 is used.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, if the object to be measured is the bones of the foot, dynamic imaging is performed from the side while the ankle is bent and extended. In this case, the subject's movement angle (flexion angle) is defined as the larger of the angle between the reference line L1, which passes through the center of the tibia, and the symmetric line L2, which passes through the center of the talus, as shown in Figure 11.

[0059] Alternatively, in either case, the user may specify a reference line L1 and a target line L2 on the motion image using the operation unit 35, and the angle between the specified reference line and target line may be used as the motion angle of the subject.

[0060] Furthermore, if the measurement target is subjected to stress during imaging, the control unit 31 may display information regarding the shape of the measurement target in correspondence with the applied stress value. For example, the information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be displayed numerically in correspondence with the stress value. Alternatively, the measured information regarding the shape of the measurement target may be plotted and displayed on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the measurement target and the horizontal axis representing the stress value.

[0061] In this way, by displaying information about the shape of the object being measured in correspondence with the subject's movement angle and stress level, doctors can easily and objectively understand not only whether or not a fracture is present, but also how much movement (or how much stress) the subject will exhibit and to what extent symptoms will appear. As a result, it becomes possible to diagnose fractures, and the degree of healing during follow-up observations after treatment can be determined from the size of bone displacement or indentation. Furthermore, if displacement or other issues are observed with a certain degree of movement or stress, doctors can instruct patients to limit their exercise in daily life (for example, "If you bend it beyond this point, the healing fracture will displace"), thereby preventing the worsening of symptoms.

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality and notify the user if, for example, the information regarding the shape of the object being measured in each frame image (for example, the width and length of steps or bone depressions) exceeds a predetermined threshold (for example, 0). In addition, the control unit 31 may identify the time, flexion angle, or stress value at which the abnormality occurred and notify the user of the time, flexion angle, or stress value at which the abnormality occurred. This allows physicians to more easily and objectively determine whether or not there is an abnormality (fracture) in the bone being measured, and the timing of the onset of symptoms of the abnormality (time, flexion angle, or stress value).

[0063] (When the measurement target is the knee joint, elbow joint, or hip joint (osteoarthritis)) Osteoarthritis is a disease in which the cartilage, a component of joints such as the knee, elbow, and hip joints, wears down, causing significant deformation of the joint's shape. Since cartilage is not visible in radiographic images, osteoarthritis is evaluated by measuring the space between bones as cartilage. Normally, the interosseous distance (joint space) is used as the width of the cartilage, but since cartilage is three-dimensional, there are areas that are thicker and areas that are thinner. Therefore, by moving the joint by a certain angle, the integral value of the cartilage width (length) or cartilage area over time becomes an indicator of the entire cartilage. The extent of this value and the degree of reduction are important indicators of the severity and progression of osteoarthritis.

[0064] Therefore, the person performing the imaging places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while moving the joint to be measured to acquire a dynamic image. In the image processing device 3, when the dynamic image is received and a joint such as the knee joint, elbow joint, or hip joint is specified as the target of measurement, the control unit 31 recognizes the target of measurement by image processing such as edge detection in two or more frames of the dynamic image, and measures the distance between bones, the area between bones (cartilage area) or its time integral value (which may be the sum of the areas or averaged over time) in the joint of the target of measurement as information about the shape of the target of measurement. Furthermore, since the timing when the cartilage area is smallest is considered to be the timing most associated with pain, the smallest cartilage area may be used as information about the shape of the target of measurement. Alternatively, the difference between the information about the shape of the target of measurement measured in each frame image during measurement and the information about the shape of the target of measurement measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image during measurement, or a predetermined number of frames that are temporally separated may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as information about the shape of the target of measurement.

[0065] For example, when the measurement target is the knee joint, the distance between bones is measured as the shortest distance between the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia, or the shortest distance between the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia (Figure 12). (See the arrow). In addition, as the area of ​​the cartilage, for example, in the case of a lateral image, a tangent line is drawn between the femur and the tibia, and the area enclosed by these two tangent lines and the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia (or the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia) is measured (the area enclosed by the dotted line and dashed line in Figure 12). In the case of a frontal image, a tangent line is drawn between the femur and the tibia, and the area enclosed by these two tangent lines and the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia, and the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia is measured. Then, information regarding the shape of the object to be measured, measured from multiple frame images, is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0066] Regarding the display of information about the shape of the object being measured, for example, the numerical values ​​of the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of shooting or the frame number, or a graph may be displayed in which the information about the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the elapsed time since the start of shooting (or the frame number). By referring to the time changes in the information about the shape of the object being measured in this way, physicians can easily and objectively grasp whether or not osteoarthritis is present, and the severity and progression of osteoarthritis.

[0067] Furthermore, information indicating how much the subject needs to be moved before a change in its shape occurs (an abnormality occurs) is useful for diagnosing osteoarthritis, deciding on treatment, and confirming the effectiveness of treatment. Therefore, the control unit 31 may measure the movement angle of the subject from each frame image of the subject to be measured, along with information about the shape of the subject to be measured, and display the information about the shape of the subject to be measured in correspondence with the movement angle. For example, the information about the shape of the subject to be measured may be displayed numerically in correspondence with the movement angle. Alternatively, the measured information about the shape of the subject to be measured may be plotted and displayed on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the subject to be measured and the horizontal axis representing the movement angle.

[0068] Here, for example, if the object to be measured is the knee joint, dynamic imaging is performed while the knee is flexed. The knee can be photographed from the front or from the side, but if information regarding the shape of the object to be measured is to be displayed in correspondence with the subject's movement angle (flexion angle), it is preferable to photograph from the side. This is because it is easier to capture the flexion angle. In this case, the subject's movement angle (flexion angle) is the smaller of the angles formed by the reference line L1 and the target line L2, where L1 is the line passing through the center of the femur in the frame image, and L2 is the line passing through the center of the tibia, as shown in Figure 13. Alternatively, the user may specify the reference line L1 and target line L2 using the operation unit 35 on the dynamic image, and the angle formed by the specified reference line L1 and target line L2 may be used as the subject's movement angle.

[0069] In this way, by displaying information about the shape of the object being measured in correspondence with the subject's movement angle, doctors can easily and objectively understand how much the cartilage shrinks when the object is moved. As a result, it becomes possible to diagnose osteoarthritis and to understand the progress of healing during follow-up observation based on the width and area of ​​the cartilage. Furthermore, if the information about the shape of the object being measured is in terms of cartilage area, doctors can easily understand the cartilage area at the time when it is smallest, thus making it easy for doctors to understand the timing that is most related to pain.

[0070] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may determine that there is an abnormality and notify the user if, for example, the information regarding the shape of the object being measured in each frame image (e.g., the distance between bones, the area between bones (cartilage area), or its time integral) falls below a predetermined threshold. In addition, the control unit 31 may identify the time or bending angle at which the abnormality occurred and notify the user of the time or the movement angle of the subject at which the abnormality occurred. This allows physicians to more easily and objectively determine whether or not an abnormality (osteoarthritis) has occurred in the subject being measured, and when the symptoms of the abnormality may appear.

[0071] (When the measurement target is the wrist joint) For example, when you perform radial and ulnar deviation movements of the hand (rotating it from side to side), the scaphoid bone (shown as circled with a dashed line in Figure 14) rotates, and its shape changes as shown in Figure 14. Most other bones only move and do not change shape. The scaphoid bone of the wrist moves as described above if the ligaments are normal. However, if the ligaments are damaged and the pulling force decreases, the scaphoid bone will not rotate, and its shape (for example, the length indicated by the arrow in Figure 14) will not change. The degree of this change in shape can be used to diagnose the extent of ligament damage.

[0072] Therefore, the person performing the imaging places the subject between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while the hand is flexor-ulnar deviation to acquire dynamic images. When the dynamic images are received by the image processing device 3 and the wrist joint is designated as the measurement target, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement target in two or more frames of the dynamic images by image processing such as edge detection, and measures at least one of the length, width, and area of ​​the scaphoid bone as information about the shape of the measurement target. Alternatively, the difference between the information about the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image during measurement and the information about the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image during measurement, or a predetermined number of frames that are temporally separated may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as the information about the shape of the measurement target. The information about the shape of the measurement target measured from the multiple frame images is then displayed on the display unit 34.

[0073] Regarding the display method of information about the shape of the object being measured, for example, the numerical values ​​of the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of shooting and the frame number, or a graph may be displayed in which the information about the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the elapsed time since the start of shooting (or the frame number). By referring to the time changes in the information about the shape of the object being measured in this way, physicians can easily understand whether or not ligament damage has occurred and to what extent.

[0074] Furthermore, if the subject is moved while shooting, the control unit 31 may measure the motion angle of the subject from each frame image of the subject, along with information about the shape of the subject, and display the information about the shape of the subject in correspondence with the motion angle. For example, the information about the shape of the subject may be displayed numerically in correspondence with the motion angle. Alternatively, the measured information about the shape of the subject may be plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the subject and the horizontal axis representing the motion angle.

[0075] In this case, when the measurement target is the wrist joint, dynamic imaging is performed while the hand is moved radially and flexively. The angle of movement of the subject (flexion angle) is defined as the angle between the reference line L1, which is a line passing through the center of the radius, and the symmetric line L2, which is a line passing through the center of the metacarpal bone of the middle finger, as shown in Figure 9(a). A value is expressed as positive if the radial deviation side is greater than the reference line L1, and a value is expressed as negative if the ulnar deviation side is greater than the reference line L1. Alternatively, the user may specify a reference line L1 and a target line L2 using the control unit 35 on the motion image, and the angle between the specified reference line and target line may be used as the motion angle of the subject.

[0076] In this way, by displaying information about the shape of the object being measured in correspondence with the subject's movement angle, physicians can easily and objectively understand how much the shape of the scaphoid bone changes (or doesn't change) depending on how much the subject is moved. As a result, it becomes possible to diagnose ligament injuries and to understand the progress of healing during follow-up observations.

[0077] Furthermore, the control unit 31, when the difference between the information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured in each frame image of the object being measured (for example, the length, width, or area of ​​the scaphoid bone) and the information regarding the shape of the object being measured measured in the first frame image is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold, It is also acceptable to determine that there is an abnormality (ligament damage) and notify the patient accordingly. This allows doctors to more easily and objectively determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the object being measured.

[0078] (If the object being measured is the hip joint (acetabular dysplasia (hip dysplasia)) If the upper outer edge of the acetabulum is shallow and the CE angle (Center-Edge angle) is 20 degrees or less, it is considered acetabular dysplasia. This is how it is determined. Here, the CE angle is the angle between the perpendicular line passing through the center of the femoral head and the line connecting the center of the femoral head and the upper outer edge of the acetabulum (lateral edge of the acetabulum), as shown in Figure 15. If this acetabular dysplasia is severe, it can lead to the development of osteoarthritis of the hip. The diagnosis of acetabular dysplasia is made by determining whether or not the "space (joint space)" of the hip joint is narrowed. It is possible to make a diagnosis by taking dynamic images of the hip joint and measuring the area and distance (spacing) of the "space (joint space)" of the hip joint in two or more frame images, but measuring the dynamic CE angle as an extension of conventional indicators can also allow for a more accurate estimation of the progression of symptoms.

[0079] Therefore, the person performing the imaging places the subject (hip joint) between the radiation generator 1 and the radiation detector 2, and performs dynamic imaging while moving the hip joint to acquire dynamic images. In the image processing device 3, when the dynamic images are received and the hip joint (acetabular dysplasia) is specified as the measurement target, the control unit 31 recognizes the measurement target in two or more frames of the dynamic images by image processing such as edge detection, and measures the area, distance (spacing), or CE angle of the hip joint as information about the shape of the measurement target. Alternatively, the difference between the information about the shape of the measurement target measured in each frame image during measurement and the information about the shape of the measurement target measured in a predetermined frame image (for example, the first frame image), a frame image that is temporally adjacent to each frame image during measurement, or a predetermined number of frames that are temporally separated may be calculated, and the calculated difference may be used as the information about the shape of the measurement target. Then, the information about the shape of the measurement target measured from the multiple frame images is displayed on the display unit 34.

[0080] Regarding the display of information about the shape of the object being measured, for example, the numerical values ​​of the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time since the start of imaging or the frame number, or a graph may be displayed in which the information about the shape of the object being measured is plotted on a graph with the vertical axis representing the information about the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the elapsed time since the start of imaging (or the frame number). By referring to the time changes in the information about the shape of the object being measured in this way, physicians can easily and objectively grasp whether or not there is acetabular dysplasia, and the severity and progression of acetabular dysplasia.

[0081] Alternatively, the control unit 31 may measure the Sharp angle as the motion angle of the subject along with information about the shape of the object being measured from each frame image of the object being measured, and display the information about the shape of the object being measured in association with the Sharp angle. As shown in Figure 15, the Sharp angle is the angle between the line connecting the lower edge of the teardrop and the upper outer edge of the acetabulum and the horizontal line (the line connecting the lower edges of the left and right teardrops). For example, the information about the shape of the object being measured may be displayed numerically in association with the Sharp angle. Alternatively, the measured information about the shape of the object being measured may be plotted and displayed on a graph with the vertical axis representing the shape of the object being measured and the horizontal axis representing the Sharp angle.

[0082] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may, for example, determine that there is an abnormality and notify the system if the information regarding the shape of the object being measured in each frame image (e.g., the CE angle) falls below a predetermined threshold. In addition, the control unit 31 may identify the time or sharp angle at which the abnormality occurred and notify the system of the time or sharp angle at which the abnormality occurred. This allows doctors to more easily and objectively determine whether or not there is an abnormality in the hip joint, and when that abnormality may occur.

[0083] Furthermore, the severity and progression of acetabular dysplasia can also be estimated by measuring the Sharp angle. Therefore, the Sharp angle may be measured as information regarding the shape of the object being measured, and the Sharp angle may be displayed in correspondence with the elapsed time (or frame number) from the start of imaging or the CE angle.

[0084] As described above, the control unit 31 of the image processing device 3 acquires a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of a subject with radiation. When a measurement target is specified in the dynamic image, it measures information regarding the shape of the measurement target in at least two or more frame images from the multiple frame images of the dynamic image, and displays the measurement results on the display unit 34.

[0085] Therefore, since physicians can easily and objectively grasp changes in the shape of the designated measurement target, they can easily and objectively grasp the severity and progression of diseases related to the measurement target.

[0086] It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the display unit 34 was used as an output unit to display information regarding the shape of the object to be measured. However, for example, the output unit could be a communication unit 32, and information regarding the shape of the object to be measured could be output to an external device via the communication unit 32, and the external device could display the information regarding the shape of the object to be measured. Alternatively, the image processing device 3 could be configured to include a printing unit, and information regarding the shape of the object to be measured could be output to paper via the printing unit.

[0087] Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to the following (example) diseases and their measurement, in addition to the embodiments described above. • When measuring the vertebrae, the degree of slippage (movement) is measured to diagnose cervical instability / spondylolisthesis. Meyerding's angle (amount, displacement angle) and the anteroposterior diameter of the cervical (lumbar) spinal canal are measured to diagnose cervical (lumbar) spinal stenosis, and the Cobb angle and triangular Cobb angle are measured to diagnose curvature. • When the measurement target is the wrist joint, measure the radiolunate angle to diagnose the instability of the main bones. Measurements were taken to diagnose carpal bone dislocation by measuring the trajectory of the proximal carpal row, to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis by measuring displacement, and to diagnose osteoarthritis by measuring the carpal height ratio. When the measurement target is the ankle joint, the amount of ankle anterior displacement is measured to diagnose ankle instability, the Tibial angle is measured to diagnose osteoarthritis, the Böhler angle is measured to diagnose fracture reduction, the tibiotalar angle is measured to diagnose equinus deformity, the amount of ankle anterior displacement is measured to diagnose ankle instability, the long-axis arch (foot dome) is measured to diagnose flat feet, the hallux valgus angle is measured to diagnose hallux valgus, and the talocalcaneal angle is measured to diagnose flat feet. When the measurement target is the elbow joint, the joint space (stress imaging) is measured to diagnose ligament damage, the ulnar nerve groove inclination angle is measured to diagnose (sub)dislocation, the Baumann angle is measured to diagnose fracture reduction, and the joint space is measured to diagnose ligament damage. When the measurement target is the knee joint, the Patellofemoral index is measured to diagnose patellar luxation, the FTA (lateral knee angle) is measured to diagnose osteoarthritis, the sulcus angle is measured to diagnose (sub)luxation, and the amount of tibial displacement is measured to diagnose ligament damage. • When the measurement target is the hip joint, slipped capital femoral epiphysis (non-centered position) or slipped capital femoral epiphysis (non-centered position) To diagnose cardiac position, the CE angle is measured; to diagnose (sub)dislocation, the femoral-ischial margin distance is measured; to diagnose osteoarthritis of the hip, the acetabular lateral margin inclination angle is measured; to diagnose (sub)dislocation, the femoral-ischial margin distance is measured; and to diagnose acetabular dysplasia, the AHI (acetabular head index) is measured. • When the measurement target is the shoulder joint, the humeral head descent rate and Ar can be used to diagnose shoulder instability (non-centripetal position). The m angle is measured, the glenoid tilting angle and joint space are measured to diagnose (sub)dislocation, the GH angle and scapulothoracic angle are measured to diagnose shoulder instability, and the acromiohumeral interval is measured to diagnose rotator cuff tears.

[0088] Furthermore, while the above description discloses examples using hard disks, semiconductor non-volatile memory, etc., as computer-readable media for the program according to the present invention, the invention is not limited to these examples. Other computer-readable media include portable recording media such as CD-ROMs. Carrier waves can also be used as a medium for providing data for the program according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0089] Furthermore, the detailed configuration and operation of each device constituting the radiography system can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0090] 100 radiography systems 1. Radiation generating device 2. Radiation detector 3 Image Processing Device 31 Control Unit 32 Communications Department 33 Storage section 34 Display section 35 Control section 4 servers 41 Databases N Communication Network

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of radiation on a subject, A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of the object to be measured in at least two or more frame images among the plurality of frame images, An output unit that outputs the results measured by the measurement unit, Equipped with, The object to be measured is a joint, The image processing device provides information regarding the shape of the object to be measured, including at least one of the distance between bones in the joint of the object to be measured, the area between bones, and the time integral of the area between bones.

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the measurement target is at least one of the knee joint, elbow joint, hip joint, wrist joint, and ankle joint.

3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the measurement target is the knee joint, elbow joint, or hip joint.

4. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the output unit outputs the time change of information relating to the shape of the object to be measured.

5. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the output unit outputs information relating to the shape of the object to be measured in correspondence with the operating angle of the subject.

6. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the information relating to the shape of the object to be measured includes the difference between the information relating to the shape of the object to be measured in the first frame image of the plurality of frame images and the information relating to the shape of the object to be measured in the second frame image.

7. A determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the object to be measured based on information regarding the shape of the object to be measured, If the aforementioned determination unit determines that there is an abnormality, the notification unit notifies the user accordingly. An image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising:

8. The determination unit further identifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the movement angle of the subject at the time the abnormality occurred. The image processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the notification unit further notifies the time when the abnormality occurred or the operating angle of the subject when the abnormality occurred.

9. Computers An acquisition unit that acquires a dynamic image consisting of multiple frame images obtained by performing dynamic imaging of a subject with radiation, A measurement unit that measures information regarding the shape of the object to be measured in at least two or more frame images among the plurality of frame images. An output unit that outputs the results measured by the measurement unit. To make it function as, The object to be measured is a joint, The program provides information regarding the shape of the object to be measured, including at least one of the following: the distance between bones in the joint of the object to be measured, the area between bones, and the time integral of the area between bones.

Images