Imaging support device, method of operating the imaging support device, program, and magnetic resonance imaging device

Abstract

The present invention provides an imaging support device, an operating method and program for the imaging support device, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, all of which offer a user-friendly interface for manually adjusting the position of landmarks. [Solution] The imaging support device acquires 3D data of the heart obtained in scanogram imaging, detects landmarks of the heart from the 3D data, calculates multiple cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the location of the landmarks, generates cross-sectional images that appear in the multiple cross-sections, displays the multiple cross-sectional images, and displays a first moving element representing the location of the landmarks in the plane of the cross-sectional image, and a second moving element representing the location of the landmarks in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an imaging support apparatus, an operation method of the imaging support apparatus, a program, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In cardiac MRI examinations, imaging of reference sections specified based on the anatomical features of the heart is performed. Examples of reference section images useful for diagnosis include a left ventricular short-axis image, a horizontal long-axis image, a vertical long-axis image, a 4-chamber long-axis image, a 2-chamber long-axis image, and a 3-chamber long-axis image, and the imaging position of each section is set according to the subject for each examination. Note that MRI is an abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for automatically detecting landmarks from three-dimensional data and automatically determining six reference sections including the landmarks. That is, the MRI apparatus described in the document acquires multi-slice axial sectional image data covering the entire heart of the subject in preliminary imaging before main imaging, and generates three-dimensional volume image data of the heart using an isotropic processing. Further, in the apparatus described in the document, positions of anatomical features of the heart such as the apex cordis, mitral valve, long axis, and center of the left ventricle are detected from the three-dimensional volume data, and sections are set based on the positions of the anatomical features of the heart. A user such as a radiological technologist determines an imaging position based on the sections set based on the anatomical features of the heart, and performs main imaging.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0004]

PATENT DOCUMENT 1

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0005] For example, a user might want to manually adjust the location of automatically detected landmarks, such as when the location of a landmark representing a characteristic feature of the anatomical structure of the heart, which has been automatically detected, differs from its actual location. However, the device described in Patent Document 1 does not have a function to correct the location of automatically detected landmarks.

[0006] This disclosure is made in view of these circumstances and aims to provide an imaging support device, a method for operating the imaging support device, a program, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that provide a user-friendly interface for users when manually adjusting the position of landmarks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An imaging support device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is an imaging support device comprising a processor and memory, which supports imaging by a magnetic resonance imaging device, wherein the processor acquires three-dimensional data including the subject's heart, which is acquired in scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the magnetic resonance imaging device, detects cardiac landmarks from the three-dimensional data, calculates a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the location of the landmarks, generates a plurality of cross-sectional images appearing in each of the plurality of cross-sections from the three-dimensional data, displays the plurality of cross-sectional images, displays a first moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the plane of the cross-sectional image, and displays a second moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image.

[0008] In the imaging support device according to the second embodiment, the processor in the imaging support device according to the first embodiment may receive an operation to move a first moving element for any one of the multiple cross-sectional images, and move the position of a landmark within the plane of the single cross-sectional image in response to the operation to move the first moving element.

[0009] In the imaging support device according to the third embodiment, the processor may move the position of a landmark in the plane for other cross-sectional images in accordance with the movement of the position of a landmark in the plane for one cross-sectional image.

[0010] In the imaging support device according to the fourth embodiment, in the imaging support device according to the third embodiment, if the processor moves the position of a landmark in the depth direction in accordance with the movement of the position of the landmark in the plane for other cross-sectional images, it may use a second movement element to display the position of the landmark moved in the depth direction.

[0011] In the imaging support device according to the fifth embodiment, the processor may change the display mode of the first moving element when the position of a landmark in the depth direction is moved for other cross-sectional images.

[0012] The imaging support device according to the sixth embodiment is an imaging support device according to any one embodiment from the first to fifth embodiments, in which the processor accepts an operation of a second moving element for any one of the multiple cross-sectional images, and may move the position of a landmark in the depth direction of one cross-sectional image in response to an operation that moves the position of a landmark in the depth direction represented by the second moving element.

[0013] In the imaging support device according to the seventh embodiment, the processor may change the display mode of the first moving element when the position of a landmark in the depth direction is moved for any one of the multiple cross-sectional images.

[0014] In the imaging support device according to the eighth embodiment, in the imaging support device according to any one embodiment from the first to the seventh embodiment, the processor may apply different display modes to the first moving element according to the position of the landmark in the depth direction.

[0015] In the imaging support device according to the ninth embodiment, the processor may automatically detect cardiac landmarks from 3D data in the imaging support device according to any one embodiment from the first to the eighth embodiment.

[0016] In the imaging support device according to the 10th embodiment, in the imaging support device according to any one embodiment from the 1st to the 8th embodiment, the processor may accept manual setting of the positions of landmarks for one or more predetermined cross-sectional images.

[0017] An operating method for an imaging support device according to an eleventh aspect of this disclosure is an operating method for an imaging support device in which a computer, which functions as an imaging support device that assists imaging with a magnetic resonance imaging device, performs the following steps: acquiring three-dimensional data including the heart of a subject, which is acquired in a scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the magnetic resonance imaging device; detecting landmarks of the heart from the three-dimensional data; calculating a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the positions of the landmarks, and generating a plurality of cross-sectional images that appear in each of the plurality of cross-sections from the three-dimensional data; displaying the plurality of cross-sectional images; displaying a first moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the plane of the cross-sectional image; and displaying a second moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image.

[0018] The constituent elements of the imaging support device according to the second to tenth embodiments can be applied as constituent elements of the operating method of the imaging support device according to the other embodiments.

[0019] The program according to the twelfth aspect of this disclosure is a program that enables a computer, which functions as an imaging support device to assist imaging with a magnetic resonance imaging device, to implement the following functions: acquiring three-dimensional data including the subject's heart, which is acquired in scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the magnetic resonance imaging device; detecting cardiac landmarks from the three-dimensional data; calculating multiple cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the location of the landmarks; generating multiple cross-sectional images that appear in each of the multiple cross-sections from the three-dimensional data; displaying the multiple cross-sectional images; displaying a first moving element representing the location of the landmarks in the plane of the cross-sectional image; and displaying a second moving element representing the location of the landmarks in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image.

[0020] The configuration requirements for the imaging support device relating to the second to tenth embodiments can be applied as configuration requirements for the program relating to the other embodiments.

[0021] The disclosure also includes a non-temporary, tangible, computer-readable storage medium on which a program relating to the 12th aspect is stored.

[0022] A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to a thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprising a processor and a memory, which generates an image of a subject based on nuclear magnetic resonance, wherein the processor acquires three-dimensional data including the subject's heart, which is acquired in a scanogram imaging performed prior to the imaging, detects cardiac landmarks from the three-dimensional data, calculates a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the location of the landmarks, generates a plurality of cross-sectional images appearing in each of the plurality of cross-sections from the three-dimensional data, displays the plurality of cross-sectional images, displays a first moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the plane of the cross-sectional image, and displays a second moving element representing the position of the landmarks in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image.

[0023] The constituent requirements of the imaging support device according to the second to tenth embodiments can be applied as constituent requirements of the magnetic resonance imaging device according to the other embodiments. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] According to the present disclosure, a user-friendly user interface is provided when the position of a landmark used for calculating an imaging position in a cardiac examination is manually adjusted. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to the MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic setting screen. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart with an added display and processing flow for the cardiac examination procedure illustrated in Figure 2. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of landmark display on the MPR image illustrated in Figure 3. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic setting screen applied to an MRI apparatus according to the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to the MRI apparatus according to the first modification. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of landmark display on an MPR image according to the first modification. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to an MRI apparatus according to the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of landmark display on an MPR image according to the second modification. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a cardiac examination procedure applied to an MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12]Figure 12 shows an example of a manual settings screen. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the transitions in the manual settings screen illustrated in Figure 12. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure according to a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of how the markers are displayed. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of a marker within the plane of an MPR image. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing how the marker moves in the depth direction of the MPR image. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the transition in the display mode of the marker. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a functional block diagram of the imaging support device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description and accompanying drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, when multiple components are listed as examples in the following embodiments, it can be interpreted that at least one of the multiple components is included.

[0027] [Example of configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment] Figure 1 shows a schematic configuration of an MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. An MRI apparatus can also be called a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. MRI is an abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

[0028] The MRI device 10 comprises a measurement unit 100 and a control unit 200. The measurement unit 100 comprises a static magnetic field generating magnet 104, a gradient magnetic field coil 106, an RF (Radio Frequency) coil 108, a high-frequency magnetic field generator 112, a gradient magnetic field power supply 114, a receiving coil 110, a receiver 116, and a sequencer 118.

[0029] The measurement unit 100 includes a gantry having a cylindrical imaging space called a bore, and elements such as a static magnetic field generating magnet 104, a gradient magnetic field coil 106, and an RF coil 108 are arranged in the gantry. The subject 102 is usually positioned in the imaging space inside the gantry, lying on a bed 103. The bed 103 may be fixed to the gantry, or it may be a movable, dockable bed that can be attached to or detached from the gantry.

[0030] The static magnetic field generating magnet 104 generates a uniform static magnetic field in the imaging space where the subject 102 is positioned. The static magnetic field generating magnet 104 includes a permanent magnet type, a normal conducting type, or a superconducting type static magnetic field generating source. The gradient magnetic field coil 106 generates a gradient magnetic field in the imaging space. The RF coil 108 generates a high-frequency magnetic field that produces nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals in the atomic nuclei of the atoms constituting the tissue of the subject 102. The RF coil 108 is also called a transmitting coil. The receiving coil 110 detects the NMR signals generated from the subject 102. The receiving coil 110 is also called an RF probe.

[0031] The sequencer 118 transmits control information to the high-frequency magnetic field generator 112 and the gradient magnetic field power supply 114 according to the pulse sequence (imaging sequence). Based on the control information input from the sequencer 118, the high-frequency magnetic field generator 112 generates a high-frequency current pulse at the Larmor frequency that causes nuclear magnetic resonance and transmits it to the RF coil 108. An RF pulse corresponding to this high-frequency current pulse is transmitted from the RF coil 108 to the subject 102.

[0032] The receiving coil 110 detects the NMR signal generated by the excitation of nuclear spins within the subject 102 by the RF pulse and transmits the detected NMR signal. The NMR signal is usually collected as a gradient echo or spin echo, and is referred to here as the echo signal. The receiving coil 110 shown in Figure 1 is an example of a coil that receives the echo signal from the head of the subject 102, but receiving coils are not limited to those that receive the echo signal from the head; receiving coils are used according to the examination area of ​​the subject 102, such as the chest, abdomen, waist, shoulders, and limbs, and are set up as appropriate. In addition, there are also flexible blanket-type receiving coils that can be placed over the chest, abdomen, and waist.

[0033] The gradient coil 106 consists of an X-axis gradient coil that generates a gradient magnetic field Gx in the X-axis direction of the imaging space, a Y-axis gradient coil that generates a gradient magnetic field Gy in the Y-axis direction of the imaging space, and a Z-axis gradient coil that generates a gradient magnetic field Gz in the Z-axis direction. The gradient coil 106 generates a gradient magnetic field in the imaging space according to the current supplied from the gradient power supply 114. In the orthogonal three-axis coordinate system of the imaging space, the direction of the central axis of the gantry is usually defined as the Z-axis direction, the vertical direction as the Y-axis direction, and the directions perpendicular to the Z-axis and Y-axis as the X-axis direction.

[0034] The Z-axis gradient coil generates a gradient magnetic field Gz to select the slice position and slice width of the plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction of the subject 102. The X-axis gradient coil generates a gradient magnetic field Gx proportional to the position in the X-axis direction as a readout direction gradient magnetic field during the period when the echo signal is generated. The readout direction may be called the frequency encoding direction. The Y-axis gradient coil generates a gradient magnetic field Gy in the phase encoding direction with varying intensity for each repetition time TR.

[0035] The sequencer 118 controls each component to operate at pre-programmed timings and intensities. The program, in particular, which describes the timing and intensity of RF pulses, gradient magnetic fields Gx, Gy, Gz, and signal reception, is called the pulse sequence.

[0036] Various pulse sequences are known depending on the purpose, such as the spin echo method and the gradient echo method, and there are many different pulse sequences derived from these. There is also echo planar imaging (EPI), which is one of the high-speed imaging methods. EPI includes single-shot EPI, which creates multiple gradient echoes by repeatedly reversing the gradient magnetic field during excitation with a single RF pulse and fills the k-space in the spatial frequency domain with data necessary for image reconstruction, and multi-shot EPI, which fills the k-space with echotrain data obtained from multiple shots.

[0037] The NMR signal generated from subject 102 is detected by the receiving coil 110, amplified by a preamplifier (not shown) in the receiving coil 110, and transmitted to the receiver 116.

[0038] The receiver 116 includes a quadrature detection circuit, an A / D (analog to digital) converter, and other signal processing circuits. In the receiver 116, the amplified NMR signal is subjected to A / D conversion and necessary signal processing to generate data. The data thus generated is transmitted to the control device 200.

[0039] For example, the receiver 116 performs detection and A / D conversion of the echo signal detected by the receiving coil 110, and transmits two sequences of digital data, real and imaginary, to the control device 200. This digital data is also called received signal data or measurement data.

[0040] The sequencer 118 transmits information such as the nuclear magnetic resonance frequency (detection reference frequency) which serves as the reference for quadrature detection performed in the receiver 116, and the timing of the A / D conversion (sampling timing in the frequency encoding direction) to control the receiver 116.

[0041] A receiving coil 110 is connected to a receiving cable that outputs the NMR signal received by the receiving coil 110. A receiving connector is connected to the end of the receiving cable. The receiving connector is connected to a bed-side connector provided on the bed 103. The bed-side connector is connected to a bed-side cable located inside the bed 103, and the bed-side cable is connected to the control device 200.

[0042] This connects the receiving coil 110, the control device 200, and the sequencer 118 in a communicative manner. The connection between the receiving coil 110, the control device 200, and the sequencer 118 is not limited to a wired connection such as a cable; a wireless connection is also possible. In this case, the receiving coil 110 or the bed 103 further includes at least an A / D conversion module and a wireless communication module. Furthermore, the receiving-side cable, receiving-side connector, bed-side connector, and bed-side cable are not shown in the illustration.

[0043] The control device 200 controls the measurement unit 100 and performs various calculations, such as image reconstruction, based on the signals obtained from the measurement unit 100. The control device 200 can be configured using a computer. The computer used in the control device 200 may be a personal computer, a workstation, or a server computer.

[0044] The control device 200 includes, as hardware, a processor 202, memory 204, storage 205, input / output interface 206, display 208, and operation unit 210.

[0045] Processor 202 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Processor 202 may also include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Furthermore, processor 202 may be configured to include one or more hardware components such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a PLD (Programmable Logic Device).

[0046] The processor 202 provides overall control of each part of the control unit 200 and the measurement unit 100, and implements various functions by executing various programs stored in the memory 204.

[0047] Memory 204 is a storage device that includes RAM (Random Access Memory). Memory 204 may also include one or more of flash memory and ROM (Read-only Memory). Storage 205 is a storage device that includes one or more of the following, for example, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, and a removable recording medium. Flash memory, ROM, and storage 205 are non-volatile storage devices that store the operating system, a program that causes the processor 202 to function as a control device 200, various pulse sequences, calculation formulas and parameters used for image reconstruction, trained models, and reconstructed MR images.

[0048] The RAM functions as a workspace for processing by the processor 202 and temporarily stores programs and other data stored in the non-volatile memory. The RAM also functions as a temporary storage location for measurement data, or so-called raw data, which is digital sampling data obtained by processing the echo signals from the measurement unit 100. The processor 202 may also incorporate a portion of the memory 204 (RAM).

[0049] The input / output interface 206 includes a communication unit that can connect to a network, and a connection unit that can connect to external devices. Examples of connection units that can connect to external devices include USB (Universal Serial Bus) and HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) (HDMI is a registered trademark).

[0050] The processor 202 communicates with the equipment (a sequencer 118 in this example) and the receiver 116 installed in the measurement unit 100 via the input / output interface 206, thereby transmitting and receiving necessary information. Note that a portion of the sequencer 118 may be provided on the control device 200 side.

[0051] The display unit 208 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic electro-luminescence (OEL) display, a projector, or an appropriate combination thereof. The display unit 208 displays various information in addition to the MRI images captured by the MRI device 10. The display unit 208 is used as part of the user interface (UI) when receiving input from the operation unit 210. Note that the display unit 208 is not limited to one, and a multi-display configuration with multiple display devices is also possible.

[0052] The operation unit 210 includes input devices such as a mouse and keyboard, and functions as part of a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that accepts operator input using the display operation window of the display unit 208. For example, the operation unit 210 and the display unit 208 function as a GUI for the operator to input commands such as starting, stopping (pausing), selecting pulse sequences, imaging conditions, and processing conditions for the measurement unit 100. The operation unit 210 may also include an audio input device. Furthermore, the operation unit 210 may be a touch panel type input device integrated with the display screen of the display unit 208.

[0053] The control device 200 shown in Figure 1 functions as an imaging support device, assisting in the acquisition of medical images performed using the MRI device 10. Details of the imaging support device's functions will be described later.

[0054] [Procedure for cardiac examination applied to the MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to an MRI apparatus according to the first embodiment. The figure shows the process of automatically setting the imaging position corresponding to the imaging plane applied to the main imaging in the cardiac examination procedure, and the generation of MPR images such as the six reference planes. An MPR image is an arbitrary cross-sectional image extracted and reconstructed from three-dimensional data. MPR is an abbreviation for Multi Planar Reconstruction.

[0055] The computer applied to the control device 200 shown in Figure 1 executes a prescribed program, and a user such as an operator inputs signals to the control device 200 using the operation unit 210 to perform various processes. The cardiac examination procedure shown in Figure 2 includes the operation method of the imaging support device according to the first embodiment.

[0056] In step S20, prior to the main imaging, a cardiac scan (scout) is performed based on a pre-set imaging position, and three-dimensional data of the heart in subject 102 is acquired.

[0057] In step S22, landmarks representing characteristic points of the anatomical structure of the heart are automatically detected from the 3D data of the heart of subject 102 acquired in step S20, and imaging cross-sectional information, which includes information on the imaging position to be applied to the main imaging, is calculated based on the automatically detected landmarks. For example, in step S22, reference 6 cross-sections are calculated as imaging cross-sectional information. Note that reference 6 cross-sections are just one example of the multiple cross-sections described herein.

[0058] For automatic landmark detection, a pre-trained model may be applied that learns the locations of landmarks in 2D or 3D data of the heart, and outputs information representing the location of landmarks in the heart when 2D or 3D data of the heart is input.

[0059] Furthermore, for automatic detection of feature points (landmarks), an algorithm may be applied that calculates the location of feature points based on the shape of the heart obtained from a trained model that learns the shape of the heart, such as the contour of the left atrium, from 2D or 3D data of the heart, and outputs information representing the shape of the heart when 2D or 3D data of the heart is input.

[0060] In step S24, one or more MPR images are generated for each of the multiple cross-sections included in the imaging cross-sectional information calculated in step S22. For example, in step S24, an MPR image is generated for each of the six reference cross-sections. The MPR images for each of the six reference cross-sections are examples of the multiple cross-sectional images of this disclosure.

[0061] In step S26, markers representing the locations of landmarks detected in step S22 are superimposed on the MPR image generated in step S24 and displayed on the display unit 208.

[0062] In step S28, the user checks the position of the landmark for each MPR image displayed on the display unit 208, and if the position of the landmark needs to be corrected, proceed to step S30. In step S30, the user can operate the control unit 210 to move the marker and correct the position of the landmark.

[0063] In step S28, for example, if the user operates the control unit 210 and inputs a signal to manually move the marker representing the location of the landmark, it is judged as NG and the process proceeds to step S30. On the other hand, if the user operates the control unit 210 and inputs a signal indicating the adoption of the landmark's location, it is judged as OK and the process proceeds to step S36. On the other hand, if the location of the landmark is corrected and it is judged as OK in step S28, the process proceeds to step S32.

[0064] In step S32, the imaging cross-sectional information is recalculated based on the corrected landmark positions. For example, in step S32, the reference 6 cross-sections are recalculated based on the corrected landmark positions.

[0065] In step S34, an MPR image is generated based on the imaging cross-sectional information recalculated in step S32. For example, in step S34, an MPR image is generated for the six reference cross-sections recalculated in step S32.

[0066] In step S36, the imaging cross-sectional information is displayed as the imaging position on the main imaging plan screen. In step S38, the user checks the imaging position of the main imaging displayed on the display unit 208, and if the imaging position needs to be corrected, proceed to step S40. In step S40, the user can manually correct the imaging position by operating the operation unit 210.

[0067] In step S38, for example, if the user operates the control unit 210 and inputs a signal to manually correct the imaging position, it is judged as NG and proceeds to step S40. On the other hand, if the user operates the control unit 210 and inputs a signal representing the imaging position, it is judged as OK and proceeds to step S42.

[0068] In step S42, a main imaging test is performed to which the imaging position determined in step S38 is applied. In the main imaging test, imaging conditions such as the imaging position corresponding to the imaging cross-sectional information and the imaging method for said imaging cross-sectional information are set in the sequencer 118 shown in Figure 1.

[0069] Prior to the scanogram imaging shown as step S20 in Figure 2, preliminary imaging may be performed, and the imaging position for the scanogram imaging may be determined based on the imaging results of the preliminary imaging. In the preliminary imaging, two-dimensional data may be acquired and imaging cross-sectional images representing a specified cross-section of the heart may be generated.

[0070] In this embodiment, a method for acquiring 3D data as scanogram imaging is exemplified, but 2D data may be acquired by applying an interval between MPR images and a number of MPR images sufficient to generate MPR images in each direction necessary for landmark detection. In the embodiment in which 2D data is acquired, preliminary imaging may be performed.

[0071] If scangram imaging is performed without preliminary imaging, the heart may not be in a favorable position in the 3D data obtained as a result of the scangram imaging. Therefore, it is preferable that the position of the heart is determined based on the results of preliminary imaging before scangram imaging is performed.

[0072] [Example GUI configuration applied to automatic settings] Figure 3 shows an example of an automatic setting screen. The automatic setting screen 300 shown in this figure is displayed on the display unit 208 shown in Figure 1 during steps S26 to 34 shown in Figure 2. GUI is an abbreviation for Graphical User Interface.

[0073] The automatic setting screen 300 includes an MPR image display area 302. The MPR image display area 302 displays multiple MPR images 304 corresponding to each of the multiple imaging positions. A separate window 306 is applied to the display of each MPR image 304.

[0074] Figure 3 illustrates six reference cross-sections as multiple imaging positions. Specifically, the figure illustrates MPR images 304 corresponding to the vertical long-axis cross-section, horizontal long-axis cross-section, short-axis cross-section, four-chamber cross-section, two-chamber cross-section, and three-chamber cross-section.

[0075] The MPR image 304 displays markers 305 superimposed on it, indicating the positions of landmarks within the plane. The user can move the markers 305 within the plane of the MPR image 304, for example, by aligning the pointer with the markers 305 and performing a drag-and-drop operation.

[0076] The window 306 applied to the display of the MPR image 304 includes a slider bar 307. The position of the slider 309 on the slider bar 307 represents a position in the depth direction perpendicular to the cross-section represented by the MPR image 304. Note that "perpendicular" may include substantially orthogonal intersections, even if they form an angle less than 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees, which can be treated as equivalent to orthogonal.

[0077] The user can move the position of the cross-section, which is represented as the MPR image 304, in the depth direction by moving the position of the slider 309. When the position of the cross-section in the depth direction is moved, the MPR image 304 is displayed for the cross-section at the moved position. Note that the marker 305 is an example of the first movement element of this disclosure, and the slider bar 307 is an example of the second movement element of this disclosure.

[0078] The automatic setting screen 300 includes a first setting screen display switching button 310, a second setting screen display switching button 311, a landmark selection button 314, a manual setting button 316, a reset button 318, and an apply button 322.

[0079] The first settings screen display switching button 310 is operated to start displaying the settings screen for examinations. Figure 3 shows an example of the first settings screen display switching button 310 that starts displaying the settings screen for cardiac examinations.

[0080] The second settings screen display switching button 311 is operated to start displaying the imaging plan screen. Figure 3 shows an example of the second settings screen display switching button 311, which includes six buttons corresponding to each of the six reference cross-sections. Note that the imaging plan screen is not shown.

[0081] The landmark selection button 314 is operated to select a landmark to be displayed superimposed on the MPR image 304. Figure 3 shows six landmark selection buttons 314, corresponding to the apex, left atrium, right ventricle, aortic root, anterior wall, and inferior wall, respectively.

[0082] The manual setting button 316 is operated when manually setting a landmark. When the user operates the manual setting button 316, the system switches from the automatic setting screen 300 to the manual setting screen that applies to the manual setting of the landmark. The reset button 318 is operated when returning a manually moved landmark to its automatically detected position.

[0083] The Apply button 322 is operated to confirm the position of the landmark, which is represented as the position of the marker 305 in the MPR image 304 displayed on the automatic setting screen 300, and to confirm the imaging cross-sectional information (imaging position) determined from the position of the landmark. Various buttons, such as the first setting screen display switching button 310, function as the operation unit 210 shown in Figure 1.

[0084] The automatic setting screen 300 includes a landmark location sample area 330. The landmark location sample area 330 displays a landmark location sample image 332 that represents an example of the location of a landmark.

[0085] Figure 3 shows examples of landmark position sample images 332A, which represents the position of the apex in the vertical longitudinal section, and landmark position sample image 332B, which represents the position of the apex in the horizontal longitudinal section, with the apex selected as the landmark. The landmark position sample image 332 may belong to any subject and may be prepared and stored in advance.

[0086] The landmark location sample area 330 may display text information 334 related to the automatic detection of landmarks. Figure 3 shows an example of text information 334 related to the automatic detection of landmarks, which prompts the user to confirm the location of the automatically detected landmark.

[0087] Figure 3 illustrates how MPR images 304 are generated in six reference cross-sections. However, the type and number of cross-sections are determined as appropriate, depending on the location of interest in the cardiac examination.

[0088] [An example of display control in the flow of cardiac examinations] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the cardiac examination procedure illustrated in Figure 2, with added display and processing steps. When the user operates the first setting screen display switching button 310 on the automatic setting screen 300 illustrated in Figure 3, the setting screen for the examination is displayed, and a program that executes a series of procedures related to the examination is launched. Figure 4 illustrates a cardiac examination.

[0089] In response to the start of a series of procedures related to the examination, a program that implements an automatic imaging position setting function is launched, and 3D data is acquired in step S20 of Figure 4.

[0090] The MPR image display area 302 displays the MPR image 304 generated in step S24. When the button corresponding to the desired landmark is operated from the landmark selection buttons 314 and the desired landmark is selected, the landmark location sample image 332 is displayed in the landmark location sample area 330. In addition, in step S26, markers 305 representing the location of the landmark are superimposed and displayed on the MPR image 304.

[0091] When a button corresponding to a landmark other than the displayed landmark is pressed from among the landmark selection buttons 314, the landmark displayed in the MPR image 304 is changed to the newly selected landmark, and the landmark location sample image 332 is changed to the landmark location sample image 332 corresponding to the newly selected landmark.

[0092] If the position of the marker 305 in any MPR image 304 is corrected in step S30, the process proceeds to step S60. In step S60, the coordinates (position) of the landmark are automatically calculated from the corrected position of the marker 305, and the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32, the imaging cross-sectional information is automatically recalculated from the landmark position represented by the marker 305, and the process proceeds to step S34. Note that any MPR image 304 is just one example of a cross-sectional image in this disclosure.

[0093] In step S34, MPR images 304 for each cross-section are regenerated based on the recalculated imaging cross-sectional information, and the process proceeds to step S66. In step S66, the display of the MPR images 304 and markers 305 is automatically updated.

[0094] The process proceeds from step S66 to step S28, and each step from step S28 to step S68 is repeatedly executed until an OK result is obtained in step S28. If an OK result is obtained in step S28, the process proceeds to step S68.

[0095] When the apply button 322 is operated in step S68, the position of the landmark represented by the marker 305 is determined, the imaging cross-sectional information (imaging position) determined from the position of the landmark is determined, and the process proceeds to step S69.

[0096] In step S69, imaging cross-sectional information is set for the main imaging, and the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, the imaging position is displayed on the main imaging plan screen, and the process proceeds to step S38.

[0097] In step S36, based on the determined location of the landmark, for example, three cross-sections are set, each containing at least one landmark and being orthogonal to each other, and at least one of the following pieces of information—the center position, angle, and range of the main imaging area—is set for each of these three cross-sections.

[0098] In step S38, the user confirms the imaging position to be applied to the main imaging, and in step S40, the imaging position is modified as appropriate. Once the imaging position is determined, the main imaging is performed in step S42.

[0099] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the landmark display in the MPR image shown in Figure 3. Figure 5 shows MPR images 304 corresponding to each of the vertical longitudinal cross-sections shown in Figure 3.

[0100] The left panel of Figure 5 shows the MPR image 304 and marker 305 before the correction of marker 305. The right panel of Figure 5 shows the updated MPR image 304 and marker 305.

[0101] For example, if a user moves marker 305 in the vertical long-axis MPR image 304 from its position in the left diagram to its position in the right diagram, the position of a landmark is calculated based on the moved position of marker 305, and the imaging cross-sectional information is calculated based on the position of that landmark. The movement of marker 305 here may be a modification of marker 305.

[0102] Based on the imaging cross-sectional information, an MPR image 304 is generated for each cross-section, and the display of the marker 305 is automatically updated for each MPR image 304.

[0103] If the movement of marker 305 in the vertical longitudinal section of the MPR image 304 is accompanied by movement in the depth direction in other MPR images 304, the depth-direction position represented as the MPR image 304 is changed, and the MPR image 304 at the changed depth-direction position is displayed.

[0104] In the example shown in Figure 5, the depth and horizontal positions are changed for the horizontal long-axis section, short-axis section, four-chamber section, two-chamber section, and three-chamber section, and the MPR image 304 at the changed depth and horizontal positions is displayed.

[0105] [Effects of the First Embodiment] In the first embodiment, the following effects and advantages can be obtained.

[0106] [1] Landmarks are automatically detected from the 3D cardiac data obtained by scanogram imaging during cardiac examination of subject 102. Based on the automatically detected landmarks, MPR images 304 are generated for each of the 6 reference cross-sections. Markers 305 representing the location of the landmarks are superimposed and displayed on each MPR image 304 for each cross-section. The markers 305 in each MPR image 304 can be moved within the plane of each MPR image 304.

[0107] This allows the user to manually adjust the position of landmarks by moving the marker 305 within the plane of each MPR image 304.

[0108] [2] The window 306, which displays the MPR image 304, includes a slider bar 307 with a slider 309 that represents the position in the depth direction perpendicular to the cross-section in the cross-section represented as the MPR image 304. This allows the depth direction position of the displayed MPR image 304 to be determined based on the position of the slider 309. Furthermore, by manipulating the slider 309, an MPR image 304 with a different depth direction position relative to the displayed MPR image 304 can be displayed.

[0109] [3] When the position of marker 305 is moved in any one MPR image 304, the position of marker 305 in other MPR images is automatically updated and displayed. This makes it possible to understand the position of a landmark that has been modified in any of the six reference cross-sections in all six reference cross-sections.

[0110] [First modified example of the first embodiment] Figure 6 shows an example of an automatic setting screen applied to an MRI apparatus according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. In the first modified example, even if the marker 305 in any MPR image 304 is moved, the MPR image 304 is not automatically updated. Furthermore, when a manual update of the MPR image 304 is accepted at any time, the display of the marker 305 is updated.

[0111] The automatic setting screen 300A shown in Figure 6 has an added update image button 320 compared to the automatic setting screen 300 shown in Figure 3. The update image button 320 is operated when the MPR image is updated based on the location of the landmark, which is represented as the position of the corrected marker 305.

[0112] As shown in Figure 6, the text information 334A in the automatic setting screen 300A may include text information related to the processing when the location of a landmark is moved.

[0113] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure applicable to the first modified example. The cardiac examination procedure shown in this figure is the same as the cardiac examination procedure shown in Figure 4, with the addition of step S61 and the inclusion of step S64 instead of step S60 in Figure 4.

[0114] If the position of marker 305 is manually corrected in step S30, the process proceeds to step S64. In step S64, the position and display mode of the markers displayed in other sections are changed to match the manually corrected position of marker 305, and the process proceeds to step S61. Details of the changes to the display mode of marker 305 will be described later.

[0115] In step S61, the manually corrected marker 305 and the markers 305 in other sections are redrawn (redisplayed), and the process proceeds to step S62. In step S62, the update image button 320 shown in Figure 6 is accepted. If the update image button 320 is accepted in step S62, the process proceeds to step S32.

[0116] In step S32, the imaging cross-sectional information is recalculated based on the manually corrected position of the marker 305, and the process proceeds to step S34. In step S34, an MPR image is generated based on the recalculated imaging cross-sectional information, and the process proceeds to step S66.

[0117] In step S66, the MPR image 304 and marker 305 generated in step S34 are displayed, and the process proceeds to step S28. In step S28, each step from step S30 to step S66 is repeated until an OK judgment is reached.

[0118] In step S68, when the user operates the apply button 322 and the operation of the apply button 322 is accepted, the location of the landmark and the imaging cross-sectional information determined from the location of the landmark are confirmed, and the process proceeds to step S69, and steps S69, S36, S38, S40, and S42 are executed in order.

[0119] Furthermore, in step S36, when the second setting screen display switching button 311 shown in Figure 3 is operated and the operation of the second setting screen display switching button 311 is accepted, the imaging plan screen is displayed.

[0120] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the landmark display in the MPR image relating to the first modified example. Similar to Figure 5, the figure shows MPR images 304 corresponding to each of the vertical longitudinal cross-sections shown in Figure 3.

[0121] The left side of Figure 8 shows the MPR image 304 and marker 305 before moving the marker 305, similar to the left side of Figure 5. The right side of Figure 8 shows each MPR image 304 after moving the position of marker 305, as displayed in step S61 of Figure 7.

[0122] When the marker 305 is moved in any MPR image 304, the position of the marker 305 in each MPR image 304 is updated, and the display mode of the other MPR images 304 in the MPR image 304 to which the marker 305 was moved is changed according to the position of the landmark in the depth direction. On the other hand, the MPR image 304 is not updated.

[0123] In other words, if the position of the landmark in the depth direction differs from the position of the displayed MPR image 304 in the depth direction, the display mode of the marker 305 is changed from the first display mode 3051 to the second display mode 3052.

[0124] For example, the marker 305 in the MPR image 304 of the horizontal long axis section is changed from the first display mode 3051 to the second display mode 3052. Figure 8 illustrates the case where a solid circle is applied as the first display mode of the marker 305 and a hollow circle is applied as the second display mode. A solid circle represents a circle with a filled center. A hollow circle represents a circle that is not filled in.

[0125] [Second modified example of the first embodiment] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to an MRI apparatus according to a second modification of the first embodiment. In the second modification, when the marker 305 is moved in any MPR image 304, the slice position is automatically advanced so that the display of the marker 305 does not change in other MPR images 304.

[0126] The procedure illustrated in Figure 9 includes step S65 instead of step S64 of the procedure illustrated in Figure 7. In step S65, the depth position of the MPR image 304 in other cross-sections is changed so that the first display mode 3051 of the marker 305 is maintained in accordance with the position where the marker 305 has been moved.

[0127] In other words, in step S65, based on the position of the moved marker 305, the depth-direction position where the recalculated landmark exists is calculated for each cross-section represented as the MPR image 304.

[0128] In step S61, the MPR image 304 at the changed depth position and the updated marker 305 are displayed. Steps S62 through S42 are the same as the procedure illustrated in Figure 7.

[0129] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of landmark display in the MPR image relating to the second modified example. Similar to Figure 5, this figure shows MPR images 304 corresponding to each of the vertical longitudinal cross-sections shown in Figure 3.

[0130] The left side of Figure 10 shows the MPR image 304 and marker 305 before moving the marker 305, similar to the left side of Figure 5. The right side of Figure 10 shows each MPR image 304 after moving the position of marker 305, as displayed in step S61 of Figure 9, similar to the right side of Figure 8.

[0131] When the marker 305 is moved in any MPR image 304, the position of the marker 305 is updated for each MPR image 304, and the MPR image 304 corresponding to the position in the depth direction for each cross-section is displayed so as to maintain the first display mode 3051 of the marker 305.

[0132] For example, the marker 305 in the horizontal long-axis section of the MPR image 304 is updated in accordance with the movement of the marker 305 in the vertical long-axis section. On the other hand, the marker 305 in the horizontal long-axis section of the MPR image 304 maintains the first display mode 3051, while the slice position of the horizontal long-axis section of the MPR image 304 is changed.

[0133] The MRI device 10 may be configured to freely switch between the display modes shown in Figure 5, Figure 8, and Figure 10 for the MPR image 304 and marker 305.

[0134] [Effects and Effects of Modified Examples of the First Embodiment] Modifications of the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0135] [1] When the position of marker 305 is moved in any MPR image 304, the position of the landmark is recalculated based on the new position of marker 305, and the position of the marker for each MPR image is updated based on the updated landmark position. This makes it possible to visually identify the position of the landmark in other MPR images 304 besides the one in which marker 305 was moved.

[0136] [2] For MPR images 304 other than the MPR image 304 in which marker 305 has been moved, if the updated location of the landmark involves a movement in the depth direction, the display mode of marker 305 is changed without changing the MPR image 304 itself. This allows the movement of the landmark's location in the depth direction to be detected in the other MPR images 304.

[0137] [3] For MPR images 304 other than the one in which marker 305 has been moved, the display mode of marker 305 is changed to an MPR image corresponding to the depth-direction position of the landmark, so as not to change in accordance with the update of the landmark's position. This allows the depth-direction position of the landmark and the MPR image at the depth-direction position where the landmark exists to be determined in each cross-section.

[0138] [An example of a cardiac examination procedure applied to an MRI device according to the second embodiment] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure for cardiac examination applied to the MRI apparatus according to the second embodiment. The following explanation will primarily focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and explanations of points similar to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0139] In the imaging support method according to the second embodiment, landmarks are manually set from the 3D data acquired by performing scanogram imaging. That is, in step S21, it is determined whether or not automatic detection of all landmarks was successful from the 3D data acquired in step S20.

[0140] If it is determined in step S21 that automatic detection of all landmarks has been successful, the result is "Yes," and the steps from step S22 to step S42 shown in Figure 2 are executed. Note that steps S22, S24, S30, S32, and S34 are not shown in Figure 11.

[0141] On the other hand, in step S21 shown in Figure 11, if it is determined that automatic detection of at least some landmarks has failed, the result is No. If the result is No, proceed to step S70.

[0142] In step S21, it is determined whether or not the manual setting button 316 shown in Figure 3 has been operated. If the manual setting button 316 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S70; if the manual setting button 316 has not been operated, the process may proceed to step S26.

[0143] In step S70, the manual setting screen is displayed on the display unit 208 shown in Figure 1, instead of the automatic setting screen 300 shown in Figure 3. The manual setting screen is denoted by reference numeral 400 and is shown in Figure 12. In step S72, the user manually sets the apex and left atrial center as landmarks for the transverse and sagittal images displayed on the manual setting screen. This sets the landmarks necessary for generating imaging cross-sectional information for the 3D data acquired by performing scanogram imaging.

[0144] The manual setting of landmarks performed in step S72 is an example of landmark detection in this disclosure. Furthermore, at least one of the cross-sectional image and the sagittal image is an example of one or more predefined cross-sectional images in this disclosure.

[0145] In step S72, the user performs an operation to input a signal indicating that the manual setting of the landmark has been completed. The control device 200 receives the signal indicating that the manual setting of the landmark has been completed.

[0146] In step S74, based on the landmarks set in step S72, imaging cross-sectional information and MPR images are generated for each of the three imaging cross-sectionals: the vertical long axis cross-section, the horizontal long axis cross-section, and the short axis cross-section. Markers representing the location of the landmarks are then superimposed and displayed on each MPR image.

[0147] In step S76, the user confirms the location of the landmark from the position of the marker displayed on the manual setting screen, and if correction of the landmark's position is necessary, manually moves the marker's position. The control device 200 shown in Figure 1 receives a signal indicating the movement of the marker's position. Step S76 corresponds to steps S28 and S30 shown in Figure 2.

[0148] In step S78, the imaging cross-sectional information is recalculated based on the landmark positions corrected in step S76, and an MPR image is generated based on the recalculated imaging cross-sectional information. The recalculation of the imaging cross-sectional information and the generation of the MPR image correspond to steps S32 and S34 in Figure 2. Also in step S78, the MPR image and imaging cross-sectional information (imaging position) are displayed on the display unit 208. The display of the MPR image corresponds to step S36.

[0149] In step S80, the main imaging is performed, applying the imaging position based on the imaging cross-sectional information calculated in step S76. In step S82, the user manually sets the four-chamber, two-chamber, and three-chamber sections, which are applied to the main imaging but are not displayed on the manual setting screen.

[0150] In this way, even if automatic landmark detection fails, the imaging position for the main image is calculated based on the manually set landmark, and the main image is performed.

[0151] [Example GIU configuration that applies to manual settings] Figure 12 shows an example of a manual setting screen. If automatic landmark detection fails in step S21 of Figure 11, or if the manual setting button 316 on the automatic setting screen 300 shown in Figure 3 is operated, the manual setting screen 400 is displayed on the display unit 208 shown in Figure 1.

[0152] The manual setting screen 400 includes a first MPR image display area 402A and a second MPR image display area 402B. The first MPR image display area 402A displays a landmark selection button 414, a cross-sectional image 404AX, a sagittal image 404SAG, and a next button 424.

[0153] The cross-sectional image 404AX and the sagittal image 404SAG are each assigned to a separate window 406. Each window 406 is equipped with a slider bar 407, which has a slider 409 that represents the position in the depth direction of the cross-section, etc.

[0154] The Next button 424 is operated to confirm the position of a manually set landmark. When the Next button 424 is operated, the manual setting screen 400 transitions to the manual setting screen 400A shown in Figure 13.

[0155] The second MPR image display area 402B shown in Figure 12 displays windows for the vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis cross-sectional image 404HLA, the short-axis cross-sectional image 404SA, the update image button 420, and the apply button 422. Figure 12 shows the second MPR image display area 402B when the vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis cross-sectional image 404HLA, and the short-axis cross-sectional image 404SA are not displayed.

[0156] The vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis section image 404HLA, and the short-axis section image 404SA are examples of multiple section images that appear in each of the multiple sections of this disclosure, and the vertical long-axis section, the horizontal long-axis section, and the short-axis section are examples of multiple sections of this disclosure.

[0157] The update image button 420, like the update image button 320 shown in Figure 3, is operated when the position of a marker is moved in either the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis section image 404HLA, or the short-axis section image 404SA, and the MPR image is updated based on the position of the landmark represented by the moved marker position.

[0158] The apply button 422, like the apply button 322 shown in Figure 3, is operated to determine the position of a landmark represented as the marker position, and to determine the imaging cross-sectional information (imaging position) determined from the position of the landmark.

[0159] The manual setting screen 400 includes a landmark location sample area 430. The landmark location sample area 430 displays a landmark location sample image 432 that represents a sample of the landmark's location. Figure 12 shows examples of landmark location sample images 432, including a cross-sectional sample location image 432A that represents a sample of the landmark's location in a cross-sectional image 404AX, and a sagittal plane sample location image 432B that represents a sample of the landmark's location in a sagittal plane image 404SAG. The landmark location sample area 430 may also display text information 434 related to the manual setting of landmarks.

[0160] Figure 13 shows an example of the transition of the manual setting screen shown in Figure 12. In the manual setting screen 400A shown in the same figure, the cross-sectional image 404AX and sagittal image 404SAG shown in Figure 12 are hidden, and the cross-sectional sample position image 432A of the landmark position sample area 430, etc., are also hidden.

[0161] On the other hand, the manual setting screen 400A displays the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis section image 404HLA, and the short-axis section image 404SA, which are generated based on the positions of landmarks in the cross-sectional image 404AX and the sagittal image 404SAG.

[0162] In the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis section image 404HLA, and the short-axis section image 404SA, a marker indicating the location of the landmark selected using the landmark selection button 414 is displayed. In the manual setting screen 400A shown in Figure 13, a marker indicating the location of the apex is displayed as the landmark location. Note that the marker is not shown in Figure 13.

[0163] The update image button 420 has the same function as the update image button 420 shown in Figure 12.

[0164] The apply button 422 has the same function as the apply button 422 shown in Figure 12.

[0165] [Effects of the second embodiment] In the second embodiment, the following effects and advantages can be obtained.

[0166] [1] If automatic landmark setting fails, the manual setting screen 400 shown in Figure 12 will be displayed. This allows the user to manually set the landmark.

[0167] [2] The manual setting screen 400 displays the transverse image 404AX and the sagittal image 404SAG, and displays a landmark selection button 414 which allows the user to select either the apex or the left atrial center. This allows the user to set the apex or the left atrial center as the landmark for the transverse image 404AX and the sagittal image 404SAG.

[0168] [3] When the Next button 424 is operated on the manual setting screen 400, the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, the horizontal long-axis section image 404HLA, and the short-axis section image 404SA are generated and displayed based on the landmarks set in the cross-sectional image 404AX and the sagittal image 404SAG. The vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, etc., displays markers indicating the location of the landmarks. This allows the user to confirm the location of the landmarks in the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, etc. Furthermore, the user can correct the location of the landmarks in the vertical long-axis section image 404VLA, etc., by moving the markers.

[0169] [4] In the vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 404VLA, etc., when the user moves the position of a marker and operates the update image button 420, the vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 404VLA, etc. is regenerated and displayed based on the position of the landmark corresponding to the moved marker position. This allows the user to confirm the position of the landmark corresponding to the moved marker position and to confirm the vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 404VLA, etc. based on the position of that landmark.

[0170] [5] When the apply button 422 is operated, the location of the landmark is determined, and the imaging cross-sectional information (imaging position) determined from the location of the landmark is determined. This makes it possible to perform the main imaging using the manually set imaging position based on the landmark.

[0171] [Modified version of the second embodiment] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a cardiac examination procedure according to a modified version of the second embodiment. The figure illustrates a case where the imaging position applied to the main imaging is manually set and the main imaging is performed by an inexperienced technician. In such a case, steps S83 and S84 shown in Figure 14 are performed instead of step S82 shown in Figure 11.

[0172] In step S83, the display unit 208 shown in Figure 1 displays a slice setting guide screen to assist with manual slice setting. In step S84, the user, a technician, refers to the slice setting guide screen and sets three hidden cross-sections on the manual setting screen 400A shown in Figure 13, and performs imaging of those three cross-sections.

[0173] According to a modified version of the second embodiment, even technicians unfamiliar with manually setting the imaging position can manually set a preferred imaging position.

[0174] [Specific examples of marker display methods] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of marker display configuration. The first slice SL1, second slice SL2, and third slice SL3 shown in the figure represent the positions in the depth direction relative to the cross-section from which the MPR image 304 is generated. The arrow lines shown in Figure 15 indicate the depth direction.

[0175] When displaying a marker 305 representing the location of landmark LM superimposed on the MPR image 304, the first display mode 3051 of the marker 305 is applied to the first slice SL1 closest to landmark LM1.

[0176] For example, if landmark LM1 is located between the first slice SL1 and the second slice SL2, and is located closer to the first slice SL1 than the intermediate position IP12 between the first slice SL1 and the second slice SL2, then the first display mode 3051 is applied to the marker 305 displayed on the first slice SL1.

[0177] On the other hand, for landmark LM1, the second display mode 3052 is applied to the marker 305 displayed in the second slice SL2 and the third slice SL3. Figure 15 shows a solid circle as the first display mode 3051 of the marker 305 and a hollow circle as the second display mode 3052.

[0178] If the position in the depth direction of the cross-section where the MPR image 304 is generated is at a certain distance or more from one end or the other, as in the case of landmark LM2, the marker 305 will not be displayed on any slice SL. Based on the display pattern of the marker 305 superimposed on the MPR image 304 as shown in Figure 15, the position of landmark LM in the depth direction of the MPR image 304 is determined.

[0179] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of a marker within the plane of an MPR image. Figure 16 shows an example where the first slice SL1 is displayed as the MPR image 304, and the marker 305 is moved within the plane of the first slice SL1.

[0180] In the first slice SL1 to which the first display mode 3051 is applied to the marker 305, for example, drag and drop can be applied to move the marker 305 from the dragged position to the dropped position.

[0181] When the position of the landmark LM is corrected in accordance with the movement of the marker 305, the marker 305 also moves in the second slice SL2 and third slice SL3 to which the second display mode 3052 is applied, in accordance with the corrected position of the landmark LM.

[0182] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram illustrating the movement of a marker in the depth direction of an MPR image. Schematic diagram 17A shows the state of the MPR image 304 before the landmark LM is moved in the depth direction, and schematic diagram 17B shows the state of the MPR image 304 after the landmark LM has been moved in the depth direction. For illustrative purposes, the position of the landmark LM is shifted in schematic diagrams 17A and 17B, but the position of the landmark LM coincides with the position of marker 305.

[0183] The second slice SL2, to which the second display mode 3052 is applied to marker 305, is displayed. When marker 305 is clicked in the second slice SL2, the landmark LM moves from the position of the first slice SL1 to the position of the second slice SL2.

[0184] In the second slice SL2, the display mode of the marker 305 is changed from the second display mode 3052 to the first display mode 3051. On the other hand, in the first slice SL1, the display mode of the marker 305 is changed from the first display mode 3051 to the second display mode 3052.

[0185] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the transition in the display mode of the marker. Figure 18 schematically illustrates how the display mode of the marker 305 applied to MPR images 304 of other cross-sections changes when the position of the marker 305 is moved within the plane of an MPR image 304 of an arbitrary cross-section.

[0186] Examples of arbitrary cross-sections include the vertical long-axis cross-section shown in Figure 3. If the vertical long-axis cross-section shown in Figure 3 is an arbitrary cross-section, examples of other cross-sections include the horizontal long-axis cross-section, the short-axis cross-section, the four-chamber cross-section, the two-chamber cross-section, and the three-chamber cross-section.

[0187] When the marker 305 is moved within the plane of the MPR image 304 in any cross-section, the position of the landmark LM is recalculated for the MPR images 304 in other cross-sections based on the position of the landmark LM in the MPR image 304 in that section, and the recalculated position of the landmark LM is displayed.

[0188] In other cross-sections, the MPR image 304 may involve a movement in the depth direction when modifying the landmark LM. When the modification of the landmark LM involves a movement in the depth direction, the position of the slider 309 is changed in other cross-sections, and the MPR image 304 is displayed for the cross-section at the depth direction position corresponding to the slider's position. The marker 305 displayed in the MPR image 304 is subject to the first display mode 3051.

[0189] As shown in Figure 18, when the landmark LM at the position displayed in the first slice SL1 moves to the position displayed in the second slice SL2, the display of the MPR image 304 changes from the first slice SL1 to the second slice SL2, and the marker 305 in the second slice SL2 changes from the second display mode 3052 to the first display mode 3051.

[0190] If the movement of the landmark LM involves movement in the depth direction, the display of the MPR image 304 in other sections may be changed while maintaining the position of the slider 309 and not changing the displayed slice SL, while moving the in-plane position of the marker 305, thereby changing the marker 305 from the first display mode 3051 to the second display mode 3052.

[0191] In either of the two types of MPR image 304 displays described above, the user will understand that a movement of the landmark LM in the depth direction of the MPR image 304 has occurred as a result of modifying the landmark LM within the plane.

[0192] [Electrical configuration of the imaging support device] Figure 19 is a functional block diagram of the imaging support device. The control device 200 shown in Figure 1 has the function of the imaging support device 500 shown in Figure 19.

[0193] The imaging support device 500 includes a 3D data acquisition unit 502. The 3D data acquisition unit 502 acquires 3D data obtained by performing scanogram imaging in step S20 shown in Figure 2.

[0194] The imaging support device 500 includes a landmark detection unit 504. In step S22, the landmark detection unit 504 detects a specified landmark from the 3D data. In step S21, as shown in Figure 11, the landmark detection unit 504 may output a signal indicating that landmark detection failed.

[0195] The imaging support device 500 includes an imaging cross-sectional information calculation unit 506. The imaging cross-sectional information calculation unit 506 calculates imaging cross-sectional information based on the landmark LM acquired by the landmark detection unit 504. Examples of imaging cross-sectional information include information on six reference cross-sections, such as the vertical longitudinal cross-section shown in Figure 3, and information on cross-sections, such as the cross-section shown in Figure 12.

[0196] The imaging support device 500 includes an MPR image generation unit 508. In step S24, the MPR image generation unit 508 generates an MPR image 304 for each imaging position calculated using the imaging cross-sectional information calculation unit 506.

[0197] The imaging support device 500 includes a display screen generation unit 510. The display screen generation unit 510 generates the automatic setting screen 300 shown in Figure 3, the automatic setting screen 300A shown in Figure 6, the manual setting screen 400 shown in Figure 12, and the manual setting screen 400A shown in Figure 13. The display screen generation unit 510 overlays and displays the marker 305, which represents the position of the landmark LM detected by the landmark detection unit 504, onto the MPR image 304.

[0198] The display screen generation unit 510 transmits a display signal representing the automatic setting screen 300, etc., to the display unit 208. The display unit 208 displays the automatic setting screen 300, etc.

[0199] The imaging support device 500 includes a user input acquisition unit 512. The user input acquisition unit 512 acquires signals representing information entered by the user by operating various buttons provided on the automatic setting screen 300, etc.

[0200] The imaging support device 500 includes a landmark setting unit 514. The landmark setting unit 514 sets landmark LMs on the 3D data acquired using the 3D data acquisition unit 502 based on signals representing the positions of landmark LMs manually entered by the user. The imaging cross-sectional information calculation unit calculates imaging cross-sectional information based on the manually set landmark LMs. The display screen generation unit 510 displays markers 305 representing the positions of the manually set landmark LMs superimposed on the MPR image 304.

[0201] [Regarding the computers and processors used for each process] In this embodiment, each process is performed on any computer. Furthermore, any computer may perform these processes using a processor, a program, or a combination thereof. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a computer designed for a specific purpose, a workstation, or any other hardware element capable of running a program.

[0202] A processor may consist of one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. For example, a processor may consist of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a dedicated circuit for executing specific processing such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit). Furthermore, the processor has various units or means that execute the various processes described in this embodiment. The type of hardware may also be a combination of different types of hardware. When multiple hardware components are configured to execute one or more processes of a processor, these components may reside in physically separate devices or in the same device. Also, in any embodiment, the order of the processes performed by the processor is not limited to the order described above and may be changed as appropriate. The hardware is composed of electrical circuits (circuitry) combining circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0203] Furthermore, this embodiment may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. The software, firmware, and microcode are composed of a program. The program may also be, for example, a group of program modules, each of which may be implemented by a processor configured to perform its respective function. The program may be program code or multiple code segments stored on one or more non-temporary computer-readable media (e.g., storage media or other storage). The program may be divided and stored on multiple non-temporary computer-readable media located on devices that are physically separated from each other. The program code or code segment may represent any combination of procedures, functions, subprograms, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, or instructions, data structures, or program statements. The program code or code segment may be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0204] [Examples of application to programs and program products] It is possible to store a program or program product that implements some or all of the various functions of the imaging support device 500 and the operating method of the imaging support device according to the embodiment on a computer-readable medium which is an optical disk, magnetic disk, semiconductor memory, or other tangible non-temporary information storage medium, and to provide the program or program product through the information storage medium.

[0205] Alternatively, instead of storing and applying a program on a tangible, non-temporary computer-readable medium as described above, it is also possible to provide program signals as a download service using telecommunication lines.

[0206] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the imaging support device 500 may be implemented as cloud computing and provided as SaaS. SaaS is an abbreviation for Software as a Service.

[0207] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. Furthermore, the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and their variations can be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0208] 10 MRI machine 17A Schematic diagram 17B Schematic diagram 100 Measurement Unit 102 Subjects 103 berths 104 Static magnetic field generating magnet 106 Gradient field coil 108 RF coils 110 Receiving coil 112 High-frequency magnetic field generator 114 Gradient magnetic field power supply 116 Receiver 118 Sequencer 200 Control device 202 processors 204 memory 206 Input / Output Interfaces 208 Display 210 Operation section 300 Automatic settings screen 300A Automatic Setting Screen 302 MPR Image Display Area 304 MPR images 305 Markers 306 windows 307 Slider Bar 309 Slider 310 First Settings Screen Display Switching Button 311 Second Settings Screen Display Switch Button 314 Landmark Selection Button 316 Manual setting button 318 Reset button 320 Update Image Button 322 Apply button 330 Landmark Location Sample Area 332 Landmark Location Sample Images 332A Landmark Location Sample Image 332B Landmark Location Sample Image 334 characters of information 334A Text Information 400 Manual setting screen 400A Manual Setting Screen 402A 1st MPR image display area 402B 2nd MPR image display area 404AX cross-sectional image 404SA Short-axis cross-sectional image 404SAG sagittal image 404VLA Vertical long-axis cross-sectional image 406 Window 407 Slider Bar 409 Slider 414 Landmark Selection Button 420 Update Image Button 422 Apply button 424 Next Button 430 Landmark Sample Area 432A Cross-sectional sample position image 432B Sagittal sample position image 434 characters of information 500 Imaging support device 502 3D Data Acquisition Unit 504 Landmark detection unit 506 Image Cross-Section Information Calculation Unit 508 MPR Image Generation Unit 510 Display screen generation section 512 User Input Acquisition Unit 514 Landmark Setting Section 3051 First display form 3052 Second display mode S10 to S84 Steps of the imaging support method

Claims

1. An imaging support device comprising a processor and memory, which assists imaging with a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, The aforementioned processor, In a scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the aforementioned magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, three-dimensional data including the subject's heart is acquired. The landmark of the heart is detected from the three-dimensional data, Based on the location of the aforementioned landmark, a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart are calculated, Multiple cross-sectional images appearing in each of the multiple cross-sections are generated from the three-dimensional data. The aforementioned multiple cross-sectional images are displayed, A first moving element representing the position of the landmark within the plane of the cross-sectional image is displayed. A second moving element is displayed that represents the position of the landmark in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image. Imaging support device.

2. The aforementioned processor, The operation to move the first moving element is accepted for any one of the cross-sectional images of the plurality of cross-sectional images. In response to the operation of moving the first moving element, the position of the landmark is moved within the plane of the one cross-sectional image. The imaging support device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned processor, In accordance with the movement of the position of the landmark in the plane of one cross-sectional image, the position of the landmark in the plane of another cross-sectional image is moved. The imaging support device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned processor, With respect to the other cross-sectional image, when the position of the landmark in the depth direction is moved in accordance with the movement of the position of the landmark in the plane, the second moving element is used to display the moved position of the landmark in the depth direction. The imaging support device according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned processor, With respect to the other cross-sectional image, when the position of the landmark in the depth direction is moved, the display mode of the first moving element is changed. The imaging support device according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned processor, The operation of the second movement element is accepted for any one of the multiple cross-sectional images. In response to an operation that moves the position of the landmark in the depth direction represented by the second moving element, the position of the landmark is moved in the depth direction of the one cross-sectional image. The imaging support device according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned processor, When the position of the landmark in the depth direction is moved for any one of the plurality of cross-sectional images, the display mode of the first moving element is changed. The imaging support device according to claim 6.

8. The processor applies different display modes to the first moving element depending on the position of the landmark in the depth direction. The imaging support device according to claim 1.

9. The aforementioned processor, The three-dimensional data is used to automatically detect landmarks of the heart. The imaging support device according to claim 1.

10. The aforementioned processor, The system accepts manual setting of the location of the landmark for one or more predefined cross-sectional images. The imaging support device according to claim 1.

11. A computer that functions as an imaging support device to assist in imaging with a magnetic resonance imaging system, The steps include acquiring three-dimensional data including the subject's heart in a scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the aforementioned magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, The steps include detecting the landmark of the heart from the three-dimensional data, Based on the location of the aforementioned landmark, a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart are calculated, The steps include generating multiple cross-sectional images that appear in each of the multiple cross-sections from the three-dimensional data, The steps include displaying the aforementioned multiple cross-sectional images, A step of displaying a first moving element that represents the position of the landmark in the plane of the cross-sectional image, The steps include displaying a second moving element that represents the position of the landmark in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image, and performing the following steps: How to operate the imaging support device.

12. A computer that functions as an imaging support device to assist in imaging with a magnetic resonance imaging system, A function that acquires three-dimensional data including the subject's heart in scanogram imaging performed prior to the actual imaging using the aforementioned magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, A function to detect the heart landmark from the three-dimensional data. A function to calculate multiple cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart based on the location of the aforementioned landmark. A function to generate multiple cross-sectional images that appear in each of the multiple cross-sections from the three-dimensional data. The function of displaying the aforementioned multiple cross-sectional images, A function to display a first moving element representing the position of the landmark in the plane of the cross-sectional image, and To realize a function that displays a second moving element representing the position of the landmark in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image, program.

13. A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus comprising a processor and memory, which generates an image of a subject based on nuclear magnetic resonance, The aforementioned processor, Prior to this imaging procedure, a scanogram is performed to acquire three-dimensional data including the subject's heart. The landmark of the heart is detected from the three-dimensional data, Based on the location of the aforementioned landmark, a plurality of cross-sections to be applied to imaging the heart are calculated, Multiple cross-sectional images appearing in each of the multiple cross-sections are generated from the three-dimensional data. The aforementioned multiple cross-sectional images are displayed, A first moving element representing the position of the landmark within the plane of the cross-sectional image is displayed. A second moving element is displayed that represents the position of the landmark in the depth direction of the cross-sectional image. Magnetic resonance imaging device.

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