Analysis result processing device and analysis result processing method

Abstract

To provide an analysis result processing apparatus and an analysis result processing method that, even when an algorithm of a clinical application is updated, effectively presents a comparable analysis result.SOLUTION: An image reading support system 100 comprises an analysis unit 145b that, after an algorithm of a clinical application is updated, when first image data obtained in a first inspection is acquired, according to whether second image data obtained in a second inspection on a same analyte executed before the first inspection is stored or according to the details of the update of the algorithm, presents a first analysis result obtained by applying both the algorithm before the update and the algorithm after the update to any one of the first image data and the second image data, and a second analysis result obtained by applying any one of the algorithm before the update and the algorithm after the update to both the first image data and the second image data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an analysis result processing device and an analysis result processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in clinical applications used for analyzing image data, the analytical algorithms may be updated by version upgrades, etc. When the algorithms of the clinical applications are updated, the content of the analysis results obtained before and after the update may change, which may make it difficult to compare the analysis results. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-84271 A [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2020-500378 [Patent Document 3] JP 2013-106951 A [Patent Document 4] JP 2019-46335 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to effectively present comparable analysis results even when the algorithm of the clinical application is updated. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The analysis result processing device according to the embodiment includes a storage unit, an acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained in a test on a subject, and an analysis unit that presents a first analysis result and a second analysis result to be compared with the first analysis result for the same subject by analyzing the image data using a clinical application. When the acquisition unit acquires first image data obtained in a first test after an algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis unit presents the first analysis result and the second analysis result depending on whether or not second image data obtained in a second test on the same subject performed before the first test is stored in the storage unit, or depending on the update content of the algorithm. The first analysis result and the second analysis result are two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either one of the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either the first image data and the second image data, respectively. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image interpretation support system and an analysis result processing device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuitry according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuitry according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuitry according to the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuitry according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of an analysis result performed by the analysis function according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuitry according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an analysis result processing device and an analysis result processing method will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0008] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an image interpretation support system and an analysis result processing device according to the first embodiment.

[0009] 1, an image interpretation support system 100 according to this embodiment includes a medical image diagnostic device 110, a medical image storage device 120, an image interpretation terminal device 130, and an analysis result processing device 140. Here, each device is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a network 150 such as an in-hospital LAN (Local Area Network).

[0010] The medical image diagnostic apparatus 110 acquires various image data related to a subject. Specifically, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 110 acquires various image data ordered by a doctor or the like when an examination of the subject is performed. Then, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 110 transmits the image data to the medical image storage apparatus 120 via the network 150. For example, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 110 is an X-ray CT apparatus, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) apparatus, a SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) apparatus, or the like. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 110 is also called a modality.

[0011] The medical image storage device 120 stores various image data related to a subject. Specifically, the medical image storage device 120 receives various image data from the medical image diagnostic device 110 via the network 150, and stores the received image data in a storage circuit of the device. The medical image storage device 120 also receives findings data from the image interpretation terminal device 130 via the network 150, and stores the received findings data in a storage circuit of the device in association with the image data on which the findings data is based. For example, the medical image storage device 120 is realized by a computer device such as a server or a workstation. For example, the medical image storage device 120 is realized by a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) or the like, and stores image data in a format conforming to DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine).

[0012] The image reading terminal device 130 supports image reading and the creation of findings by image reading doctors and the like based on various image data related to the subject. Specifically, the image reading terminal device 130 acquires image data from the medical image diagnostic device 110 and the medical image storage device 120 via the network 150 in response to a request from an operator, and displays the acquired image data on the display of the image reading terminal device 130. The image reading terminal device 130 also accepts input of findings related to the image data displayed on the display and the analysis results presented by the analysis result processing device 140 from the operator, and generates finding data based on the input findings. Then, the image reading terminal device 130 transmits the finding data to the medical image storage device 120 via the network 150. For example, the image reading terminal device 130 is realized by a computer device such as a server, a workstation, a personal computer, or a tablet terminal.

[0013] The analysis result processing device 140 analyzes various image data related to the subject and presents the analysis results obtained by the analysis. For example, the analysis result processing device 140 is realized by a computer device such as a server, a workstation, a personal computer, or a tablet terminal.

[0014] Specifically, the analysis result processing device 140 includes a network (NW) interface 141 , a memory circuit 142 , an input interface 143 , a display 144 , and a processing circuit 145 .

[0015] The NW interface 141 controls the transmission and communication of various data transmitted and received between the analysis result processing device 140 and other devices connected via the network 150. Specifically, the NW interface 141 is connected to the processing circuitry 145, and transmits various data to the medical image diagnostic device 110, the medical image storage device 120, and the image reading terminal device 130 in response to an instruction from the processing circuitry 145. In addition, the NW interface 141 receives various data from the medical image diagnostic device 110, the medical image storage device 120, and the image reading terminal device 130 in response to an instruction from the processing circuitry 145, and outputs the received data to the processing circuitry 145. For example, the NW interface 141 is realized by a network card, a network adapter, a NIC (Network Interface Controller), or the like.

[0016] The memory circuitry 142 stores various data, various programs, and the like. Specifically, the memory circuitry 142 is connected to the processing circuitry 145, and stores various data in response to an instruction from the processing circuitry 145. In addition, the memory circuitry 142 reads out stored data in response to an instruction from the processing circuitry 145, and outputs the data to the processing circuitry 145. For example, the memory circuitry 142 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like.

[0017] The input interface 143 accepts input operations of various instructions and various information from an operator. Specifically, the input interface 143 is connected to the processing circuit 145, converts the input operation received from the operator into an electric signal, and outputs the electric signal to the processing circuit 145. For example, the input interface 143 is realized by a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad that performs an input operation by touching the operation surface, a touch screen in which a display screen and a touch pad are integrated, a non-contact input interface using an optical sensor, a voice input interface, and the like. Note that in this specification, the input interface 143 is not limited to only those that have physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electric signal processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electric signal to a control circuit is also included as an example of the input interface 143.

[0018] Display 144 displays various information and data. Specifically, display 144 is connected to processing circuitry 145, and displays various information and data in response to commands from processing circuitry 145. For example, display 144 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, or the like.

[0019] The processing circuitry 145 controls the operation of the analysis result processing device 140 in response to an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 143. For example, the processing circuitry 145 transmits and receives various data between the medical image diagnostic device 110, the medical image storage device 120, and the image interpretation terminal device 130 by controlling the NW interface 141. Also, for example, the processing circuitry 145 stores image data received via the NW interface 141 in the memory circuitry 142. Also, for example, the processing circuitry 145 reads image data requested by the operator from the memory circuitry 142 and displays the read image data on the display 144.

[0020] The overall configuration of the image interpretation support system 100 and the analysis result processing device 140 according to the first embodiment has been described above.

[0021] With this configuration, the analysis result processing device 140 according to this embodiment acquires image data obtained in an examination from the medical image storage device 120 when an examination is performed on a subject. The analysis result processing device 140 then analyzes the image data using a clinical application to present a first analysis result and a second analysis result for the same subject to be compared with the first analysis result. In this way, by presenting comparable analysis results for the same subject, an operator such as an image interpretation doctor can efficiently grasp the improvement and progress of symptoms.

[0022] In this embodiment, the clinical application used by the analysis result processing device 140 is software that analyzes image data using a specific analysis algorithm, and outputs evaluation results, index values, etc. related to a specific case as analysis results.

[0023] Generally, the analytical algorithm of such clinical applications may be updated through version upgrades, etc. When the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the content of the analysis results obtained before and after the update may change, which may make it difficult to compare the analysis results.

[0024] For this reason, for example, when an algorithm of a clinical application is updated, a technique exists for reanalyzing past image data using the updated algorithm.

[0025] However, it is generally believed that the processing required to compare analysis results will differ depending on the storage status of image data and the update content of algorithms in the device in which the clinical application is implemented.

[0026] For example, if past image data has been evacuated from the device in which the clinical application is implemented to another device due to capacity limitations of the memory circuit that stores the image data, it may not be easy to perform reanalysis using the updated algorithm. Also, if the updated algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that were not obtained before the update, or has been updated to newly include image data that was not subject before the update as a subject of analysis, it may not be possible to simply compare the analysis results.

[0027] For this reason, the analysis result processing device 140 according to this embodiment is configured to be able to effectively present comparable analysis results even when the algorithm of the clinical application is updated.

[0028] The configuration of the analysis result processing device 140 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below. Note that, in the following, for a clinical application, an algorithm before the update will be referred to as an old algorithm, and an algorithm after the update will be referred to as a new algorithm.

[0029] Specifically, the analysis result processing device 140 includes the above-mentioned memory circuitry 142 and processing circuitry 145, and the processing circuitry 145 has an acquisition function 145a and an analysis function 145b. Here, the memory circuitry 142 is an example of a memory unit. Also, the acquisition function 145a is an example of an acquisition unit. Also, the analysis function 145b is an example of an analysis unit.

[0030] The acquisition function 145a acquires image data obtained during an examination of a subject.

[0031] Specifically, the acquisition function 145a acquires image data obtained during an examination from the medical image storage device 120 when an examination is performed on a subject.

[0032] For example, when the medical image storage device 120 is configured to automatically transfer image data obtained in an examination to the analysis result processing device 140, the acquisition function 145a acquires the image data via the NW interface 141. Alternatively, for example, the acquisition function 145a may accept an operation to specify image data to be analyzed from an operator via the input interface 143, and acquire the specified image data from the medical image storage device 120.

[0033] Then, the acquisition function 145 a stores the image data acquired from the medical image storage device 120 in the memory circuitry 142 .

[0034] In this embodiment, the image data stored in the memory circuitry 142 by the acquisition function 145a is transmitted to the medical image storage device 120 at a predetermined timing by a save function (not shown) of the processing circuitry 145, and then deleted from the memory circuitry 142. For example, the predetermined timing here is a predetermined regular timing, a timing instructed by an operator, a timing when the usage amount of the memory area of ​​the memory circuitry 142 exceeds a threshold, etc.

[0035] The analysis function 145b uses a clinical application to analyze the image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a, and presents a first analysis result and a second analysis result for the same subject to be compared with the first analysis result.

[0036] Specifically, when image data obtained by an examination of a subject is newly acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b analyzes the image data using a clinical application and displays the analysis results obtained by the analysis on the display 144. In addition, the analysis function 145b stores the analysis results obtained by the analysis in the memory circuitry 142.

[0037] Here, when the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b presents the first analysis result and the second analysis result depending on whether or not the second image data obtained in the second test of the same subject performed before the first test is stored in the storage circuitry 142 when the first image data obtained in the first test is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, or depending on the update content of the algorithm. Here, the first analysis result and the second analysis result are two analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm and the new algorithm to either one of the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying either the old algorithm and the new algorithm to either the first image data and the second image data, respectively.

[0038] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the first image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not second image data obtained in a second test on the same subject performed prior to the first test is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0039] Then, when the second image data is stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and presents the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result.

[0040] In addition, when the second image data is not stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b presents as the first analysis result the analysis result obtained by newly applying the old algorithm to the first image data, and presents as the second analysis result the analysis result obtained previously by applying the old algorithm to the second image data.

[0041] 2 and 3 are diagrams showing an example of presentation of the analysis result performed by the analysis function 145b according to the first embodiment.

[0042] For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, assume that test A was performed on patient X before the algorithm of the clinical application was updated, and test B was performed after the algorithm was updated. Here, patient X is an example of a subject. Test B is an example of a first test, and test A is an example of a second test.

[0043] Assume that the image data obtained in the examination A has already been analyzed using the old algorithm, and the analysis results have been stored in the memory circuitry 142. Assume also that the image interpretation terminal device 130 has already created the findings data of the analysis results.

[0044] In this case, in this embodiment, when image data obtained in examination B of patient X is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether image data obtained in a previous examination of the same patient X is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0045] 2, when the image data of examination A is stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b applies the new algorithm to the image data of examination B to perform analysis, and also applies the new algorithm to the image data of examination A to perform analysis. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination B and the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A in a comparable manner.

[0046] 3, when the image data of examination A is not stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b performs analysis by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination B, and reads out the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A from the memory circuitry 142. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination B and the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A in a comparable manner.

[0047] The processes performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to the first embodiment.

[0049] For example, as shown in Fig. 4, in this embodiment, after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated (step S101), when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a (step S102, Yes), the analysis function 145b executes the following process. Here, the new image data is an example of the first image data.

[0050] First, the analysis function 145b applies a new algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a to perform analysis (step S103).

[0051] After that, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not past image data of the same subject is stored in the storage circuitry 142 (step S104). Here, the past image data is an example of the second image data.

[0052] For example, the analysis function 145b searches for past examinations of the same patient name as the new image data, and checks whether the analysis results of the same clinical application are present in the searched examinations. If the analysis results of the same clinical application are present in the past examinations, the analysis function 145b determines whether the image data on which the analysis results are based is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0053] Here, if previous image data of the same subject is stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S105, Yes), the analysis function 145b reads out the previous image data from the memory circuitry 142 and applies the new algorithm to the read out previous image data to perform analysis (step S106).

[0054] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the new image data and the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the past image data (step S107).

[0055] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to new image data and the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data.

[0056] On the other hand, if past image data of the same subject is not stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S105, No), the analysis function 145b applies the old algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a and performs analysis (step S108).

[0057] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm to the new image data and the analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm to the previous image data stored in the memory circuit 142 (step S109).

[0058] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to new image data and the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to past image data.

[0059] The above describes each processing function of the processing circuitry 145 according to the first embodiment. Here, in this embodiment, the processing circuitry 145 is realized by, for example, a processor. In this case, each of the above-mentioned processing functions is stored in the storage circuitry 142 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 145 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program stored in the storage circuitry 142. In other words, the processing circuitry 145 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state in which each program is read.

[0060] 2 is realized by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 145a from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program. Also, the processing circuitry 145 realizes the processing of steps S103 to S109 by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 145b from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program.

[0061] As described above, in the first embodiment, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to each of the new image data and the past image data, or the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to each of the new image data and the past image data, depending on whether or not past image data of the same patient is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0062] With this configuration, it becomes possible to compare analysis results even if the image data on which the analysis results were created in a previous examination of the subject is not stored in the memory circuit 142 of the analysis processing device 140.

[0063] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0064] Although the first embodiment has been described above, the analysis result processing device and analysis result processing method disclosed in the present application can be implemented in various forms according to various cases related to the storage status of image data and the update contents of algorithms. Therefore, other embodiments of the analysis result processing device and analysis result processing method will be described below. Note that in the following embodiments, the differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and detailed description of overlapping contents will be omitted.

[0065] Second embodiment For example, as a second embodiment, the analysis function 145b may present comparable analysis results depending on whether a new algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that were not obtained with the old algorithm.

[0066] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the first image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain a new analysis result that could not be obtained by the old algorithm. Here, the new analysis result is, for example, a new type of index value related to a specific case.

[0067] For example, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that could not be obtained with the old algorithm by referring to information indicating the update contents recorded in the memory circuitry 142 when the clinical application is updated.

[0068] Then, when the new algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that could not be obtained with the old algorithm, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis results obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents the analysis results previously obtained by applying the old algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result.

[0069] In addition, the analysis function 145b further presents information including findings of an analysis result previously created by applying the old algorithm to the second image data as reference information for creating new findings of the first analysis result.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of the analysis result performed by the analysis function 145b according to the second embodiment.

[0071] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, when image data obtained in examination B of patient X is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether image data obtained in a previous examination of the same patient X is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0072] Then, when the image data of examination A is stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b performs analysis by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A, and reads out the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A from the memory circuitry 142. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A and the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A in a manner that allows them to be compared.

[0073] Here, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A include new analysis results that could not be obtained with the old algorithm.

[0074] Therefore, the analysis function 145b presents the finding data of the analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A as reference information for creating the findings of the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A.

[0075] The processes performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to the second embodiment.

[0077] For example, as shown in Fig. 6, in this embodiment, after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated (step S201), when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a (step S202, Yes), the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that could not be obtained with the old algorithm, and if so, executes the following process. Here, the new image data is an example of the first image data.

[0078] First, the analysis function 145b applies a new algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a to perform analysis (step S203).

[0079] Thereafter, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not past image data of the same subject is stored in the storage circuitry 142, similarly to the first embodiment (step S204). Here, the past image data is an example of the second image data.

[0080] Here, if past image data of the same subject is stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S205, Yes), the analysis function 145b reads out the past image data from the memory circuitry 142 and applies the new algorithm to the read out past image data to perform analysis (step S206).

[0081] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data and the analysis results obtained by previously applying the old algorithm to the past image data stored in the memory circuit 142 (step S207).

[0082] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, an analysis result obtained by applying a new algorithm to past image data and an analysis result obtained by applying an old algorithm to past image data.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the analysis function 145b presents the findings data of the analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm to the past image data as reference information for creating the findings of the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data (step S208).

[0084] For example, the analysis function 145b acquires, from the medical image storage device 120, the finding data of the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the past image data. Then, the analysis function 145b displays the acquired finding data on the display 144 as reference information for creating a new finding of the analysis result by the new algorithm. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 145b may transmit the reference information to the image interpretation terminal device 130 and display it on the display.

[0085] On the other hand, if the previous image data of the same subject is not stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S205, No), the analysis function 145b ends the process without displaying the analysis results and the reference information.

[0086] The processing functions of the processing circuitry 145 according to the second embodiment have been described above. Here, in this embodiment as well, the processing circuitry 145 is realized by, for example, a processor. In this case, the above-mentioned processing functions are stored in the storage circuitry 142 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 145 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program stored in the storage circuitry 142. In other words, the processing circuitry 145 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state in which each program is read.

[0087] 6 is realized by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 145a from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program. Also, the processing circuitry 145 realizes the processing of steps S203 to S208 by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 145b from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program.

[0088] As described above, in the second embodiment, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis results obtained by applying each of the new algorithm and the old algorithm to the past image data, depending on whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain new analysis results that could not be obtained with the old algorithm.

[0089] With this configuration, it becomes possible to compare the analysis results obtained by the old algorithm and the new algorithm for image data obtained in a previous examination of a subject, where the analysis results obtained by the new algorithm include new analysis results that could not be obtained by the old algorithm.

[0090] Therefore, according to the second embodiment, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0091] In addition, in the second embodiment, the analysis function 145b presents the findings data of the analysis results obtained by applying the old algorithm to the past image data as reference information for creating the findings of the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data.

[0092] With this configuration, radiologists and the like can generate analysis results using a new algorithm based on analysis results using an old algorithm generated in a previous examination of the subject.

[0093] (Third embodiment) Also, for example, as a third embodiment, the analysis function 145b may display comparable analysis results depending on whether the new algorithm has been updated to newly analyze image data that was not the subject of the old algorithm.

[0094] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the algorithm of the clinical application is updated and the first image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to newly include image data that was not subject to the old algorithm as the subject of analysis.

[0095] For example, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to newly target image data that was not targeted by the old algorithm by referring to information indicating the update contents recorded in the memory circuitry 142 when the clinical application is updated.

[0096] Then, when the new algorithm has been updated to newly cover image data that was not covered by the old algorithm, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis results obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and presents the analysis results obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result.

[0097] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of the analysis result performed by the analysis function 145b according to the third embodiment.

[0098] For example, as shown in FIG. 7, in this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, when image data obtained in examination B of patient X is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether image data obtained in a previous examination of the same patient X is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0099] Then, when the image data of examination A is stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b applies the new algorithm to the image data of examination B to perform analysis, and also applies the new algorithm to the image data of examination A to perform analysis. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination B and the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A in a comparable manner.

[0100] Here, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A will include the analysis results of image data that was not covered by the old algorithm.

[0101] The processes performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0102] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to the third embodiment.

[0103] For example, as shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated (step S301), when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a (step S302, Yes), the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to newly target image data that was not the target of the old algorithm, and if so, executes the following process. Here, the new image data is an example of the first image data.

[0104] First, the analysis function 145b applies a new algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a to perform analysis (step S303).

[0105] After that, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not past image data of the same subject is stored in the storage circuitry 142 (step S304). Here, the past image data is an example of the second image data.

[0106] For example, the analysis function 145b searches for past examinations of the same patient name as the new image data, and checks whether the image data newly analyzed by the new algorithm is present in the searched examinations. If the image data newly analyzed by the new algorithm is present in the past examinations, the analysis function 145b determines that the past image data of the same subject is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0107] Here, if past image data of the same subject is stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S305, Yes), the analysis function 145b reads out the past image data from the memory circuitry 142 and applies the new algorithm to the read out past image data to perform analysis (step S306).

[0108] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the new image data and the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the past image data (step S307).

[0109] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to new image data and the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data.

[0110] On the other hand, if the previous image data of the same subject is not stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S305, No), the analysis function 145b ends the process without displaying the analysis results.

[0111] The processing functions of the processing circuitry 145 according to the third embodiment have been described above. Here, in this embodiment as well, the processing circuitry 145 is realized by, for example, a processor. In this case, the above-mentioned processing functions are stored in the storage circuitry 142 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 145 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program stored in the storage circuitry 142. In other words, the processing circuitry 145 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state in which each program is read.

[0112] 8 is realized by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 145a from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program. Also, the processing circuitry 145 realizes the processing of steps S303 to S307 by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 145b from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program.

[0113] As described above, in the third embodiment, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to each of the new image data and the past image data, depending on whether the new algorithm has been updated to newly analyze image data that was not subject to the old algorithm.

[0114] With this configuration, it becomes possible to apply the new algorithm to analyze image data obtained in previous examinations of a subject that was not subject to the old algorithm.

[0115] Therefore, according to the third embodiment, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0116] (Fourth embodiment) Also, for example, as a fourth embodiment, the analysis function 145b may present comparable analysis results depending on whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain clinically useful information compared to the old algorithm.

[0117] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the first image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain clinically useful information in comparison with the old algorithm. Here, the clinically useful information is, for example, a highly reliable evaluation result, an evaluation result based on a new evaluation criterion, a highly accurate index value, a new type of index value, etc.

[0118] For example, the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain clinically useful information by referring to information indicating the update contents recorded in the memory circuitry 142 when the clinical application is updated, in comparison with the old algorithm.

[0119] Then, when the new algorithm has been updated to obtain clinically useful information compared to the old algorithm, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents the analysis result obtained previously by applying the old algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result.

[0120] Furthermore, the analysis function 145b presents notification information to prompt the user to create new findings of the first analysis result.

[0121] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of the analysis result performed by the analysis function 145b according to the fourth embodiment.

[0122] For example, as shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, when image data obtained in examination B of patient X is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether image data obtained in a previous examination of the same patient X is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0123] Then, when the image data of examination A is stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b performs analysis by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A, and reads out the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A from the memory circuitry 142. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of examination A and the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data of examination A in a manner that allows them to be compared.

[0124] Here, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of test A will contain clinically useful information that was not available with the old algorithm.

[0125] Therefore, the analysis function 145b presents notification information to prompt the user to create findings of the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the image data of study A.

[0126] The processes performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0127] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0128] For example, as shown in Fig. 10, in this embodiment, after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated (step S401), when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a (step S402, Yes), the analysis function 145b determines whether the new algorithm has been updated to obtain clinically useful information in comparison with the old algorithm, and if so, executes the following process. Here, the new image data is an example of the first image data.

[0129] First, the analysis function 145b applies the new algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a to perform analysis (step S403).

[0130] Thereafter, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not past image data of the same subject is stored in the storage circuitry 142, similarly to the first embodiment (step S404). Here, the past image data is an example of the second image data.

[0131] Here, if previous image data of the same subject is stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S405, Yes), the analysis function 145b reads out the previous image data from the memory circuitry 142 and applies the new algorithm to the read out previous image data to perform analysis (step S406).

[0132] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data and the analysis results obtained by previously applying the old algorithm to the past image data stored in the memory circuit 142 (step S407).

[0133] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, an analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data and an analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data.

[0134] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the analysis function 145b presents notification information for prompting the user to create a finding of the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data (step S408).

[0135] For example, the analysis function 145b displays a message indicating that new clinically useful information has been obtained by updating the algorithm of the clinical application for the past image data on the display 144. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 145b may transmit the message to the image interpretation terminal device 130 and display it on the display.

[0136] On the other hand, if the previous image data of the same subject is not stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S405, No), the analysis function 145b ends the process without displaying the analysis results and notification information.

[0137] The above describes each processing function of the processing circuitry 145 according to the fourth embodiment. Here, in this embodiment as well, the processing circuitry 145 is realized by, for example, a processor. In this case, each of the above-mentioned processing functions is stored in the storage circuitry 142 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 145 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program stored in the storage circuitry 142. In other words, the processing circuitry 145 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state in which each program is read.

[0138] 10 is realized by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 145a from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program. Also, the processing circuitry 145 realizes the processing of steps S403 to S408 by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 145b from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program.

[0139] As described above, in the fourth embodiment, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of a clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis results obtained by applying each of the new algorithm and the old algorithm to past image data, depending on whether the new algorithm has been updated so as to obtain clinically useful information compared with the old algorithm.

[0140] With this configuration, it becomes possible to compare the analysis results obtained by the old algorithm and the new algorithm for image data obtained in a previous examination of a subject, where the analysis results obtained by the new algorithm contain clinically useful information that was not available with the old algorithm.

[0141] Therefore, according to the fourth embodiment, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0142] In the fourth embodiment, the analysis function 145b presents notification information for prompting the user to create a finding of the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data.

[0143] With this configuration, when the new algorithm becomes capable of obtaining clinically useful information, it becomes possible for the radiologist or other person to preferentially create new analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data.

[0144] Fifth embodiment Also, for example, as a fifth embodiment, when multiple image data obtained by testing the same subject are stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b may present comparable analysis results using image data selected from the image data.

[0145] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the first image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not second image data obtained in a second test on the same subject performed prior to the first test is stored in the memory circuitry 142.

[0146] When multiple pieces of image data obtained from tests on the same subject performed prior to the first test are stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b selects one of the image data as the second image data, presents the analysis results obtained by newly applying the new algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents the analysis results previously obtained by applying the old algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result.

[0147] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of presentation of the analysis result performed by the analysis function 145b according to the fifth embodiment.

[0148] For example, as shown in FIG. 11, in this embodiment, when image data obtained in examination B of patient X is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b determines whether image data obtained in a previous examination of the same patient X is stored in the memory circuitry 142, as in the first embodiment.

[0149] When a plurality of image data including image data of examination A are stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b presents a list of the plurality of image data and accepts selection of image data from the operator. After that, the analysis function 145b performs analysis by applying the new algorithm to the selected image data, and reads out the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data from the memory circuitry 142. Then, the analysis function 145b presents the analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to the selected image data and the analysis result obtained by applying the old algorithm to the image data in a comparable manner.

[0150] The processes performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0151] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure of processing performed by the acquisition function 145a and the analysis function 145b of the processing circuitry 145 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0152] 12, in this embodiment, after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated (step S501), when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a (step S502, Yes), the analysis function 145b executes the following process. Here, the new image data is an example of the first image data.

[0153] First, the analysis function 145b applies the new algorithm to the new image data acquired by the acquisition function 145a to perform analysis (step S503).

[0154] Thereafter, the analysis function 145b determines whether or not past image data of the same subject is stored in the storage circuitry 142, similarly to the first embodiment (step S504).

[0155] Here, if multiple past image data of the same subject are stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S505, Yes), the analysis function 145b presents a list of the multiple past image data and accepts the selection of the past image data from the operator (step S506).

[0156] For example, the analysis function 145b displays an examination list that lists examinations for each of a plurality of past image data on the display 144. Then, the analysis function 145b accepts an operation from the operator via the input interface 143 to select one or more examinations from the displayed examination list, and uses the past image data of the selected examination.

[0157] After that, the analysis function 145b reads out the previous image data selected by the operator from the storage circuitry 142, and applies the new algorithm to the read out previous image data to perform analysis (step S507). Here, the previous image data selected by the operator is an example of the second image data.

[0158] Then, the analysis function 145b presents, in a comparative manner, the analysis results obtained by applying the new algorithm to the past image data and the analysis results obtained by previously applying the old algorithm to the past image data that is stored in the memory circuit 142 (step S508).

[0159] For example, the analysis function 145b displays, in parallel on the display 144, an analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data and an analysis result obtained by applying the new algorithm to past image data.

[0160] On the other hand, if the previous image data of the same subject is not stored in the memory circuitry 142 (step S505, No), the analysis function 145b ends the process without displaying the analysis results.

[0161] The processing functions of the processing circuitry 145 according to the fifth embodiment have been described above. Here, in this embodiment as well, the processing circuitry 145 is realized by, for example, a processor. In this case, the above-mentioned processing functions are stored in the storage circuitry 142 in the form of a program executable by a computer. Then, the processing circuitry 145 realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading and executing each program stored in the storage circuitry 142. In other words, the processing circuitry 145 has each processing function shown in FIG. 1 in a state in which each program is read.

[0162] 12 is realized by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the acquisition function 145a from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program. Also, the processing circuitry 145 realizes the processing of steps S403 to S408 by the processing circuitry 145 reading out a program corresponding to the analysis function 145b from the storage circuitry 142 and executing the program.

[0163] As described above, in the fifth embodiment, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a after the algorithm of the clinical application is updated and multiple past image data of the same patient are stored in the memory circuitry 142, the analysis function 145b uses past image data selected by the operator from the image data and presents the analysis results obtained by applying each of the new algorithm and the old algorithm to the past image data.

[0164] With this configuration, when there are multiple image data obtained from previous examinations of the subject, the operator can arbitrarily select the range of image data to which the new algorithm is applied and perform analysis.

[0165] Therefore, according to the fifth embodiment, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0166] (Modification) Although the first to fifth embodiments have been described above, each embodiment can be modified appropriately according to further applications and requirements. Therefore, the following describes modified examples of each of the above-described embodiments.

[0167] For example, in the second and fourth embodiments described above, reference information for creating a finding of an analysis result obtained by applying a new algorithm to past image data and notification information for encouraging the creation of the finding are presented, and as a result, a plurality of finding data are associated with one past image data and stored in the medical image storage device 120. Therefore, for example, when the finding data is created in the image reading terminal device 130, identification information for identifying whether the finding data is a finding of an analysis result by an old algorithm or a finding of an analysis result by a new algorithm may be added to the finding data. For example, the identification information here may be information indicating the date on which the analysis was performed or information indicating the version of the clinical application. This makes it possible to prevent, for example, confusion caused by a plurality of finding data being associated with the past image data when an image reading doctor or the like refers to the past image data later.

[0168] In the fifth embodiment described above, the analysis function 145b displays the analysis result using the past image data selected by the operator when multiple past image data of the same patient are stored in the storage circuitry 142, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the analysis function 145b may automatically select past image data from multiple past image data based on a predetermined priority order. For example, the analysis function 145b acquires the implementation date of each of the multiple past image data from the supplementary information of each image data, and selects a predetermined number of past image data in descending order of the implementation date of the examination. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 145b may select a predetermined number of past image data in descending order of the priority order predetermined for each clinical application according to the type of clinical application used in the analysis. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 145b may select a predetermined number of past image data in descending order of the priority order predetermined for each part according to the part to be examined. Alternatively, for example, the analysis function 145b may select a predetermined number of past image data in descending order of the insurance points of the examination.

[0169] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, an example in which a single clinical application is used has been described, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, when multiple clinical applications are implemented in the analysis result processing device 140, the analysis function 145b may receive an operation from an operator to specify a clinical application to be used in the analysis from among the multiple clinical applications, and perform the analysis described in each of the embodiments using the specified clinical application. Alternatively, for example, when multiple clinical applications are implemented in the analysis result processing device 140, the analysis function 145b may use each clinical application to perform the analysis described in each of the embodiments for each clinical application.

[0170] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, when there is a large amount of past image data to be analyzed, or when the analysis is performed using multiple clinical applications, the analysis may take a long time. In such a case, for example, the analysis function 145b may perform the analysis as a batch process at night. In that case, for example, when new image data is acquired by the acquisition function 145a, the analysis function 145b may display on the display 144 a list indicating the expected end time of the analysis for each clinical application and past image data, and may receive from the operator the selection of the clinical application and past image data to be analyzed in the batch process at night.

[0171] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the acquisition function 145a acquires image data from the medical image storage device 120, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the acquisition function 145a may acquire image data from the medical image diagnostic device 110.

[0172] In addition, each of the above-mentioned embodiments may be implemented individually, or a plurality of the embodiments may be appropriately combined and implemented. In that case, the analysis function 145b performs conditional branching by appropriately combining the conditions for determining the storage status of the image data and the update contents of the algorithm described in each embodiment, thereby controlling so that one or a plurality of the processes described in each embodiment are executed.

[0173] The configuration of the analysis result processing device 140 described in each of the above-mentioned embodiments can also be applied to the console device of the medical image diagnostic device 110, the medical image storage device 120, and the image interpretation terminal device 130. In that case, the above-mentioned acquisition function and analysis function are implemented in a processing circuit included in the console device of the medical image diagnostic device 110, a processing circuit included in the medical image storage device 120, or a processing circuit included in the image interpretation terminal device 130.

[0174] The configuration of the analysis result processing device 140 described in each of the above embodiments can also be applied to a client-server system. In that case, the server device has the above-mentioned acquisition function and analysis function, analyzes image data in response to a request sent from a client device, and sends the analysis result to the client device.

[0175] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, examples have been described in which the acquisition unit and analysis unit in this specification are realized by the acquisition function and analysis function of the processing circuit, respectively, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the acquisition unit and analysis unit in this specification may be realized by only hardware, only software, or a combination of hardware and software, in addition to being realized by the acquisition function and analysis function described in the embodiments.

[0176] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the processing circuit 145 is realized by a single processor, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the processing circuit 145 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize each processing function. In addition, each processing function of the processing circuit 145 may be appropriately distributed or integrated and realized in a single or multiple processing circuits. In addition, each processing function of the processing circuit 145 may be realized by a mixture of hardware and software such as a circuit. In addition, an example in which a program corresponding to each processing function is stored in a single storage circuit 142 has been described here, but the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which a program corresponding to each processing function is distributed and stored in multiple storage circuits, and the processing circuit 145 reads out and executes each program from each storage circuit may be used.

[0177] In the above description, the "processor" reads out and executes a program corresponding to each processing function from a storage circuit, but the embodiment is not limited to this. The term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). When the processor is a CPU, for example, the processor realizes each processing function by reading out and executing a program stored in a storage circuit. On the other hand, when the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing a program in a storage circuit, the processing function is directly incorporated as a logic circuit in the circuit of the processor. Note that each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its processing function. Furthermore, multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into one processor to realize the processing functions.

[0178] Here, the program executed by the processor is provided in advance in a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a storage circuit. The program may be provided by being recorded in a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disk)-ROM, a FD (Flexible Disk), a CD-R (Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) in a format that can be installed in these devices or in a format that can be executed. The program may also be provided or distributed by being stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloaded via the network. For example, the program is composed of modules including each of the above-mentioned processing functions. As actual hardware, a CPU reads out the program from a storage medium such as a ROM and executes it, so that each module is loaded onto a main storage device and generated on the main storage device.

[0179] In the above-described embodiment, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution or integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or a part of it can be functionally or physically distributed or integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, all or any part of each processing function performed by each device can be realized by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0180] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

[0181] The various data handled in this specification are typically digital data.

[0182] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, even if the algorithm of the clinical application is updated, it is possible to effectively present comparable analysis results.

[0183] Although some embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0184] Regarding the above embodiment, the following supplementary notes are disclosed as one aspect and optional features of the invention.

[0185] (Appendix 1) A storage unit; an acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained by an examination of a subject; an analysis unit that analyzes the image data using a clinical application to present a first analysis result and a second analysis result for the same subject to be compared with the first analysis result; the analysis unit, when first image data obtained in a first test is acquired by the acquisition unit after an algorithm of the clinical application is updated, presents the first analysis result and the second analysis result depending on whether or not second image data obtained in a second test of the same subject performed prior to the first test is stored in the storage unit, or depending on an update content of the algorithm; The first analysis result and the second analysis result are two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either one of the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either the first image data and the second image data, respectively. Analysis result processing device. (Appendix 2) When the second image data is not stored in the memory unit, the analysis unit may present as the first analysis result an analysis result obtained by newly applying the pre-update algorithm to the first image data, and may present as the second analysis result an analysis result obtained previously by applying the pre-update algorithm to the second image data. (Appendix 3) The analysis unit may further present, when the second image data is stored in the memory unit, an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and may present, when the second image data is newly applied to the second image data as the second analysis result, an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data. (Appendix 4) When the updated algorithm has been updated to obtain a new analysis result that could not be obtained with the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit may present the analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and present the analysis result previously obtained by applying the algorithm before the update to the second image data as the second analysis result. (Appendix 5) The analysis unit may further present information including findings of an analysis result previously created by applying the pre-update algorithm to the second image data as reference information for creating new findings of the first analysis result. (Appendix 6) When the updated algorithm has been updated to newly analyze image data that was not covered by the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit may present as the first analysis result the analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the first image data, and may present as the second analysis result the analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data. (Appendix 7) When the updated algorithm has been updated so as to obtain more clinically useful information compared to the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit may present as the first analysis result the analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data, and may present as the second analysis result the analysis result previously obtained by applying the algorithm before the update to the second image data. (Appendix 8) The analysis unit may further present notification information for prompting the user to create new findings of the first analysis result. (Appendix 9) When multiple pieces of image data obtained from tests on the same subject performed prior to the first test are stored in the memory unit, the analysis unit may select image data from the image data as the second image data, present as the first analysis result an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data, and present as the second analysis result an analysis result previously obtained by applying the unupdated algorithm to the second image data. (Appendix 10) When multiple pieces of image data obtained by testing the same subject are stored in the memory unit, the analysis unit may treat image data selected by an operator from the image data as the second image data. (Appendix 11) When multiple pieces of image data obtained from the examination of the same subject are stored in the memory unit, the analysis unit may present a list of the image data, and image data selected by an operator from the list may be used as the second image data. (Appendix 12) When multiple image data obtained from the examination of the same subject are stored in the memory unit, the analysis unit may select image data from the image data based on a predetermined priority order, and the selected image data may be the second image data. (Appendix 13) The new analysis result may be a new type of index value for a particular case. (Appendix 14) The analysis section may display the first analysis result and the second analysis result in parallel on a display. (Appendix 15) 1. An analysis result processing method applied to an analysis result processing device including a storage unit, an acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained by an examination of a subject, and an analysis unit that presents a first analysis result and a second analysis result to be compared with the first analysis result by analyzing the image data using a clinical application, presenting the first analysis result and the second analysis result according to whether or not second image data obtained in a second test on the same subject performed prior to the first test is stored in the storage unit when first image data obtained in a first test is acquired by the acquisition unit after an algorithm of the clinical application is updated, or according to an update content of the algorithm; The first analysis result and the second analysis result are two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either one of the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update and an algorithm after the update to either the first image data and the second image data, respectively. How to process the analysis results. [Explanation of symbols]

[0186] 140 Analysis result processing device 142 Memory circuit 145 Processing Circuit 145a Acquisition Function 145b Analysis Function

Claims

1. A storage unit; an acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained by an examination of a subject; an analysis unit that analyzes the image data using a clinical application to present a first analysis result and a second analysis result for a same subject to be compared with the first analysis result; When the first image data obtained in a first test is acquired by the acquisition unit after an algorithm of the clinical application is updated, the analysis unit presents, as the first analysis result and the second analysis result, two analysis results obtained by applying the pre-update algorithm to the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying the updated algorithm to the first image data and the second image data, respectively, depending on whether or not second image data obtained in a second test of the same subject performed before the first test is stored in the storage unit, or depending on an update content of the algorithm. Analysis result processing device.

2. When the second image data is not stored in the storage unit, the analysis unit presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the pre-update algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and presents an analysis result obtained by previously applying the pre-update algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The analysis unit further presents, when the second image data is stored in the storage unit, an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and presents, when the second image data is stored in the storage unit, an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 2 .

4. When the updated algorithm is updated to obtain a new analysis result that could not be obtained with the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents an analysis result previously obtained by applying the algorithm before the update to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 3 .

5. The analysis unit further presents information including a finding of an analysis result obtained by applying the algorithm before the update to the second image data previously created as reference information for newly creating a finding of the first analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 4 .

6. When the updated algorithm is updated so as to newly analyze image data that was not a target of the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the first image data as the first analysis result, and presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 1 .

7. When the updated algorithm is updated so as to obtain clinically useful information compared with the algorithm before the update, the analysis unit presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents an analysis result previously obtained by applying the algorithm before the update to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 3 .

8. The analysis unit further presents notification information for prompting the user to newly create a finding of the first analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 7 .

9. When a plurality of image data obtained in an examination of the same subject performed prior to the first examination are stored in the storage unit, the analysis unit selects image data from the image data as the second image data, presents an analysis result obtained by newly applying the updated algorithm to the second image data as the first analysis result, and presents an analysis result previously obtained by applying the unupdated algorithm to the second image data as the second analysis result. The analysis result processing device according to claim 3 .

10. When a plurality of image data obtained by the examination of the same subject are stored in the storage unit, the analysis unit sets image data selected by an operator from the image data as the second image data. The analysis result processing device according to claim 9 .

11. When a plurality of image data obtained by the examination of the same subject are stored in the storage unit, the analysis unit presents a list of the image data, and sets image data selected by an operator from the list as the second image data. The analysis result processing device according to claim 10.

12. When a plurality of image data obtained by the examination of the same subject are stored in the storage unit, the analysis unit selects image data from the image data based on a predetermined priority order, and sets the selected image data as the second image data. The analysis result processing device according to claim 9 .

13. The new analysis result is a new type of index value for a specific case. The analysis result processing device according to claim 4 or 5.

14. the analysis unit displays the first analysis result and the second analysis result in parallel on a display. The analysis result processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. 1. An analysis result processing method applied to an analysis result processing device including a storage unit, an acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained by an examination of a subject, and an analysis unit that presents a first analysis result and a second analysis result to be compared with the first analysis result by analyzing the image data using a clinical application, and when first image data obtained in a first test is acquired by the acquisition unit after an algorithm of the clinical application is updated, presenting, as the first analysis result and the second analysis result, two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm before the update to the first image data and the second image data, respectively, or two analysis results obtained by applying an algorithm after the update to the first image data and the second image data, respectively, depending on whether or not second image data obtained in a second test of the same subject performed before the first test is stored in the storage unit, or depending on an update content of the algorithm. How to process the analysis results.

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