Dynamic quality control device, dynamic quality control program, and dynamic quality control method

Abstract

To properly perform quality management of the smoothness of a dynamic image.SOLUTION: A control unit of a console acquires dynamic image data including a plurality of pieces of frame image data obtained by dynamic imaging, generates information on quality management about the smoothness of a dynamic image on the basis of a movement distance of a prescribed object of a subject in the acquired dynamic image data, and outputs the information on the quality management about the smoothness of the generated dynamic image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a dynamic quality management device, a dynamic quality management program, and a dynamic quality management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various techniques have been proposed for performing quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) related to still image radiography. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method in which QC calculations are performed on QC image data obtained by radiography of a QC phantom P to obtain quality evaluation results, and evaluation items such as display dimensional accuracy, line formation, and sharpness are evaluated, and each evaluation item is judged to be pass or fail depending on whether the evaluation result of each evaluation item exceeds a threshold value.

[0003] In recent years, various devices for dynamic radiography, which generates dynamic image data consisting of multiple frame image data by sequentially irradiating radiation, have been commercialized. In dynamic radiography, as in still image photography, it is desirable to have a certain level of quality in order to prevent problems such as misdiagnosis by doctors, increased burden on technicians due to retakes, and increased radiation exposure to subjects due to retakes. For example, Patent Document 2 describes that the frame rate in dynamic imaging is preferably 3.75 frames / second or higher. Patent Document 3 also describes that the imaging device permits irradiation when the corresponding imaging frame rate includes a value that is N times the irradiation frame rate that the generator can handle (for example, 15, 10, 5). Note that it is desirable to set a required value for the irradiation frame rate according to the imaging technique, and for example, it is described that it is desirable to set the irradiation frame rate to at least 2 Hz in order to capture the dynamics of slow changes such as breathing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2008-283531 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2012-110399 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2020-54689 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, because dynamic radiography is a technology that has only recently been used in the medical field, sufficient research and development has not been carried out on quality control related to dynamic radiography, although there are descriptions such as those in Patent Documents 2 and 3. As a result, for example, much of the regular quality control after product delivery is carried out manually and subjectively by technicians, but dynamic radiography requires a wider range of information on quality control than still image radiography, so there is a demand for improvements in work efficiency.

[0006] Dynamic radiography can provide more information than still images, and is easy to undergo, so it is sometimes used for screening tests, which are the entry point to medical examinations. For this reason, it is sometimes used not only in university hospitals, but also in clinics that do not have radiologists (experts in radiography and reading images). However, if there is no expert or the expert is inexperienced, it may not be noticed that the quality of the dynamic radiography is insufficient (for example, some frame image data is missing, or the image is not taken at an appropriate frame rate, resulting in the lack of data representing some of the movement in the dynamic image), and if it is used for diagnosis as is, it may lead to a misdiagnosis. As mentioned above, dynamic radiography has recently started to be commercialized, and it is likely to become popular not only in Japan but also worldwide in the future, and has actually been commercialized outside Japan. In such a situation, compared to still image photography, dynamic radiography requires continuous synchronization between the generator and the imaging device (panel) to continue dynamic radiography for several tens of seconds in order to capture a moving image, and during dynamic radiography, data loss (missing some frame image data) occurs between the generator and the imaging device, and data transfer loss (missing some frame image data) occurs from the imaging device to the console, which may cause discomfort such as the movement of the subject's structures (e.g., diaphragm, blood vessels, locomotor organs such as bones and joints) appearing jerky (not smooth). In that case, even if the quality of the frame image data meets the standard, the quality of the dynamic radiography will be reduced due to the loss of frame image data. Similarly, when dynamic imaging is performed at an insufficient frame rate for the movement of the subject's structure, the movement of the subject's structure in the dynamic image data obtained by dynamic imaging will appear jerky, creating an unnatural feeling, etc. Furthermore, even if such dynamic image data is analyzed, it is not possible to obtain analysis results of sufficient quality.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to enable proper quality control of the smoothness of dynamic images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the dynamic quality control device according to the present invention comprises: A dynamic quality control apparatus for performing quality control regarding dynamic radiography in which dynamic images of a subject are captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic imaging; a generating unit that generates quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; an output unit that outputs quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image; The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0009] In addition, the dynamic quality control program according to the present invention comprises: A dynamic quality control program for performing quality control regarding dynamic radiography in which a dynamic state of a subject is captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, the program comprising: On the computer, A first process of acquiring dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic image capturing; A second process of generating quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; A third process of outputting quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image. The present invention is characterized in that the above-mentioned is executed.

[0010] The dynamic quality control method according to the present invention further comprises the steps of: 1. A dynamic quality control method for performing quality control on dynamic radiography in which a dynamic state of a subject is captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, the method comprising the steps of: A first step of acquiring dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic imaging; a second step of generating quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; a third step of outputting quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image; The present invention is characterized by comprising: Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately perform quality control of the smoothness of dynamic images. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a radiation imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the console of FIG. [Diagram 3] 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of quality control information generation processing A executed by the control unit of FIG. 2 in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a phantom. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a quality control information generation process B executed by the control unit of FIG. 2 in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and illustrated examples.

[0014] [First embodiment] <1. Radiography system> First, a schematic configuration of a radiation imaging system (hereinafter, referred to as a system 100) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. A radiography system is a system capable of performing dynamic radiography, which captures the dynamics of a subject by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation. Dynamic radiography produces multiple images that show the dynamics of the subject. A series of images produced by dynamic radiography is called a dynamic image. Each of the multiple images that make up a dynamic image is called a frame image. Here, "dynamic photography" includes video photography, but does not include taking still images while displaying the video. "Dynamic images" includes video, but does not include images obtained by taking still images while displaying the video.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system 100 . As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 includes a radiation image capturing device (hereinafter, referred to as capturing device 1), a console 2, a radiation generating device (hereinafter, referred to as generating device 3), a dynamic analysis device 4, and an image management device 5. The devices 1 to 5 are capable of communicating with each other via, for example, a communication network N (such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet).

[0016] The system 100 may be installed in an imaging room, or may be configured to be movable (for example, as a mobile cart). Furthermore, the system 100 may be capable of communicating with a hospital information system (HIS), a radiology information system (RIS), and the like, which are not shown.

[0017] [1-1. Radiation Generator] The generating device 3 includes a generator 31 , an irradiation instruction switch 32 , and a radiation source 33 .

[0018] The generator 31 applies a voltage corresponding to preset imaging conditions to a radiation source 33 (tube) based on the operation of an irradiation instruction switch 32 .

[0019] When a voltage is applied from the generator 31, the radiation source 33 generates radiation R (for example, X-rays) with a dose corresponding to the applied voltage.

[0020] Moreover, the generating device 3 according to this embodiment is adapted to generate radiation R in a manner that corresponds to the form (still image, dynamic image) of the radiation image to be generated. In the case of a still image, radiation R is irradiated only once each time the irradiation instruction switch 32 is pressed. In the case of dynamic images, each time the irradiation instruction switch 32 is pressed, irradiation of pulsed radiation R is repeated multiple times per predetermined time (for example, 15 times per second), or irradiation of radiation R is continued for a predetermined time. That is, in the present invention, "sequential irradiation with radiation" includes continuous irradiation in which radiation is irradiated continuously, and pulse irradiation in which radiation is irradiated intermittently or not.

[0021] [1-2. Radiation imaging device] The imaging device 1 generates digital data of a radiation image showing an imaging region of a subject. The imaging device 1 according to this embodiment is a portable FPD (Flat Panel Detector). Specifically, although not shown in the figures, the imaging device 1 according to this embodiment includes a sensor substrate on which image pickup elements that generate an electric charge according to the radiation dose upon receiving radiation R and switch elements that store and release the electric charge are arranged in a two-dimensional form (in a matrix), a scanning unit that switches each switch element on / off, a readout unit that reads out the amount of electric charge released from each pixel as a signal value, a control unit that controls each unit and generates a radiographic image from the multiple signal values ​​read out by the readout unit, and a communication unit that transmits data on the generated radiographic image and various signals to other devices (the console 2, the generator 3, the image management device 5, etc.) and receives various information and various signals from the other devices.

[0022] The photographing device 1 is configured to generate image data of a still image (hereinafter, still image data) or image data of a dynamic image (hereinafter, dynamic image data) by storing and releasing electric charges and reading out signal values ​​in synchronization with the timing at which radiation R is irradiated from the generating device 3. When still image data is to be generated, a radiation image is generated only once for each depression of the irradiation instruction switch 32. When dynamic image data is generated, the generation of frame image data constituting the dynamic image data is repeated multiple times per predetermined time (for example, 15 times per second) for each depression of the irradiation instruction switch 32. The photographing device 1 transmits image data generated by photographing to the console 2. The image capturing device 1 may be integrated with the generating device 3 .

[0023] [1-3. Console] The console 2 is composed of a PC, a dedicated device, etc., and is an imaging control device that controls imaging by the imaging device 1 and the generating device 3. The console 2 sets various imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current, irradiation time (mAs value), imaging area, imaging direction, frame rate, etc.) for at least one of the imaging device 1 and the generator 3. The console 2 sets the imaging conditions based on examination order information acquired from another system (HIS, RIS, etc.) or an operation performed by a user (e.g., a technician). The examination order information includes, for example, patient information (patient ID, patient name, gender, age, presence or absence of disease, etc.), imaging type (dynamic / still image), imaging area, imaging direction, medical department, type of analysis, etc.

[0024] In this embodiment, the console 2 also functions as a dynamic quality control device of the present invention. The details of this console 2 will be described later.

[0025] [1-4.Dynamic analysis device] The dynamic analysis device 4 analyzes the dynamic image data transmitted from the console 2 and transmits the analysis results to the image management device 5, etc. The dynamic analysis device 4 can analyze, for example, ventilation, blood flow, the amount of movement of a specified structure, etc.

[0026] [1-5. Image management device] The image management device 5 manages the image data generated by the imaging device 1 and the analysis results generated by the dynamic analysis device 4. Examples of the image management device 5 include a Picture Archiving and Communication System (hereinafter, PACS) and an image diagnosis workstation (hereinafter, IWS).

[0027] <2. Console details> Next, the console 2 will be described in detail.

[0028] [2-1. Console configuration] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the console 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the console 2 is configured to include a control unit 21, a memory unit 22, a communication unit 23, a display unit 24, and an operation unit 25, and each of the units 21 to 25 is electrically connected via a bus or the like.

[0029] The control unit 21 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like. The ROM stores various programs executed by the CPU as well as parameters necessary for executing the programs. The CPU then reads out various programs stored in the ROM and expands them into the RAM, and in accordance with the expanded programs, executes various processes including the quality control information generation process A described below, thereby providing centralized control over the operation of each part of the console 2. The control unit 21 functions as a generating unit and an output unit by executing a quality control information generating process A, which will be described later.

[0030] The storage unit 22 is configured with a non-volatile memory, a hard disk, etc., and stores various data. For example, the storage unit 22 stores test order information transmitted from a RIS or the like.

[0031] The communication unit 23 is composed of a communication module and the like. The communication unit 23 transmits and receives various signals and various data to and from other devices (the imaging device 1, the generating device 3, the dynamic analysis device 4, the image management device 5, etc.) connected by wire or wirelessly via the communication network N. The communication unit 23 functions as an acquisition unit.

[0032] The display unit 24 is configured with, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), etc. The display unit 24 displays a radiation image or the like in accordance with an image signal received from the control unit 21.

[0033] The operation unit 25 includes a keyboard (cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc.), a pointing device (mouse, etc.), a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 24, etc. The operation unit 25 outputs a control signal to the control unit 21 in response to an operation performed by the user.

[0034] In addition, the console 2 may not be equipped with a display unit 24 and an operation unit 25, and may be configured to receive control signals from an input device provided separately from the console 2, for example via a communication unit 23, or output image signals to a display device (monitor) provided separately from the console 2. In addition, if the other device (such as the image management device 5) has a display unit and an operation unit, it may be configured to receive control signals from the operation unit of the other device and output image signals to the display unit of the other device (the display unit and operation unit may be shared with the other device).

[0035] [2-2. Console Operation] Next, the operation of the console 2 will be described. Fig. 3 is a flow chart showing the flow of quality control information generation process A executed in the console 2. The quality control information generation process A is a process of performing dynamic imaging of a phantom F (see Fig. 4) as a subject S, and generating and outputting quality control information (described in detail later) related to the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the obtained dynamic image data. The quality control information generation process A is a process that is performed, for example, when the imaging device 1 or the generating device 3 is shipped from a factory or installed in a medical facility, or when checking the quality of the dynamic image before starting medical treatment at the medical facility, and is executed by the CPU of the control unit 21 in cooperation with a program stored in the ROM in response to a user's operation of an instruction to execute the quality control information generation process A via the operation unit 25.

[0036] In the quality control information generation process A, the control unit 21 first prompts the user to select which structure is to be subjected to dynamic image capturing for which information on quality control of the dynamic image is to be generated (step S1). For example, the control unit 21 causes the display unit 24 to display a list of structures, and allows the operation unit 25 to select one of the structures.

[0037] Next, the control unit 21 sets the dynamic imaging conditions in the imaging device 1 and the generating device 3 (step S2). For example, the control unit 21 automatically sets the imaging conditions according to the structure selected in step S1. Alternatively, the imaging conditions may be set by the user operating the operation unit 25. The imaging conditions include radiation irradiation conditions and image reading conditions. Examples of the image reading conditions include pixel size, image size, and frame rate. Examples of the radiation irradiation conditions include the tube voltage (kV), tube current (mA), irradiation time (ms), and frame rate of the radiation source. The radiation irradiation conditions may be set directly by the user from the operation panel of the generator 3.

[0038] Here, the user places the phantom F between the radiation source 33 of the generating device 3 and the imaging device 1, and performs positioning. 4, a jig that moves at approximately the same speed (mm / s or cm / s) and at approximately the same distance as the structure selected in step S1 and has a radiation (X-ray) absorbing site F1 is used as the phantom F. For example, when performing quality control of dynamic images in dynamic imaging of the diaphragm, the user places and operates the phantom F, which is set to move at approximately the same speed and at approximately the same distance as the diaphragm, between the radiation source 33 and the imaging device 1. When performing quality control of dynamic images in dynamic imaging of the cardiovascular system, the user places and operates the phantom F, which is set to move at approximately the same speed and at approximately the same distance as the cardiovascular system. When the user operates the irradiation instruction switch 32, dynamic imaging is started. That is, the generating device 3 irradiates the phantom F, which is the subject S, with radiation R. The imaging device 1 captures the dynamic state of the phantom F at the timing when it receives radiation R from the generator 3 , generates dynamic image data consisting of a plurality of frame image data, and transmits the dynamic image data to the console 2 .

[0039] When dynamic image data obtained by dynamic imaging of the phantom F is received (acquired) by the communication unit 23 (step S3), the control unit 21 generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the acquired dynamic image data (step S4). The quality control information on the smoothness of the dynamic image is information on the smoothness of the movement of a predetermined object in the dynamic image data. In this embodiment, the predetermined object refers to the radiation absorbing portion F1 of the phantom F that moves according to the structure selected in step S1 (moves at approximately the same speed and distance as the diagnostic object).

[0040] For example, the smaller the movement distance (amount of movement) of a structure between adjacent frame image data in dynamic image data, the smoother the movement of the structure in the dynamic image data, and the image can be evaluated as having a high degree of smoothness. However, if the movement distance of the structure between adjacent frame image data is made too small in an attempt to increase the degree of smoothness, the subject's exposure dose will be unnecessarily high if the exposure dose in each frame image of dynamic imaging is constant, which is not preferable. If the total exposure dose in dynamic imaging is constant, noise in each frame image data will increase, affecting diagnosis and analysis results. In addition, there are problems such as an increase in the amount of unnecessary dynamic image data, which takes extra time for analysis processing and transfer, and the excess data also puts pressure on memory capacity. Conversely, if the movement distance of the structure between adjacent frame image data in the dynamic image data is too large, the movement of the structure in the dynamic image data will be less smooth, resulting in a jerky, unnatural image with low smoothness. Even when dynamic analysis is performed, information will be lost and accurate analysis results will not be obtained.

[0041] Therefore, in the present embodiment, the control unit 21 recognizes the region of the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F that moves according to a predetermined object, that is, the structure selected in step S1, from each frame image data of the moving image data, and based on the moving distance d of the predetermined object in the captured moving image data, for example, the moving distance d of the predetermined object between predetermined frame image data in the captured moving image data, generates quality management information regarding the smoothness of the moving image. The "between predetermined frame image data" preferably includes two adjacent frame image data. Thereby, the smoothness can be evaluated more accurately than when targeting non-adjacent frame image data. However, it may also be between non-adjacent frame image data. Also, it is possible to calculate the moving distance d from one frame image data in the moving image data. In the moving image data, in one frame image data, the signal of the structure in the previous frame image data (referred to as the previous frame image data) may appear like a noise component (afterimage). The length of this noise component (the distance between the signal of the predetermined object in the frame image data and the signal of the predetermined object in the previous frame image data that appears in the frame image data) is correlated with the moving distance d of the predetermined object. Therefore, it is also possible to calculate the moving distance d based on the length of the noise component. The quality management information regarding the smoothness of the moving image includes at least one of an index value regarding the smoothness of the moving image data (moving distance d, moving distance d / frame rate f, moving speed, acceleration, etc.) and information on whether the index value is within an appropriate range.

[0042] For example, calculate the moving distance d of the predetermined object between adjacent frame image data in the moving image data, and generate the moving distance d as quality management information regarding the smoothness of the moving image. Or, generate information indicating whether the above moving distance d is within the appropriate range A < d < B as quality management information regarding the smoothness of the moving image. Here, A and B are constants predetermined for each predetermined object in the moving image data and are values obtained experimentally. For example, when the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F where the predetermined object moves according to the diaphragm, A = 3 cm and B = 10 cm. For example, when the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F where the predetermined object moves according to the cardiovascular system, A = 1 cm and B = 5 cm. For example, when the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F where the predetermined object moves according to the knee joint, A = 5 cm and B = 15 cm. Note that the moving distance d may be calculated for each pair of adjacent frame image data, or may be a representative value (average value, maximum value, minimum value, median value, etc.) of the moving distances calculated for each pair of adjacent frame image data. If it is calculated for each pair of adjacent frame image data, for example, when there is a missing frame image data or the like, it becomes possible for the user to easily recognize it.

[0043] Also, for example, calculate the moving distance d per second of a predetermined object in the dynamic image data (that is, when the frame rate in the dynamic imaging is f, the moving distance d between the frame image data f frames ahead), and d / f may be generated as quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image. For example, the value of d / f obtained by dividing the moving distance d per second by the frame rate f can be used as quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image because it represents how many times the predetermined object moves per frame. Alternatively, information indicating whether the above moving distance d / f is within the appropriate range A' < d / f < B' may be generated as quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image. Here, A' and B' are constants predetermined for each predetermined object in the dynamic image data and are values obtained experimentally. For example, when the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F where the predetermined object moves according to the chest, A' = 2 and B' = 4. For example, when the radiation absorption site F1 of the phantom F where the predetermined object moves according to the locomotor system, A' = 0.5 and B' = 1.

[0044] Here, the frame rate f used in the calculation of d / f may be a frame rate set as a shooting condition, or may be a frame rate calculated from dynamic image data. If the frame rate is calculated from the dynamic image data, it can be reflected in the quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image when some frame image data is missing due to malfunction of the device, etc. As a method for calculating the frame rate from the dynamic image data, for example, for multiple (preferably all) frame image data of the dynamic image data, the time interval (difference in generation time) between the previous or next frame image data is calculated, and the reciprocal of the calculated value can be used as the frame rate.

[0045] The control unit 21 may also calculate the moving speed and moving acceleration of the predetermined object based on the calculated moving distance d, and use the calculated moving speed and moving acceleration as information for quality control regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image. Also, information indicating whether the moving speed and moving acceleration are within an appropriate range may be generated as information for quality control regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image.

[0046] When the generation of the quality control information related to the smoothness of the dynamic image is completed, the control unit 21 outputs the generated quality control information related to the smoothness of the dynamic image (step S5), and ends the quality control information generation process A.

[0047] In step S5, the control unit 21 causes the display unit 24 to display at least one of the movement distance d, d / f, the movement speed, and the movement acceleration calculated as quality control information related to the smoothness of the dynamic image, for example. The dynamic image data acquired in step S3 may also be displayed together. The inspector or camera technician at the time of shipment from the factory knows the approximate appropriate ranges of the above-mentioned movement distance d, d / f, etc. Therefore, by outputting this information as quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic images, the inspector or camera technician at the time of shipment from the factory can check whether the smoothness of the dynamic images is appropriate or not, and it becomes possible to appropriately perform quality control of the smoothness of the dynamic images. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 21 may cause the display unit 24 to display information indicating whether the movement distance d or d / f calculated as quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image is within an appropriate range. This allows even an untrained inspector or radiographer at the time of shipment from the factory to check whether the smoothness of the dynamic image is appropriate, thereby making it possible to appropriately control the quality of the smoothness of the dynamic image.

[0048] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, a case was described in which quality control information regarding the smoothness of a dynamic image is generated and output based on dynamic image data acquired by dynamic imaging of a phantom F. In the second embodiment, a case is described in which quality control information regarding the smoothness of a dynamic image is generated and output based on dynamic image data acquired by dynamic imaging of a subject in an actual examination.

[0049] The configuration of the system and device in the second embodiment is similar to that described in the first embodiment, so the description will be used here, and the operation of the console 2 in the second embodiment will be described below.

[0050] In the second embodiment, the console 2 executes a quality control information generation process B shown in Fig. 5. The quality control information generation process B is executed by the CPU of the control unit 21 in cooperation with a program stored in the ROM when, for example, examination order information for dynamic radiography is selected by the operation unit 25 from the examination list screen displayed on the display unit 24.

[0051] First, the control unit 21 sets dynamic imaging conditions in the imaging device 1 and the generating device 3 (step S21). For example, the control unit 21 automatically sets the imaging conditions (image reading conditions, e.g., pixel size, image size, frame rate, etc.) in the imaging device 1 based on the imaging part, imaging direction, medical department, etc. included in the examination order information, and also sets the imaging conditions (radiation irradiation conditions, e.g., tube voltage (kV), tube current (mA), irradiation time (ms), frame rate, etc.) of the radiation source in the generating device 3. Alternatively, the image reading conditions for the imaging to be performed may be set in the imaging device 1 in response to the user's operation of the operating unit 25. Moreover, the radiation irradiation conditions may be set by the user from the operation panel of the generating device 3.

[0052] Here, the user places the subject S (subject) between the radiation source 33 of the generating device 3 and the imaging device 1, and performs positioning. When the user operates the irradiation instruction switch 32, dynamic imaging is started. That is, the generating device 3 irradiates the radiation R to the region of the subject S to be imaged. The imaging device 1 captures the dynamic state of the subject S at the timing when the subject S receives radiation R from the generating device 3 , generates dynamic image data consisting of a plurality of frame image data, and transmits the dynamic image data to the console 2 .

[0053] When dynamic image data captured of a subject as a subject S is received (acquired) by the communication unit 23 (step S22), the control unit 21 generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the acquired dynamic image data (step S23). As described in the first embodiment, the quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image is information regarding the smoothness of the movement of a predetermined object in the dynamic image data. In the second embodiment, the predetermined object refers to a structure of the subject (subject S). The structure can be identified, for example, based on the examination order information. For example, the correspondence between the imaging site (e.g., chest, neck, knee joint, elbow joint, ...) and medical department (respiratory medicine, cardiology, orthopedics, ...) and the structure can be stored in the memory unit 22, and the structure can be identified from the imaging site and medical department in the examination order information.

[0054] The process of step S23 is the same as that described in step S4 of FIG. 3, except that the predetermined object recognized from the moving image data is the structure of the subject, so the description is incorporated by reference. Regarding the constants A and B in the appropriate range A < d < B, for example, when the predetermined object is the diaphragm, A = 3 cm and B = 10 cm. For example, when the predetermined object is the cardiovascular system, A = 1 cm and B = 5 cm. For example, when the predetermined object is the knee joint, A = 5 cm and B = 15 cm. Regarding the constants A' and B' in the appropriate range A' < d / f < B', for example, when the predetermined object is the chest, A' = 2 and B' = 4. For example, when the predetermined object is the locomotor system, A' = 0.5 and B' = 1.

[0055] When the generation of the quality control information regarding the smoothness of the moving image is completed, the control unit 21 outputs the generated quality control information regarding the smoothness of the moving image (step S24). The process of step S24 is the same as that of step S5 in FIG. 3, but it may also be configured to display the captured moving image data together with the quality control information regarding the smoothness of the moving image on the display unit 24. Thereby, the user (the imaging technician) can check whether the smoothness of the moving image is appropriate by looking at the quality control information regarding the smoothness of the moving image and the captured moving image data.

[0056] The user refers to the displayed quality control information regarding the smoothness, the moving image, etc., and determines whether an image suitable for diagnosis has been acquired (imaging OK) or whether reshooting is necessary (imaging NG). Then, the operation unit 25 is operated to input the determination result.

[0057] When a judgment result indicating that imaging is OK is input by a predetermined operation of operation unit 25 (step S25; YES), control unit 21 attaches an identification ID for identifying the dynamic image data, patient information, and examination information (such as imaging area, imaging direction, radiation irradiation conditions, image reading conditions, number indicating imaging order (frame number), medical department, type of analysis, etc.) to each of the series of frame image data acquired by dynamic imaging (for example, writes in the header area of ​​the image data in DICOM format), and transmits the data to dynamic analysis device 4 via communication unit 23 (step S26). Note that if the type of analysis is not specified, the dynamic image data may be transmitted to image management device 5. Then, quality control information generation process B ends. On the other hand, when a judgment result indicating that shooting is NG is input by a predetermined operation of the operation unit 25 (step S25; NO), the control unit 21 deletes the series of frame image data stored in the storage unit 22 (step S27), and ends the quality control information generation process B. In this case, reshooting is required. The cinematographer will carry out reshooting by changing the shooting conditions such as the frame rate, performing maintenance on the shooting device 1 or the generating device 3, or using a different shooting device 1 or generating device 3. In other words, quality control of the smoothness of dynamic images can be performed appropriately.

[0058] In addition, when information on whether index values ​​such as the moving distance d and d / f are within an appropriate range is generated as information on quality control regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image, and the index value is not within the appropriate range, the control unit 21 may display notification information such as "The smoothness of the dynamic image is not appropriate. Please retake the image" on the display unit 24 (or output by voice) to urge the user to retake the image. In addition, when the index value is not within the appropriate range, the control unit 21 may control the dynamic image data with an inappropriate smoothness not to be transmitted to the dynamic analysis device 4 or the image management device 5 (prohibit the dynamic analysis device 4 or the image management device 5 from transmitting dynamic image data with an inappropriate smoothness), for example, by making it impossible to input "OK to take the image." This makes it possible to prevent the dynamic image data with an inappropriate smoothness from being provided for analysis or diagnosis.

[0059] When the dynamic analysis device 4 receives dynamic image data from the console 2, it performs analysis processing according to the type of analysis attached to the dynamic image data, and transmits the analysis results to the image management device 5 in association with the dynamic image data and its attached information. The image management device 5 stores and manages the received dynamic image data and analysis results in association with the supplementary information.

[0060] In this way, in the second embodiment, quality control information regarding the smoothness of dynamic images in dynamic image data acquired by actually photographing the subject during an examination is generated and output, enabling users such as radiographers to properly perform quality control of the smoothness of the dynamic images.

[0061] In addition, the control unit 21 may acquire dynamic image data by pre-shooting before the actual shooting of the subject's imaging area during the examination, and generate quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the acquired dynamic image data.

[0062] [Variations] In the second embodiment, it has been described that the console 2 has the function of the dynamic quality control device of the present invention, and generates and outputs quality control information regarding the smoothness of dynamic images from dynamic image data obtained by dynamic shooting. However, the dynamic analysis device 4 and the image management device 5 may also have the function of the dynamic quality control device of the present invention, and generate and output quality control information regarding the smoothness of dynamic images from the received dynamic image data.

[0063] For example, the control unit of the dynamic analysis device 4 executes a process similar to step S23 in Fig. 5 prior to performing an analysis process on the dynamic image data, and when the quality control information on the smoothness of the generated dynamic image indicates that the smoothness of the dynamic image is not appropriate, displays (or outputs a voice) notification information such as "The smoothness of the dynamic image is not appropriate, so it cannot be used for analysis." Alternatively, when the quality control information on the smoothness of the dynamic image generated based on the dynamic image data indicates that the smoothness of the dynamic image is not appropriate, the control unit of the dynamic analysis device 4 may control not to execute an analysis process using the dynamic image data. This can prevent an erroneous analysis result from being provided for diagnosis.

[0064] Also, for example, the control unit of the image management device 5 executes the same process as step S23 in FIG. 5 for the received dynamic image data, and stores quality control information on the smoothness of the generated dynamic image in association with the dynamic image data. Then, when a display request for the dynamic image data is made from a client terminal, the control unit causes the client terminal to display (or output a voice message) notification information such as "The requested dynamic image data cannot be used for diagnosis because the smoothness is not appropriate." Alternatively, when the quality control information on the smoothness of the dynamic image generated based on the dynamic image data requested from the client terminal indicates that the smoothness of the dynamic image is not appropriate, the control unit of the image management device 5 may control the dynamic image data not to be displayed on the client terminal. This makes it possible to prevent dynamic image data with an inappropriate smoothness from being provided for diagnosis.

[0065] The above describes the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and their variations of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0066] For example, in the above embodiment, information regarding the quality control of the smoothness of dynamic images is output by the display unit 24, but it may also be output by an audio output device, or may be output to an external device by the communication unit 23.

[0067] Also, for example, in the above description, a hard disk or a non-volatile semiconductor memory is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this example. As other computer-readable media, a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM can be applied. Furthermore, a carrier wave can be applied as a medium for providing data of the program according to the present invention via a communication line. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 100 Radiography system 1 Radiography equipment 2 Console (dynamic quality control device) 21 Control section 22 Memory section 23 Communications Department 24 Display section 25 Control section 3. Radiation Generator 31 Generator 32 Irradiation switch 33 Radiation source 4 Dynamic analysis device 5. Image management device N Communication Network R Radiation S Subject

Claims

1. A dynamic quality control apparatus for performing quality control regarding dynamic radiography in which dynamic images of a subject are captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic imaging; a generating unit that generates quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; an output unit that outputs quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image; A dynamic quality control device comprising:

2. The dynamic quality management device according to claim 1, characterized in that the generation unit generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the movement distance of a specified object of the subject between specified frame image data in the dynamic image data.

3. the subject is a phantom, 3. The dynamic quality control device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined object is an X-ray absorbing portion of the phantom.

4. The subject is a subject, 3. The dynamic quality control device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined object is a structure of the subject.

5. The dynamic quality management device of claim 4, wherein the generation unit generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image from dynamic image data obtained in a pre-shooting prior to the actual dynamic shooting of the subject.

6. The dynamic quality management device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the generation unit generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether the movement distance is within a predetermined range.

7. 7. The dynamic quality control device according to claim 6, wherein, when the moving distance is d and the predetermined range is A<d<B, A and B are constants determined by the predetermined object.

8. The dynamic quality management device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the generation unit generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the moving distance and a frame rate value in dynamic shooting of the subject.

9. The dynamic quality management device of claim 8, wherein the generation unit generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether an evaluation value based on the movement distance and the frame rate value is within a second predetermined range.

10. The dynamic quality management device according to claim 9, characterized in that, when the moving distance is d, the frame rate is f, and the second specified range is A'<d / f<B', A' and B' are constants determined by the specified object.

11. A dynamic quality control program for performing quality control regarding dynamic radiography in which a dynamic state of a subject is captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, the program comprising: On the computer, A first process of acquiring dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic image capturing; A second process of generating quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; A third process of outputting quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image. A dynamic quality control program characterized by executing the above.

12. The dynamic quality control program according to claim 11, wherein the second process generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether the movement distance is within a predetermined range.

13. The dynamic quality control program of claim 11, wherein the second process generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the movement distance and the frame rate value for dynamic shooting of the subject.

14. The dynamic quality control program of claim 13, wherein the second process generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether an evaluation value based on the movement distance and the frame rate value is within a second predetermined range.

15. 1. A dynamic quality control method for performing quality control on dynamic radiography in which a dynamic state of a subject is captured by sequentially irradiating the subject with radiation, the method comprising the steps of: A first step of acquiring dynamic image data including a plurality of frame image data obtained by the dynamic imaging; a second step of generating quality control information regarding smoothness of the dynamic image based on a moving distance of a predetermined object of the subject in the dynamic image data; a third step of outputting quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image; A dynamic quality control method comprising:

16. The dynamic quality control method according to claim 15, wherein the second step generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether the moving distance is within a predetermined range.

17. The dynamic quality control method according to claim 15, wherein the second step generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on the movement distance and a frame rate value in dynamic shooting of the subject.

18. The dynamic quality control method of claim 17, wherein the second step generates quality control information regarding the smoothness of the dynamic image based on whether an evaluation value based on the movement distance and the frame rate value is within a second predetermined range.

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