EVALUATION APPARATUS, EVALUATION PROGRAM, AND EVALUATION SYSTEM

Abstract

To provide an evaluation device that obtains a more appropriate photography plan.SOLUTION: In an evaluation server 10 that is a kind of an evaluation device, an evaluation function 15a evaluates a first photography plan used by a medical image diagnostic device based on numerical information on at least one evaluation item that conforms to performance information on the performance of the medical image diagnostic device and guidelines for the photography plan. A creation function 15b creates a second photography plan that further conforms to the guidelines than the first photography plan based on an evaluation result. An output function 15c outputs the second photography plan.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an evaluation device, an evaluation program, and an evaluation system. [Background technology]

[0002] The imaging plan of the X-ray CT device is generally managed by a user such as an X-ray CT device manager or a radiological technologist for each X-ray CT device or each facility (e.g., a hospital) where the X-ray CT device is installed. The user determines and manages the imaging plan according to the function of the X-ray CT device and the situation of the facility. For this reason, the control of the X-ray dose received by the subject and the control of the image quality of the image generated by the X-ray CT device depend on the skill and experience of the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 198680 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 obtain a more appropriate imaging plan. 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 evaluation device according to the embodiment includes an evaluation unit, a generation unit, and an output unit. The evaluation unit evaluates a first scanning plan used by the medical image diagnostic device based on performance information on the performance of the medical image diagnostic device and numerical information on at least one evaluation item in accordance with a guideline on the scanning plan. The generation unit generates a second scanning plan that is more in line with the guideline than the first scanning plan based on the evaluation result. The output unit outputs the second scanning plan. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an evaluation system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the shooting plan database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process executed by the evaluation request function according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of the guideline database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of the performance information database according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing executed by the terminal device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process executed by the evaluation server according to the first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a guideline database according to a third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of the performance information database according to the third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a display according to the third modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a guideline database according to a fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of the performance information database according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the shooting plan database according to the seventh modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data structure of a performance information database according to the eighth modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a portion of an evaluation system according to a ninth modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a program database according to a tenth modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. [Figure 20B]FIG. 20B is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a program database according to the eleventh modification of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] Hereinafter, with reference to the attached drawings, an embodiment of an evaluation device, an evaluation program, and an evaluation system will be described in detail. The evaluation device, evaluation program, and evaluation system according to the present application are not limited to the embodiment shown below. The embodiment can be combined with other embodiments or conventional techniques as long as there is no contradiction in the content. In the following description, similar components are given common symbols, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted.

[0008] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an evaluation system 1 according to a first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the evaluation system 1 includes an evaluation server 10, two terminal devices 4a and 4b, and three X-ray CT devices 5a to 5c. The evaluation server 10 is an example of an evaluation device. The number of devices included in the evaluation system 1 is not limited to this. The evaluation server 10 and the terminal devices 4a and 4b are connected to each other via a network 2 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The terminal device 4a and the X-ray CT device 5a are connected to each other via the network so as to be able to communicate with each other. The terminal device 4b and the X-ray CT devices 5b and 5c are connected to each other via the network so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0009] The terminal device 4a and the X-ray CT device 5a are installed in a hospital 3a. The terminal device 4b and the X-ray CT devices 5b and 5c are installed in a hospital 3b, which is different from the hospital 3a. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the hospital 3a and the hospital 3b, they will be referred to as "hospital 3". When there is no need to distinguish between the terminal devices 4a and 4b, they will be referred to as "terminal device 4". When there is no need to distinguish between the X-ray CT devices 5a, 5b, and 5c, they will be referred to as "X-ray CT device 5". The X-ray CT device 5 is an example of a medical image diagnostic device.

[0010] The X-ray CT device 5 captures an image of a subject to generate CT image data representing a CT image, and generates image data (post-processed image data) representing an image (post-processed image) from the CT image data. For example, the X-ray CT device 5 includes a gantry device, a processing circuit, an input interface, a memory, and a display. The gantry device includes an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, a rotating frame, and a DAS (Data Acquisition System).

[0011] For example, an X-ray tube generates X-rays to irradiate an object. An X-ray detector detects the X-rays that have passed through the object and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of detected X-rays to a DAS. A rotating frame is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector so as to face each other and rotates the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector.

[0012] The DAS amplifies an electric signal output from the X-ray detector and converts the amplified electric signal, which is an analog signal, into a digital signal to generate detection data. Then, the DAS outputs the generated detection data to a processing circuit. The processing circuit performs preprocessing, such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction processing, on the detection data. The detection data that has been preprocessed is called raw data. Then, the processing circuit performs reconstruction processing on the raw data using a filtered back projection method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like to generate three-dimensional CT image data. Then, the processing circuit performs various image processing (post-processing) on ​​the CT image data to generate image data. For example, the processing circuit converts the CT image data into MPR (multi planar reconstruction) image data, three-dimensional image data, or MIP (Maximum Intensity Projection) image data of an arbitrary cross section by a known method based on an input operation, etc., received from a user, such as an administrator or a diagnostic X-ray technician, via an input interface. That is, the processing circuit generates various image data, such as MPR image data, three-dimensional image data, or MIP image data, based on the CT image data. The processing circuit then causes a display to display an image based on the image data. The processing circuit is realized by, for example, a processor.

[0013] Here, the X-ray CT device 5 performs imaging based on the imaging plan, and generates CT image data and image data based on the imaging plan. For example, a memory included in the X-ray CT device 5 stores a plurality of imaging plans in association with a plurality of examination purposes. For example, the memory is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory is an example of a storage unit. Then, the processing circuit of the X-ray CT device 5 acquires from the memory an imaging plan corresponding to the examination purpose received from a user via an input interface. Then, the X-ray CT device 5 performs imaging based on the acquired imaging plan.

[0014] Here, the imaging plan includes imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions. The imaging plan is, for example, information necessary for the X-ray CT device 5 to operate in a series of examination flows. The imaging plan is information used by the X-ray CT device 5. When contrast imaging is performed, the imaging plan may include contrast conditions and time information indicating the timing of imaging in addition to the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions. The imaging conditions include the imaging mode, tube voltage, tube current, imaging range, and rotation speed. The imaging mode is a scanning method such as helical scan, conventional scan, and step-and-shoot method. The rotation speed is the time required for the rotating frame to rotate once. When the X-ray CT device 5 performs AEC (Auto Exposure Control), the imaging conditions include performing AEC.

[0015] The reconstruction conditions include the type of reconstruction processing (reconstruction algorithm) used when reconstructing CT image data, and the post-processing conditions include the type of post-processing used when generating image data.

[0016] The processing circuit of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 according to this embodiment, which will be described later, is controlled by the terminal device 4 to store an imaging plan in a memory, and to modify or update an imaging plan already stored in the memory.

[0017] The terminal device 4 is a device that manages an imaging plan used when the X-ray CT device 5 performs imaging. For example, the terminal device 4a manages an imaging plan for the X-ray CT device 5a, and the terminal device 4b manages an imaging plan for the X-ray CT device 5b, 5c. That is, the X-ray CT device 5a is an object of management (a management subject) for the terminal device 4a, and the X-ray CT device 5b, 5c are management subjects for the terminal device 4b.

[0018] For example, the terminal device 4 is realized by a computer such as a server, a workstation, a personal computer, or a tablet terminal. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the terminal device 4 according to the first embodiment. The terminal device 4 includes a communication interface 41, a memory 42, an input interface 43, a display 44, and a processing circuit 45.

[0019] The communication interface 41 is connected to the processing circuit 45, and controls communication between the terminal device 4 and the X-ray CT device 5, and communication between the terminal device 4 and the evaluation server 10. For example, the communication interface 41 receives various data and information from the X-ray CT device 5 and the evaluation server 10, and transmits the received data and information to the processing circuit 45. Also, for example, the communication interface 41 transmits various data and information to the X-ray CT device 5 and the evaluation server 10. For example, the communication interface 41 is realized by a network card, a network adapter, a NIC (Network Interface Controller), or the like.

[0020] The memory 42 is connected to the processing circuit 45, and stores various data and information. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the scanning plan database 42a according to the first embodiment. For example, the memory 42 stores the scanning plan database 42a shown in FIG. 3. In the scanning plan database 42a, the latest scanning plan of the X-ray CT device 5 is registered for each type of the X-ray CT device 5 managed by the terminal device 4. In addition, in the scanning plan database 42a, the latest scanning plan of the X-ray CT device 5 is registered for each examination purpose. As shown in FIG. 3, in the scanning plan database 42a, a plurality of records having items of "model ID (Identification)", "examination purpose", and "scanning plan" are registered.

[0021] In the "Model ID" field, an identifier (model ID) indicating the type of X-ray CT device 5 to be managed is registered. In the "Examination purpose" field, the examination purpose is registered. In the "Shooting plan" field, the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID and the shooting plan corresponding to the examination purpose are registered. The model ID, the examination purpose, and the shooting plan are associated and registered in the shooting plan database 42a by a registration function 45a described later. In addition, the shooting plan registered in the shooting plan database 42a is corrected by a correction function 45b described later.

[0022] Furthermore, the memory 42 stores programs for enabling the processing circuit 45 to realize various functions. For example, the memory 42 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The memory 42 is an example of a storage unit.

[0023] The input interface 43 is connected to the processing circuit 45 and accepts various instructions, requests, and input operations of information from a user. For example, the input interface 43 converts the input operation accepted from the user into an electric signal and transmits the electric signal to the processing circuit 45. For example, the input interface 43 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 circuit using an optical sensor, and a voice input circuit. In this specification, the input interface 43 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 terminal device 4 and transmits the electric signal to the processing circuit 45 is also included as an example of the input interface 43.

[0024] The display 44 is connected to the processing circuit 45 and displays various information and images. For example, the display 44 converts information and data transmitted from the processing circuit 45 into an electric signal for display and outputs it. For example, the display 44 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, or the like.

[0025] The processing circuitry 45 controls the operation of the terminal device 4 in response to an input operation received from a user via the input interface 43. For example, the processing circuitry 45 is realized by a processor.

[0026] The processing circuit 45 executes a registration function 45a, a correction function 45b, an evaluation request function 45c, a display control function 45d, and a setting function 45e. The registration function 45a is an example of a registration unit. The correction function 45b is an example of a correction unit. The evaluation request function 45c is an example of an evaluation request unit. The display control function 45d is an example of a display control unit. The setting function 45e is an example of a setting unit.

[0027] Here, for example, each processing function possessed by the processing circuitry 45 is stored in the memory 42 in the form of a program executable by a computer. That is, each processing function of the components of the processing circuitry 45 shown in FIG. 2, namely, the registration function 45a, the correction function 45b, the evaluation request function 45c, the display control function 45d, and the setting function 45e, is stored in the memory 42 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuitry 45 realizes each function corresponding to each program by reading each program from the memory 42 and executing each program that has been read. In other words, the processing circuitry 45 in a state in which each program has been read has each function shown in the processing circuitry 45 in FIG. 2.

[0028] The registration function 45a registers the shooting plan in the shooting plan database 42a. For example, the registration function 45a registers in the shooting plan database 42a a model ID, an examination purpose, and a shooting plan accepted from a user via the input interface 43 in association with each other. As a result, the model ID, the examination purpose, and the shooting plan are added to the shooting plan database 42a.

[0029] Then, the registration function 45a transmits the accepted examination purpose and imaging plan to the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the accepted model ID. Upon receiving the examination purpose and imaging plan, the processing circuit of the X-ray CT device 5 associates the received examination purpose and imaging plan with each other and stores them in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5. As a result, the examination purpose and imaging plan added to the imaging plan database 42a become the same as the examination purpose and imaging plan stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5.

[0030] The correction function 45b corrects the imaging plan. For example, the correction function 45b receives a correction instruction for the imaging plan from a user via the input interface 43. The correction instruction includes the imaging plan to be corrected, a model ID corresponding to the imaging plan to be corrected, an examination purpose corresponding to the imaging plan to be corrected, and how to correct the imaging plan to be corrected. Then, the correction function 45b corrects the imaging plan to be corrected registered in the imaging plan database 42a based on the correction instruction.

[0031] Then, the correction function 45b transmits a correction instruction to the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID corresponding to the scanning plan to be corrected, in order to correct the scanning plan to be corrected stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5. Upon receiving the correction instruction, the processing circuit of the X-ray CT device 5 corrects the scanning plan to be corrected stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5 according to the correction instruction. As a result, the scanning plan to be corrected that is registered in the scanning plan database 42a and has been corrected becomes the same as the scanning plan to be corrected that is stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5 and has been corrected.

[0032] As described above, the registered or corrected scanning plan is synchronized between the scanning plan database 42a of the terminal device 4 and the memory of the X-ray CT apparatus 5. Therefore, the latest scanning plan of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 is registered for each examination purpose in the scanning plan database 42a.

[0033] Here, the user operates the terminal device 4 to register and modify the scanning plan. For example, the user manages the scanning plan depending on the function of the X-ray CT device 5 and the situation of the facility such as the hospital 3 (emphasis on image quality, emphasis on dose reduction, etc.). Even if a recommended scanning plan (recommended scanning plan) is stored in the X-ray CT device 5 at the time of shipment of the X-ray CT device 5, as described above, the user manages the scanning plan depending on the function of the X-ray CT device 5 and the situation of the facility. The user manages the scanning plan in the closed world of the facility. That is, there is a user who manages the scanning plan for each facility, and the user manages the scanning plan for each facility.

[0034] Therefore, if the X-ray CT device 5 were to perform imaging using the imaging plan registered or modified by the user as is and generate CT image data and image data, control of the X-ray dose received by the subject and control of the image quality of the image data generated by the X-ray CT device 5 would depend on the skill and experience of the user.

[0035] Also, there are guidelines that define the range of recommended doses for each examination purpose. However, even if a user manages an imaging plan to conform to the guidelines, the user may not be able to quickly incorporate new guidelines. For example, some users may not notice the existence of new guidelines. Also, some users may not quickly adapt the imaging plan to the new guidelines even if they notice the existence of new guidelines. In this case, since the imaging plan is not adapted to the new guidelines, the examination continues with the same dose and image quality as before. This causes a disadvantage to the subject. Considering the ability to notice the existence of new guidelines and the ability to quickly adapt the imaging plan to the new guidelines when the user notices the existence of the new guidelines as the skill of the user, it can be said that the imaging plan depends on the skill of the user from this point of view.

[0036] Therefore, the evaluation server 10 and the evaluation system 1 according to the first embodiment execute the process described below so as to generate a shooting plan that does not depend on the skill or experience of the user. That is, the evaluation server 10 and the evaluation system 1 execute the process described below so as to generate a more appropriate shooting plan.

[0037] Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing executed by the evaluation request function 45c according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the evaluation request function 45c transmits the shooting plan 6 to be evaluated, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the evaluation server 10, and causes the evaluation server 10 to evaluate the shooting plan 6. The shooting plan 6 is an example of a first shooting plan. The shooting conditions included in the shooting plan 6 are an example of a first shooting condition. The reconstruction conditions included in the shooting plan 6 are an example of a first reconstruction condition. The post-processing conditions included in the shooting plan 6 are an example of a first post-processing condition.

[0038] For example, the evaluation request function 45c accepts the designation of the shooting plan 6 to be evaluated from the user via the input interface 43. For example, the user operates the input interface 43 to designate the shooting plan 6 to be evaluated from among all the shooting plans registered in the shooting plan database 42a. Then, the evaluation request function 45c refers to the shooting plan database 42a and identifies the model ID 7 and the inspection purpose 8 corresponding to the designated shooting plan 6 to be evaluated. Then, the evaluation request function 45c controls the communication interface 41 to transmit the shooting plan 6 of the designated evaluation target and the identified model ID 7 and the inspection purpose 8 to the evaluation server 10. As a result, the communication interface 41 transmits the shooting plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the evaluation server 10 via the network 2. In this way, the evaluation request function 45c transmits the shooting plan 6 and the like to the evaluation server 10 at the timing when the designation of the shooting plan 6 to be evaluated is accepted from the user. Therefore, the evaluation request function 45c can transmit the shooting plan 6 and the like to the evaluation server 10 at any timing.

[0039] In addition, when the evaluation request function 45c receives designation of a plurality of shooting plans to be evaluated from the user, the evaluation request function 45c may transmit a plurality of shooting plans, etc. to the evaluation server 10. In addition, the evaluation request function 45c may automatically transmit the shooting plans 6, etc. to the evaluation server 10 at a predetermined time interval.

[0040] The display control function 45d and the setting function 45e will be described later.

[0041] The evaluation server 10 evaluates the photography plan 6 and generates a photography plan that does not depend on the skill or experience of a user. The evaluation server 10 is realized by, for example, a computer such as a server. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment. The evaluation server 10 includes a communication interface 11, a memory 12, an input interface 13, a display 14, and a processing circuit 15.

[0042] The communication interface 11 is connected to the processing circuitry 15 and controls communication between the evaluation server 10 and the terminal device 4. The communication interface 11 receives various data and information from the terminal device 4 and transmits the received data and information to the processing circuitry 15. For example, when the communication interface 11 receives the photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 transmitted by the terminal device 4, it transmits the received photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the processing circuitry 15. When the processing circuitry 15 receives the photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 transmitted by the communication interface 11, it stores the received photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 in the memory 12. As a result, the photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 can be used for various processes described below. In addition, the communication interface 11 transmits various data and information to the terminal device 4. For example, the communication interface 11 is realized by a network card, a network adapter, a NIC, or the like.

[0043] The memory 12 is connected to the processing circuit 15 and stores various data and information. For example, the memory 12 stores a guideline database 12a and a performance information database 12b.

[0044] In the guideline database 12a, the range of X-ray doses to which a subject is exposed, which are recommended in various guidelines, is registered for each examination purpose. Such a dose range includes a range in which upper and lower dose limits are set, and a range in which only an upper dose limit is set. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the guideline database 12a according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the guideline database 12a has registered therein a plurality of records each having an item of "examination purpose" and an item of "dose range".

[0045] In the "examination purpose" field, the examination purpose is registered. In the "dose range" field, the dose range corresponding to the examination purpose and recommended in various guidelines is registered. The dose range registered in the guideline database 12a is based on various guidelines indicating the recommended dose range, such as the "diagnostic reference level" and the "medical radiation exposure guidelines". The guideline database 12a also registers the latest dose range based on the latest guideline. The registered contents of the guideline database 12a are used in the process described below. In this way, the dose range recommended in various guidelines is stored in the memory 12 in a form usable by a computer.

[0046] In the performance information database 12b, performance information (latest performance information) relating to the latest performance of the managed X-ray CT apparatus 5 is registered for each type of X-ray CT apparatus 5. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the performance information database 12b according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, in the performance information database 12b, a plurality of records each having an item of "model ID" and an item of "performance information" are registered.

[0047] The "Model ID" item registers the model ID of the X-ray CT device 5 to be managed. The "Performance information" item registers the latest performance information of the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID. For example, the performance information includes the maximum number of rows of X-ray detection elements that can be used by the X-ray detector provided in the X-ray CT device 5, the maximum rotation speed of the rotating frame provided in the X-ray CT device 5, the maximum value of the tube voltage that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5, the maximum value of the tube current that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5, the type of imaging mode that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5, information indicating whether or not the X-ray CT device 5 can perform AEC (AEC information), the type of reconstruction processing that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5, and the type of post-processing that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5.

[0048] That is, the performance information includes imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions that the X-ray CT device 5 can use. Specifically, the maximum number of rows of X-ray detection elements, the maximum rotation speed, the maximum tube voltage, the maximum tube current, the type of imaging mode, and AEC information are imaging conditions included in the performance information. Also, the type of reconstruction processing that the X-ray CT device 5 can use is the reconstruction condition included in the performance information. Also, the type of post-processing that the X-ray CT device 5 can use is the post-processing condition included in the performance information.

[0049] Here, the imaging conditions included in the performance information are an example of second imaging conditions. Also, the reconstruction conditions included in the performance information are an example of second reconstruction conditions. Also, the post-processing conditions included in the performance information are an example of second post-processing conditions.

[0050] The registered contents of the performance information database 12b are used in the processes described below. In this manner, the performance information of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 is stored in the memory 12 in a form usable by a computer.

[0051] As described above, the guideline database 12a stores the latest dose range based on the latest guideline. Also, the performance information database 12b stores the latest performance information of the managed X-ray CT device 5. An example of the procedure for registering the latest dose range and the latest performance information will be described below.

[0052] For example, when a new guideline in which a newly defined recommended dose range is registered is formulated, there is an external server that transmits the latest recommended dose range registered in the guideline to the evaluation server 10. For example, the external server transmits the latest recommended dose range and the examination purpose corresponding to the latest recommended dose range to the evaluation server 10 in association with each other. The evaluation server 10 receives the latest recommended dose range and examination purpose transmitted by the external server. The processing circuit 15 of the evaluation server 10 uses the received latest recommended dose range and examination purpose to update the dose range registered in the guideline database 12a to the latest recommended dose range. For example, the processing circuit 15 identifies a record in which the received examination purpose is registered in the "examination purpose" field from among all records registered in the guideline database 12a. Then, the processing circuit 15 rewrites the dose range registered in the "dose range" field of the identified record to the received latest recommended dose range.

[0053] Also, for example, there is an external server that transmits the latest imaging conditions, the latest reconstruction conditions, or the latest post-processing conditions that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5 to the evaluation server 10. For example, the external server transmits the latest imaging conditions, the latest reconstruction conditions, or the latest post-processing conditions that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5, and the model ID to the evaluation server 10 in association with each other. The evaluation server 10 receives the latest imaging conditions, the latest reconstruction conditions, or the latest post-processing conditions, and the model ID transmitted by the external server. The processing circuitry 15 updates the performance information registered in the performance information database 12b to the latest performance information using the received latest imaging conditions, the latest reconstruction conditions, or the latest post-processing conditions, and the model ID. For example, the processing circuitry 15 identifies a record in which the received model ID is registered in the "model ID" field from among all records registered in the performance information database 12b. Then, the processing circuitry 15 rewrites the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, or post-processing conditions included in the performance information registered in the "performance information" field of the identified record to the received latest imaging conditions, the latest reconstruction conditions, or the latest post-processing conditions.

[0054] In this way, the contents registered in the guideline database 12a and the performance information database 12b are updated to the latest contents, so that the latest contents are always registered in the guideline database 12a and the performance information database 12b. As a result, the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment performs evaluation based on the latest contents and transmits the evaluation result based on the latest contents to the terminal device 4.

[0055] The memory 12 also stores an object model, which is a model of an object used in the processing described below. The memory 12 also stores programs for the processing circuitry 15 to realize various functions. For example, the memory 12 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory 12 is an example of a storage unit.

[0056] The input interface 13 is connected to the processing circuit 15 and accepts various instructions, requests, and input operations of information from a user. For example, the input interface 13 converts the input operation accepted from the user into an electric signal and transmits the electric signal to the processing circuit 15. For example, the input interface 13 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 circuit using an optical sensor, and a voice input circuit. Note that in this specification, the input interface 13 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 transmits the electric signal to the processing circuit 15 is also included as an example of the input interface 13.

[0057] The display 14 is connected to the processing circuit 15 and displays various information and images. For example, the display 14 converts information and data transmitted from the processing circuit 15 into an electric signal for display and outputs it. For example, the display 14 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT monitor, a touch panel, or the like.

[0058] The processing circuit 15 controls the operation of the evaluation server 10 in response to an input operation received from a user via the input interface 13. For example, the processing circuit 15 is realized by a processor. The processing circuit 15 executes an evaluation function 15a, a generation function 15b, and a transmission function 15c. The evaluation function 15a is an example of an evaluation unit. The generation function 15b is an example of a generation unit. The transmission function 15c is an example of an output unit.

[0059] Here, for example, each processing function possessed by the processing circuit 15 is stored in the memory 12 in the form of a program executable by a computer. That is, each processing function of the evaluation function 15a, the generation function 15b, and the transmission function 15c, which are components of the processing circuit 15 shown in FIG. 5, are stored in the memory 12 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuit 15 realizes each function corresponding to each program by reading each program from the memory 12 and executing each program that has been read. In other words, the processing circuit 15 in a state in which each program has been read has each function shown in the processing circuit 15 of FIG. 5.

[0060] The evaluation function 15a evaluates the scanning plan 6 transmitted from the terminal device 4 and transmits the evaluation result to the terminal device 4. The evaluation function 15a evaluates the scanning plan 6 with respect to the dose based on the scanning plan 6, the dose range registered in the guideline database 12a, and the performance information registered in the performance information database 12b. For example, the evaluation function 15a evaluates whether the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is an appropriate dose or not. To explain by taking a specific example, the evaluation function 15a evaluates whether the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is within a recommended dose range or not. The dose of X-rays received by the subject is an example of an evaluation item. In addition, the recommended dose range is an example of numerical information on the evaluation item in accordance with the guideline on the scanning plan 6. In the following explanation, a case where the number of evaluation items is one (X-ray dose) will be explained, but the number of evaluation items may be multiple. In other words, the number of evaluation items may be at least one.

[0061] The generation function 15b changes (modifies) the scanning plan 6 so as to reduce the dose, thereby generating an improved scanning plan 50. The scanning plan 50 is an example of a second scanning plan.

[0062] The transmission function 15c transmits the photography plan 50 and the evaluation results to the terminal device 4.

[0063] 8A, 8B, and 8C are flowcharts showing an example of a flow of a process executed by the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment. The processes shown in Fig. 8A, 8B, and 8C are executed, for example, when the evaluation function 15a of the processing circuit 15 of the evaluation server 10 receives the imaging plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 transmitted by the terminal device 4.

[0064] 8A, the generation function 15b generates a copy of the shooting plan 6 as the shooting plan 50, and stores the shooting plan 50 in the memory 12 (step S101). The shooting plan 50 is the same digital data as the shooting plan 6. The shooting plan 50 is improved by various processes described later, and is finally transmitted to the terminal device 4.

[0065] Then, the evaluation function 15a acquires performance information corresponding to the model ID7 from the performance information database 12b in which the latest performance information is registered (step S102). Then, the evaluation function 15a identifies the number of rows of X-ray detection elements and the imaging mode included in the acquired performance information (step S103). Here, the identified number of rows of X-ray detection elements is the maximum number of rows of X-ray detection elements that can be used by the X-ray detector included in the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID7. In addition, the identified type of imaging mode is the type of imaging mode that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID7. Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the number of rows of X-ray detection elements identified in step S103 is "80" and the type of imaging mode identified in step S103 includes "helical scan" and "conventional scan".

[0066] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the number of rows of the detection elements identified in step S103 is greater than the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements included in the imaging plan 6 (step S104). Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements included in the imaging plan 6 is "16". In this case, for example, although the X-ray CT device 5 is capable of using 80 rows of X-ray detection elements, it is considered that only 16 rows of X-ray detection elements are used. In this case, in step S104, the evaluation function 15a judges that the number of rows of the detection elements identified, "80", is greater than the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements included in the imaging plan 6, "16".

[0067] When the evaluation function 15a determines that the number of rows of the detecting elements specified in step S103 is equal to or less than the number of rows of the X-ray detecting elements included in the imaging plan 6 (step S104: No), the evaluation function 15a proceeds to step S107.

[0068] On the other hand, if the evaluation function 15a determines that the number of rows of the detecting elements specified in step S103 is greater than the number of rows of the X-ray detecting elements included in the scanning plan 6 (step S104: Yes), the process proceeds to step S105.

[0069] The evaluation function 15a determines whether or not there is a type of imaging mode in which the dose is reduced more than the type of imaging mode included in the imaging plan 6 among the types of imaging modes identified in step S103 (step S105). Hereinafter, a case where the type of imaging mode included in the imaging plan 6 is "helical scan" will be described as an example.

[0070] Here, the X-ray CT device 5 can reduce the dose when the imaging condition is set to a number of rows larger than the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements included in the imaging plan 6 and the imaging mode is changed from "helical scan" to "conventional scan". The reason for this will be explained. For example, in "helical scan", the subject is irradiated with overlapping X-rays in many areas. In contrast, in "conventional scan" using a larger number of rows of X-ray detection elements, the subject is irradiated with overlapping X-rays in fewer areas than in "helical scan". In "conventional scan" using a larger number of rows of X-ray detection elements, the utilization efficiency of X-rays is high. For this reason, the X-ray CT device 5 can reduce the dose.

[0071] Therefore, for example, in step S105, the evaluation function 15a determines that among the types of shooting modes identified in step S103, “helical scan” and “conventional scan”, there is an shooting mode “conventional scan” that reduces the dose more than the shooting mode “helical scan” included in the shooting plan 6.

[0072] If the evaluation function 15a determines that there is no shooting mode in which the dose is reduced more than that of the shooting mode included in the shooting plan 6 among the types of shooting modes identified in step S103 (step S105: No), it proceeds to step S107.

[0073] On the other hand, if the evaluation function 15a determines that among the types of shooting modes identified in step S103, there is an shooting mode in which the dose is reduced more than that of the shooting mode included in the shooting plan 6 (step S105: Yes), the evaluation function 15a proceeds to step S106.

[0074] The generation function 15b changes the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements and the imaging mode included in the imaging plan 50 to the number of rows of the X-ray detection elements specified in step S103 and the imaging mode in which the dose determined to be present in step S105 is reduced (step S106). Thus, in step S106, the generation function 15b corrects the imaging plan 50 so that the dose is reduced.

[0075] Then, the evaluation function 15a identifies the rotation speed included in the acquired performance information (step S107). Here, the identified rotation speed is the maximum rotation speed of the rotating frame included in the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7. Hereinafter, a case where the rotation speed identified in step S107 is "0.5" seconds / revolution will be described as an example.

[0076] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the rotation speed specified in step S107 is faster than the rotation speed included in the scanning plan 6 (step S108). Hereinafter, a case where the rotation speed included in the scanning plan 6 is "1.0" second / revolution will be described as an example. In this case, even though the rotation speed of the rotation frame of the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 is a maximum of "0.5" second / revolution, the rotation speed of "1.0" second / revolution is set as the scanning condition of the scanning plan 6. In this case, in step S108, the evaluation function 15a judges that the specified rotation speed of "0.5" second / revolution is faster than the rotation speed of "1.0" second / revolution included in the scanning plan 6.

[0077] When the evaluation function 15a determines that the rotation speed specified in step S107 is equal to or lower than the rotation speed included in the scanning plan 6 (step S108: No), the process proceeds to step S110.

[0078] On the other hand, when the evaluation function 15a determines that the rotation speed specified in step S107 is faster than the rotation speed included in the scanning plan 6 (step S108: Yes), the process proceeds to step S109.

[0079] The generating function 15b changes the rotation speed included in the scanning plan 50 to the rotation speed specified in step S107 (step S109). When the rotation speed is increased, the time during which the subject is irradiated with X-rays is shortened, and the dose is reduced. Therefore, in step S109, the generating function 15b corrects the scanning plan 50 so that the dose is reduced.

[0080] In addition, in step S109, the generating function 15b also corrects the time information included in the imaging plan 50 in accordance with the shortening of the imaging time.

[0081] In the above-mentioned steps S106 and S109, if there is an imaging condition that is not used by the X-ray CT device 5 even though it is possible to reduce the dose among the imaging conditions included in the performance information, the generation function 15b generates the imaging plan 50 by changing the imaging condition included in the copy of the imaging plan 6 (imaging plan 50) to the imaging condition that is not used by the X-ray CT device 5. That is, the generation function 15b generates the imaging plan 50 by changing the imaging condition included in the imaging plan 50 to an imaging condition that is possible to reduce the dose.

[0082] 8B, the evaluation function 15a identifies the type of reconstruction processing included in the acquired performance information (step S110). Here, the identified type of reconstruction processing is the type of reconstruction processing that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7. Below, an example will be described in which the identified types of reconstruction processing are three types, "A", "B", and "C".

[0083] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not there is a type of reconstruction processing other than the type of reconstruction processing included in the imaging plan 6 among the types of reconstruction processing identified in step S110 (step S111). Hereinafter, a case where the type of reconstruction processing included in the imaging plan 6 is "A" will be described as an example. In this case, in step S111, the evaluation function 15a judges that the types of reconstruction processing "B" and "C" other than the type of reconstruction processing "A" included in the imaging plan 6 are present among the types of reconstruction processing "A", "B" and "C" that the X-ray CT device 5 can use.

[0084] When the evaluation function 15a determines that there is no type of reconstruction processing other than the type of reconstruction processing included in the scanning plan 6 (step S111: No), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0085] On the other hand, when the evaluation function 15a determines that a type of reconstruction processing other than the type of reconstruction processing included in the scanning plan 6 exists (step S111: Yes), the evaluation function 15a performs the following process. For example, the evaluation function 15a determines whether or not a type of reconstruction processing capable of reducing the dose of X-rays received by the subject exists among the types of reconstruction processing determined to exist in step S111, in comparison with the types of reconstruction processing included in the scanning plan 6 (step S112).

[0086] Hereinafter, when reconstructing an image based on the same raw data (projection data), the image quality of CT image data is improved when the reconstruction process of type "C" is used compared to when the reconstruction process of type "A" is used. In other words, when the reconstruction process of type "C" is used, an image equivalent to an image obtained by executing the reconstruction process of type "A" on raw data collected with a relatively high dose of X-rays can be generated based on raw data collected with a relatively low dose of X-rays. Therefore, when the reconstruction process of type "C" is used, it is possible to reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject. In this case, in step S112, the evaluation function 15a determines that there exists a type of reconstruction process "C" that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject.

[0087] Here, the processing of steps S111 and S112 will be described. If the determination is affirmative in steps S111 and S112, the X-ray CT device 5 does not use the reconstruction processing of type "C" even though the reconstruction processing of type "C" is available. That is, if the determination is affirmative in steps S111 and S112, the reconstruction processing conditions are not appropriately set even though the X-ray CT device 5 is in a state where imaging at a lower dose is possible. One of the reasons for this is, for example, that the user does not know that the reconstruction processing of type "C" has appeared even though the reconstruction processing of type "C" that can reduce the dose has appeared. In this way, if the user does not know the existence of the reconstruction processing of type "C", the reconstruction processing of type "C" is not installed in the X-ray CT device 5. For this reason, the X-ray CT device 5 cannot use the reconstruction processing of type "C".

[0088] Furthermore, the X-ray CT device 5 does not use the reconstruction process of type "C" even though the dose can be reduced by using the reconstruction process of type "C". Since the reconstruction process of type "C" is not used, the imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 6 are set to a higher dose compared to the case where the reconstruction process of type "C" is used. Therefore, if the determinations in steps S111 and S112 are positive, the imaging conditions are not set appropriately even though the X-ray CT device 5 is in a state where it is possible to reconstruct CT image data of image quality required for diagnosis with a smaller dose.

[0089] When the evaluation function 15a determines that there is no type of reconstruction processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S112: No), the evaluation function 15a proceeds to step S122.

[0090] On the other hand, if the evaluation function 15a determines that there is a type of reconstruction processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S112: Yes), the process proceeds to step S113.

[0091] The generation function 15b changes the type of reconstruction processing included in the scanning plan 50 to a type of reconstruction processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S113). Thus, in step S113, the generation function 15b corrects the scanning plan 50 so that the dose can be reduced.

[0092] In step S113, if there is a reconstruction condition included in the performance information that is not used by the X-ray CT device 5 even though it is possible to reduce the dose, the generation function 15b generates the shooting plan 50 by changing the reconstruction condition included in the copy of the shooting plan 6 (shooting plan 50) to the reconstruction condition that is not used by the X-ray CT device 5.

[0093] Then, the evaluation function 15a identifies the type of post-processing included in the acquired performance information (step S114). Here, the identified type of post-processing is the type of post-processing that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7. Below, an example will be described in which the identified types of post-processing are three types, "D", "E", and "F".

[0094] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not there is a type of post-processing other than the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 6 among the types of post-processing identified in step S114 (step S115). Below, an example will be described in which the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 6 is "D". In this case, in step S115, the evaluation function 15a judges that the types of post-processing "E" and "F" other than the type of post-processing "D" included in the scanning plan 6 are included among the types of post-processing "D", "E", and "F" that the X-ray CT device 5 can use.

[0095] When the evaluation function 15a determines that there is no type of post-processing other than the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 6 (step S115: No), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0096] On the other hand, when the evaluation function 15a determines that there is a type of post-processing other than the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 6 (step S115: Yes), the evaluation function 15a performs the following process. For example, the evaluation function 15a determines whether or not there is a type of post-processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject, compared with the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 6, among the types of post-processing determined to exist in step S115 (step S116).

[0097] Hereinafter, when post-processing is performed on the same CT image data, the image quality of the image data is improved when the type of post-processing "F" is used compared to when the type of post-processing "D" is used. In other words, when the type of post-processing "F" is used, image data equivalent to image data obtained by performing the type of post-processing "D" on CT image data collected with a relatively high dose of X-rays can be generated based on CT image data collected with a relatively low dose of X-rays. Therefore, when the type of post-processing "F" is used, it is possible to reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject. In this case, in step S116, the evaluation function 15a determines that there is a type of post-processing "F" that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject.

[0098] Here, the processing of steps S115 and S116 will be described. If the determinations in steps S115 and S116 are positive, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 is not using type "F" post-processing, even though type "F" post-processing is available. In other words, if the determinations in steps S115 and S116 are positive, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 is in a state where it is possible to perform imaging at a lower dose, but the post-processing conditions are not set appropriately. One reason for this is that, for example, a new type "F" post-processing that can reduce the dose has been introduced, but the user is not aware of the introduction of type "F" post-processing.

[0099] Furthermore, the X-ray CT device 5 does not use type "F" post-processing, even though the dose can be reduced if type "F" post-processing is used. Since type "F" post-processing is not used, the imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 6 are set so that the dose is higher than when type "F" post-processing is used. Therefore, if the determinations in steps S115 and S116 are positive, the imaging conditions are not set appropriately even though the X-ray CT device 5 is in a state where it is possible to generate image data of image quality required for diagnosis with a smaller dose.

[0100] When the evaluation function 15a determines that there is no type of post-processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S116: No), the process proceeds to step S122.

[0101] On the other hand, if the evaluation function 15a determines that there is a type of post-processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S116: Yes), the process proceeds to step S117.

[0102] The generating function 15b changes the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 50 to a type of post-processing that can reduce the dose of X-rays received by the subject (step S117). Thus, in step S117, the generating function 15b corrects the scanning plan 50 so that the dose can be reduced.

[0103] In step S117, if the post-processing conditions included in the performance information include post-processing conditions that are not used by the X-ray CT device 5 even though they are capable of reducing the dose, the generation function 15b generates the shooting plan 50 by changing the post-processing conditions included in the copy of the shooting plan 6 (shooting plan 50) to the post-processing conditions that are not used by the X-ray CT device 5.

[0104] Note that the processes of steps S114 to S117 may be omitted. Also, the processes of steps S110 to S113 may be omitted. For example, when the processes of steps S110 to S113 are performed, the processes of steps S114 to S117 may be omitted. Also, for example, when the processes of steps S114 to S117 are performed, the processes of steps S110 to S113 may be omitted.

[0105] Then, the evaluation function 15a executes an image quality estimation simulation based on the scanning plan 50, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 (step S118). The image quality estimation simulation executed in step S118 is a simulation for estimating the image quality of the generated image data by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 performing scanning of the subject indicated by the subject model under the scanning conditions included in the scanning plan 50, generating CT image data based on the reconstruction conditions included in the scanning plan 50, generating image data from the CT image data based on the post-processing conditions included in the scanning plan 50. The subject model is stored in the memory 12, and the evaluation function 15a acquires the subject model from the memory 12 and uses the subject model when executing the image quality estimation simulation. The image quality estimation simulation in step S118 estimates the image quality based on the scanning plan 50. The image quality includes at least one of, for example, the SD (Standard Diviation) and the CNR (Contrast to Noise Ratio) of the image.

[0106] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the image quality estimated by the image quality estimation simulation in step S118 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value (predetermined image quality) (step S119).

[0107] When it is determined that the estimated image quality is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold (step S119: Yes), it is possible to generate high-quality image data whose image quality is equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold, but it is considered that there is room for reducing the dose because the scanning plan 6 is not appropriately set. In this case, it is considered that the scanning plan 6 needs to be improved.

[0108] In this way, in steps S118 and S119, when there is a reconstruction condition that is not used by the X-ray CT device 5 even though it is possible to reduce the dose, the evaluation function 15a estimates the image quality of the image data obtained by the X-ray CT device 5 capturing images using the imaging plan 50. Then, when the estimated image quality is equal to or higher than a threshold, the evaluation function 15a evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject exceeds the range of doses stored in the memory 12.

[0109] Therefore, in this case (step S119: Yes), the generation function 15b generates the evaluation result "Needs improvement <Excessive dose>" to be displayed on the display 14 (step S120). The evaluation result "Needs improvement <Excessive dose>" indicates that the scanning plan 6 needs to be improved and there is room for reducing the dose. Then, the generation function 15b proceeds to step S128.

[0110] In step S120, generating function 15b may generate a score or an achievement rate as the evaluation result. For example, a case where the SD of the image is estimated as the image quality in step S118 will be described as an example. First, a case where generating function 15b generates a score as the evaluation result will be described. For example, generating function 15b first determines whether the estimated SD is within a range (first range) of "target SD-α" or more and "target SD+α" or less. Note that the target SD is the SD that is the target. Also, α is a positive predetermined value.

[0111] If the estimated SD falls within the first range, generation function 15b generates a relatively high score S1. On the other hand, if the estimated SD does not fall within the first range, generation function 15b determines whether the estimated SD falls within one of the following ranges: a range equal to or greater than "target SD-α-β" and less than "target SD-α", (a second range), and a range equal to or less than "target SD+α+β" and greater than "target SD+α", (a third range). If the estimated SD falls within either the second or third range, generation function 15b generates a medium score S2 that is lower than score S1.

[0112] On the other hand, if the estimated SD is not included in either the second range or the third range, the generating function 15b generates a relatively low score S3. The score S3 is a score lower than the score S2.

[0113] Next, a case where the generating function 15b generates an achievement rate as an evaluation result will be described. For example, the generating function 15b first calculates a value "estimated SD / target SD" by dividing the estimated SD by the target SD. Then, when the "estimated SD / target SD" is within a range of "0.95" to "1.05" (fourth range), the generating function 15b generates a relatively high achievement rate A1.

[0114] In addition, when the "estimated SD / target SD" falls within either the range of "0.90" or greater but less than "0.95", or the range of "1.05" or greater but less than "1.10", the generation function 15b generates a medium achievement rate A2 that is lower than the achievement rate A1.

[0115] Moreover, when the "estimated SD / target SD" is smaller than "0.90" or larger than "1.10", the generation function 15b generates a relatively low achievement rate A3. The achievement rate A3 is an achievement rate lower than the achievement rate A2.

[0116] On the other hand, when it is determined that the estimated image quality is less than the predetermined threshold (step S119: No), even if the reconstruction conditions and post-processing conditions are set to conditions that can generate higher-quality CT image data and higher-quality image data, the image quality is considered to be less than the predetermined threshold because the dose is low. In other words, it is considered that the subject is exposed to radiation even though no information useful for diagnosis can be obtained from the image data generated by the X-ray CT device 5. In this case, it is considered that the scanning plan 6 needs to be improved.

[0117] If the estimated image quality is less than the threshold value (step S119: No), the evaluation function 15a evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject is below the range of doses stored in the memory 12.

[0118] Therefore, in this case, the generating function 15b generates an evaluation result "Needs improvement <underdose>" to be displayed on the display 14 (step S121). The evaluation result "Needs improvement <underdose>" indicates that the scanning plan 6 needs to be improved and that the dose is insufficient to obtain information useful for diagnosis. Then, the generating function 15b proceeds to step S139.

[0119] Moreover, if a negative determination is made in any of steps S111, S112, S115, and S116, the evaluation function 15a executes a dose estimation simulation (step S122).

[0120] The dose estimation simulation is a simulation for estimating an X-ray dose received by a subject represented by a subject model when the X-ray CT device 5 represented by a model ID 7 performs imaging of a subject represented by a subject model that satisfies an examination purpose 8 under imaging conditions included in an imaging plan 6. The evaluation function 15a estimates a dose based on the imaging plan 6 by executing the dose estimation simulation.

[0121] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation in step S122 is within the range of the dose registered in the guideline database 12a (step S123). For example, the evaluation function 15a acquires the range of the dose corresponding to the examination purpose 8 from the guideline database 12a. Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation is within the acquired range of the dose.

[0122] If the estimated dose is within the dose range (step S123: Yes), the X-ray dose received by the subject is considered to be appropriate.

[0123] Here, in the above-mentioned step S122, the evaluation function 15a estimates the dose when the X-ray CT device 5 performs imaging using the imaging plan 6. Then, when the estimated dose is within the range of the doses stored in the memory 12 (step S123: Yes), the evaluation function 15a evaluates that the dose of X-rays received by the subject is within the range of the doses stored in the memory 12.

[0124] Therefore, if the estimated dose is within the dose range (step S123: Yes), the generating function 15b generates an evaluation result "dose appropriate" to be displayed on the display 14 (step S124). The evaluation result "dose appropriate" indicates that the dose is appropriate. Then, the generating function 15b proceeds to step S128.

[0125] If the estimated dose is not within the dose range, i.e., if it is outside the dose range, it is considered that the X-ray dose received by the subject is not appropriate and it is necessary to improve the imaging plan 6. Therefore, if the estimated dose is outside the dose range stored in the memory 12 (step S123: No), the evaluation function 15a evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject is outside the dose range stored in the memory 12.

[0126] If the estimated dose is not within the dose range (step S123: No), the evaluation function 15a judges whether the estimated dose exceeds the upper limit of the dose range (step S125). If the estimated dose exceeds the upper limit of the dose range (step S125: Yes), it is considered that the X-ray dose received by the subject is higher than the recommended dose range. Therefore, in this case (step S125: Yes), the generation function 15b generates an evaluation result "Improvement required <Excessive dose>" to be displayed on the display 14 (step S126). Then, the generation function 15b proceeds to step S128.

[0127] On the other hand, if the estimated dose does not exceed the upper limit of the dose range (step S125: No), that is, if the estimated dose is below the lower limit of the dose range, it is considered that the subject will be exposed to radiation even though no information useful for diagnosis can be obtained from the image data generated by the X-ray CT device 5. In this case, it is considered that the subject will be unnecessarily exposed to radiation. Therefore, in this case (step S125: No), the generating function 15b generates an evaluation result "Needs improvement <low dose>" to be displayed on the display 14 (step S127). Then, the generating function 15b proceeds to step S139.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 8C, the evaluation function 15a executes an image quality estimation simulation to estimate image quality based on the imaging plan 6, on the basis of the imaging plan 6, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 (step S128).

[0129] The image quality estimation simulation executed in step S128 is a simulation in which the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 performs imaging of the subject indicated by the subject model under imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 6 to satisfy the examination purpose 8, generates CT image data based on reconstruction conditions included in the imaging plan 6, generates image data from the CT image data based on post-processing conditions included in the imaging plan 6, and estimates the image quality of the generated image data. The image data whose image quality is estimated in step S128 is an example of first image data.

[0130] Then, the generating function 15b adjusts the value of the tube current included in the scanning plan 50 (step S129). For example, the generating function 15b reduces the value of the tube current included in the scanning plan 50 by a predetermined value (for example, 0.1 mA) so as to reduce the dose. Note that, in step S129, the generating function 15b may reduce at least one of the values ​​of the tube current and the tube voltage included in the scanning plan 50 by a predetermined value (a value different for the tube current and the tube voltage) so as to reduce the dose. Also, in step S129, the generating function 15b may set the scanning plan 50 to use AEC so as to reduce the dose.

[0131] Then, the evaluation function 15a executes an image quality estimation simulation to estimate the image quality of the image data based on the shooting plan 50, based on the shooting plan 50, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 corrected in step S129 (step S130). The image data whose image quality is estimated in step S130 is an example of the second image data.

[0132] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the difference between the image quality estimated in step S128 and the image quality estimated in step S130 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (step S131). If the difference between the image quality estimated in step S128 and the image quality estimated in step S130 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, it is considered that the image quality of the image data obtained based on the shooting plan 50 is substantially the same as the image quality of the image data obtained based on the shooting plan 6.

[0133] If the difference between the image quality estimated in step S128 and the image quality estimated in step S130 is greater than a predetermined threshold (step S131: No), it is considered that the image quality of the image data obtained based on the shooting plan 50 is significantly different from the image quality of the image data obtained based on the shooting plan 6. Therefore, in this case (step S131: No), the evaluation function 15a returns to step S129 and performs the processes from step S129 onwards again.

[0134] On the other hand, if the difference between the image quality estimated in step S128 and the image quality estimated in step S130 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (step S131: Yes), the evaluation function 15a performs a dose estimation simulation based on the imaging plan 50 (step S132).

[0135] The dose estimation simulation in step S132 is a simulation for estimating an X-ray dose received by the subject represented by the subject model when the X-ray CT device 5 represented by the model ID 7 performs imaging satisfying the examination purpose 8 on the subject represented by the subject model under imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 50. The evaluation function 15a estimates the dose based on the imaging plan 50 by executing the dose estimation simulation in step S132.

[0136] Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation in step S132 is within the range of the dose registered in the guideline database 12a (step S133). For example, the evaluation function 15a acquires the range of the dose corresponding to the examination purpose 8 from the guideline database 12a. Then, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation is within the acquired range of the dose.

[0137] If the estimated dose is not within the dose range (step S133: No), it is considered that the X-ray dose received by the subject is not appropriate and it is necessary to improve the imaging plan 50. Therefore, in this case (step S133: No), the evaluation function 15a returns to step S129 and performs the processes from step S129 onwards again.

[0138] On the other hand, if the estimated dose is within the dose range (step S133: Yes), the X-ray dose received by the subject is considered to be appropriate. In this case (step S133: Yes), the generation function 15b proceeds to step S134.

[0139] In steps S128 to S133, the generating function 15b generates the scanning plan 50 by modifying the copy (scanning plan 50) of the scanning plan 6 based on the evaluation result by the evaluation function 15a so that the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation falls within the range of the acquired dose. That is, the generating function 15b generates the scanning plan 50 according to the guideline from the scanning plan 6 based on the evaluation result by the evaluation function 15a. Therefore, the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment can obtain the scanning plan 50 that does not depend on the skill or experience of the user. That is, the evaluation server 10 can obtain a more appropriate scanning plan 50.

[0140] Furthermore, in steps S128 to S133, the generation function 15b generates the scanning plan 50 so that the dose value estimated by the dose estimation simulation falls within the recommended dose range, and the difference between the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 6 and the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 50 is equal to or less than a threshold value. Note that the image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 6 is an example of first image data. Also, the image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 50 is an example of second image data.

[0141] Here, in steps S128 to S133, the generation function 15b may perform the following process instead of generating the scanning plan 50 so that the difference between the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 6 and the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 50 is equal to or less than a threshold value. For example, the generation function 15b may generate the scanning plan 50 so that the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 50 is higher than the image quality of image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 performs scanning using the scanning plan 6.

[0142] The generation function 15b executes an image data estimation simulation to estimate image data based on the photography plan 50, based on the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 (step S134).

[0143] The image data estimation simulation in step S134 is a simulation for estimating image data by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 performing imaging that satisfies the examination purpose 8 on the subject indicated by the subject model under imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 50, generating CT image data based on reconstruction conditions included in the imaging plan 50, and generating image data from the CT image data based on post-processing conditions included in the imaging plan 50. The image data estimated in step S134 is an example of the first image data.

[0144] 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process executed by the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment. For example, in step S134, the generating function 15b generates image data of an image 60 shown in FIG. 9 by an image data estimation simulation.

[0145] Then, the generating function 15b executes an image data estimation simulation to estimate image data based on the photography plan 6, based on the photography plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 (step S135).

[0146] The image data estimation simulation in step S135 is a simulation for estimating image data by the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 performing imaging of the subject indicated by the subject model under imaging conditions included in the imaging plan 6 to satisfy the examination purpose 8, generating CT image data based on reconstruction conditions included in the imaging plan 6, and generating image data from the CT image data based on post-processing conditions included in the imaging plan 6. The image data estimated in step S135 is an example of second image data. For example, in step S135, the generation function 15b generates image data of an image 55 shown in FIG. 9 by the image data estimation simulation.

[0147] In steps S134 and S135, the generation function 15b estimates first image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 takes images using the shooting plan 6, and second image data obtained when the X-ray CT device 5 takes images using the shooting plan 50.

[0148] Then, the generating function 15b generates image data of the triangular mark 57 shown in Fig. 9 (step S136). Then, the generating function 15b stores the evaluation result group 74 (see Fig. 10), the image data group 70 (see Fig. 10), and the shooting plans 6, 50 in the memory 12 (step S137).

[0149] Here, the evaluation result group 74 includes evaluation result 71 (see FIG. 9) generated in any one of step S120, step S121, step S124, step S126, and step S127. Furthermore, the evaluation result group 74 includes evaluation result 72 (see FIG. 9) and evaluation result 73 (see FIG. 9).

[0150] The evaluation result 72 will be described. If a positive determination is made in the previous step S123, the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines. In this case, in step S137, the generation function 15b generates an evaluation result "Guideline: ○" indicating that the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines as the evaluation result 72. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in the previous step S123, the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is not within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines. In this case, in step S137, the generation function 15b generates an evaluation result "Guideline: ×" indicating that the dose based on the scanning plan 6 is not within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines as the evaluation result 72.

[0151] The evaluation result 73 will be described. The dose based on the scanning plan 50 at the time of step S137 is determined to be positive in the previous step S133, and is therefore within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines. Therefore, in step S137, the generating function 15b generates, as the evaluation result 73, the evaluation result "Guideline: O" which indicates that the dose based on the scanning plan 50 is within the range of the dose recommended by the guidelines.

[0152] The image data group 70 includes image data of the image 55 generated in step S134, image data of the image 60 generated in step S135, and image data of the mark 57 generated in step S136.

[0153] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the process executed by the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment. Then, the transmission function 15c transmits the evaluation result group 74, the photography plan 6, the photography plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the terminal device 4 (step S138), and ends the process. That is, the transmission function 15c outputs the evaluation result group 74, the photography plan 6, the photography plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8. To explain by taking a specific example, the transmission function 15c controls the communication interface 11 to transmit the evaluation result group 74, the photography plan 6, the photography plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the terminal device 4. As a result, the communication interface 11 transmits the evaluation result group 74, the photography plan 6, the photography plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to the terminal device 4 via the network 2.

[0154] Moreover, the evaluation function 15a executes a plurality of processes in steps S139 to S144 similar to the plurality of processes in steps S128 to S133. However, in step S140, the generation function 15b increases the value of the tube current included in the scanning plan 50 by a predetermined value (for example, 0.1 mA) so as to increase the dose. Note that, in step S140, the generation function 15b may increase at least one of the values ​​of the tube current and the tube voltage included in the scanning plan 50 by a predetermined value (a value different for the tube current and the tube voltage) so as to increase the dose. Also, in step S140, the generation function 15b may set the scanning plan 50 to use AEC so as to increase the dose.

[0155] The above has described the processes shown in Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C. Steps S102 to S105, S107, S108, S110 to S112, S114 to S116, S118, S119, S122, S123, S125, S128, S130 to S133, and S139 to S144 in Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C are realized by the processing circuitry 15 reading out a program corresponding to the evaluation function 15a from the memory 12 and executing it. 8A, 8B, and 8C are steps realized by the processing circuitry 15 reading and executing a program corresponding to the generating function 15b from the memory 12. Also, step S138 in Fig. 8A, 8B, and 8C is a step realized by the processing circuitry 15 reading and executing a program corresponding to the transmitting function 15c from the memory 12.

[0156] 10, the terminal device 4 receives the evaluation result group 74, the scanning plan 6, the scanning plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 transmitted from the evaluation server 10. Then, the terminal device 4 displays the evaluation result group 74, the scanning plan 6, the scanning plan 50, and the image data group 70 for the user to confirm. Then, after the user corrects the scanning plan 50 as necessary, the terminal device 4 updates the scanning plan 6 registered in the scanning plan database 42a with the scanning plan 50. Also, the terminal device 4 controls the X-ray CT device 5 to update the scanning plan 6 stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5 with the scanning plan 50.

[0157] Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing executed by the terminal device 4 according to the first embodiment. The processing shown in Fig. 11 is executed when the terminal device 4 receives the evaluation result group 74, the photography plan 6, the photography plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 transmitted from the evaluation server 10.

[0158] 11, the display control function 45d displays the evaluation result group 74, the shooting plan 6, the shooting plan 50, and the image data group 70 on the display 44 (step S201). For example, the display control function 45d displays the evaluation result group 74, the shooting plan 6, the shooting plan 50, and the image data group 70 on the display 44 so that the positional relationship between the evaluation result group 74, the shooting plan 6, the shooting plan 50, and the image data group 70 is as shown in FIG.

[0159] 9, the display control function 45d causes the photographing plan 6 and the photographing plan 50 to be displayed side by side on the display 44 so that they can be compared. Therefore, the terminal device 4 allows the user to easily compare the photographing plan 6 and the photographing plan 50.

[0160] Furthermore, the display control function 45d causes the display 44 to display the image 55 based on the photography plan 6 and the image 60 based on the photography plan 50 side by side so that they can be compared. Therefore, the terminal device 4 allows the user to easily compare the image 55 and the image 60.

[0161] In the case shown in FIG. 9, the imaging mode has been changed from "Helical scan" to "Conventional scan." The number of rows of X-ray detection elements has been changed from "16" to "80." The slice thickness to be acquired has been changed from "1.0" mm to "0·5" mm. The tube voltage has been changed from "500" mA to the use of "AEC." The rotation speed has been changed from "1.0" sec / rotation to "0.5" sec / rotation. The type of reconstruction processing has been changed from "A" to "C." The state has been changed from "OFF," which does not perform post-processing, to a state in which type "F" post-processing is performed.

[0162] 9, the display control function 45d causes the display 44 to display the evaluation results 71 and 72 in association with the scanning plan 6. Therefore, in the example shown in Fig. 9, the terminal device 4 can make the user understand that the X-ray dose received by the subject exceeds the range of the recommended dose when the X-ray CT device 5 uses the scanning plan 6. Also, the terminal device 4 can make the user understand that the scanning plan 6 needs to be improved.

[0163] 9, the display control function 45d causes the display 44 to display the evaluation result 73 in association with the scanning plan 50. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the terminal device 4 allows the user to understand that when the X-ray CT device 5 uses the scanning plan 50, the X-ray dose received by the subject is within the range of the recommended dose.

[0164] Then, the setting function 45e determines whether or not a correction instruction for the scanning plan 50 has been received from the user via the input interface 43 (step S202). The correction instruction includes how to correct the scanning plan 50.

[0165] When it is determined that the instruction to correct the shooting plan 50 has been received (step S202: Yes), the setting function 45e corrects the shooting plan 50 based on the instruction to correct (step S203). Then, the setting function 45e updates the shooting plan 6 registered in the shooting plan database 42a with the shooting plan 50 (step S204).

[0166] Then, the setting function 45e transmits the scanning plan 50 to the X-ray CT device 5 indicated by the model ID 7 in order to update the scanning plan 6 stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5 with the scanning plan 50 (step S205), and ends the process. Upon receiving the scanning plan 50, the processing circuit of the X-ray CT device 5 updates the scanning plan 6 stored in the memory of the X-ray CT device 5 with the scanning plan 50. As a result, the scanning plan 50 is stored in both the scanning plan database 42a and the memory of the X-ray CT device 5.

[0167] On the other hand, when it is determined that an instruction to correct the scanning plan 50 has not been received (step S202: No), the setting function 45e determines whether or not information indicating that correction is not required has been received from the user via the input interface 43 (step S206). When it is determined that information indicating that correction is not required has not been received (step S206: No), the setting function 45e returns to step S202 and executes the processes from step S202 onwards again. When it is determined that information indicating that correction is not required has been received (step S206: Yes), the setting function 45e proceeds to step S204.

[0168] The above describes the process shown in Fig. 11. Steps S201 to S205 in Fig. 11 are implemented by the processing circuit 45 reading out a program corresponding to the setting function 45e from the memory 42 and executing it.

[0169] The first embodiment has been described above. According to the first embodiment, in the above-mentioned steps S106, S109, S113, S117, S129, and S140, the evaluation server 10 corrects the scanning plan 50 based on the performance information, the range of the recommended dose, and the like. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, a more appropriate scanning plan 50 can be obtained. Also, according to the first embodiment, the scanning plan is evaluated by the evaluation server 10, not by the user who manages the scanning plan in each hospital 3. Therefore, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to improve the awareness of the user who manages the scanning plan in each hospital 3 about the dose management, and the like. According to the first embodiment, it is possible to obtain the scanning plan 50 that can demonstrate the performance of the X-ray CT device 5. Therefore, it is possible to provide a better examination to the subject.

[0170] (First Modification of the First Embodiment) In the first embodiment, a case has been described in which the evaluation function 15a determines whether or not the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation is within the range of the acquired dose in steps S133 and S144. However, the evaluation server 10 may bring the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation closer to a specific dose value within the range of the acquired dose. Therefore, such a modification will be described as a first modification of the first embodiment. In the description of the first modification of the first embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and a description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0171] For example, in the first modified example, the evaluation function 15a stores in the memory 12, for each hospital 3, the dose estimated in step S132 or step 143 and determined as positive in step S133 or step S144. The evaluation function 15a performs such processing every time the scanning plan 6 to be evaluated is transmitted from the terminal device 4 to the evaluation server 10. Then, the memory 12 stores a plurality of doses for each hospital 3. In other words, the memory 12 stores a plurality of doses corresponding to each hospital 3. Note that the plurality of doses stored in the memory 12 for each hospital 3 are the doses for the case where a positive determination is made in step S133 or step S144, and therefore are within the range of the recommended dose.

[0172] Here, the dose stored in the memory 12 has characteristics for each hospital 3. For example, in the case of a hospital 3 that places importance on image quality, the dose is relatively high. On the other hand, in the case of a hospital 3 that places importance on reducing the dose, the dose is relatively low. For this reason, the evaluation server 10 according to the first modified example executes the process described below to bring the estimated dose closer to a dose that is within the recommended dose range and is suited to the characteristics of each hospital 3, rather than simply keeping the estimated dose within the recommended dose range.

[0173] For example, in steps S133 and S144, the evaluation function 15a acquires from the memory 12 a plurality of doses corresponding to the hospital 3 that has transmitted the scanning plan 6. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of a process executed by the evaluation server 10 according to the first modified example of the first embodiment. For example, the evaluation function 15a acquires from the memory 12 a plurality of doses 75 to 77 corresponding to the hospital 3 that has transmitted the scanning plan 6.

[0174] Then, in steps S133 and S144, the evaluation function 15a calculates a representative value 78 of the multiple doses 75 to 77. For example, the evaluation function 15a calculates an average value or a median value of the multiple doses 75 to 77 as the representative value 78. The representative value 78 is an example of a specific value. In addition, since the doses 75 to 77 are within the recommended dose range, the representative value 78 is also within the recommended dose range.

[0175] Then, in steps S133 and S144, the evaluation function 15a judges whether or not the difference between the representative value 78 and the dose estimated by the dose estimation simulation in step S132 or step S143 is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If it is judged that the difference between the representative value 78 and the estimated dose is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the evaluation function 15a proceeds to step S134. On the other hand, if it is judged that the difference between the representative value 78 and the estimated dose is greater than the predetermined threshold, the evaluation function 15a returns to step S129 or step S140.

[0176] In this way, in the first modified example, the estimated dose when the positive determination is made in step S133 and step S144 is made to approach the representative value 78. Specifically, the difference between the estimated dose and the representative value 78 becomes equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold. Therefore, in steps S129 and S140, the generating function 15b generates the scanning plan 50 such that the difference between the estimated dose value and the representative value 78 within the range of the recommended dose becomes equal to or smaller than the threshold. Therefore, the evaluation server 10 according to the first modified example can generate the scanning plan 50 that matches the characteristics of each hospital 3.

[0177] In the first modified example, the evaluation function 15a may calculate a representative value from a plurality of doses corresponding to a specific hospital 3, and use the calculated representative value instead of the representative value 78. Here, the specific hospital 3 is, for example, a hospital that is famous for its high image quality.

[0178] (Second Modification of the First Embodiment) In step S138, when the type of reconstruction processing included in the photography plan 6 is different from the type of reconstruction processing included in the photography plan 50, the transmission function 15c may transmit a program of the type of reconstruction processing included in the photography plan 50 to the terminal device 4. Also, in step S138, when the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 6 is different from the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 50, the transmission function 15c may transmit a program of the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 50 to the terminal device 4. Therefore, such a modified example will be described as a second modified example of the first embodiment. In the description of the second modified example of the first embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will mainly be described, and a description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0179] For example, in the second modified example, the memory 12 stores all types of reconstruction processing programs that can be used by the X-ray CT apparatus 5. The memory 12 also stores all types of post-processing programs that can be used by the X-ray CT apparatus 5.

[0180] Then, in step S138, when the type of reconstruction processing included in the shooting plan 6 differs from the type of reconstruction processing included in the shooting plan 50, the transmission function 15c acquires a program of the type of reconstruction processing included in the shooting plan 50 from the memory 12. Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits the acquired program to the terminal device 4.

[0181] Furthermore, in step S138, when the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 6 differs from the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 50, the transmission function 15c acquires a program of the type of post-processing included in the photography plan 50 from the memory 12. Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits the acquired program to the terminal device 4.

[0182] When the terminal device 4 receives the program transmitted from the evaluation server 10, it transmits the program to the X-ray CT device 5. When the X-ray CT device 5 receives the program transmitted from the terminal device 4, it installs the program.

[0183] For example, there is a case where the X-ray CT apparatus 5 does not have installed the reconstruction processing program included in the scanning plan 50 and the post-processing program included in the scanning plan 50. In such a case, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 installs the programs. Therefore, the evaluation server 10 according to the second modified example can install the programs in the X-ray CT apparatus 5 without requiring the user to prepare the programs.

[0184] If such processing is executed when the X-ray CT apparatus 5 is installed, many programs can be used by the X-ray CT apparatus 5 at the time of installation. As a result, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 can use many preset scanning plans. Note that the scanning plan is also called a protocol.

[0185] Here, when a certain period of time (e.g., one year) has passed since the X-ray CT device 5 was installed, it is preferable that the X-ray CT device 5 or the terminal device 4 separates the programs and shooting plans that can be used by the X-ray CT device 5 into unnecessary and necessary ones, and retains the necessary programs and shooting plans in a usable state.

[0186] Furthermore, when performing imaging, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 displays a plurality of preset imaging plans corresponding to a region designated by the user. Then, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 allows the user to designate an imaging plan to be used for imaging from among the plurality of imaging plans.

[0187] Here, when displaying a plurality of preset scanning plans, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 may change the order of the plurality of scanning plans according to the frequency of use. For example, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 may display the plurality of scanning plans in order of frequency of use from the top.

[0188] Furthermore, the X-ray CT apparatus 5 may display an imaging plan that is known to be used in a specific cycle (for example, every Friday) at the top of the list on that day (for example, Friday).

[0189] In addition, a configuration in which the cloud server performs the reconstruction process and the post-processing, and the X-ray CT device 5 receives the processing result by the cloud server, is also conceivable. In this case, the memory 12 does not store a program. In step S138, when the type of reconstruction process included in the scanning plan 6 is different from the type of reconstruction process included in the scanning plan 50, the transmission function 15c transmits to the terminal device 4 a usage procedure for making the cloud server execute the type of reconstruction process included in the scanning plan 50. In addition, in step S138, when the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 6 is different from the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 50, the transmission function 15c transmits to the terminal device 4 a usage procedure for making the cloud server execute the type of post-processing included in the scanning plan 50. In this case, the evaluation server 10 according to the second modified example allows the user to understand the usage procedure of the cloud server without making the user check the usage procedure.

[0190] Furthermore, a reconstruction server that performs reconstruction processing and a post-processing server that performs post-processing may be provided separately from the X-ray CT apparatus 5 within the same intranet.

[0191] In the above embodiment, the processing circuit 15 is described as executing a plurality of functions, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of processing circuits may be provided, and each processing circuit may execute a respective function.

[0192] (Third Modification of the First Embodiment) In the first embodiment, the contents registered in the guideline database 12a and the performance information database 12b are updated to the latest contents. Here, the evaluation server 10 may control so as to make the user understand that the contents registered in the guideline database 12a or the performance information database 12b have been updated to the latest contents. Therefore, such a modification will be described as a third modification of the first embodiment. In the description of the third modification of the first embodiment, mainly the points different from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0193] Fig. 13A is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the guideline database 12a according to the third modified example of the first embodiment. Fig. 13B is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the performance information database 12b according to the third modified example of the first embodiment.

[0194] The evaluation server 10 of the third variant embodiment differs from the evaluation server 10 of the first embodiment in that various processes are performed using the guideline database 12a shown in FIG. 13A and the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 13B instead of the guideline database 12a shown in FIG. 6 and the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 7.

[0195] As shown in Fig. 13A, in the third modified example, the guideline database 12a has registered therein a plurality of records each having an item of "examination purpose", an item of "dose range", an item of "updated or not", and an item of "updated date". That is, in the guideline database 12a, the item of "examination purpose", an item of "dose range", an item of "updated or not", and an item of "updated date" are registered as one record in association with each other. And, the guideline database 12a has registered therein a plurality of such records.

[0196] As in the first embodiment, the purpose of the examination is registered in the "Examination Purpose" field, and the dose range corresponding to the examination purpose, which is recommended in various guidelines, is registered in the "Dose Range" field.

[0197] The "Whether Updated" field contains information indicating whether the dose range registered in the "Dose Range" field has been updated. For example, when the processing circuit 15 updates the dose range registered in the "Dose Range" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the value "1" in the "Whether Updated" field, indicating that the dose range has been updated. On the other hand, when the processing circuit 15 has not updated the dose range registered in the "Dose Range" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the value "0" in the "Whether Updated" field, indicating that the dose range has not been updated.

[0198] The "updated date" field contains the date on which the dose range registered in the "dose range" field was updated. For example, when the processing circuit 15 updates the dose range registered in the "dose range" field, it registers the date on which the dose range was updated in the "updated date" field. Note that when the dose range has not been updated, a null value is registered in the "updated date" field.

[0199] As shown in Fig. 13B, in the third modified example, a plurality of records each having an item of "model ID", an item of "performance information", an item of "whether updated", and an item of "date of update" are registered in the performance information database 12b. That is, the items of "model ID", "performance information", "whether updated", and "date of update" are associated with each other and registered as one record in the performance information database 12b. A plurality of such records are registered in the performance information database 12b.

[0200] As in the first embodiment, the model ID is registered in the "model ID" field, and performance information is registered in the "performance information" field.

[0201] The "Whether or Not Updated" field contains information indicating whether the performance information registered in the "Performance Information" field has been updated. For example, when the processing circuit 15 updates the performance information registered in the "Performance Information" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the value "1" in the "Whether or Not Updated" field, indicating that the performance information has been updated. On the other hand, when the processing circuit 15 has not updated the performance information registered in the "Performance Information" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the value "0" in the "Whether or Not Updated" field, indicating that the performance information has not been updated.

[0202] The "updated date" field contains the date on which the performance information registered in the "performance information" field was updated. For example, when the processing circuit 15 updates the performance information registered in the "performance information" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the date on which the performance information was updated in the "updated date" field. Note that when the performance information has not been updated, a null value is registered in the "updated date" field.

[0203] Then, in step S136 (see FIG. 8C) of the third modified example, the generation function 15b performs the same process as that of the first embodiment, and further, the evaluation function 15a executes the following process. For example, the evaluation function 15a identifies a record in which the examination purpose 8 transmitted from the terminal device 4 is registered in the "examination purpose" field from among all records in the guideline database 12a. Then, the evaluation function 15a acquires the value registered in the "update or not" field of the identified record.

[0204] If the acquired value is "1", the dose range has been updated. Therefore, if the acquired value is "1", the evaluation function 15a acquires the date registered in the "updated date" of the specified record. Here, the acquired date is the date on which the dose range was updated.

[0205] Furthermore, in step S136, the evaluation function 15a further executes the following process. For example, the evaluation function 15a identifies a record in which the model ID 7 transmitted from the terminal device 4 is registered in the "model ID" field from among all the records in the performance information database 12b. Then, the evaluation function 15a acquires the value registered in the "presence or absence of update" field of the identified record.

[0206] If the acquired value is "1", the performance information has been updated. Therefore, if the acquired value is "1", the evaluation function 15a acquires the date registered in the "updated date" of the identified record. Here, the acquired date is the date on which the performance information was updated.

[0207] Then, in step S137, the generating function 15b performs the same process as in the first embodiment, and further performs the following process. For example, if the date on which the dose range was updated is acquired in step S136, the generating function 15b stores the date on which the dose range was updated in the memory 12. Also, if the date on which the performance information was updated is acquired in step S136, the generating function 15b stores the date on which the performance information was updated in the memory 12.

[0208] Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c performs the same process as in the first embodiment, and further performs the following process. For example, if the date on which the dose range was updated is acquired in step S136, the transmission function 15c transmits the date on which the dose range was updated to the terminal device 4. If the date on which the performance information was updated is acquired in step S136, the transmission function 15c transmits the date on which the performance information was updated to the terminal device 4.

[0209] That is, when at least one of the dose range and the performance information is updated, the transmission function 15c outputs information indicating that the at least one of the dose range and the performance information has been updated.

[0210] In the third modified example, the terminal device 4 receives the evaluation result group 74, the scanning plan 6, the scanning plan 50, the image data group 70, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 transmitted from the evaluation server 10, similarly to the first embodiment. Furthermore, if the date on which the dose range was updated is acquired in step S136, the terminal device 4 receives the date on which the dose range was updated. Furthermore, if the date on which the performance information was updated is acquired in step S136, the terminal device 4 receives the date on which the performance information was updated.

[0211] Then, similarly to the first embodiment, the terminal device 4 displays the evaluation result group 74, the scanning plan 6, the scanning plan 50, and the image data group 70 for the user to confirm. In addition, when the terminal device 4 receives the date on which the dose range was updated, it displays the date on which the received dose range was updated. Furthermore, when the terminal device 4 receives the date on which the performance information was updated, it displays the date on which the received performance information was updated.

[0212] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a display according to the third modified example of the first embodiment. The example of FIG. 14 shows a case where the terminal device 4 has not received the date on which the dose range was updated, but has received the date on which the performance information was updated, "Y1 / M1 / D1". As shown in FIG. 14, the terminal device 4 displays the evaluation result group 74, the scanning plan 6, the scanning plan 50, and the image data group 70, as in the first embodiment. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 14, the terminal device 4 displays a message "Performance information updated: Y1 / M1 / D1" indicating the date on which the performance information was updated. This allows the user to understand that the performance information has been updated to Y1 / M1 / D1.

[0213] (Fourth Modification of the First Embodiment) In the third modified example, the case where the evaluation server 10 outputs the evaluation result based on the dose range and performance information after at least one of them is updated has been described. However, the evaluation server 10 may output the evaluation result based on the dose range and performance information before at least one of them is updated, in addition to the evaluation result based on the dose range and performance information after at least one of them is updated. Therefore, such a modified example will be described as the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. In the description of the fourth modified example, the differences from the third modified example will mainly be described, and the description of the same configuration as the third modified example may be omitted.

[0214] Fig. 15A is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the guideline database 12a according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment. Fig. 15B is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the performance information database 12b according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment.

[0215] The evaluation server 10 of the fourth modified example differs from the evaluation server 10 of the third modified example in that various processing is performed using the guideline database 12a shown in FIG. 15A and the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 15B instead of the guideline database 12a shown in FIG. 13A and the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 13B.

[0216] As shown in Fig. 15A, in the fourth modified example, the guideline database 12a has registered therein a plurality of records each having an item of "examination purpose", an item of "dose range", an item of "updated or not", an item of "updated date", and an item of "dose range before update". That is, in the guideline database 12a, the item of "examination purpose", an item of "dose range", an item of "updated or not", an item of "updated date", and an item of "dose range before update" are associated with each other and registered as one record. And, the guideline database 12a has registered therein a plurality of such records.

[0217] Of these items, the same contents as those in the third modified example are registered in the "Purpose of Examination", "Dose Range", "Whether Updated" and "Date Updated" items.

[0218] The "dose range before update" field contains the range of dose before the update. For example, when the range of dose registered in the "dose range" field is updated, the evaluation function 15a of the processing circuitry 15 registers the range of dose before the update in the "dose range before update" field. Note that when the range of dose has not been updated, a null value is registered in the "dose range before update" field.

[0219] 15B, in the fourth modified example, the performance information database 12b has registered therein a plurality of records each having an item of "model ID", an item of "performance information", an item of "whether or not there was an update", an item of "update date", an item of "performance information before the update", and an item of "update content". That is, in the performance information database 12b, the item of "model ID", an item of "performance information", an item of "whether or not there was an update", an item of "update date", an item of "performance information before the update", and an item of "update content" are associated with each other and registered as one record. And, a plurality of such records are registered in the performance information database 12b.

[0220] Of these items, the "Model ID", "Performance information", "Whether updated" and "Updated date" items have the same contents registered as in the third modified example.

[0221] The performance information before the update is registered in the "performance information before update" field. For example, when the performance information registered in the "performance information" field is updated, the evaluation function 15a registers the performance information before the update in the "performance information before update" field. Note that when the performance information has not been updated, a null value is registered in the "performance information before update" field.

[0222] The update contents are registered in the "update contents" field. When the performance information registered in the "performance information" field is updated, the evaluation function 15a registers the update contents in the "update contents" field. The update contents are information indicating how the performance information has been updated. For example, the update contents are information indicating which of the shooting conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions included in the performance information has been updated and how. To explain this by taking a specific example, when the post-processing type "F" is updated to the post-processing type "G", the evaluation function 15a registers the update contents indicating that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G" in the "update contents" field.

[0223] If the performance information has not been updated, a null value is registered in the "update contents" field.

[0224] Then, in step S136 (see FIG. 8C), the generating function 15b performs the same process as that in the third modified example.

[0225] In the fourth modified example, the assessment server 10 executes the following process between step S136 and step S137. Hereinafter, the step between step S136 and step S137 will be referred to as "step S301."

[0226] In step S301, for example, if the value acquired in step S136 (the value registered in the "Whether or not updated" field in the guideline database 12a) is "1", the evaluation function 15a acquires the range of dose before the update registered in the "Dose range before update" field.

[0227] Also, in step S301, if the value acquired in step S136 (the value registered in the "Whether or Not Updated" field in the performance information database 12b) is "1", the evaluation function 15a acquires the performance information before the update registered in the "Performance Information Before Update" field. Also, if the value acquired in step S136 (the value registered in the "Whether or Not Updated" field in the performance information database 12b) is "1", the evaluation function 15a acquires the update contents registered in the "Update Contents" field.

[0228] Here, in step S301, the following four cases are considered. The first case is a case where both the dose range and the performance information have been updated, so the dose range before the update and the performance information before the update are obtained. The second case is a case where the dose range of the dose range and the performance information has been updated, so the dose range before the update is obtained. The third case is a case where the performance information of the dose range and the performance information has been updated, so the performance information before the update is obtained. The fourth case is a case where neither the dose range nor the performance information has been updated.

[0229] In the fourth case, the assessment server 10 proceeds to step S137 and executes the processes from step S137 onwards, similarly to the third modified example.

[0230] On the other hand, in the first case, in step S301, the evaluation server 10 executes the same processes as those in steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144, using the dose range before the update and the performance information before the update. That is, the evaluation server 10 executes the processes using the dose range before the update and the performance information before the update, instead of the performance information acquired in step S102 and the dose range corresponding to the examination purpose 8. Then, the evaluation server 10 proceeds to step S137.

[0231] In step S137, the generating function 15b stores various pieces of information obtained in the processing of steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 in the memory 12, similarly to the third modified example, and further executes the following processing. For example, the generating function 15b similarly stores various pieces of information obtained in the processing of step S301 in the memory 12. Here, the various pieces of information obtained in the processing of step S301 include the shooting plan 50a (see FIG. 16), the evaluation result 73a (see FIG. 16), image data of the image 60a (see FIG. 16), and update contents.

[0232] Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits to the terminal device 4 various pieces of information obtained in the processes of steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 in the same manner as in the third modified example, and further performs the following process. For example, the transmission function 15c similarly transmits to the terminal device 4 various pieces of information obtained in the process of step S301.

[0233] In the fourth modified example, the terminal device 4 receives various information transmitted from the evaluation server 10. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display according to the fourth modified example of the first embodiment.

[0234] 16, the display control function 45d of the terminal device 4 causes the shooting plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60 to be associated with the text data “after update” and displayed on the display 44. In the fourth modified example, the display control function 45d further causes the shooting plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image 60a to be associated with the text data “before update” and displayed on the display 44.

[0235] Here, if the update content indicates that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G", the display control function 45d highlights the post-processing type "F" and the post-processing type "G" as shown in Fig. 16. This allows the user to easily understand that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G".

[0236] After at least one of the dose range and the performance information is updated, the scanning plan, evaluation result, and image (hereinafter, referred to as the scanning plan, etc.) based on the dose range and the performance information after at least one of them is updated, and the scanning plan, etc. based on the dose range and the performance information before at least one of them is updated may not always be displayed on the terminal device 4. For example, during a predetermined period from when at least one of the dose range and the performance information is updated, the scanning plan, etc. based on the dose range and the performance information after at least one of them is updated, and the scanning plan, etc. based on the dose range and the performance information before at least one of them is updated may be displayed on the terminal device 4. Then, after the predetermined period has elapsed, the scanning plan, etc. based on the dose range and the performance information after at least one of them is updated may be displayed on the terminal device 4.

[0237] In this case, for example, in step S138, the transmission function 15c of the evaluation server 10 may transmit to the terminal device 4 various information obtained in the processes of steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 and various information obtained in the process of step S301 during a predetermined period from either the date on which the range of the dose acquired in step S136 was updated or the date on which the performance information was updated. Also, in step S138, the transmission function 15c may transmit to the terminal device 4 various information obtained in the processes of steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 after the predetermined period has elapsed.

[0238] In the second and third cases, the assessments server 10 executes the same process as in the fourth case.

[0239] However, in the second case, in step S301, the evaluation server 10 executes the same processes as those in steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 using the range of dose before the update. That is, the evaluation server 10 executes the processes using the range of dose before the update instead of the range of dose corresponding to the examination purpose 8.

[0240] In the third case, the assessment server 10 executes the same processes as those in steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 using the performance information before the update in step S301. That is, the assessment server 10 executes the processes using the performance information before the update instead of the performance information acquired in step S102.

[0241] In this way, when at least one of the performance information and the dose range is updated, the evaluation server 10 in the fourth modified example outputs the shooting plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image 60a data based on the performance information and the dose range before at least one of them is updated, and the shooting plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60a data based on the performance information and the dose range after at least one of them is updated.

[0242] In addition, when at least one of the performance information and the dose range is updated, the evaluation server 10 outputs, for a predetermined period after at least one of the performance information and the dose range is updated, the shooting plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image 60a data based on the performance information and the dose range before at least one of them is updated, and the shooting plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60a data based on the performance information and the dose range after at least one of them is updated.

[0243] Furthermore, when at least one of the performance information and the dose range is updated, the evaluation server 10 outputs the above-mentioned update content as information that allows comparison of the performance information and the dose range before at least one of them is updated, and the performance information and the dose range after at least one of them is updated. For example, in the fourth modified example, the evaluation server 10 outputs the update content indicating that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G" to the terminal device 4, so that the post-processing type "F" and the post-processing type "G" are highlighted and displayed on the terminal device 4 so that they can be compared. Therefore, the update content indicating that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G" is information that allows comparison of the performance information before the update and the performance information after the update.

[0244] (Fifth Modification of the First Embodiment) In the fourth modified example, as described above, the evaluation server 10 outputs the update contents to the terminal device 4 as comparable information of the performance information before and after the update. In this case, regardless of whether the conditions (imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, or post-processing conditions) are conditions that the user wants to understand, the terminal device 4 displays the conditions before and after the update in a comparable manner.

[0245] Therefore, the conditions displayed for comparison may not be the conditions the user wants to understand. Therefore, the evaluation server 10 may output the conditions that the user wants to understand have been updated to the terminal device 4, and display the conditions that the user wants to understand before and after the update so that the terminal device 4 can compare them. Therefore, such a modification will be described as a fifth modification of the first embodiment. In the description of the fifth modification, the differences from the fourth modification will be mainly described, and the description of the same configuration as the fourth modification may be omitted.

[0246] In the fifth modified example, the evaluation request function 45c of the terminal device 4 transmits a search key to the evaluation server 10 in addition to the shooting plan 6, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 to be evaluated, as shown in FIG. 4, in order to have the evaluation server 10 evaluate the shooting plan 6.

[0247] The search key is information indicating a condition designated by the user among the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions. Here, the user desires to know that a certain condition has been updated. Such conditions vary depending on the user. Therefore, the user inputs information indicating the condition to be recognized as a search key to the processing circuitry 45 via the input interface 43. That is, information indicating the condition designated by the user is input as a search key to the processing circuitry 45 via the input interface 43. For example, when the user desires to know that the type of post-processing has been updated, information indicating the type of post-processing is input as a search key.

[0248] In the fifth modified example, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits various pieces of information obtained in the processes of steps S101 to S135 and S139 to S144 to the terminal device 4, similarly to the fourth modified example. Also, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits various pieces of information obtained in the process of step S301 to the terminal device 4, similarly to the fourth modified example.

[0249] Furthermore, in the fifth modified example, in step S138, the transmission function 15c determines whether or not two conditions, the updated condition indicated by the update content and the condition indicated by the search key, match. For example, when the update content indicates that the type of post-processing has been updated and the search key indicates the type of post-processing, the transmission function 15c determines that the two conditions match. If it is determined that the two conditions match, in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits to the terminal device 4 an instruction to display how the type of post-processing indicated by the update content has been updated. For example, the transmission function 15c transmits to the terminal device 4 an instruction to display that the post-processing type "F" has been updated to the post-processing type "G".

[0250] That is, when the performance information is updated, the transmission function 15c outputs the updated condition if the updated condition included in the performance information matches the specified condition.

[0251] As a result, the terminal device 4 displays the shooting plans 50, 50a, the evaluation results 73, 73a, the images 60, 60a, etc. on the display 44, and also displays a message "Post-processing type 'F' has been updated to post-processing type 'G'" on the display 44, indicating that the post-processing type 'F' has been updated to post-processing type 'G' based on the above-mentioned instruction. This allows the user to easily understand how the conditions specified by the user have been updated.

[0252] Since how the conditions designated by the user have been updated is displayed on the display 44, the terminal device 4 does not need to display the shooting plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, the image 60a, and the like on the display 44. In this case, in step S138, the transmission function 15c does not need to transmit various information other than the update contents obtained in the processing of step S301 to the terminal device 4.

[0253] (Sixth Modification of the First Embodiment) In the fourth modified example, the evaluation server 10 evaluates the scanning plan 6 using a certain recommended dose range (hereinafter, "first dose range") and certain performance information (hereinafter, "first performance information"). In this case, the evaluation server 10 may evaluate the scanning plan 6 using a recommended dose range (hereinafter, "second dose range") and performance information (hereinafter, "second performance information") after at least one of the first dose range and the first performance information is updated.

[0254] Then, the evaluation server 10 may output an imaging plan 50a, an evaluation result 73a, and an image 60a based on the first dose range and the first performance information, and an imaging plan 50, an evaluation result 73, and an image 60 based on the second dose range and the second performance information.

[0255] Therefore, such a modification will be described as a sixth modification of the first embodiment. In the description of the sixth modification, differences from the fourth modification will be mainly described, and descriptions of configurations similar to those of the fourth modification will be omitted in some cases.

[0256] In the sixth modified example, the evaluation function 15a stores in the memory 12 an imaging plan 50a based on the first dose range and the first performance information, an evaluation result 73a, and image data of an image 60a.

[0257] Then, the evaluation function 15a obtains data of the shooting plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60 based on the second dose range and the second performance information at the timing when at least one of the first dose range and the first performance information is updated.

[0258] Then, similarly to the fourth modified example, the transmission function 15c transmits image data of the scanning plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image 60a, and data of the scanning plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60 to the terminal device 4. Therefore, the user can easily compare the scanning plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image 60a based on the recommended dose range and performance information before at least one of them is updated with the scanning plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the image 60 based on the recommended dose range and performance information after at least one of them is updated.

[0259] In this way, when at least one of the recommended dose range and the performance information is updated, the transmission function 15c outputs the shooting plan 50a, the evaluation result 73a, and the image data of the image 60a based on the recommended dose range and the performance information before at least one of them is updated, as well as the shooting plan 50, the evaluation result 73, and the data of the image 60 based on the recommended dose range and the performance information after at least one of them is updated.

[0260] (Seventh Modification of the First Embodiment) As described above, the user manages the imaging plan depending on the function of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 and the status of the facility such as the hospital 3. Here, for example, an expert managing the imaging plan may adjust the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, post-processing conditions, and the like included in the imaging plan depending on the function of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 and the status of the facility such as the hospital 3. In this way, an expert may manually adjust the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, post-processing conditions, and the like. Such an expert is also called an application specialist.

[0261] In this way, when an expert manually adjusts the scanning plan, the adjusted scanning plan is considered to be an scanning plan suitable for the function of the X-ray CT device 5 and the situation of the facility such as the hospital 3. For this reason, the evaluation server 10 may not evaluate the manually adjusted scanning plan. Therefore, such a modified example will be described as the seventh modified example of the first embodiment. In the description of the seventh modified example, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0262] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the shooting plan database 42a according to the seventh modification of the first embodiment.

[0263] The evaluation server 10 according to the seventh modified example differs from the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment in that various processes are performed using a shooting plan database 42a shown in FIG. 17 instead of the shooting plan database 42a shown in FIG. 3.

[0264] 17, in the seventh modified example, a plurality of records having the items of "model ID", "inspection purpose", "imaging plan", "whether manual adjustment was performed", and "date of manual adjustment" are registered in the imaging plan database 42a. That is, the items of "model ID", "inspection purpose", "imaging plan", "whether manual adjustment was performed", and "date of manual adjustment" are associated with each other and registered as one record in the imaging plan database 42a. A plurality of such records are registered in the imaging plan database 42a.

[0265] Of these items, the same contents as those in the first embodiment are registered in the "model ID", "inspection purpose" and "imaging plan" items.

[0266] In the "manual adjustment" field, information indicating whether or not the imaging plan registered in the "imaging plan" field has been adjusted manually is registered. For example, an expert manually adjusts the imaging plan to be adjusted among a plurality of preset imaging plans. Specifically, the expert inputs an instruction to adjust the imaging plan to the processing circuit 15 via the input interface 13. The processing circuit 15 adjusts the imaging plan registered in the "imaging plan" field based on the input instruction. At this time, the processing circuit 15 registers a value "1" indicating that the imaging plan has been manually adjusted in the "manual adjustment" field. On the other hand, when the imaging plan has not been adjusted, the processing circuit 15 registers a value "0" indicating that the imaging plan has not been manually adjusted in the "manual adjustment" field.

[0267] The "manually adjusted date" field contains the date on which the shooting plan registered in the "shooting plan" field was adjusted. For example, when the processing circuit 15 adjusts the shooting plan registered in the "shooting plan" field, the processing circuit 15 registers the date on which the shooting plan was adjusted in the "manually adjusted date". Note that when the shooting plan is not adjusted, a null value is registered in the "manually adjusted date" field.

[0268] In the seventh modified example, the evaluation request function 45c of the terminal device 4 transmits to the evaluation server 10 the value (0 or 1) registered in the field of "Whether or Not Manual Adjustment Was Made" in addition to the shooting plan 6 to be evaluated, the model ID 7, and the inspection purpose 8 shown in Fig. 4, in order to have the evaluation server 10 evaluate the shooting plan 6. Furthermore, when the value registered in the field of "Whether or Not Manual Adjustment Was Made" is "1", the evaluation request function 45c transmits to the evaluation server 10 the date on which the shooting plan was adjusted, which is registered in the field of "Date of Manual Adjustment."

[0269] If the value registered in the “Whether or not manual adjustment has been made” field is “0”, i.e., if the shooting plan 6 has not been manually adjusted, the evaluation function 15a of the evaluation server 10 evaluates the shooting plan 6 and executes various processes, as in the first embodiment.

[0270] On the other hand, when the value registered in the item "Whether or not manual adjustment is performed" is "1", that is, when the shooting plan 6 has been manually adjusted, the evaluation function 15a does not evaluate the shooting plan 6. In this way, in the seventh modified example, when the shooting plan 6 has been manually adjusted, the evaluation function 15a does not evaluate the adjusted shooting plan 6.

[0271] In this case, the transmission function 15c of the evaluation server 10 transmits a message "The shooting plan is not evaluated because the shooting plan has been manually adjusted" to the terminal device 4. Then, the terminal device 4 displays the message "The shooting plan is not evaluated because the shooting plan has been manually adjusted" on the display 44. This allows the user to understand the reason why the shooting plan 6 is not evaluated.

[0272] However, when the value registered in the item of "Whether or not manual adjustment is performed" is "1", the evaluation function 15a may evaluate the scanning plan 6 depending on conditions. For example, the evaluation function 15a determines whether or not at least one of the scanning conditions, the reconstruction conditions, and the post-processing conditions included in the scanning plan 6 has been updated after the date on which the scanning plan 6 transmitted from the terminal device 4 was adjusted.

[0273] If at least one of the conditions was updated before the date on which the shooting plan 6 transmitted from the terminal device 4 was adjusted, the evaluation function 15a does not evaluate the shooting plan 6. In this case, the transmission function 15c also transmits a message to the terminal device 4 saying "The shooting plan is not evaluated because it has been manually adjusted."

[0274] On the other hand, if at least one of the conditions has been updated after the date on which the photography plan 6 transmitted from the terminal device 4 was adjusted, the evaluation function 15a evaluates the photography plan 6 and performs various processes in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In this case, the transmission function 15c of the evaluation server 10 transmits a message "The photography plan has been manually adjusted, but the conditions included in the photography plan have been updated after the photography plan was manually adjusted, so the photography plan has been evaluated" to the terminal device 4 together with various information shown in FIG. 10. Then, the terminal device 4 displays a message "The photography plan has been manually adjusted, but the conditions included in the photography plan have been updated after the photography plan was manually adjusted, so the photography plan has been evaluated" on the display 44 together with various information. This allows the user to understand the reason why the photography plan 6 was evaluated.

[0275] In this way, when the shooting plan 6 is manually adjusted, the evaluation function 15a controls whether or not to evaluate the adjusted shooting plan 6 depending on the timing when the shooting plan 6 is manually adjusted and the timing when at least one of the shooting conditions, reconstruction conditions, and post-processing conditions included in the shooting plan 6 is updated.

[0276] (Eighth Modification of the First Embodiment) As described above, there are cases where an expert who manages an imaging plan manually adjusts the imaging conditions, reconstruction conditions, post-processing conditions, and the like included in the imaging plan.

[0277] Here, there are multiple types (models) of X-ray CT devices 5. Experts tend to adjust the imaging plan corresponding to a specific type of X-ray CT device 5 among multiple types of X-ray CT devices 5. That is, it is considered that the imaging plan corresponding to the specific type of X-ray CT device 5 is highly likely to be adjusted by an expert. Therefore, it is considered that the imaging plan corresponding to the specific type of X-ray CT device 5 is highly likely to be an imaging plan suitable for the function of the X-ray CT device 5 and the situation of the facility such as the hospital 3. Therefore, the evaluation server 10 may not evaluate the imaging plan corresponding to the specific type of X-ray CT device 5. Therefore, such a modified example will be described as an eighth modified example of the first embodiment. In the description of the eighth modified example, mainly the points different from the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted.

[0278] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of the performance information database 12b according to the eighth modification of the first embodiment.

[0279] The evaluation server 10 according to the eighth modified example differs from the evaluation server 10 according to the first embodiment in that various processes are performed using the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 18 instead of the performance information database 12b shown in FIG. 7.

[0280] 18, in the eighth modified example, a plurality of records each having an item of "model ID", an item of "performance information", and an item of "need to execute evaluation" are registered in the performance information database 12b. That is, the item of "model ID", an item of "performance information", and an item of "need to execute evaluation" are associated with each other and registered as one record in the performance information database 12b. A plurality of such records are registered in the performance information database 12b.

[0281] Of these items, the same contents as those in the first embodiment are registered in the "model ID" item and the "performance information" item.

[0282] In the "necessity of evaluation execution" field, a value indicating whether or not the evaluation server 10 should evaluate the scanning plan 6 corresponding to the type of X-ray CT apparatus 5 registered in the "model ID" field is registered. For example, if the type of X-ray CT apparatus 5 registered in the "model ID" field is the specific CT apparatus described above, "1" is registered in the "necessity of evaluation execution" field, indicating that the scanning plan 6 should not be evaluated by the evaluation server 10. On the other hand, if the type of X-ray CT apparatus 5 registered in the "model ID" field is not the specific CT apparatus described above, "0" is registered in the "necessity of evaluation execution" field, indicating that the scanning plan 6 should be evaluated by the evaluation server 10.

[0283] In the eighth variant, the evaluation request function 45c of the terminal device 4 transmits to the evaluation server 10 the value (0 or 1) registered in the “Need to perform evaluation” field in addition to the shooting plan 6, model ID 7, and examination purpose 8 of the evaluation target shown in FIG. 4.

[0284] When the value registered in the item "necessity of evaluation execution" is "0", the evaluation function 15a of the evaluation server 10 evaluates the shooting plan 6 and executes various processes in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0285] On the other hand, when the value registered in the item "Whether to execute evaluation" is "1", the evaluation function 15a does not evaluate the scanning plan 6. In this way, in the eighth modified example, when the X-ray CT device 5 is a specific CT device, the evaluation function 15a does not evaluate the scanning plan 6.

[0286] In this case, the transmission function 15c of the evaluation server 10 transmits a message "The X-ray CT device is a specific CT device, and the scanning plan is likely to have been manually adjusted, so the scanning plan will not be evaluated" to the terminal device 4. Then, the terminal device 4 displays a message "The X-ray CT device is a specific CT device, and the scanning plan is likely to have been manually adjusted, so the scanning plan will not be evaluated" on the display 44. This allows the user to understand the reason why the scanning plan 6 is not evaluated.

[0287] (Ninth Modification of the First Embodiment) 11, the user considers whether to modify the presented scanning plan 50, and further considers how to modify the scanning plan 50 if the scanning plan 50 is to be modified. Then, after considering how to modify the scanning plan 50, the user inputs a modification instruction to the processing circuitry 45 via the input interface 43.

[0288] Here, in step S202, the user may receive advice from an expert and modify the shooting plan 50. An evaluation system 1 capable of realizing such a function will be described as an evaluation system 1 according to a ninth modified example of the first embodiment.

[0289] Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a part of an evaluation system 1 according to a ninth modification of the first embodiment. Note that in Fig. 19, devices and servers shown in Fig. 1 other than the terminal device 4 and the terminal device 80 are not shown.

[0290] As shown in FIG. 19, the evaluation system 1 according to the ninth modification includes a terminal device 4, a terminal device 80, and the various devices and servers (not shown) shown in FIG.

[0291] Here, the terminal device 4 is a terminal used by a user, and the terminal device 80 is a terminal used by an expert. The terminal device 4 and the terminal device 80 are connected via a network. In this modification, the terminal device 4 and the terminal device 80 display a chat screen on the display, and allow the user and the expert to talk through chat. Therefore, in step S202 shown in FIG. 11, the user can think about how to modify the shooting plan 50 while receiving advice from the expert. Therefore, the user can easily determine how to modify the shooting plan 50.

[0292] Note that a video chat may be performed between the terminal device 4 and the terminal device 80 while the terminal device 80 remotely accesses the terminal device 4. In this case, the expert can modify the photography plan 50 displayed on the terminal device 4 simply by operating the terminal device 80. That is, in this case, not only the user but also the expert who is located far away from the terminal device 4 can modify the photography plan 50.

[0293] Furthermore, in a state where the phantom is installed in the X-ray CT scanner 5, the terminal device 4 may receive an operation from a user and remotely control the X-ray CT scanner 5 to cause the X-ray CT scanner 5 to perform phantom imaging and generate image data based on the imaging plan 50 and image data based on the imaging plan 6. In this case, a diagnostic radiologist is present on the X-ray CT scanner 5 side.

[0294] Then, the terminal device 4 may acquire image data based on the shooting plan 50 and image data based on the shooting plan 6 from the X-ray CT device 5, and display two images based on the two acquired image data on the display 44 so that they can be compared.

[0295] Furthermore, the terminal device 4 may remotely operate the X-ray CT device 5 to control the X-ray CT device 5 so as to perform a reconstruction retry using the reconstruction conditions included in the imaging plans 50 and 6. Then, the terminal device 4 may obtain a result of the reconstruction retry and cause the display 44 to display the result of the reconstruction retry.

[0296] (Tenth Modification of the First Embodiment) In the second modified example, a case has been described in which in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits the reconstruction processing program and the post-processing program to the terminal device 4. Here, the transmission function 15c may transmit to the terminal device 4 a program suitable for the situation of a facility such as a hospital 3 in which the terminal device 4 is installed. Therefore, such a modified example will be described as a tenth modified example of the first embodiment. In the description of the tenth modified example, differences from the second modified example will be mainly described, and a description of the same configuration as the second modified example may be omitted.

[0297] Fig. 20A is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a program database 81a according to a tenth modification of the first embodiment. In the tenth modification, the memory 12 stores the program database 81a shown in Fig. 20A.

[0298] As shown in Fig. 20A, a plurality of records each having an item of "type of hospital", an item of "body part", and an item of "program" are registered in the program database 81a. That is, the item of "type of hospital", the item of "body part", and the item of "program" are associated with each other and registered as one record in the program database 81a. And, a plurality of such records are registered in the program database 81a.

[0299] The type of hospital is registered in the "Hospital Type" field. Examples of the hospital type include a type that specializes in a specific diagnosis (examination) and performs a specific examination relatively often, a type that performs a wide range of diagnoses, etc.

[0300] In the "site" field, the site of the diagnostic subject (test subject) is registered.

[0301] In the "program" field, a reconstruction processing program and a post-processing program that match the type of hospital registered in the "hospital type" field and correspond to the region registered in the "region" field are registered.

[0302] In the tenth modified example, when making the evaluation server 10 evaluate the scanning plan 6, the user inputs the type of hospital 3 and the region to be diagnosed to the processing circuit 45 via the input interface 43. Then, in the tenth modified example, the evaluation request function 45c of the terminal device 4 transmits to the evaluation server 10 the type of hospital 3 and the region to be diagnosed input by the user in addition to the scanning plan 6, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 of the evaluation target shown in FIG.

[0303] Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c acquires a reconstruction processing program and a post-processing program corresponding to the type of the hospital 3 and the part to be diagnosed from the program database 81a. Then, the transmission function 15c transmits the acquired reconstruction processing program and post-processing program to the terminal device 4. This allows the X-ray CT device 5 to execute a program suitable for the situation (type) of the hospital 3.

[0304] (Eleventh modification of the first embodiment) In the tenth modified example, a case has been described in which in step S138, the transmission function 15c transmits a reconstruction processing program and a post-processing program suited to the type of hospital to the terminal device 4. Here, there are various types of X-ray CT devices 5. For example, in a general hospital or the like that has many X-ray CT devices 5, there are types of X-ray CT devices 5 that are specialized for use in a specific diagnosis (examination) and types that are not specialized for a specific diagnosis and are used for various diagnoses. In this way, if the type of X-ray CT device 5 is different, the programs that are executed will also be different.

[0305] Therefore, the transmission function 15c may transmit a program suitable for the type of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 to the terminal device 4. Such a modification will be described as an eleventh modification of the first embodiment. In the description of the eleventh modification, differences from the tenth modification will be mainly described, and a description of the same configuration as the tenth modification may be omitted.

[0306] Fig. 20B is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of a program database 81b according to an eleventh modification of the first embodiment. In the eleventh modification, the memory 12 stores the program database 81b shown in Fig. 20B.

[0307] As shown in Fig. 20B, a plurality of records each having an item of "device type" and an item of "program" are registered in the program database 81b. That is, the item of "device type" and the item of "program" are associated with each other and registered as one record in the program database 81b. A plurality of such records are registered in the program database 81b.

[0308] The "Device Type" item registers the type of the X-ray CT device 5. As the type of the X-ray CT device 5, for example, as described above, there are a type specialized for a specific diagnosis, a type not specialized for a specific diagnosis but used for various diagnoses, etc.

[0309] In the "program" field, a reconstruction processing program and a post-processing program that match the type of X-ray CT device 5 registered in the "device type" field are registered.

[0310] In the eleventh modified example, when making the evaluation server 10 evaluate the scanning plan 6, the user inputs the type of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 to the processing circuit 45 via the input interface 43. Then, in the eleventh modified example, the evaluation request function 45c of the terminal device 4 transmits to the evaluation server 10 the type of the X-ray CT apparatus 5 input by the user in addition to the scanning plan 6, the model ID 7, and the examination purpose 8 to be evaluated, which are shown in FIG.

[0311] Then, in step S138, the transmission function 15c acquires, from the program database 81b, a reconstruction processing program and a post-processing program corresponding to the type of the X-ray CT device 5. Then, the transmission function 15c transmits the acquired reconstruction processing program and post-processing program to the terminal device 4. This allows the X-ray CT device 5 to execute a program suitable for the situation (type) of the X-ray CT device 5.

[0312] (Other variations) Other modified examples will be described. In the above-mentioned first embodiment and each modified example, the case where the evaluation server 10 automatically evaluates the scanning plan 6 and automatically generates the scanning plan 50 such that the X-ray dose received by the subject is appropriate has been described. However, the above-mentioned expert may evaluate the scanning plan 6 received by the evaluation server 10, create an scanning plan such that the X-ray dose received by the subject is appropriate, and the evaluation server 10 may transmit the scanning plan created by the expert to the terminal device 4.

[0313] In addition, the evaluation server 10 may estimate the scanning plan 50 by inputting the scanning plan 6 into a trained model that outputs a scanning plan in which a subject receives an appropriate dose when the scanning plan is input. Then, the evaluation server 10 may transmit the estimated scanning plan 50 to the terminal device 4.

[0314] Also, a usage fee may be charged for the evaluation system 1. For example, if the presentation of the photography plan 50 in response to the transmission of the photography plan 6 is considered as one process, a usage fee may be charged for each process. Also, the presentation of the photography plan 50 in response to the transmission of the photography plan 6 may be received any number of times for a certain amount of money during a certain period of time.

[0315] Each component of each device illustrated in the above-mentioned embodiment is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that illustrated, and all or a part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device can be realized in whole or in any part by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0316] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above-mentioned embodiments, some of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or some 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.

[0317] The term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a CPU, 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)). The processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory. Instead of storing a program in a memory, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program in the circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program incorporated in the circuit. Each processor in this embodiment is not limited to being configured as a single circuit for each processor, but may be configured as one processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, the multiple components in each figure may be integrated into one processor to realize its function.

[0318] Here, the method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a prepared program (evaluation program) on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is provided by being incorporated in a ROM (Read Only Memory) or memory in advance. The program may be provided by being stored in a non-transient storage medium readable by a computer 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 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.

[0319] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, a more appropriate imaging plan 50 can be generated.

[0320] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0321] 10 Rating Server 15 Processing circuit 15a Evaluation Function 15b Generation function 15c Transmission Function

Claims

1. an evaluation unit that evaluates a first imaging plan used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus based on performance information related to the performance of the medical image diagnostic apparatus and numerical information related to at least one evaluation item in accordance with a guideline related to the imaging plan; a generation unit that generates a second imaging plan according to the guideline from the first imaging plan based on a result of the evaluation; an output unit that outputs the second imaging plan; An evaluation device comprising:

2. The numerical information is a range of numerical values ​​related to the evaluation item, 2. The evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates the second scanning plan such that a numerical value for the evaluation item falls within a numerical range for the evaluation item, and a difference between an image quality of first image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic apparatus performs imaging using the first scanning plan and an image quality of second image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic apparatus performs imaging using the second scanning plan is equal to or less than a threshold.

3. The numerical information is a range of numerical values ​​related to the evaluation item, 2. The evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates the second scanning plan such that a numerical value for the evaluation item falls within a numerical range for the evaluation item, and an image quality of second image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic device performs imaging using the second scanning plan is higher than an image quality of first image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic device performs imaging using the first scanning plan.

4. The evaluation device according to claim 2 , wherein the generation unit generates the second shooting plan such that a difference between a numerical value related to the evaluation item and a specific value within a range of numerical values ​​related to the evaluation item is equal to or smaller than a threshold value.

5. the generating unit estimates first image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic apparatus captures images using the first imaging plan, and second image data obtained when the medical image diagnostic apparatus captures images using the second imaging plan; 5. The evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs the evaluation result, the first image data, and the second image data.

6. 6. The evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the output unit outputs the first imaging plan.

7. The evaluation item is the dose of X-rays received by the subject, The numerical information is a range of the dose. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the first imaging plan includes a first imaging condition used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus; the performance information includes a second imaging condition that can be used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, 8. The evaluation device according to claim 7, wherein, when the second shooting conditions include a second shooting condition that can reduce the dose but is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the generation unit generates the second shooting plan by changing the first shooting condition included in the first shooting plan to the second shooting condition that is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

9. the first imaging plan includes a first reconstruction condition used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus; the performance information includes a second reconstruction condition that can be used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, 9. The evaluation device according to claim 7, wherein, when the second reconstruction conditions include a second reconstruction condition that can reduce the dose but is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the generation unit generates the second scanning plan by changing the first reconstruction condition included in the first scanning plan to the second reconstruction condition that is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

10. the first imaging plan includes a first post-processing condition used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus; the performance information includes a second post-processing condition that can be used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, The evaluation device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, when the second post-processing conditions include a second post-processing condition that is capable of reducing the dose but is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus, the generation unit generates the second scanning plan by changing the first post-processing condition included in the first scanning plan to the second post-processing condition that is not used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus.

11. 10. The evaluation device according to claim 9, wherein, when there is the second reconstruction condition that is not used by the medical image diagnostic device even though it is possible to reduce the dose, the evaluation unit estimates image quality of image data obtained by the medical image diagnostic device performing imaging using the second imaging plan, and when the estimated image quality is equal to or greater than a threshold, evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject exceeds the dose range.

12. 11. The evaluation device according to claim 10, wherein, when there is the second post-processing condition that is not used by the medical image diagnostic device regardless of whether the dose can be reduced, the evaluation unit estimates image quality of image data obtained by the medical image diagnostic device performing imaging using the second imaging plan, and when the estimated image quality is equal to or greater than a threshold, evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject exceeds the dose range.

13. The evaluation device according to claim 12 , wherein the evaluation unit evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject is below the dose range when the estimated image quality is less than a threshold value.

14. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the evaluation unit estimates a dose when the medical image diagnostic device performs imaging using the first imaging plan, and, if the estimated dose is within a range of the dose, evaluates that the dose of X-rays received by the subject is within the range of the dose.

15. The evaluation device according to claim 14 , wherein the evaluation unit evaluates that the X-ray dose received by the subject is outside the dose range when the estimated dose is outside the dose range.

16. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, when at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, the output unit outputs information indicating that the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information has been updated.

17. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, when at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, the output unit outputs a second shooting plan based on the performance information and the numerical information before at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, and a second shooting plan based on the performance information and the numerical information after at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated.

18. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, when at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, the output unit outputs, for a predetermined period after the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, a second shooting plan based on the performance information and the numerical information before the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, and a second shooting plan based on the performance information and the numerical information after the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated.

19. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, when at least one of the performance information and the numerical information is updated, the output unit outputs information that enables comparison of the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information before the update and the at least one of the performance information and the numerical information after the update.

20. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein when the performance information is updated, the output unit outputs the updated condition when the updated condition included in the performance information matches a specified condition.

21. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, when the first scanning plan is manually adjusted, the evaluation unit does not evaluate the adjusted first scanning plan.

22. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, when the first shooting plan is manually adjusted, the evaluation unit controls whether or not to evaluate the adjusted first shooting plan depending on a timing when the first shooting plan is manually adjusted and a timing when the performance information is updated.

23. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the evaluation unit does not evaluate the first imaging plan when the medical image diagnostic device is a specific medical image diagnostic device.

24. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the output unit outputs a program that is included in the second shooting plan and not included in the first shooting plan, and that is suitable for a type of facility in which the medical image diagnostic device is installed.

25. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the output unit outputs a program that is included in the second shooting plan and not included in the first shooting plan, and that is suitable for a type of the medical image diagnostic device.

26. On the computer, evaluating a first imaging plan used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus based on performance information related to the performance of the medical image diagnostic apparatus and numerical information related to at least one evaluation item in accordance with a guideline related to the imaging plan; generating a second imaging plan according to the guideline from the first imaging plan based on a result of the evaluation; and controlling the second imaging plan to be output. An evaluation program for carrying out processing.

27. An evaluation system including an evaluation device and a terminal device, The evaluation device includes: an evaluation unit that evaluates a first imaging plan used by the medical image diagnostic apparatus based on performance information related to the performance of the medical image diagnostic apparatus and numerical information related to at least one evaluation item in accordance with a guideline related to the imaging plan; a generation unit that generates a second imaging plan according to the guideline from the first imaging plan based on a result of the evaluation; an output unit that outputs the second imaging plan; Equipped with The terminal device a display control unit that causes a display device to display the second imaging plan; An evaluation system comprising:

Images