Medical image processing equipment

Abstract

To provide a medical image processing apparatus with a processor executing image processing of a medical image, which reduces power consumption in the processor.SOLUTION: A medical image processing apparatus includes a first processor, a second processor that executes image processing of a medical image in response to an instruction from the first processor, and a battery that supplies power to the first processor and the second processor. After the second processor executes the image processing, transition is made to a power saving mode where the power consumption in the second processor is relatively small.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosed technology relates to a medical image processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] The following techniques are known as techniques relating to medical image processing devices that process medical images such as radiographic images. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a radiographic image forming system that monitors the usage status of an X-ray source, a reading device, or a battery, and sets the reading device to a standby state or a power-off state in which power consumption is reduced when it detects that the X-ray source is not positioned in an imaging position, that no signal has been input to the reading device for a predetermined period of time, or that the remaining battery capacity is below an allowable lower limit.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a radiological image reading device that has two non-operating modes: a mode in which power supply to all parts is stopped, and a standby mode in which power supply to specified parts is continued. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-073121 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-077905 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Medical image processing devices are known that perform image processing to analyze medical images such as radiographic images using a computer, thereby detecting and presenting lesions in the medical images and providing information useful for diagnosis. This type of diagnostic support involving computer-based image processing is called CAD (Computer Aided Diagnosis). Because CAD processing involves image processing of medical images, by having a processor specialized for image processing, such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), perform the CAD processing, the processing time can be significantly reduced compared to when using a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which is good at general-purpose processing.

[0006] Meanwhile, a mobile radiographic imaging device (so-called medical cart) equipped with a CAD function has been proposed. The CAD function installed in the mobile radiographic imaging device is realized by a GPU independent of the console, making it possible to quickly provide diagnostic support using the CAD function at the destination. However, in this case, power must also be supplied from the battery to the GPU, increasing the amount of power supplied from the battery. As a result, it is expected that the operating time of the device will be shortened or the battery will need to be replaced more frequently, which may hinder efficient medical rounds.

[0007] The disclosed technology has been made in consideration of the above points, and aims to reduce the amount of power consumption in a medical image processing device that includes a processor that performs image processing on medical images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The medical image processing device according to the disclosed technique includes a first processor, a second processor that executes image processing on a medical image in response to an instruction from the first processor, and a battery that supplies power to the first processor and the second processor. After the second processor executes the image processing, the device transitions to a power-saving mode in which the second processor consumes relatively less power.

[0009] In the power saving mode, the second processor may operate in synchronization with a clock signal having a relatively long cycle. In the power saving mode, the second processor may communicate with the first processor at a relatively low frequency. In the power saving mode, the second processor may enter a predefined sleep state. In the power saving mode, the supply of power from the battery to the second processor may be cut off.

[0010] The first processor may transmit an instruction to cancel the power-saving mode to the second processor when a predetermined processing stage has been completed among a plurality of processing stages that are completed before image processing is executed. The first processor may transmit an instruction to cancel the power-saving mode to the second processor when an instruction to execute image processing is received. The first processor may transmit an instruction to cancel the power-saving mode to the second processor when the instruction to cancel the power-saving mode is received. The first processor may determine the timing of transmitting the instruction to cancel the power-saving mode so that the second processor is restored to a state where image processing is possible by the time the medical image is acquired.

[0011] The medical image may be a radiological image. In this case, the medical image processing device may further include a radiation irradiation unit that receives power from a battery and irradiates radiation for capturing a radiological image. The second processor may output information that supports diagnosis using the medical image through image processing. The medical image processing device may include a first battery for supplying power to the first processor and a second battery for supplying power to the second processor. The medical image processing device may be mobile. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the disclosed technology, in a medical image processing apparatus including a processor that executes image processing on medical images, it is possible to reduce the amount of power consumed by the processor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a medical examination system according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 2] 1 is a side view showing an example of the appearance of a medical image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosed technique; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a method for capturing a radiographic image. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a radiation irradiation unit according to an embodiment of the disclosed technique. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a console according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a diagnosis support unit according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing performed in a learning phase in which a detection model according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology is trained by machine learning. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of a diagnosis process according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a console according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of processing performed by executing a mode switching program according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a diagnosis support unit according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing performed by executing a CAD processing program according to an embodiment of the disclosed technique. [Figure 13] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a medical image processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the disclosed technique. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the disclosed technology will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or equivalent components and parts are given the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical examination system 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. The medical examination system 1 is configured to include a medical image processing device 10 and an electronic cassette 60. FIG. 2 is a side view showing an example of the appearance of the medical image processing device 10. The medical image processing device 10 has the function of acquiring a radiological image obtained by irradiating a patient, who is the subject, with radiation such as X-rays, performing CAD processing involving image processing on the radiological image, and presenting the results of the CAD processing. The radiological image is an example of a "medical image" in the disclosed technology, and is generated by the electronic cassette 60.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 2, the medical image processing device 10 has wheels 11 on its bottom. In other words, the medical image processing device 10 is portable and mobile. Therefore, the medical image processing device 10 can be used for doctor's rounds to examine hospitalized patients in a hospital ward. As shown in Fig. 1, the medical image processing device 10 includes a radiation irradiation unit 20, a console 30, a diagnosis support unit 40, and a battery 50.

[0017] The radiation irradiation unit 20 has a function of irradiating a subject with radiation such as X-rays when capturing a radiological image. The radiation irradiation unit 20 is provided at the tip of the arm unit 12. The arm unit 12 is extendable in its longitudinal direction and is also rotatable about the shaft unit 13 as a rotation axis.

[0018] The console 30 and the diagnostic support unit 40 are configured to include computers that are independent of each other. A battery 50 supplies power to each of the radiation irradiation unit 20, the console 30, and the diagnostic support unit 40. The battery 50 is a secondary battery such as a lithium polymer battery, and can be charged via a connector (not shown). The console 30, the diagnostic support unit 40, and the battery 50 are built into the medical image processing device 10.

[0019] Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of a method for capturing a radiographic image using the medical image processing device 10 and an electronic cassette 60. Fig. 3 illustrates an example of capturing a radiographic image of the chest of a subject 201 lying supine on an examination table 300. The electronic cassette 60 is placed in a position opposite the radiation irradiation unit 20. The subject 201 is placed between the radiation irradiation unit 20 and the electronic cassette 60 so that the region to be imaged falls within the radiation irradiation field.

[0020] When a user 200, such as a radiologist or a doctor, operates the exposure switch 14, radiation R is emitted from the radiation emitting unit 20. The radiation R that has passed through the subject 201 reaches the electronic cassette 60. The electronic cassette 60 is a known portable FPD (Flat Panel Detector) that detects the radiation R that has passed through the subject 201 and generates a radiological image. The electronic cassette 60 has a function to automatically detect the start of irradiation of the radiation R emitted from the radiation emitting unit 20. Therefore, the electronic cassette 60 can generate a radiological image without connecting to the medical image processing device 10. The electronic cassette 60 has a wireless communication function and transmits the generated radiological image to the console 30 via wireless communication. The medical image processing device 10 has a housing unit 15 (see FIG. 2) for housing the electronic cassette 60. When the electronic cassette 60 is housed in the housing unit 15, a battery (not shown) built into the electronic cassette 60 can be charged.

[0021] Each component of the medical image processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 will be described in detail below.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the radiation irradiation unit 20. The radiation irradiation unit 20 includes a control unit 21, a voltage generation unit 22, a radiation tube 23, and an irradiation field limiter 24. The radiation tube 23 includes a filament, a target, and a grid electrode (none of which are shown). A voltage output from the voltage generation unit 22 is applied between the filament, which serves as a cathode, and the target, which serves as an anode. The voltage applied between the filament and the target is called the tube voltage. The filament emits thermoelectrons toward the target in accordance with the applied tube voltage. The target emits radiation upon collision of the thermoelectrons from the filament. The grid electrode is disposed between the filament and the target. The grid electrode controls the flow rate of thermoelectrons from the filament toward the target. The flow rate of thermoelectrons from the filament toward the target is called the tube current. The control unit 21 controls the tube voltage, the tube current, and the radiation irradiation time based on instructions from the console 30.

[0023] The exposure switch 14 is a two-stage switch that allows a user such as a radiologist or a doctor to issue an instruction to start irradiation of radiation. When the exposure switch 14 is pressed down to the first stage, the filament is preheated and the target starts to rotate at the same time. Warm-up is completed when the filament reaches a specified temperature and the target rotates at a specified number of times. After warm-up is completed, when the exposure switch 14 is pressed down to the second stage, a voltage is output from the voltage generating unit 22 and radiation is emitted from the radiation tube 23.

[0024] The irradiation field limiter 24 limits the irradiation field of the radiation emitted from the radiation tube 23. The irradiation field limiter 24 is configured, for example, such that four shielding plates that block radiation are arranged on each side of a rectangle, and a square opening that allows radiation to pass through is formed in the center. The irradiation field limiter 24 changes the size of the opening by changing the positions of the four shielding plates, thereby changing the size of the irradiation field of the radiation.

[0025] The console 30 is a computer that comprehensively controls various processes executed in the medical image processing apparatus 10. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the console 30. The console 30 has a CPU 31, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 32, a nonvolatile memory 33, a touch panel display 34, a wireless interface 35, and a communication interface 36. The CPU 31, RAM 32, nonvolatile memory 33, touch panel display 34, wireless interface 35, and communication interface 36 are connected to a bus 39.

[0026] The non-volatile memory 33 is a storage device such as a flash memory, and stores a medical examination processing program 37 and a mode switching program 38, which will be described later. The RAM 32 is a work memory for the CPU 31 to execute processing. The CPU 31 loads each program stored in the non-volatile memory 33 into the RAM 32 and executes processing in accordance with each program. The CPU 31 is an example of a "first processor" in the disclosed technology.

[0027] The touch panel display 34 functions as an input device that accepts input of information to be used in processing executed by the CPU 31 and as an output device that outputs the results of processing executed by the CPU 31. The input device may be configured to include known input means such as operation buttons, a hardware keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, etc.

[0028] The wireless interface 35 is an interface through which the console 30 transmits and receives information or data via wireless communication between the electronic cassette 60 and other devices. The console 30 acquires radiographic images transmitted by wireless communication from the electronic cassette 60 via the wireless interface 35. The acquired radiographic images are stored in the nonvolatile memory 33.

[0029] The communication interface 36 is an interface through which the console 30 transmits and receives information or data to and from the diagnostic support unit 40 and other devices. The communication interface 36 may be compliant with, for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0030] The diagnostic support unit 40 is a computer that performs CAD processing, which involves image processing, on radiographic images in response to instructions from the console 30. The diagnostic support unit 40 outputs information that supports diagnosis using medical images as a result of the CAD processing. As part of the CAD processing, the diagnostic support unit 40 detects, for example, abnormal shadows such as lesions contained in the radiographic images and transmits the results to the console 30. The diagnostic support unit 40 is configured by a computer independent of the console 30.

[0031] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the diagnostic support unit 40. The diagnostic support unit 40 has a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) 41, RAM 42, nonvolatile memory 43, and a communication interface 44. The GPU 41, RAM 42, nonvolatile memory 43, and communication interface 44 are connected to a bus 49.

[0032] The GPU 41 is a processor that has more cores than the CPU 31 provided in the console 30 and is capable of performing relatively simple calculations such as matrix operations in parallel. Therefore, the GPU 41 can perform CAD processing involving image processing of radiographic images faster than the CPU 31. The GPU 41 is an example of a "second processor" in the disclosed technology.

[0033] The non-volatile memory 43 is a storage device such as a flash memory, and stores a CAD processing program 45 and a detection model 46, which will be described later. The RAM 42 is a work memory for the GPU 41 to execute processing. The GPU 41 loads the CAD processing program 45 stored in the non-volatile memory 43 into the RAM 42, and executes CAD processing in accordance with the CAD processing program 45. The communication interface 44 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information or data between the console 30 and other devices. The communication interface 44 may be, for example, USB-compliant.

[0034] The diagnostic support unit 40 may have the form of a detachable so-called "external GPU box" having a housing that houses a GPU 41, RAM 42, non-volatile memory 43, and communication interface 44. Furthermore, the diagnostic support unit 40 may further include a CPU that excels in general-purpose processing in addition to the GPU 41. In this case, it is preferable that the GPU 41 specializes in image processing of radiographic images, and the CPU performs general-purpose processing such as program execution control and communication control with the console 30.

[0035] The detection model 46 is a mathematical model for detecting abnormal shadows such as lesion sites contained in radiographic images, and is a trained model that has been trained by machine learning. The detection model 46 is configured using, for example, a neural network. The detection model 46 is configured using, for example, a deep neural network (DNN), which is a multi-layer neural network that is the subject of deep learning. As the DNN, for example, a convolutional neural network (CNN) that targets images is used. By inputting a radiographic image to be subjected to CAD processing into the detection model 46, a detection result for abnormal shadows such as lesion sites contained in the radiographic image to be subjected to CAD processing is output from the detection model 46.

[0036] 7 is a diagram showing an example of processing performed in the learning phase in which the detection model 46 is trained by machine learning. The detection model 46 is trained using training data TD. The training data TD includes a plurality of radiographic images XP to which correct labels CL are attached. The radiographic images XP included in the training data TD are sample images containing various abnormal shadows. The correct labels CL are, for example, position information of the abnormal shadows within the radiographic images XP.

[0037] In the learning phase, a radiographic image XP is input to the detection model 46. The detection model 46 outputs a detection result DR, which is the result of detecting abnormal shadows from the input radiographic image XP. A loss calculation is performed using a loss function based on this detection result DR and the correct label CL. Then, various coefficients (weighting coefficients, biases, etc.) of the detection model 46 are updated according to the result of the loss calculation, and the detection model 46 is updated according to the update setting.

[0038] In the learning phase, a series of processes are repeatedly performed, including input of the radiographic image XP to the detection model 46, output of the detection result DR from the detection model 46, loss calculation, update setting, and update of the detection model 46. This series of processes is terminated when the detection accuracy of abnormal shadows reaches a predetermined set level. The detection model 46 whose detection accuracy has reached the set level is stored in the non-volatile memory 43 as a trained detection model. The detection model 46 is used in CAD processing executed by the diagnosis support unit 40.

[0039] 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the examination process performed by the CPU 31 of the console 30 executing the examination process program 37. The examination process program 37 is executed when a user such as a radiologist or a doctor operates the touch panel display 34 to instruct the start of the examination process.

[0040] In step S1, the CPU 31 performs a process of setting irradiation conditions for radiation to be irradiated from the radiation irradiator 20. Specifically, the CPU 31 displays an imaging menu selection screen on the touch panel display 34 and accepts an instruction to select an imaging menu. A user, such as a radiologist or a doctor, selects an imaging menu corresponding to an imaging procedure specified in a consultation order supplied from a Radiology Information System (RIS) (not shown). The console 30 can be connected to the RIS via a wireless interface 35. The CPU 31 supplies radiation irradiation conditions, including a tube voltage, a tube current, and an irradiation time, corresponding to the selected imaging menu to the control unit 21 of the radiation irradiator 20. As a result, the radiation irradiation conditions, including the tube voltage, the tube current, and the irradiation time, are set in the radiation irradiator 20. The user can modify the radiation irradiation conditions associated with the imaging menu by operating the touch panel display 34.

[0041] In step S2, the CPU 31 determines whether or not irradiation of radiation has started. For example, when the CPU 31 detects that the irradiation switch 14 has been pressed down to the second step, the CPU 31 determines that irradiation of radiation has started.

[0042] In step S3, the CPU 31 determines whether the irradiation of radiation has been completed. For example, the CPU 31 determines that the irradiation of radiation has been completed when it determines that the irradiation time set in step S1 has elapsed since the start of the irradiation of radiation.

[0043] The radiation emitted from the radiation irradiation unit 20 and transmitted through the subject reaches the electronic cassette 60. The electronic cassette 60 detects the radiation transmitted through the subject to generate a radiographic image, and transmits the generated radiographic image to the console 30 via wireless communication.

[0044] In step S4, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it has acquired a radiographic image transmitted from the electronic cassette 60. If the CPU 31 determines that it has acquired a radiographic image, it stores the acquired radiographic image in the nonvolatile memory 33 and proceeds to step S5.

[0045] In step S5, the CPU 31 transmits an instruction to execute CAD processing, which involves image processing of the acquired radiographic image, together with the radiographic image to be processed by CAD processing, to the diagnostic support unit 40. The CPU 31 may transmit the instruction to execute CAD processing and the radiographic image to be processed by CAD processing to the diagnostic support unit 40 based on an instruction from the user.

[0046] When the diagnosis support unit 40 receives an instruction to execute CAD processing and a radiological image to be processed by CAD processing, the diagnosis support unit 40 executes CAD processing on the radiological image to be processed by CAD processing and transmits the results to the console 30.

[0047] In step S6, the CPU 31 determines whether the result of the CAD processing transmitted from the diagnosis support unit 40 has been acquired.

[0048] In step S7, the CPU 31 causes the touch panel display 34 to display the CAD processing results acquired in step S6.

[0049] As described above, the medical image processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment not only has the function of capturing radiographic images, but also the function of performing CAD processing, which involves image processing of the acquired radiographic images. However, the diagnosis support unit 40, which includes the GPU 41 that performs the CAD processing, also requires power supply from the battery 50, and the amount of power supplied from the battery 50 increases compared to a case without the CAD processing function. As a result, it is expected that the operating time of the medical image processing apparatus 10 will be shortened or the battery 50 will need to be replaced more frequently, which may hinder efficient medical rounds.

[0050] Therefore, in the medical image processing apparatus 10 according to this embodiment, the diagnostic support unit 40 reduces power consumption in the diagnostic support unit 40 (particularly the GPU 41) by switching to and canceling the power saving mode at predetermined timings based on instructions from the console 30. Details of the power saving mode will be described later.

[0051] 9 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the console 30 when the console 30 performs control related to suppression of power consumption in the diagnostic support unit 40. The console 30 includes a transition instruction unit 131 and a release instruction unit 132. The CPU 31 executes the mode switching program 38, causing the console 30 to function as the transition instruction unit 131 and the release instruction unit 132.

[0052] When the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is not the power saving mode, the transition instruction unit 131 transmits an instruction to transition to the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 upon acquiring the results of the CAD processing transmitted from the diagnostic support unit 40.

[0053] When the operating mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is the power saving mode, the cancellation instruction unit 132 sends an instruction to cancel the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 when a predetermined processing stage among the multiple processing stages in the examination processing shown in Figure 8 has been passed.

[0054] The release instructing unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 when, for example, in step S1 of the examination processing, a selection screen for an imaging menu is displayed on the touch panel display 34. Furthermore, the release instructing unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 when, for example, in step S2 of the examination processing, it is determined that radiation irradiation has started. Furthermore, the release instructing unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 when, for example, in step S3 of the examination processing, it is determined that radiation irradiation has been completed. Furthermore, the release instructing unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 when, for example, in step S4 of the examination processing, it is determined that a radiological image has been acquired. Furthermore, the release instructing unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnostic support unit 40 before, for example, transmitting an instruction to execute CAD processing in step S5 of the examination processing.

[0055] The release instruction unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnosis support unit 40 based on an instruction from the user, regardless of the processing stage in the examination processing. For example, when an instruction to execute CAD processing is received, the release instruction unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnosis support unit 40. For example, when an instruction to release the power saving mode is received, the release instruction unit 132 may transmit an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnosis support unit 40. The instruction to execute CAD processing and the instruction to release the power saving mode can be given by the user operating the touch panel display 34.

[0056] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the CPU 31 of the console 30 executing the mode switching program 38. The mode switching program 38 is executed, for example, when the examination processing program 37 starts to be executed.

[0057] In step S11, the CPU 31 determines whether the current operating mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is the power saving mode. If the CPU 31 determines that the current operating mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is the power saving mode, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S12, and if the CPU 31 determines that the current operating mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is not the power saving mode, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S14.

[0058] If it is determined in step S11 that the operation mode of the diagnosis support unit 40 is the power saving mode, then in step S12, the CPU 31 determines whether or not a predetermined processing stage has been reached among the multiple processing stages in the examination process shown in Fig. 8. As described above, "if a predetermined processing stage has been reached" may be, for example, when an imaging menu selection screen is displayed, when radiation irradiation has started, when radiation irradiation has been completed, when a radiographic image has been acquired, or when an instruction to execute CAD processing has been sent. If the CPU 31 determines that a predetermined processing stage has been reached, it transitions to step S13.

[0059] In step S13, the CPU 31 functions as the release instruction unit 132 and transmits an instruction to release the power saving mode to the diagnosis support unit 40.

[0060] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is not the power saving mode, then in step S14, the CPU 31 determines whether or not it has acquired the results of the CAD processing transmitted from the diagnostic support unit 40. If it is determined that it has acquired the results of the CAD processing, the CPU 31 proceeds to step S15.

[0061] In step S15, the CPU 31 functions as the transition instruction unit 131 and transmits an instruction to the diagnosis support unit 40 to transition to the power saving mode.

[0062] 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the diagnostic support unit 40. The diagnostic support unit 40 includes a CAD processing unit 141 and a mode switching unit 142. The GPU 41 executes a CAD processing program 45, causing the diagnostic support unit 40 to function as the CAD processing unit 141 and the mode switching unit 142.

[0063] The CAD processing unit 141 executes CAD processing, which involves image processing of the radiographic image to be processed, in response to a CAD processing execution instruction transmitted from the console 30. Specifically, the CAD processing unit 141 inputs the radiographic image to be processed into the detection model 46 stored in the nonvolatile memory 43. As a result, the detection model 46 detects abnormal shadows, such as lesion sites, contained in the radiographic image to be processed. The CAD processing unit 141 outputs, as a result of the CAD processing, position information indicating the coordinate position in the radiographic image of the abnormal shadow detected by the detection model 46. The CAD processing unit 141 may output, as a result of the CAD processing, an image in which a mark indicating the position of the abnormal shadow is added to the radiographic image to be processed. The CAD processing unit 141 may also identify the type of disease corresponding to the detected abnormal shadow and include the identified type in the result of the CAD processing. The CAD processing unit 141 transmits the result of the CAD processing to the console 30.

[0064] The mode switching unit 142 switches the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 in response to an instruction to transition to the power saving mode and an instruction to cancel the power saving mode transmitted from the console 30. When the mode switching unit 142 receives an instruction to transition to the power saving mode transmitted from the console 30, it switches the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 to the power saving mode. The power saving mode is an operation mode in which the amount of power consumed by the diagnostic support unit 40 (GPU 41) is relatively small.

[0065] In the power-saving mode, the GPU 41 may operate in synchronization with a clock signal having a relatively long cycle. In the power-saving mode, the GPU 41 may communicate with the console 30 (CPU 31) at a relatively low frequency. The communication may be repeated, for example, to notify the console 30 of the presence of the diagnostic support unit 40. In the power-saving mode, the GPU 41 may transition to a predefined sleep state. In the sleep state, power supply to at least some of the multiple circuit blocks constituting the GPU 41 is stopped. In the power-saving mode, power supply from the battery 50 to the diagnostic support unit 40 (GPU 41) may be cut off.

[0066] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the GPU 41 of the diagnostic support unit 40 by executing the CAD processing program 45. The CAD processing program 45 is executed, for example, when the examination processing program 37 starts to be executed. Note that in the initial state, the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 is assumed to be the power saving mode.

[0067] In step S21, the GPU 41 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to cancel the power saving mode transmitted from the console 30. If it determines that it has received an instruction to cancel the power saving mode, the GPU 41 proceeds to step S22.

[0068] In step S22, the GPU 41 functions as the mode switching unit 142 and cancels the power saving mode. That is, the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 becomes the normal mode, and the CAD processing becomes executable.

[0069] In step S23, the GPU 41 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to execute CAD processing transmitted from the console 30. If it determines that it has received an instruction to execute CAD processing, the GPU 41 proceeds to step S24.

[0070] In step S24, the GPU 41 functions as the CAD processing unit 141 and executes CAD processing involving image processing on the radiation image to be processed that has been transmitted together with the instruction to execute the CAD processing from the console 30. In step S25, the GPU 41 transmits the result of the CAD processing to the console 30.

[0071] In step S26, the GPU 41 determines whether or not it has received an instruction to transition to the power saving mode transmitted from the console 30. If it determines that it has received an instruction to transition to the power saving mode, the GPU 41 proceeds to step S27.

[0072] In step S27, the GPU 41 functions as the mode switching unit 142 and switches the operation mode of the diagnostic support unit 40 to the power saving mode. In the power saving mode, the GPU 41 may switch to a sleep state, for example.

[0073] As described above, according to the medical image processing apparatus 10 according to the embodiment of the disclosed technique, after the GPU 41 executes CAD processing involving image processing, the GPU 41 transitions to a power-saving mode in which the power consumption of the GPU 41 is relatively low. This makes it possible to reduce the power consumption of the GPU 41 compared to when the GPU 41 always operates in normal mode. This reduces the amount of power supplied from the battery 50, thereby extending the operating time of the medical image processing apparatus 10. Furthermore, the frequency of replacing the battery 50 can be reduced. This makes it possible to perform efficient medical rounds using the medical image processing apparatus 10.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the medical image processing device 10, the power saving mode is cancelled when a predetermined processing stage is completed among the multiple processing stages that are completed before CAD processing is executed in the diagnosis support unit 40. This makes it possible to cancel the power saving mode before the CAD processing can be executed (for example, the time when the console 30 acquires a radiographic image). In other words, after the radiographic image is acquired, the CAD processing can be started without delay.

[0075] The CPU 31 of the console 30 may determine the timing to transmit the instruction to cancel the power saving mode taking into account the time required for the GPU 41 to complete cancellation of the power saving mode after receiving the instruction to cancel the power saving mode (hereinafter referred to as the recovery time). For example, the CPU 31 of the console 30 may determine the timing to transmit the instruction to cancel the power saving mode taking into account the recovery time so that the GPU 41 will return to a state where CAD processing is possible by the time a radiographic image is acquired from the electronic cassette 60. For example, if the recovery time requires one minute, the CPU 31 of the console 30 may transmit the instruction to cancel the power saving mode to the diagnosis support unit 40 one minute before the expected time at which the radiographic image is to be acquired.

[0076] In addition, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which a single battery 50 is used to supply power to both the console 30 (CPU 31) and the diagnostic support unit (GPU 41) has been exemplified, but the disclosed technology is not limited to this configuration. For example, as shown in Fig. 13, the medical image processing apparatus 10 may include a first battery 50A for supplying power to the radiation irradiation unit 20 and the console 30 (CPU 31), and a second battery 50B for supplying power to the diagnostic support unit 40 (GPU 41).

[0077] In addition, in this embodiment, an example is given of the case where the diagnostic support unit 40 (GPU 41) transitions to the power saving mode when it receives an instruction to transition to the power saving mode sent from the console 30, but the diagnostic support unit 40 (GPU 41) may transition to the power saving mode after sending the results of the CAD processing to the console 30 without waiting for an instruction to transition to the power saving mode.

[0078] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, a case where a radiological image is applied as a medical image has been exemplified, but the medical image may be an image other than a radiological image, such as an ultrasound image or an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) image.

[0079] In addition, in the present embodiment, the CAD processing performed by the diagnosis support unit 40 (GPU 41) is exemplified as detecting an abnormal shadow contained in a medical image, but the disclosed technology is not limited to this. CAD processing involving image processing may be, for example, processing to emphasize or attenuate a specific region contained in a medical image, or processing to visualize changes in a specific lesion from a previous image.

[0080] In the above embodiment, the following various processors can be used as the hardware structure of processing units that execute various processes, such as the transition instruction unit 131, the release instruction unit 132, the CAD processing unit 141, and the mode switching unit 142. As described above, the various processors include CPUs and GPUs, which are general-purpose processors that execute software (programs) and function as various processing units, as well as dedicated electrical circuits, such as programmable logic devices (PLDs) that are processors whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, such as FPGAs, and application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), which are processors with a circuit configuration designed specifically for executing specific processes.

[0081] A single processing unit may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, multiple processing units may be configured with a single processor.

[0082] Examples of configuring multiple processing units with a single processor include, first, a form in which one processor is configured with a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as multiple processing units, as typified by computers such as client and server. Second, a form in which a processor is used to realize the functions of the entire system including multiple processing units with a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, as typified by systems on chips (SoCs). In this way, various processing units are configured using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as a hardware structure.

[0083] Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors can be an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0084] In the above embodiment, the diagnosis processing program 37 and the mode switching program 38 are pre-stored (installed) in the non-volatile memory 33, and the CAD processing program 45 is pre-stored (installed) in the non-volatile memory 43. However, this is not limiting. Each of the above programs may be provided in a form recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Each of the above programs may also be downloaded from an external device via a network. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 1. Examination system 10 Medical image processing device 11 wheels 12 Arm section 13 Shaft 14 Irradiation switch 15 Storage section 20 Radiation Irradiation Unit 21 Control section 22 Voltage generation section 23 Radiation tube 24 Irradiation field limiter 30 Console 31 CPU 32 RAM 33 Non-volatile memory 34 Touch Panel Display 35 Wireless Interface 36 Communication Interface 37 Examination Processing Program 38 Mode Switching Program 39 Bus 40 Diagnostic Support Department 43 Non-volatile memory 44 Communication Interface 45 CAD processing programs 46 Detection Model 49 Bus 50 Battery 50A First Battery 50B Second Battery 60 Electronic Cassette 131 Transition Instructions Section 132 Release instruction section 141 CAD processing section 142 Mode switch section 200 users 201 Subject 300 Examination table CL Correct label DR detection results R Radiation TD teacher data XP Radiography

Claims

1. a first processor; a second processor that executes CAD processing to detect abnormal shadows included in medical images in response to instructions from the first processor; a battery that supplies power to the first processor and the second processor; Equipped with when the first processor acquires the result of the CAD processing, it transmits to the second processor an instruction to transition to a power saving mode in which power consumption in the second processor is lower than in other modes; After the second processor executes the CAD processing, the second processor transitions to the power saving mode based on the transition instruction. Medical imaging equipment.

2. In the power saving mode, the second processor operates in synchronization with a clock signal having a longer cycle than in other modes. The medical image processing device according to claim 1 .

3. In the power saving mode, the second processor communicates with the first processor less frequently than in other modes.

3. The medical image processing device according to claim 1.

4. The second processor enters a predefined sleep state in the power saving mode. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. In the power saving mode, the supply of power from the battery to the second processor is cut off. The medical image processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The first processor transmits an instruction to cancel the power saving mode to the second processor when a predetermined processing stage has been completed among a plurality of processing stages that are completed before the CAD processing is executed. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. When the first processor receives an instruction to execute the CAD processing, the first processor transmits an instruction to cancel the power saving mode to the second processor. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. When the first processor receives the instruction to cancel the power saving mode, the first processor transmits the instruction to cancel the power saving mode to the second processor. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The first processor determines a timing for transmitting an instruction to cancel the power saving mode so that the second processor returns to a state in which the CAD processing is possible by the time the medical image is acquired. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. the medical image is a radiological image, The radiological imaging device further includes a radiation irradiation unit that receives power from the battery and irradiates radiation for capturing the radiological image. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The second processor outputs information for supporting diagnosis using the medical image through the CAD processing. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. a first battery, which is one of the batteries, for supplying power to the first processor, and a second battery, which is another one of the batteries, for supplying power to the second processor. The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. It is mobile The medical image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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