Fixture data generation device, fixture data generation method, and fixture creation method

Abstract

To reduce dermatopathy of an analyte in a radiotherapy treatment.SOLUTION: A fixture data generation device related to an embodiment comprises an acquisition unit and a generation unit. The acquisition unit acquires area identification information for identifying at least one of an allowable area where contact with an analyte is allowed and a non-allowable area where contact with the analyte is not allowed. The generation unit generates fixture data showing the shape of the fixture based on the acquired area identification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a fixture data generation device, a fixture data generation method, and a fixture creation method. [Background technology]

[0002] In radiation therapy, medical image data is generated by imaging the patient during treatment planning, and a treatment plan is determined based on the medical images, including the location and area of ​​the tumor to be irradiated with radiation. Once the treatment plan is determined, a fixation device (shell) that covers the patient's entire face or torso is used to fix the position of the tumor included in the treatment plan when irradiating the patient with radiation.

[0003] However, when this type of fixation device is used, skin burns can occur due to the effects of scattering (buildup) that occurs when radiation passes through the fixation device. Furthermore, when fractionated irradiation is performed, in which radiation is irradiated in multiple doses over a predetermined period (e.g., three months), the fixation device is attached and detached to the same location on the subject for each radiation irradiation. In this case, each time the fixation device is attached and detached, the burned area may be scratched by rubbing, worsening the skin burn. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-148279 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-212219 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-043267 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce skin damage to a subject during radiation therapy. 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 below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A fixing device data generation device according to an embodiment includes an acquisition unit and a generation unit. The acquisition unit acquires region identification information that identifies at least one of an allowable region where contact with a subject is allowed and an unallowable region where contact with the subject is not allowed. The generation unit generates fixing device data that represents the shape of a fixing device based on the region identification information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a fixture data generation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a conventional fixing device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the depth from the body surface and the relative dose of various types of radiation. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for creating a fixing tool capable of reducing skin damage to a subject during radiation therapy using the fixing tool data generation device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a head fixing device according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a fixture for the abdomen according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of a fixture data generation device, a fixture data generation method, and a fixture creation method will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a fixture data generation device 10 according to an embodiment.

[0010] The fixture data generation device 10 is connected to a shape measurement device 101, a treatment planning device 102, and a 3D printer 103 so as to be able to transmit and receive data.

[0011] The shape measuring device 101 is a device capable of measuring the body surface shape of a subject and outputting body surface data. For example, an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) device or a general 3D scanner can be used as the shape measuring device 101. When an X-ray CT device is used as the shape measuring device 101, the shape measuring device 101 outputs image data such as volume data of the subject as the body surface data. When a general 3D scanner is used as the shape measuring device 101, the shape measuring device 101 outputs, for example, point cloud data along the body surface of the subject as the body surface data.

[0012] The treatment planning system 102 includes a processing circuit 112. The processor of the processing circuit 112 of the treatment planning system 102 implements an extraction function 121 and a planning function 122. Each of these functions is stored in the form of a program in a storage circuit (not shown).

[0013] The extraction function 121 extracts the tumor of the subject and risk organs located near the tumor from X-ray CT images generated by X-ray CT imaging of the subject during treatment planning. The extraction function 121 may also extract the subject's skeleton. The X-ray CT imaging is performed on at least the area covered by the fixing tool. The area covered by the fixing tool includes at least the tumor.

[0014] The planning function 122 acquires internal body data, including the positions and shapes of the tumor and risk organs of the subject, based on the extraction results of the extraction function 121, and determines the radiation irradiation conditions for the tumor. The internal body data may also include the shape and position of the skeleton. The irradiation conditions include the irradiation direction and irradiation area (beam path, irradiation route) of the radiation beam. The planning function 122 also calculates the dose distribution in radiation therapy. By creating a treatment plan with the fixation device attached, it is possible to know in advance where the radiation will be concentrated. The planning function 122 may also acquire information on the shape and position of the skeleton, along with the positions and shapes of the tumor and risk organs of the subject, and output this as the internal body data of the subject.

[0015] The fixture data generation device 10 has a memory circuit 11 and a processing circuit 12. The memory circuit 11 has a configuration including a processor-readable recording medium such as a magnetic or optical recording medium or a semiconductor memory, and some or all of the programs and data in these storage media may be configured to be downloaded via an electronic network.

[0016] Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a conventional fixing device 200. Fig. 2 shows an example in which the fixing target is the head. Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the relationship between the depth from the body surface and the relative dose of various types of radiation.

[0017] As shown in Figure 3, radiation builds up at a peak dose at a depth from the body surface depending on the type and intensity of radiation due to the effects of radiation scattered on the body surface and direct radiation. When a fixing device 200 that covers the body surface of the subject is used as shown in Figure 2, radiation always passes through the fixing device 200. In this case, the radiation is scattered by the fixing device 200, and depending on the thickness of the fixing device 200, the radiation dose on the body surface of the subject may increase, resulting in skin burns. Furthermore, when a fixing device 200 that covers the body surface of the subject is used, the subject feels cramped, which increases the burden on the subject during radiation therapy.

[0018] Therefore, the processing circuitry 12 of the fixing tool data generation device 10 according to this embodiment generates shape data of a fixing tool with a small contact area with the subject's skin so as to reduce skin damage to the subject during radiation therapy.

[0019] Processing circuitry 12 realizes the function of overall control of fixing device data generation device 10. Processing circuitry 12 is also a processor that reads and executes a program stored in memory circuitry 11 to execute processing for generating shape data of a fixing device with a small contact area with the subject's skin (hereinafter referred to as fixing device shape data).

[0020] 1, the processor of processing circuitry 12 of fixture data generation device 10 realizes a 3D data generation function 21, a simulation function 22, and a fixture data generation function 23. Each of these functions is stored in memory circuitry 11 in the form of a program.

[0021] The 3D data generation function 21 generates 3D data including the shape of the body surface and the shape and position of the skeleton of the subject. The 3D data may be associated with the positions and shapes of tumors and organs at risk.

[0022] The simulation function 22 performs a simulation based on ergonomics and human biodynamics using the 3D data to acquire area identification information that identifies at least one of an allowable area where contact with the subject is allowed and an unallowable area where contact with the subject is not allowed. The simulation function 22 is an example of an acquisition unit.

[0023] The fixture data generation function 23 generates fixture shape data representing the shape of the fixture based on the area identification information.

[0024] The 3D printer 103 creates a fixture by printing based on the fixture shape data output by the fixture data generation function 23. The fixture may be made of a thermoplastic material such as polycaprolactone.

[0025] Next, an example of the operation of the fixture data generation device, fixture data generation method, and fixture creation method will be described.

[0026] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure for creating a fixation device capable of reducing skin damage to a subject during radiation therapy using the fixation device data generation device 10 shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 4, the reference characters S followed by a number indicate each step in the flowchart. This procedure starts when a treatment plan is created.

[0027] First, in step S1, the 3D data generation function 21 acquires from the shape measurement device 101 body surface data of at least the part of the subject that covers the fixing tool.

[0028] Next, in step 2, the 3D data generation function 21 acquires internal body data of the subject from the planning function 122 of the treatment planning device 102. The internal body data includes, for example, the positions and shapes of the tumor, organs at risk, and skeleton.

[0029] Next, in step S3, the 3D data generation function 21 acquires radiation irradiation conditions for the tumor from the planning function 122 of the treatment planning device 102. Next, in step S4, the 3D data generation function 21 generates shape data of the body surface of the subject.

[0030] Next, the 3D data generation function 21 associates the internal body data with the shape data of the subject's body surface (step S5), and generates 3D data including the shapes and positions of the body surface, skeleton, tumor, and risk organs (step S6).

[0031] By performing the above steps S1 to S6, 3D data of the subject including the shapes and positions of the body surface and skeleton, tumor, and organs at risk can be generated.

[0032] Fig. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the head fixing device 30 according to this embodiment, and Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the abdomen fixing device 30 according to this embodiment.

[0033] In step S7, simulation function 22 performs a simulation based on ergonomics and human biodynamics using the 3D data of the subject, thereby obtaining region identification information that identifies at least one of allowable region 31, where contact with the subject is allowable, and non-allowable region, where contact with the subject is not allowable. The portion corresponding to the non-allowable region is set to open region 32 or region 33, which is thinner than the portion corresponding to allowable region 31 (see FIG. 5). As a result, it is possible to generate fixture shape data for fixture 30 with a small contact area with the subject's skin.

[0034] The simulation function 22 may identify acceptable and unacceptable regions 31 based on predetermined priorities.

[0035] For example, the priority may be determined based on whether or not a region includes pressure points (fixation points) that are effective for immobilizing the subject. Specifically, planes parallel to the plane on which immobilizing device 30 is fixed (e.g., tabletop 50) (e.g., the forehead and chin in front of the face of a subject in a supine position) have a high effect of suppressing subject movement, and therefore have a high priority as allowable region 31. On the other hand, planes that form a large angle with the plane on which immobilizing device 30 is fixed (e.g., the side of the face) have a low priority as allowable region 31. Furthermore, areas that are easily deformed when force is applied (e.g., the nose, ears, cheeks, etc.) are not suitable for immobilization, and therefore may have a low priority as allowable region 31 and may be designated as open region 32 or region 33 that is thinner than the portion corresponding to allowable region 31.

[0036] Furthermore, since regions close to the body surface and bone (where the muscle and fat layers are thin) are effective for fixation, it is advisable to give them a higher priority as acceptable regions 31. This is because by excluding from fixation points areas (such as the cheeks and abdomen) where the shape may change as the subject loses weight over the course of treatment, as unacceptable regions (open regions 32, or regions 33 that are thinner than the parts corresponding to acceptable regions 31), it is possible to reduce the impact of changes in body shape over time on the fixation efficiency of fixation device 30.

[0037] The priority may also be determined from the perspective of the subject's quality of life (QOL). In this case, the priority may be determined based on a medical image showing the subject's internal anatomical structure or on radiation irradiation conditions (including the irradiation area and irradiation direction) determined based on the medical image. Specifically, for example, to reduce skin burns, the area including the irradiation area may be designated as an unacceptable area so that there is no fixture 30 on the beam path (irradiation path). Figure 5 shows an example in which the area including the irradiation area is designated as an open area 32. If the area including the irradiation area is designated as a thin area 33, the thickness may be determined to prevent skin burns due to the build-up depth (see Figure 3) corresponding to the type and intensity of the radiation to be irradiated.

[0038] The priority may also be determined based on information about the subject's body surface condition (PS, Performance Status). In this case, areas that do not include areas necessary for fixation, such as areas with many wrinkles or sagging skin on an elderly subject (which are less likely to contribute to fixation) or areas of the subject that are injured (which should not be touched by fixation tool 30), may be designated as open areas 32.

[0039] Simulation function 22 may also set region identification information so that fixing device 30 has strength equal to or greater than a predetermined strength. Simulation function 22 may also set region identification information according to the dynamics of the body surface based on the biological functions of the subject, such as breathing and heart rate.

[0040] Next, in step S8, fixing device data generation function 23 generates fixing device shape data representing the shape of fixing device 30 based on the region identification information. Fixing device data generation function 23 opens the portion corresponding to the unacceptable region or makes it thinner than the portion corresponding to the allowable region 31. As a result, fixing device shape data is generated for fixing device 30 with a small contact area with the subject's skin.

[0041] Simulation function 22 may perform a simulation based on ergonomics and human biomechanics using the generated shape of fixture 30 to determine the positions 41 and number of fixtures 30 for efficiently fixing fixtures 30 to fixing plate 40. In this case, fixture data generation function 23 outputs fixture shape data including information on these fixing positions 41 and number.

[0042] In addition, the fixture data generation function 23 may include in the fixture shape data information indicating that markers indicating the irradiation area (beam path plane) 61, the risk area 62, the position of the tumor, etc. should be added to the surface of the fixture 30 (see Figure 6).

[0043] Then, in step S9, 3D printer 103 creates fixture 30 by printing based on the fixture shape data output by fixture data generation function 23, and the series of procedures ends. If the fixture shape data includes marker information, 3D printer 103 prints the marker on the surface of fixture 30.

[0044] Figure 6 shows an example in which colored markers indicating the irradiation area 61 and the risk area 62 are printed on the surface of the fixture 30. When a marker indicating the irradiation area 61 is attached as shown in Figure 6, the area including the irradiation area 61 is made into a thin area 33 rather than an open area 32. When making the thin area 33 rather than the open area 32, the possibility of skin burns due to build-up increases slightly, but the irradiation area 61 can be fixed more firmly than when making it an open area 32, allowing radiation to be more accurately applied to the tumor.

[0045] By the above procedure, it is possible to create a fixing tool 30 that can reduce skin damage to a subject during radiation therapy.

[0046] Fixing device data generation device 10 according to this embodiment can generate shape data for fixing device 30 that can securely fix the subject while minimizing the contact area with the subject's skin. Therefore, using fixing device 30 can reduce the stress on the subject during radiation therapy. For example, by designating the area including irradiation area 61 as an unacceptable area, skin burns due to build-up can be prevented.

[0047] Furthermore, by creating fixture 30 using 3D printer 103, the burden on the subject in creating fixture 30 can be reduced compared to creating fixture 30 by applying thermoplastic material to the subject's body surface.

[0048] Fixture data generation function 23 may include information to guide attachment of the fixture (for example, where to hold the forehead, or indication of the front and back or top and bottom of the shell) and caution information (for example, instructions to avoid pinching wrinkles or sagging skin, or the location of an injury) in the fixture shape data as information to be added to the surface of fixture 30. By having 3D printer 103 print this guide information on the surface of fixture 30, the operator's work can be supported during radiation therapy.

[0049] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to reduce skin damage to a subject during radiation therapy.

[0050] In the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a circuit such as a dedicated or general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or 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)). If the processor is a CPU, for example, the processor realizes various functions by reading and executing programs stored in a memory circuit. If the processor is an ASIC, for example, instead of storing programs in a memory circuit, functions corresponding to the programs are directly incorporated into the processor circuit as logic circuits. In this case, the processor realizes various functions through hardware processing that reads and executes the programs incorporated in the circuit. Alternatively, the processor can realize various functions by combining software processing and hardware processing.

[0051] In addition, although the above embodiment shows an example in which a single processor of a processing circuit realizes each function, a processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may realize each function. Furthermore, when multiple processors are provided, a memory circuit for storing programs may be provided separately for each processor, or a single memory circuit may collectively store programs corresponding to the functions of all processors.

[0052] Although several 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 within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0053] 10 Fixture data generator 22 Simulation Function 23 Fixture data generation function 30 Fixtures 31 Acceptable Area 32 Open area 33 Thin Area 61 Irradiation area 103 3D printer

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires area identification information that identifies at least one of an allowable area in which contact with the subject is allowed and an unallowable area in which contact with the subject is not allowed among the areas of a fixation device that fixes the subject in radiation therapy, by simulation using 3D data of the subject; a generation unit that generates fixture shape data representing the shape of the fixture based on the region identification information, the fixture shape data being referenced by a 3D printer that creates the fixture; A fixture data generation device comprising:

2. The generation unit acquiring a medical image representing an anatomical structure inside the body of a subject or information based on the medical image, and generating the region identification information based on the medical image or the information; The fixture data generating device according to claim 1 .

3. The generation unit generating the region identification information based on information on the body surface of the subject; The fixture data generating device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The generation unit and determining the shape of the fixing tool based on information about the subject's skeleton. The fixture data generating device according to claim 3.

5. The generation unit determining the shape of the fixing device so that it has a strength equal to or greater than a predetermined strength; The fixture data generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The generation unit determining the shape of the fixing device in accordance with the dynamic state of the body surface based on the biological function of the subject; The fixture data generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The generation unit The fixture shape data includes information indicating that a marker indicating at least one of an irradiation area, a risk area, and a tumor location should be added to the surface of the fixture. The fixture data generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A step of obtaining area identification information that identifies at least one of an allowable area in which contact with the subject is allowed and an unallowable area in which contact with the subject is not allowed among the areas of a fixation device that fixes the subject in radiation therapy, by simulation using 3D data of the subject; generating, based on the region identification information, fixture shape data representing the shape of the fixture, the fixture shape data being referenced by a 3D printer that creates the fixture; A fixture data generation method comprising:

9. A step of obtaining area identification information that identifies at least one of an allowable area in which contact with the subject is allowed and an unallowable area in which contact with the subject is not allowed among the areas of a fixation device that fixes the subject in radiation therapy, by simulation using 3D data of the subject; generating, based on the region identification information, fixture shape data representing the shape of the fixture, the fixture shape data being referenced by a 3D printer that creates the fixture; creating the fixture using a 3D printer based on the fixture shape data; A method for creating a fixture comprising the steps of:

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