Medical information processing device, medical information processing method, and program

Abstract

To smoothly and appropriately divide a plurality of medical images into groups.SOLUTION: A medical information processing device includes: a setting acquisition unit 115 that acquires grouping setting indicating a condition of grouping with respect to a plurality of radiation images obtained by imaging a subject; and a grouping processing unit 116 that imparts series information for identifying a group to each of the plurality of radiation images according to the acquired grouping setting, to divide the plurality of radiation images into groups.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical information processing device, a medical information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, medical images captured by medical imaging devices (modalities) such as CT devices and radiological imaging devices are grouped by patient, modality, examination date and time, examination type, etc. When multiple medical images are displayed on a medical image referencing device, medical images belonging to a common group are displayed side by side. When creating medical image data in accordance with the DICOM standard, a well-known standard for medical image data, there is a function to add series information to medical images to group them into groups called series. Some medical image referencing devices that refer to medical images also have a function to display multiple medical images by series based on the series information when referencing medical images with added series information.

[0003] Patent document 1 describes a technology in which multiple medical images grouped according to series information created by a modality are displayed on a monitor, and when an instruction is received to group the multiple medical images displayed on the monitor in a way that differs from the grouping according to the series information created by the modality, the series information is corrected in accordance with the instruction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-66119 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, when reclassifying medical images output from a modality into groups using a medical image reference device, the viewer must check the medical images and information associated with the medical images, which is time-consuming. Furthermore, with conventional medical image reference devices that cannot reclassify groups, medical images may be displayed in an unintended group.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to smoothly and appropriately group a plurality of medical images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The medical image processing device of the present invention captures images of a subject. Generated The grouping criteria for multiple medical images are shown. Multiple Configuration information The setting information to be used of A selection is made before generating the medical images and set as a condition for grouping the plurality of medical images. do setting means and setting and grouping means for grouping the plurality of medical images by assigning identification information for identifying the group to each of the plurality of medical images in accordance with the set information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a plurality of medical images can be smoothly and appropriately grouped. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a radiological inspection system. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a grouping setting screen. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a new examination input screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a shooting information input screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a shooting screen. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a grouping process. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing details of a process for generating series information. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of grouping. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an operation for changing series information. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations.

[0011] First Embodiment [Configuration of the Radiation Inspection System] 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of a radiological examination system according to this embodiment. The radiological examination system 1 is a system for performing examinations by radiography, and includes a radiological image capturing device 100 according to this embodiment, a RIS 120, a PACS 130, and a medical image reference device 140. These devices are connected via a network 150 and can communicate with each other. The RIS (Radiology Information System) 120 is a so-called information system within the radiology department. The radiographic imaging device 100 performs radiography of the subject in accordance with the examination order received from the RIS 120, and generates medical image data by associating information (accompanying information) related to the radiographic image obtained by imaging. Thereafter, the radiographic imaging device 100 outputs the examination information including the generated medical image data to the PACS 130.

[0012] In this embodiment, the radiographic imaging device 100 generates medical image data in a file format with a data structure based on the DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standard. When generating the medical image data, the radiographic imaging device 100 adds series information that complies with the DICOM standard. The series information is identification information for groups called series, and medical images can be grouped based on the series information.

[0013] A PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) 130 is an image server that is a storage device that stores examination information. The medical image reference device 140 displays medical images included in the examination information stored in the PACS 130, and a doctor or radiologist refers to the display results to make the necessary diagnosis. When displaying medical images with series information attached, the medical image reference device 140 has a function of arranging and displaying medical images by series based on the series information. The network 150 is configured as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network), and may be a wired network or a wireless network.

[0014] In this embodiment, an example will be described in which a radiological image obtained by imaging a subject using radiation such as X-rays is applied as a medical image, but the present invention is not limited to this and other medical images can also be applied. The radiological image capturing device 100 is an example of a medical information processing device that generates and assigns series information to radiological images obtained by imaging a subject.

[0015] [Configuration of the Radiation Imaging Device] Next, details of the radiographic image capturing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. The radiographic image capturing device 100 is composed of a display unit 101, an operation unit 102, an imaging unit 103, a communication unit 104, a processing / control unit 110, and a storage unit 160, and these components are connected to each other by a bus 105. The display unit 101 is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like. The display unit 101 displays various images and various information under the control of a display control unit 111, which will be described later. The display content of the display unit 101 is presented to an operator (for example, a radiographer or a doctor). The operation unit 102 outputs information input by an operator to the processing and control unit 110. The operation unit 102 is composed of a mouse, operation buttons, etc. The display unit 101 and the operation unit 102 may be composed of a touch panel display that integrates these functions. The imaging unit 103 operates under the control of an imaging control unit 112, which will be described later, and images the subject using radiation. The communication unit 104 is an interface for connecting to and communicating with the network 150 .

[0016] The processing and control unit 110 is composed of a control device such as a CPU, and controls the entire radiographic imaging apparatus 100, and is also responsible for executing various processes (described later) performed by the radiographic imaging apparatus 100. The processing and control unit 110 has functions as a display control unit 111, an imaging control unit 112, a communication control unit 113, a grouping setting unit 114, a setting acquisition unit 115, and a grouping processing unit 116. Details of each functional unit will be described later. The storage unit 160 is configured with a storage device such as a ROM, a HDD, etc. The storage unit 160 stores programs. When the processing / control unit 110 executes the programs stored in the storage unit 160, the processing / control unit 110 functions as each functional unit shown in Fig. 1 and realizes the processing of the flowcharts described below.

[0017] The storage unit 160 also reserves a storage area for storing a setting storage unit 161 and an examination storage unit 162. The setting storage unit 161 stores setting information set using a grouping setting screen (FIG. 2) described later. This setting information relates to conditions for grouping medical images. The examination storage unit 162 associates radiographic images acquired from the imaging unit 103 with information (accompanying information) related to the radiographic images and stores them in a file format based on the DICOM standard. In this embodiment, the storage unit 160 is an example of a storage means.

[0018] Next, the operation of each functional unit of the processing and control unit 110 will be described. The display control unit 111 controls the display content of the display unit 101 based on information input from the operation unit 102 and the like. The imaging control unit 112 performs overall control related to radiation imaging of the subject. The imaging control unit 112 instructs the imaging unit 103 to start executing radiation imaging corresponding to at least one of the examination orders received from the RIS 120, and operates the imaging unit 103. The communication control unit 113 transmits and receives data to and from external devices connected to the network 150 via the communication unit 104. Specifically, the communication control unit 113 receives an examination order from the RIS 120. In addition, the communication control unit 113 transmits examination information including medical image data generated by the processing / control unit 110 to the PACS 130.

[0019] The grouping setting unit 114 sets conditions for grouping based on series information. Specifically, setting information according to the operation content on the grouping setting screen (FIG. 2) is stored in the setting storage unit 161. In this embodiment, the grouping setting unit 114 functions as a setting unit. The setting acquisition unit 115 acquires the above setting information from the setting storage unit 161 . When outputting the examination information, the grouping processing unit 116 groups the multiple radiation images to be output by assigning series information to each of the multiple radiation images to be output in accordance with the setting information acquired by the setting acquisition unit 115.

[0020] [Grouping condition settings] Next, a method for setting grouping conditions based on series information will be described in the radiographic imaging device 100. The radiographic imaging device 100 displays a grouping setting screen for setting grouping conditions on the display unit 101 under the control of the display control unit 111. The grouping setting screen is displayed as one of the system setting screens of the radiographic imaging device 100, for example. 2 shows an example of a grouping setting screen 500. The grouping setting screen 500 is provided with a timing setting section 510 for setting the timing for setting the grouping conditions, a condition setting section 520 for setting the grouping conditions, a confirm button 530, and a cancel button 540.

[0021] The operator operates the radio buttons 511 to 513 arranged in the timing setting section 510 via the operation section 102 to select one of the start of the examination, the end of the examination, and the system setting. When "at the start of examination" is selected by operating the radio button 511, the operation in the condition setting section 520 is invalid. Details of the process that is executed when "at the start of examination" is selected will be described later in the fourth embodiment. When "at the end of examination" is selected by operating the radio button 512, the operation in the condition setting section 520 is invalid. Details of the process that is executed when "at the end of examination" is selected will be described later in the second embodiment. When "System Settings" is selected by operating the radio button 513, the grouping setting unit 114 stores setting information according to the operation content in the condition setting unit 520 in the setting saving unit 161. In this embodiment, the following description will be given assuming that "System Settings" has been selected.

[0022] Radio buttons 521 to 523 are arranged for each settable grouping condition in the condition setting section 520. When "System Settings" is selected, the operator operates the radio buttons 521 to 523 via the operation section 102 to select one of the grouping conditions.

[0023] When "Scheduled Procedure Step (hereinafter referred to as SPS)" is selected by operating the radio button 521, grouping by SPS is set. In this embodiment, SPS is information indicating the type of imaging device (modality), such as digital X-ray imaging device (DR), computed radiography (CR), or angiographic X-ray diagnostic device (XA). In this case, the grouping processing unit 116 generates different series information for each SPS, and assigns the same series information to radiation images generated by the same SPS.

[0024] When "Protocol" is selected by operating the radio button 522, grouping by protocol is set. In this embodiment, a protocol is a set of predefined imaging conditions and image processing conditions used for radiography, and is an imaging protocol consisting of a combination of information such as the imaging region, imaging device, and patient orientation. In this case, the grouping processing unit 116 generates different series information for each protocol, and assigns the same series information to radiation images generated using the same protocol.

[0025] Furthermore, when "Protocol" is selected by operating the radio button 522, it becomes possible to turn on / off the check box 524. When the check box 524 is turned on, it is set that a duplicated image, which is created to perform additional image processing on a radiographic image acquired from the imaging unit 103, is grouped separately from the original image. When the check box 524 is turned off, it is set that the duplicated image is grouped in the same group as the original image, since it has been generated using the same protocol as the original image.

[0026] When "Image" is selected by operating the radio button 523, it is set to group each image into a different group. In this case, the grouping processing unit 116 generates different series information for each radiographic image and assigns the generated series information to each radiographic image.

[0027] As described above, the operator selects one of the grouping conditions: grouping by SPS, grouping by protocol, or grouping by image. Note that other settings may also be selectable.

[0028] After the operator has completed the necessary settings, when the operator presses the confirm button 530 via the operation unit 102, the grouping setting unit 114 stores the grouping conditions selected in the condition setting unit 520 as grouping settings in the setting storage unit 161. When the operator presses the cancel button 540 via the operation unit 102, the contents set on the grouping setting screen 500 are discarded, and the display of the grouping setting screen 500 ends. In this embodiment, series information is generated and assigned in accordance with the grouping settings stored in the setting storage unit 161.

[0029] [Test procedure] Next, the flow of an inspection by the radiological inspection system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. First, patient information and examination request information are input to the radiographic imaging device 100 by an examination request form or an examination order from the RIS 120. Here, the patient information includes information such as the patient name and patient ID, and the examination request information includes imaging information that specifies the content of imaging to be performed on the patient.

[0030] Next, the radiographic imaging device 100 displays a new examination input screen on the display unit 101 under the control of the display control unit 111. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a new examination input screen 200. The new examination input screen 200 shown in Fig. 3 is provided with a patient information input area 210, a patient information confirmation button 220, a requested examination list (examination order list) 230, a patient information display area 240, and an imaging information display area 250.

[0031] The requested examination list display area 230 displays a list of examination orders received from the RIS 120. The examination order received from the RIS 120 includes, for example, information on the subject (patient), imaging information including one or more imaging regions for the subject, and information (SPS) specifying the type of imaging device used for imaging. Next, for example, the operator selects one examination 231 from the requested examination list displayed in the requested examination list display area 230 via the operation unit 102. By this operation, patient information (patient ID, patient name, date of birth, etc.) corresponding to the patient of the selected examination 231 is displayed in the patient information display area 240. Furthermore, the examination ID of the selected examination 231 is displayed in the imaging information display area 250, and imaging information corresponding to the examination ID is displayed in the area directly below the area where the examination ID is displayed. This imaging information is received from the RIS 120 as described above. In the example shown in FIG. 3, a chest front button 251 and a head front button 252, which are imaging method buttons corresponding to the imaging information, are arranged.

[0032] 3 is provided with an imaging information input button 260 and an examination start button 270. For example, when the operator presses the imaging information input button 260 shown in FIG. 3 via the operation unit 102, the radiographic image capturing device 100 displays the imaging information input screen on the display unit 101. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a shooting information input screen 300. In Fig. 4, the same components as those shown in Fig. 3 are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0033] The imaging information input screen 300 shown in Fig. 4 has an imaging information input area 310 arranged in the patient information input area 210, the patient information confirmation button 220, and the requested examination list display area 230 of the new examination input screen 200 shown in Fig. 3. In the example of the imaging information input screen 300 shown in Fig. 3, a plurality of imaging method selection buttons 311 are displayed in the imaging information input area 310, and an imaging method can be added by selecting one of these. The added imaging method is then displayed in the imaging information display area 250 alongside a chest front button 251 and a head front button 252. Each imaging method is associated with an imaging method ID. The imaging method corresponds to a protocol in this embodiment.

[0034] Then, after the operator checks the patient information and imaging information displayed on the display unit 101, for example, when the operator presses the examination start button 270 via the operation unit 102, the radiographic imaging device 100 confirms the examination to be performed. Then, in response to the pressing of the examination start button 270, the radiographic imaging device 100 displays an imaging screen on the display unit 101. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an imaging screen 400. The imaging screen 400 shown in Fig. 5 is a screen used during imaging, and the same components as those shown in Fig. 3 are assigned the same reference numerals. The imaging screen 400 shown in FIG. 5 includes an image display area 410, an image processing operation area 420, a patient information display area 240, an imaging information display area 250, an imaging information input button 260, and an examination end button 460.

[0035] 5 is displayed on the display unit 101, the chest front button 251, which is the imaging method button located at the top in the imaging information display area 250, is selected by default. Accordingly, the imaging control unit 112 controls the imaging unit 103 in accordance with the imaging conditions set corresponding to the imaging method button (imaging method) and the SPS included in the examination order, to prepare for radiation imaging.

[0036] Next, the operator confirms the imaging method displayed on the display unit 101, and then performs imaging settings and patient positioning to complete a series of imaging preparations. Next, when the operator performs an operation to instruct the start of radiography on the operation unit 102, the imaging control unit 112 detects this. The imaging control unit 112 then causes a radiation generator (not shown), which is one of the components of the imaging unit 103, to irradiate radiation toward the subject, and causes a radiation detection device (not shown), which is also one of the components of the imaging unit 103, to detect the radiation that has passed through the subject. In this manner, a radiographic image of the subject is captured. Then, when imaging is completed, the imaging control unit 112 acquires a radiographic image (radiographic image signal) from the imaging unit 103. The imaging control unit 112 can also perform composite imaging to obtain a tomosynthesis image or a long image capturing a wide range, such as the entire spine or entire lower limbs. When composite imaging is performed, multiple radiographic images are acquired from the imaging unit 103.

[0037] The radiography control unit 112 then performs image processing on the acquired radiographic image based on predetermined image processing conditions. The predetermined image processing conditions are predefined, for example, in accordance with the radiography method. When the image processing is completed, the radiographic image capturing device 100 displays the processed radiographic image in the image display area 410 and stores the image in the examination storage unit 162 in association with the radiography method (protocol) and SPS.

[0038] When composite imaging is performed as described above, the imaging control unit 112 generates a composite image by combining the acquired multiple radiographic images. The radiographic imaging device 100 displays the composite image in the image display area 410, and stores the source images and the composite image as an image generated by composite imaging in the examination storage unit 162. The same imaging method (protocol) is associated with each of the images generated by composite imaging.

[0039] Then, when the operator wishes to change the image processing of the radiographic image displayed in the image display area 410, such as rotating, flipping, cropping, adjusting contrast, or adjusting brightness, the operator operates a button provided in the image processing operation area 420. In response to the button operation, the radiography control unit 112 performs additional image processing on the radiographic image displayed in the image display area 410. The radiographic image capturing device 100 displays the radiographic image that has undergone the additional image processing in the image display area 410, and also stores the image as a duplicated image in the examination storage unit 162. The duplicated image is associated with the same capturing method (protocol) as the original image.

[0040] The operator repeats the above-described procedure to perform imaging using all imaging methods in the imaging information display area 250. When all imaging is completed, the operator presses the examination end button 460. This ends the series of examinations, and the radiographic imaging device 100 again displays the new examination input screen 200 shown in FIG. 3 on the display unit 101. The processing / control unit 110 associates the examination details, imaging conditions, series information, etc. as supplementary information with the radiographic images stored in the examination storage unit 162 that were not treated as imaging errors, and generates medical image data. The communication control unit 113 controls the communication unit 104 to transmit the examination information including the generated medical image data to a storage device such as the PACS 130.

[0041] [Grouping process] Next, the grouping process executed by the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8. FIG. 6(a) is a flowchart showing an example of the grouping process. The process of the flowchart in FIG. 6(a) is started in response to an instruction to output examination information, for example, when the examination end button 460 on the imaging screen 400 in FIG. 5 is pressed. Note that a separate examination output button may be provided, for example, between the imaging information input button 260 and the examination end button 460 on the imaging screen 400 in FIG. 5, and the flowchart in FIG. 6(a) may be started when the examination output button is pressed. Each of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is realized by the processing / control unit 110 executing a program stored in the storage unit 160. Hereinafter, each process (step) of the flowchart will be described with an S (step) added to the beginning of its reference numeral.

[0042] In this embodiment, it is assumed that before the start of the flowchart of Fig. 6(a), a process is performed to associate information about the radiographic image (such as the examination details, imaging conditions, etc., in addition to the series information) with the radiographic image stored in the examination storage unit 162. The association process may be performed at any timing in the flowchart of Fig. 6(a) as long as it is performed before the execution of the output process (S106) to the storage device.

[0043] First, in S101, the grouping processing unit 116 selects one SPS in the examination to be output as the target. Then, from the radiographic images stored in the examination storage unit 162, the first image belonging to the target SPS is taken as the target image, and new series information to be assigned to the target image is generated. Next, the process skips S102 and proceeds to S103. In this case, in S103, the grouping processing unit 116 assigns the series information generated in S101 to the target image. Thereafter, in S104, the grouping processing unit 116 takes the next image from the radiographic images belonging to the target SPS as the target image, and the process proceeds to S102. In S102, the grouping processing unit 116 performs a process of generating series information. The process of generating series information will be described with reference to FIG.

[0044] FIG. 6(b) is a flowchart showing the details of the process for generating series information, which is executed in S102 of FIG. 6(a). First, in S201, the setting acquisition unit 115 acquires the grouping setting from the setting storage unit 161. The timing for acquiring the grouping setting may be when the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 is started up, or when the flowchart of Fig. 6(a) starts, etc. In this embodiment, the setting acquisition unit 115 functions as an acquisition unit. Next, the grouping processing unit 116 executes a protocol-specific grouping process (S202), a duplicated image grouping process (S203), and a composite photography grouping process (S204) in accordance with the grouping settings acquired in S201. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S103 in FIG. 6(a). Details of the processes of S202 to S204 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

[0045] First, the protocol-specific grouping process (S202) will be described. Fig. 7(a) is a flowchart showing the details of the protocol-specific grouping process (S202). In S301, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether or not a setting has been made to group each image separately based on the grouping setting acquired in S201. If a setting has been made to group each image separately, the process proceeds to S304; if not, the process proceeds to S302.

[0046] In S302, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether or not a setting for grouping by protocol has been made based on the grouping setting acquired in S201. If a setting for grouping by protocol has been made, the process proceeds to S303; otherwise, it is determined that a setting for grouping by SPS has been made, and the process proceeds to S305.

[0047] In S303, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether the protocol of the target image is different from the protocol of the previously selected image (previous image). If the protocol of the target image is different from the protocol of the previous image (for example, if imaging is performed using multiple protocols in one examination), the process proceeds to S304. If the protocol of the target image is the same as the protocol of the previous image (for example, if imaging is performed multiple times using one protocol through composite imaging), the process proceeds to S305.

[0048] In S304, the grouping processing unit 116 generates new series information. As a result, if grouping is set for each protocol, different series information is generated for each protocol. Also, if grouping is set for each image, different series information is generated for each image. Then, the process proceeds to S203. In S305, the grouping processing unit 116 acquires the series information of the previous image. As a result, if grouping by protocol is set, series information of images with the same protocol is acquired. Also, if grouping by SPS is set, series information of the first image in the target SPS is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to S203.

[0049] The radiographic imaging device 100 sequentially and repeatedly executes the above-described grouping process by protocol for the radiographic images belonging to the target SPS. This makes it possible to group by protocol or to group each image separately, depending on the settings.

[0050] Next, the duplicate image grouping process (S203) will be described. Fig. 7(b) is a flowchart showing the details of the duplicate image grouping process (S203). Note that the process of the flowchart shown in Fig. 7(b) is a process that is executed when a setting is made to group images by protocol. In S401, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether the target image is a duplicate image. If it is a duplicate image, the process proceeds to S402, and if it is not a duplicate image, the subsequent steps are skipped and the process proceeds to S204.

[0051] In S402, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether or not a setting for grouping duplicate images and original images into different groups is enabled. If the setting for grouping duplicate images and original images into different groups is enabled, the process proceeds to S403; if not, the process proceeds to S404. In S403, the grouping processing unit 116 generates new series information. As a result, series information different from that of the original image is generated for the duplicated image. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S204. In S404, the grouping processing unit 116 acquires series information of the source image. Note that if the series information of the source image has already been acquired by the process of S305, this step may be skipped. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S204.

[0052] According to the above-described duplicate image grouping process, when grouping for each protocol, it is possible to switch, depending on the settings, whether duplicate images and original images are grouped in different groups or in the same group.

[0053] Next, the composite photography grouping process (S204) will be described. Fig. 7(c) is a flowchart showing the details of the composite photography grouping process (S204). In this flowchart, series information to be assigned to images generated by composite photography (each original image and the composite image) is generated. In S501, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether the target image is an image generated by composite photography. If the target image is an image generated by composite photography, the process proceeds to S502. If the target image is not an image generated by composite photography, the process skips the subsequent steps and proceeds to S103 in FIG. 6(a). In S502, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether or not a setting has been made to group each image separately based on the grouping setting acquired in S201. If a setting has been made to group each image separately, the process proceeds to S503; if not, the process proceeds to S504.

[0054] In S503, the grouping processing unit 116 generates new series information. As a result, different series information is generated for each of the original images and the combined image. Note that if series information for each image has already been generated by the processing in S304, this step may be skipped. The processing then proceeds to S103 in FIG. 6(a). In S504, the grouping processing unit 116 acquires series information for the composite image. Specifically, if the target image is the first image of the original images, new series information is generated, and if the target image is the second or subsequent image of the original images, the series information for the first image in the same composite image is acquired. Also, if the target image is a composite image, the series information for the original images is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to S103 in FIG. 6(a).

[0055] The composite photography grouping process described above makes it possible to switch between whether a series of images (composite image group) generated by composite photography is grouped into separate groups for each image or into the same group, depending on the settings.

[0056] Next, we return to the explanation of FIG. 6(a). In S103, the grouping processing unit 116 assigns the series information generated or acquired in the process of generating series information (S102) to the target image. In this embodiment, the grouping processing unit 116 functions as a grouping unit. Next, in S104, the grouping processing unit 116 sequentially and repeatedly executes the process of generating series information (S102) and the process of assigning series information (S103) for images belonging to the target SPS. When the processes of S102 and S103 are completed for all images belonging to the target SPS, the process proceeds to S105.

[0057] In S105, the grouping processing unit 116 determines whether the processes of S102 and S103 have been completed for all images in the examination to be output. If there are images in the examination to be output that have not yet been processed in S102 and S103, processing proceeds to S101 for each unprocessed SPS in the examination, and the grouping processing unit 116 generates new series information. This generates different series information for each SPS. Furthermore, if grouping by SPS is configured, in the processes of S102 and S103, the series information generated in S101 is acquired and assigned to all images belonging to the target SPS. In other words, grouping by SPS is possible depending on the settings. Then, when the processes of S102 and S103 have been completed for all images in the examination to be output, processing proceeds to S106.

[0058] In S106, the communication control unit 113 transmits all images in the examination to which supplementary information including series information has been added to the PACS 130. In this embodiment, the processes of S101 to S105 are performed for all images in the examination, and after all the images have been grouped, the communication control unit 113 controls so that examination information including all the images is output to the PACS 130 as a storage device. In this embodiment, the communication control unit 113 functions as an output control means. Thereafter, the series of processes in the flowchart ends.

[0059] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of grouping performed in accordance with grouping settings. FIGS. 8(a) to 8(d) illustrate a case where images 801 to 805 are grouped. Image 801 is a photographed image of the front of the head. Image 802 is a duplicated image of image 801. Image 803 is the first photographed image obtained by composite photography. Image 804 is the second photographed image obtained by composite photography. Image 805 is a composite image of images 803 and 804. Images 801 to 805 are generated using the same SPS. Images 803 to 805 are generated using a different protocol from images 801 to 802. In FIGS. 8(a) to 8(d), the grouping process shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 is performed on images 801 to 805, and series numbers are assigned as an example of series information.

[0060] 8(a) is a diagram showing the grouping results when the setting is made to group by SPS. Images 801 to 805 are assigned the series number "1." With this setting, images 801 to 805 are all classified into the same group. 8(b) is a diagram showing the grouping results when grouping is set for each protocol. Images 801 to 802 are assigned the series number "1," and images 803 to 805 are assigned the series number "2." With this setting, images 801 to 805 are grouped for each protocol.

[0061] 8(c) shows the grouping results when the setting for grouping by protocol is enabled and the setting for grouping duplicated images and original images into separate groups is enabled. Image 801 is assigned the series number "1," image 802 is assigned the series number "2," and images 803 to 805 are assigned the series number "3." With this setting, images are grouped by protocol, but duplicated images are classified into a different group from the original images. 8(d) is a diagram showing the grouping results when a setting is made to group images. Images 801 to 805 are assigned series numbers "1" to "5," respectively. With this setting, images 801 to 805 are classified into different groups. Therefore, the images generated by composite photography are also classified into different groups.

[0062] As described above, when outputting radiographic images obtained during an examination to a storage device such as a PACS 130, the radiographic imaging device 100 according to this embodiment generates and assigns series information to each image according to the set grouping conditions, thereby grouping the images. This allows, for example, by using grouping conditions appropriate for the intended purpose, when referring to medical images stored in a PACS 130 or the like using a medical image referencing device 140, a user of the medical image referencing device 140 can compare and reference medical images without having to perform grouping operations. Furthermore, even in a medical image referencing device 140 that does not support grouping operations, appropriately grouped medical images can be compared and referenced. As described above, this embodiment allows for smooth and appropriate grouping of medical images. In other words, it facilitates comparative interpretation by doctors during diagnosis.

[0063] In the above description, a configuration in which the grouping settings are acquired from the setting storage unit 161 has been exemplified, but as a first modified example of this embodiment, the grouping settings may be acquired from a storage device such as the PACS 130. In this case, for example, the radiographic image capturing apparatus 100 acquires the grouping settings from the PACS 130 via the network 150, and performs grouping in accordance with the acquired grouping settings. In this embodiment, the PACS 130 has a setting means for setting conditions for grouping based on series information, and a storage means for storing the grouping settings set by the setting means.

[0064] As a second modification of this embodiment, when a plurality of PACSs are connected to the network 150 of the radiological examination system 1, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 may store different grouping settings for each PACS. In this case, for example, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100, with one of the connected PACSs designated, displays on the display unit 101 a grouping setting screen 500 in which the timing setting unit 510 is hidden under the control of the display control unit 111. The grouping setting unit 114 associates the grouping setting set on the grouping setting screen 500 with the designated PACS and stores it in the setting storage unit 161. As a result, the setting storage unit 161 stores the grouping setting for each PACS. In this case, for example, when outputting examination information, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 acquires from the setting storage unit 161 a grouping setting corresponding to the PACS to which the examination information is to be output, and performs grouping according to the acquired grouping setting.

[0065] <Second embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description of the second embodiment, matters common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will focus on matters different from the first embodiment.

[0066] The schematic configuration of a radiological inspection system including a radiological image capturing apparatus according to the second embodiment is similar to the schematic configuration of the radiological inspection system 1 including the radiological image capturing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1. In the first embodiment described above, a method of grouping in accordance with set grouping conditions was explained. In contrast, in the second embodiment, a method in which an operator can check and change the grouping results will be explained.

[0067] When setting the grouping conditions according to this embodiment, the operator selects "at the end of examination" in the timing setting section 510 on the grouping setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 2. In this case, it becomes possible to check and change the grouping when the examination information is output. Note that the grouping setting screen 500 may not be provided with the timing setting section 510, and may instead be configured so that it is possible to check and change the grouping when the examination information is output. The examination flow in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] Next, the grouping process executed by the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described. Similar to the first embodiment, this grouping process is initiated in response to an instruction to output examination information. Specifically, when the End Examination button 460 on the imaging screen 400 of FIG. 5 is pressed, the processing / control unit 110 associates, as auxiliary information, the examination details, imaging conditions, series information, and the like with images that have not been treated as failures among the radiographic images stored in the examination storage unit 162. As a screen for displaying the results of grouping based on the series information as auxiliary information, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 displays a grouping display screen on the display unit 101 under the control of the display control unit 111. For example, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 executes the processes of S101 to S105 of FIG. 6(a) according to the default grouping settings, and displays the grouping display screen before executing the process of S106.

[0069] Fig. 9 shows an example of a grouping display screen 900. In the grouping display screen 900 shown in Fig. 9, the same components as those shown in Fig. 5 are assigned the same reference numerals. The grouping display screen 900 shown in Fig. 9 is provided with a patient information display area 240, a change input window 910, a captured image display area 950, a capture information input button 260, and an examination end button 460. Note that the change input window 910 is not displayed in the initial state.

[0070] The photographed image display area 950 corresponds to the photographing information display area 250 of the photographing screen 400 shown in FIG. 5. The photographed image display area 950 displays images photographed for each photographing method displayed in the photographing information display area 250. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the photographed image display area 950 displays a chest front image display area 951 that displays a group of images generated in response to the chest front button 251, and a head front image display area 952 that displays a group of images generated in response to the head front button 252. A display item 960 indicating the series number currently assigned to each image is superimposed on each image displayed in the photographed image display area 950. The series number is an example of series information. Note that the display configuration of the photographed image display area is not limited to the display configuration shown in FIG. 9, as long as the correspondence between each photographed image and the series number assigned to that image is visible.

[0071] In this embodiment, the default grouping setting is to group by protocol, and therefore the series number generated and assigned for each protocol is displayed as an initial value in the display item 960. Note that the default grouping setting is not limited to grouping by protocol, and may be grouping by SPS or a different group for each image.

[0072] Next, for example, when the operator selects one display item 961 from the display items displayed on each image in the captured image display area 950 via the operation unit 102, the change input window 910 described above is displayed on the grouping display screen 900. The change input window 910 is provided with a number display section 920, a number change section 930, a confirm button 940, and a cancel button 941.

[0073] The number display section 920 displays the series number currently assigned to the selected image. When changing the grouping, the operator operates the number change section 930 via the operation section 102 to select the series number to which the change is to be made. When the change is complete and the confirm button 940 is pressed, the grouping processing section 116 changes the series number assigned to the selected image to the series number selected in the number change section 930. In addition, the series number displayed in the display item 961 is updated to the changed series number. When the cancel button 750 is pressed, the display control section 111 discards the operation content in the change input window 910 and closes the change input window 910. In this way, the operator checks and changes the series number assigned to each image in the examination to be output. When the End Examination button 460 on the grouping display screen 900 in Figure 9 is pressed, the communication control unit 113 transmits all images in the examination to which supplementary information including series information has been assigned to the PACS 130.

[0074] As described above, according to this embodiment, when test information is output, the operator can confirm and change the grouping results. This allows for grouping appropriate for each test, making it easier for doctors to compare and interpret images when making a diagnosis.

[0075] In the above explanation, an example is shown in which series information is changed for each image when outputting examination information, but the method of changing series information is not limited to this, and a configuration in which series information is changed for each protocol or for each SPS is also possible.

[0076] As a modified example of this embodiment, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 may, at the end of the examination, display the grouping setting screen 500 with the timing setting unit 510 hidden under the control of the display control unit 111. In this case, the grouping processing unit 116 performs grouping by generating and assigning series information in accordance with the settings on the grouping setting screen 500. In this modified example, grouping is performed in accordance with the grouping conditions set at the end of the examination.

[0077] <Third embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description of the third embodiment, matters common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will focus on matters different from the first embodiment.

[0078] The schematic configuration of a radiological inspection system including a radiological image capturing apparatus according to the third embodiment is similar to the schematic configuration of the radiological inspection system 1 including the radiological image capturing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1. In the first embodiment described above, a method of grouping images by applying the same grouping setting to all images in an examination has been described. In contrast, in the third embodiment, a method of grouping images by applying grouping settings set for each protocol will be described.

[0079] In this embodiment, when setting grouping conditions, settings are made for each protocol using a protocol setting screen (not shown). When setting for each protocol, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 displays a grouping setting screen 500 on the display unit 101, with the timing setting unit 510 hidden, under the control of the display control unit 111. The grouping setting unit 114 associates the grouping setting made on the grouping setting screen 500 with the target protocol and stores it in the setting storage unit 161. As a result, the grouping setting is stored for each protocol in the setting storage unit 161. Note that the flow of examination in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0080] Next, the grouping process executed by the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described. This grouping process is initiated in response to an instruction to output examination information, similar to the first embodiment. The difference from the first embodiment is that in S201 of FIG. 6(b), when acquiring grouping settings, the setting acquisition unit 115 acquires grouping settings corresponding to the protocol of the target image from the setting storage unit 161. Then, in the subsequent processing of the flowchart, processing is executed to generate and assign series information to the target image in accordance with the acquired grouping settings.

[0081] According to the grouping process of this embodiment as described above, images of protocols set to be grouped by SPS are assigned the same series information as images of other protocols within the same SPS. Furthermore, images of protocols set to be grouped by protocol and images of protocols set to be grouped into separate groups for each image are assigned series information generated for each protocol and series information generated for each image, as in the first embodiment.

[0082] As described above, according to this embodiment, by applying grouping conditions set for each protocol, it is possible to perform grouping appropriate for each protocol, which makes it easier for doctors to perform comparative interpretation during diagnosis.

[0083] <Fourth embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description of the fourth embodiment, matters common to the first embodiment will be omitted, and the description will focus on matters different from the first embodiment.

[0084] The schematic configuration of a radiological inspection system including a radiological image capturing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment is similar to the schematic configuration of the radiological inspection system 1 including the radiological image capturing apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1. In the first embodiment described above, a method of performing grouping according to grouping conditions set in advance was explained. In contrast, in the fourth embodiment, a method of performing grouping according to grouping conditions set at the start of the examination will be explained.

[0085] When setting the grouping conditions according to this embodiment, the operator selects "at the start of examination" in the timing setting unit 510 on the grouping setting screen 500 shown in FIG. 2. In this case, when starting an examination, the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 displays the grouping setting screen 500, with the timing setting unit 510 hidden, on the display unit 101 under the control of the display control unit 111. The grouping setting unit 114 stores the grouping settings set on the grouping setting screen 500 in the setting storage unit 161. Note that the grouping setting screen 500 may not be provided with the timing setting unit 510, and the grouping conditions may be set when starting an examination. The flow of the examination in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0086] Next, the grouping process executed by the radiographic imaging apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described. This grouping process is started in response to an instruction to output examination information, similar to the first embodiment. The difference from the first embodiment is that in S201 of FIG. 6(b), the setting acquisition unit 115 acquires the grouping settings that were set when the examination started from the setting storage unit 161. Then, in the subsequent processing of the flowchart, a process is executed to generate and assign series information to the target images in accordance with the acquired grouping settings.

[0087] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to perform grouping appropriate for each examination in accordance with the grouping conditions set when the examination is started. In other words, comparative interpretation by a doctor during diagnosis becomes easier.

[0088] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to various embodiments, these embodiments are merely illustrative of specific examples of how the present invention can be implemented, and the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited by these embodiments. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from its technical concept or main features.

[0089] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1: Radiation inspection system, 100: Radiation image capturing device, 101: Display unit, 102: Operation unit, 103: Capture unit, 104: Communication unit, 110: Processing and control unit, 120: RIS, 130: PACS, 140: Medical image reference device, 160: Storage unit

Claims

1. a setting means for selecting setting information to be used from among a plurality of setting information indicating grouping conditions for a plurality of medical images generated by imaging a subject before generating the medical images, and setting the setting information as a grouping condition for the plurality of medical images; a grouping unit that groups the plurality of medical images by assigning identification information for identifying the group to each of the plurality of medical images in accordance with the set setting information; A medical information processing device comprising:

2. If the setting information is set to group by imaging protocol, 2. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the grouping means generates different identification information for each imaging protocol, and assigns the same identification information to medical images generated using the same imaging protocol.

3. Even if the set setting information is set to group by imaging protocol, if it is set to group the duplicated images generated by duplicating the medical images and the original images that are the original medical images, 3. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the grouping means generates and assigns to the duplicated images the identification information that is different from that of the original image.

4. If the setting information is set to group each medical image into a different group, 4. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the grouping means generates and assigns different identification information to each medical image.

5. 5. The medical information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the grouping means generates and assigns the same identification information to a composite image generated by combining multiple medical images and a group of composite images consisting of the medical images that are the source of the composite image.

6. If the setting information is set to group each medical image into a different group, 6. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the grouping means generates and assigns different identification information to each image included in the composite image group.

7. If the set setting information is set to group by type of imaging device, 7. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the grouping means generates different identification information for each type of imaging device, and assigns the same identification information to medical images generated by the same type of imaging device.

8. 8. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting means sets the grouping conditions at the start or end of an examination of the subject.

9. 9. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a storage unit for storing setting information indicating the grouping conditions.

10. 10. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the storage means stores the setting information for each imaging protocol.

11. 11. A medical information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising an output control means for controlling the output of examination information including the plurality of medical images to which the identification information has been assigned to a storage device after the plurality of medical images have been grouped.

12. The method further includes a storage unit that stores setting information indicating the grouping conditions for each of the storage devices that are output destinations, 12. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the setting unit acquires the setting information corresponding to the storage device as the output destination from the storage unit.

13. 12. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the setting unit acquires setting information indicating the grouping conditions from the storage device that is the output destination.

14. a display control unit that controls display of the plurality of medical images in association with the identification information assigned to each medical image after grouping the plurality of medical images; the grouping means changes the identification information assigned to the displayed medical image in response to an operation by an operator; 14. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein after the change is made, the output control means controls the test information to be output to the storage device.

15. 15. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification information is series information of the DICOM standard.

16. 16. The medical information processing apparatus according to claim 1, which is a radiological image capturing apparatus that captures medical images using radiation.

17. a setting step of selecting setting information to be used from a plurality of setting information indicating grouping conditions for a plurality of medical images generated by imaging a subject before generating the medical images, and setting the setting information as a grouping condition for the plurality of medical images; a grouping step of grouping the plurality of medical images by assigning identification information for identifying the group to each of the plurality of medical images in accordance with the set setting information; A medical information processing method comprising:

18. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the medical information processing method according to claim 17.

Images