Image processing device, image processing system and program

Abstract

To provide an image processing device, an image processing system, and a program capable of creating an excellent radar chart according to a disease and an observation site, which are analysis targets.SOLUTION: An image processing device (console 3 for diagnosis) includes: an acquisition unit (control unit 31) for acquiring a medical image acquired by examining a subject; a calculation unit (control unit 31) for calculating values of evaluation items on the basis of the medical image; a setting unit (control unit 31) for setting a plurality of target evaluation items out of the plurality of evaluation items; a creation unit (control unit 31) for creating a radar chart using values of the evaluation items set by the setting unit; and an output unit (control unit 31) for outputting the radar chart.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image processing device, an image processing system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, doctors and others evaluate (predict disease and understand functional information) by analyzing X-ray images to find parameters (features) corresponding to diseases, respiratory function, etc., and then checking whether the results show similar trends for each disease, respiratory function, etc. In particular, dynamic analysis using dynamic images obtained by dynamic imaging allows for checking trends using time-series information as parameters.

[0003] Furthermore, since the body is subject to complex control and evaluation using only a single parameter is difficult, a radar chart display that displays multiple parameters has also been proposed (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-63328 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, each observed area and disease has its own characteristics, and the radar chart display with fixed parameters as shown in Patent Document 1 cannot be widely used in normal clinical practice.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an image processing device, an image processing system, and a program that can create a suitable radar chart depending on the disease to be analyzed and the observation site. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the image processing device of the present invention comprises: Obtained by inspecting the subject It is a dynamic image an acquisition unit for acquiring medical images; a setting unit that sets a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; The evaluation items set by the setting unit calculation a generating unit that generates a radar chart using the values; The radar chart , together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image, on the same screen. an output unit that outputs the signal; The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0008] The image processing system of the present invention further comprises: It is a dynamic image An image processing system including an inspection device that acquires medical images and an image processing device connected to the inspection device, an acquisition unit that acquires medical images from the inspection device; a setting unit that sets a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; The evaluation items set by the setting unit calculation a generating unit that generates a radar chart using the values; The radar chart , together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image, on the same screen. an output unit that outputs the signal; The present invention is characterized by comprising:

[0009] The program of the present invention also includes: The image processing device computer, Obtained by inspecting the subject It is a dynamic image an acquisition unit for acquiring medical images; a setting unit for setting a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; The evaluation items set by the setting unit calculation a generator that generates a radar chart using the values; The radar chart , together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image, on the same screen. an output unit that outputs the signal; Function as. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, a suitable radar chart can be created depending on the disease to be analyzed and the observation site. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 10 is a flowchart showing a shooting control process. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a report creation process. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radar chart item setting screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a measurement result display screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a measurement result display screen. [Figure 7] This is an example of a radar chart pattern. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a radar chart display. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a radar chart item setting screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the correspondence between image analysis programs and measurable items (radar chart items). [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a dynamic image in which a cardiac ROI is used as an analysis region. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a still image. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasound image. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0013] [Configuration of image processing system 100] First, the configuration of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of an image processing system 100 according to this embodiment. 1, the image processing system 100 is configured such that an imaging device 1 and an imaging console 2 are connected by a communication cable or the like, and the imaging console 2 and a diagnostic console 3 are connected via a communication network NT such as a LAN (Local Area Network). Each device constituting the image processing system 100 conforms to the DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard, and communication between the devices is performed in accordance with DICOM.

[0014] [Configuration of the imaging device 1] The imaging device 1 is an imaging means for capturing (dynamic imaging) the dynamics of a living body, such as changes in the shape of lung expansion and contraction due to breathing, heartbeat, etc. Dynamic imaging refers to obtaining multiple images showing the dynamics of a subject by repeatedly irradiating the subject with pulsed radiation such as X-rays at predetermined time intervals (pulse irradiation) or by continuously irradiating the subject with a low dose rate without interruption (continuous irradiation). A series of images obtained by dynamic imaging is called a dynamic image (medical image). Each of the multiple images constituting a dynamic image is called a frame image. Dynamic images include moving images, but do not include images obtained by capturing still images while displaying a moving image. In the following embodiment, an example of dynamic imaging of the chest using pulse irradiation will be described.

[0015] The radiation source 11 is disposed at a position facing the radiation detection unit 13 across the subject M (examinee), and irradiates the subject M with radiation (X-rays) under the control of the radiation irradiation control device 12. The radiation irradiation control device 12 is connected to the imaging console 2 and controls the radiation source 11 to perform radiation imaging based on radiation irradiation conditions input from the imaging console 2. The radiation irradiation conditions input from the imaging console 2 include, for example, a pulse rate, a pulse width, a pulse interval, the number of imaging frames per imaging, the value of the X-ray tube current, the value of the X-ray tube voltage, and the type of additional filter. The pulse rate is the number of radiation irradiations per second and corresponds to the frame rate described below. The pulse width is the radiation irradiation time per radiation irradiation. The pulse interval is the time from the start of one radiation irradiation to the start of the next radiation irradiation and corresponds to the frame interval described below.

[0016] The radiation detection unit 13 is composed of a semiconductor image sensor such as an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The FPD has, for example, a glass substrate or the like, and a plurality of detection elements (pixels) are arranged in a matrix at predetermined positions on the substrate. The detection elements detect radiation emitted from the radiation source 11 and transmitted through at least the subject M according to its intensity, and convert the detected radiation into an electrical signal and store it. Each pixel is equipped with a switching unit such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor). FPDs can be of an indirect conversion type, in which X-rays are converted into an electrical signal by a photoelectric conversion element via a scintillator, or a direct conversion type, in which X-rays are directly converted into an electrical signal, and either type may be used. The radiation detection unit 13 is disposed opposite the radiation source 11 with the subject M interposed therebetween.

[0017] The reading control device 14 is connected to the imaging console 2. The reading control device 14 controls the switching units of each pixel of the radiation detection unit 13 based on the image reading conditions input from the imaging console 2, switches the reading of the electrical signals accumulated in each pixel, and acquires image data by reading the electrical signals accumulated in the radiation detection unit 13. This image data is a frame image. The pixel signal values ​​of the frame image represent density values. The reading control device 14 then outputs the acquired frame images to the imaging console 2. The image reading conditions include, for example, the frame rate, frame interval, pixel size, image size (matrix size), etc. The frame rate is the number of frame images acquired per second and coincides with the pulse rate. The frame interval is the time from the start of acquisition of one frame image to the start of acquisition of the next frame image and coincides with the pulse interval.

[0018] The radiation irradiation control device 12 and the reading control device 14 are connected to each other and exchange synchronization signals with each other to synchronize the radiation irradiation operation and the image reading operation.

[0019] [Configuration of imaging console 2] The imaging console 2 outputs radiation irradiation conditions and image reading conditions to the imaging device 1 to control the radiation imaging and radiation image reading operations by the imaging device 1, and also displays dynamic images acquired by the imaging device 1 so that the imaging technician or other person performing the imaging can check the positioning and whether the images are suitable for diagnosis. As shown in FIG. 1, the radiography console 2 comprises a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, an operation unit 23, a display unit 24, and a communication unit 25, and each unit is connected by a bus .

[0020] The control unit 21 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. In response to an operation of the operation unit 23, the CPU of the control unit 21 reads out a system program and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 22 and loads them into the RAM, and executes various processes including an imaging control process described below in accordance with the loaded programs, thereby centrally controlling the operation of each unit of the imaging console 2 and the radiation irradiation operation and reading operation of the imaging device 1.

[0021] The storage unit 22 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs executed by the control unit 21, parameters required for executing processes by the programs, data such as processing results, etc. For example, the storage unit 22 stores a program for executing the imaging control process shown in FIG. 2. The storage unit 22 also stores radiation irradiation conditions and image reading conditions in association with the region to be examined (here, the chest). The various programs are stored in the form of readable program code, and the control unit 21 sequentially executes operations in accordance with the program code.

[0022] The operation unit 23 is configured with a keyboard having cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse, and outputs instruction signals input by operating the keys on the keyboard or the mouse to the control unit 21. The operation unit 23 may also have a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 24, and in this case, outputs instruction signals input via the touch panel to the control unit 21.

[0023] The display unit 24 is composed of a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and displays input instructions and data from the operation unit 23 according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 21.

[0024] The communication unit 25 includes a LAN adapter, a modem, a TA (Terminal Adapter), etc., and controls data transmission and reception between each device connected to the communication network NT.

[0025] [Configuration of Diagnostic Console 3] The diagnostic console 3 is a dynamic image processing device that acquires dynamic images from the imaging console 2, performs image processing on the acquired dynamic images, displays them, and calculates feature amounts (parameters). As shown in FIG. 1, the diagnostic console 3 comprises a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an operation unit 33, a display unit , and a communication unit , and each unit is connected by a bus .

[0026] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU, RAM, etc. In response to operations on the operation unit 33, the CPU of the control unit 31 reads out system programs and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 32 and loads them into the RAM, and executes various processes including a report creation process described below in accordance with the loaded programs, thereby centrally controlling the operations of each unit of the diagnostic console 3. The control unit 31 functions as an acquisition unit, a calculation unit, a setting unit, a generation unit, and an output unit.

[0027] The storage unit 32 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 32 stores various programs, including programs for executing various processes in the control unit 31, parameters required for executing processes by the programs, data such as processing results, etc. These various programs are stored in the form of readable program code, and the control unit 31 sequentially executes operations in accordance with the program code.

[0028] Additionally, the memory unit 32 stores dynamic images captured in the past in association with an identification ID, patient information (subject information, such as patient ID, patient (subject) name, height, weight, age, gender, etc.), examination information (such as examination ID, examination date, examination target area (here, chest), respiratory status, etc.), etc.

[0029] The operation unit 33 is configured with a keyboard having cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse, and outputs instruction signals input by the user through key operations on the keyboard or mouse operations to the control unit 31. The operation unit 33 may also be provided with a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 34, and in this case, outputs instruction signals input via the touch panel to the control unit 31.

[0030] The display unit 34 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD or CRT, and performs various displays according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 31.

[0031] The communication unit 35 includes a LAN adapter, a modem, a TA, etc., and controls data transmission and reception between each device connected to the communication network NT.

[0032] [Operation of Image Processing System 100] Next, the operation of the image processing system 100 in this embodiment will be described.

[0033] (Operation of imaging device 1 and imaging console 2) First, the imaging operation performed by the imaging device 1 and the imaging console 2 will be described. 2 shows an imaging control process executed in the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2. The imaging control process is executed by the control unit 21 in cooperation with a program stored in the storage unit 22.

[0034] First, the person performing the imaging (radiographer) operates the operation unit 23 of the imaging console 2 to input patient information and examination information of the subject (subject M) (step S1). The patient information and examination information are collectively referred to as order information.

[0035] Next, the radiation irradiation conditions are read out from the storage unit 22 and set in the radiation irradiation control device 12, and the image reading conditions are read out from the storage unit 22 and set in the reading control device 14 (step S2).

[0036] Next, the process waits for an instruction to irradiate radiation via operation of the operation unit 23 (step S3). Here, the person performing the imaging performs positioning by placing the subject M between the radiation source 11 and the radiation detection unit 13. The person performing the imaging also instructs the subject (subject M) on their breathing state (for example, quiet breathing). When preparations for imaging are complete, the person performing the imaging operates the operation unit 23 to input an instruction to irradiate radiation.

[0037] When a radiation irradiation instruction is input via the operation unit 23 (step S3; YES), an imaging start instruction is output to the radiation irradiation control device 12 and the reading control device 14, and dynamic imaging is started (step S4). That is, radiation is irradiated from the radiation source 11 at pulse intervals set in the radiation irradiation control device 12, and frame images are acquired by the radiation detection unit 13.

[0038] When the predetermined number of frames have been captured, the control unit 21 outputs an instruction to end the capture to the radiation irradiation control device 12 and the reading control device 14, and the capture operation is stopped. The number of frames to be captured is the number that can capture at least one respiratory cycle.

[0039] The frame images acquired by imaging are sequentially input to the imaging console 2, and are stored in the memory unit 22 in association with numbers (frame numbers) indicating the imaging order (step S5), and are also displayed on the display unit 24 (step S6). The imaging operator checks the positioning, etc., based on the displayed dynamic images, and determines whether an image suitable for diagnosis has been acquired by imaging (imaging OK) or whether reimaging is necessary (imaging NG). Then, the operator operates the operation unit 23 to input the determination result.

[0040] When a determination result indicating that imaging is OK is input by a predetermined operation of the operation unit 23 (step S7; YES), information such as an identification ID for identifying the dynamic image, patient information, examination information, radiation irradiation conditions, image reading conditions, and a number indicating the imaging order (frame number) is attached to each of the series of frame images acquired by dynamic imaging (for example, written in the header area of ​​the image data in DICOM format), and transmitted to the diagnostic console 3 via the communication unit 25 (step S8). Then, this process ends. On the other hand, when a determination result indicating that imaging is NG is input by a predetermined operation of the operation unit 23 (step S7; NO), the series of frame images stored in the memory unit 22 are deleted (step S9), and this process ends. In this case, re-imaging is required.

[0041] (Diagnostic console 3 operation) Next, the analysis operation of the dynamic image by the diagnostic console 3 will be described. The diagnostic console 3 executes the report creation process shown in Fig. 3 through cooperation between the control unit 31 and a program stored in the storage unit 32. The report creation process will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. In the diagnostic console 3, first, the control unit 31 receives (acquires) a series of frame images of dynamic images from the radiography console 2 via the communication unit 35 (step S11). The received series of frame images of dynamic images are stored in the storage unit 32 in association with an identification ID, patient information, examination information, etc. At this time, the control unit 31 functions as an acquisition unit.

[0042] Next, when a dynamic image is selected by the operation unit 33 from the dynamic images stored in the storage unit 32 and an instruction to create a report is given, the control unit 31 analyzes the dynamic image selected by the operation unit 33 (step S12). Specifically, an analysis region is extracted and feature amounts (parameter values) are calculated. In this embodiment, extraction of the analysis region includes extraction of the lung field region, and calculation of the lung field area, diaphragm displacement value, etc. In this case, the control unit 31 functions as a calculation unit.

[0043] Next, the person performing the imaging checks the analysis results obtained in step S12, and the control unit 31 receives a notification via the operation unit 33 that reanalysis is required (step S13; YES) or that reanalysis is not required (step S13; NO) (step S13). If the control unit 31 receives a notification that reanalysis is not required (step S13; NO), the process proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 31 receives a notification that reanalysis is required (step S13; YES), the process proceeds to step S12, and analysis is performed again. The analysis result may be a frame showing the lung field in the lung field image. If the frame showing the lung field does not properly surround the lung field, the person performing the imaging may issue a notification that reanalysis is required (step S13; YES) via the operation unit 33.

[0044] Next, the person performing the imaging operation determines whether or not the analysis results analyzed in step S12 need to be corrected, and the control unit 31 receives a notification that correction is not necessary (step S14; NO) or that correction is necessary (step S14; YES) via the operation unit 33 (step S14). If the control unit 31 receives a notification that correction is not necessary (step S14; NO), the process proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if the control unit 31 receives a notification that correction is necessary (step S14; YES), the process proceeds to step S15, where the analysis results are corrected.

[0045] Next, the person performing the imaging operation modifies the analysis results obtained in step S12, and the control unit 31 receives the modified results via the operation unit 33 (step S15). For example, modification of the analysis results may involve modifying a portion that is not desired to be displayed in the report to be created (such as unnecessary reflections in a medical image). Note that when a modification is made in one frame image, it is also possible to set the system so that the same portion in other frame images is also modified.

[0046] Next, the radiographer selects a report creation image to be displayed in the report to be created, and the control unit 31 receives the selected report creation image via the operation unit 33 (step S16). For example, a lung field image to be displayed in the report to be created is selected.

[0047] Next, the person performing the imaging selects and confirms evaluation items (radar chart items; feature amounts; parameters) using, for example, the radar chart item setting screen shown in Fig. 4, and the control unit 31 accepts the selection result via the operation unit 33 (step S17). At this time, the operation unit 33 functions as a reception unit.

[0048] Here, the radar chart item setting screen shown in FIG. 4 will be described. The preset selection section A1 is a section for selecting a set of evaluation items stored in advance in the storage section 32. The detailed setting section A2 is a section for selecting evaluation items to be displayed in the radar chart preview A3. In addition, items in the detailed setting section A2 are also checked according to the presets checked in the preset selection section A1. Specifically, for example, when the ventilation disorder assessment is checked in the preset selection section A1, eight items such as the maximum lung field area and the minimum lung field area in the detailed setting section A2 are checked.

[0049] The preview A3 is a radar chart generated based on the evaluation items selected in the detailed setting section A2, and the person who carries out the imaging can check the radar chart before it is finally output as a report. The thick line indicates the reference value for normal cases. Note that in the radar chart, the reference value for normal cases is set to 1. The dashed line indicates the subject's (patient's) relative value to the reference value of normal cases.

[0050] The Save button B1 is a button for saving the settings of the evaluation items. When the Save button B1 is pressed, a radar chart is generated. The cancel button B2 is a button for canceling the evaluation item setting. When the cancel button B2 is pressed, the report creation process is interrupted.

[0051] It is also possible to directly select an item in the detailed setting section A2 without using the preset selection section A1.

[0052] You can also change the order of evaluation items on Preview A3 by dragging and dropping them with the mouse.

[0053] Furthermore, if the evaluation items are not to be changed each time a report is created, a setting file that defines the evaluation items can be stored in advance in the memory unit 32, thereby eliminating the need to set the items on the radar chart item setting screen each time a report is created.

[0054] Next, the control unit 31 sets the selection result as an evaluation item (step S18). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as a setting unit.

[0055] Next, the control unit 31 generates a radar chart based on the evaluation items set in step S17 (step S19). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as a generation unit.

[0056] Next, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 34 to display a report including a radar chart (step S20). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as an output unit. For example, a measurement result display screen (measurement result summary; report) as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed.

[0057] Here, the measurement result (report) display screen shown in FIG. 5 will be described. In area A4, an identification ID, patient information, examination information, etc. are displayed. Area A5 displays the test results. In the example of Figure 5, the lung area change rate, tracheal diameter change rate, diaphragm displacement, and lateral lung field area are displayed. For example, in the region showing the lung area change rate, the report creation image selected in step S16 is used, and the location of the lungs is surrounded by a frame a so that it can be confirmed. Then, in the upper right corner of the report creation image, the patient's lung area change rate and the average value and normal distribution of the lung area change rate of normal subjects are displayed in gradation. In addition, in the lower right corner of the report creation image, the time-varying change in the patient's lung area change rate with the test date on the horizontal axis, and the average value and normal distribution of the lung area change rate of normal subjects are displayed. Similarly, details of the rate of change in tracheal diameter, diaphragm displacement, and lateral lung field area are also displayed. Area A6 displays a radar chart of the evaluation items set in step S18. As in Fig. 4, the thick lines indicate the reference values ​​for normal cases, and the dashed lines indicate the relative values ​​of the subject (patient) relative to the reference values ​​for normal cases.

[0058] Once the report has been created as described above, the control unit 31 outputs the report to an image archiving and communication system (PACS) or the like via the communication network NT. The doctor can then make a diagnosis based on the report results. At this time, the control unit 31 functions as an output unit.

[0059] (Other embodiments) In the above embodiment, only one radar chart is displayed as in the measurement result display screen shown in Fig. 5. However, for example, as in the measurement result display screen shown in Fig. 6, multiple radar charts may be displayed side by side in area A6, such as a radar chart of the patient and normal cases (reference values) and a radar chart of the patient and the obstructive pattern (dotted line). This makes it possible to compare not only the patient and the normal cases (reference values) but also the patient and the obstructive pattern at the same time. Note that the method of displaying multiple charts is not limited to side by side in area A6, but may also be arranged vertically. Examples of patterns include those shown in Figure 7 (normal pattern, obstructive pattern, restrictive pattern, etc.; dotted lines). Specifically, for example, in a normal person, the maximum lung field area, lung field area change rate, maximum estimated volume, and diaphragm displacement tend to increase, while the amount of airway diameter narrowing tends to decrease. Here, the thick lines indicate values ​​where the reference value for a normal case is 1, as above.

[0060] Additionally, multiple data sets (groups of evaluation item values) can be displayed on a single radar chart, as shown in Figure 8. For example, Figure 8 shows an example of a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who underwent treatment and showed improvement. COPD patients tend to have large lung area (due to lung hyperinflation), small changes in lung area (the lungs do not move due to hyperinflation), large estimated volume (similar to area), small diaphragmatic displacement (due to lung hyperinflation), and tracheal narrowing (due to changes in internal pressure caused by the disease). It is possible to compare follow-up data (diagnosis date: January 28, 2021 (dashed line) and April 30, 2021 (dash-dotted line)) with the reference values ​​for normal subjects (thick line) on the same radar chart, making COPD improvement more visible. Also, for example, as shown in Figure 9, a diagnosis date column A7 may be provided, and if there is multiple data linked to the order information (diagnosis dates: January 28, 2021, February 2, and April 30), the diagnosis date column A7 may be displayed, and the diagnosis dates may be displayed, and based on the selected diagnosis dates (diagnosis dates: January 28 and April 30, 2021), the data may be displayed overlapping one another on a single radar chart, as shown in Figure 8. Note that if there is not multiple data linked to the order information, the diagnosis date column A7 may not be displayed.

[0061] In addition, in step S17, the person performing the imaging may select one or more radar charts from a plurality of radar charts. In other words, instead of selecting evaluation items as in the above embodiment, multiple radar chart previews are displayed on the display unit 34, and the person performing the imaging may use the operation unit 33 to select one or more radar charts to be displayed in the report. In this case, the operation unit 33 functions as a selection unit. Furthermore, the person who performs the imaging can also set the radar chart so that the evaluation items are appropriately modified after the radar chart is selected.

[0062] In addition, the color of the radar chart items can be changed. For example, the color of the text of items that require attention or whose values ​​have changed significantly since the previous test, or the color of the dotted lines on the radar chart, can be changed. Note that the radar chart items can also be marked with stars or other marks. The items on the radar chart may also be rearranged. For example, items that show correlation may be rearranged horizontally, or the arrangement of items may be changed depending on the magnitude relationship between each item. Note that the control unit 31 may automatically determine the correlation between the items on the radar chart and display highly correlated items horizontally.

[0063] Also, if the first examination is performed using image analysis program V1.0 and the second examination is performed using image analysis program V2.0, as shown in Figure 10, the measurement results of the "tracheal stenosis rate" from the first examination will not appear on the radar chart during the second examination. In this case, the images from the first examination can be Q / R (query and retrieve) from the image storage device during the second examination, and the "tracheal stenosis rate" can be newly analyzed and displayed on the radar chart.

[0064] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may automatically select the evaluation items based on the order information. For example, in step S17 of FIG. 3, the control unit 31 may initially display a screen in which the items in the preset selection section A1 or the detailed setting section A2 of the radar chart item setting screen shown in FIG. 4 are selected based on the patient information and examination information associated with the image acquired by the control unit 31 in step S11. Furthermore, for example, the control unit 31 may automatically set radar chart items based on the patient information and examination information associated with the image acquired by the control unit 31 in step S11, skip step S17, proceed to step S18, and generate a radar chart. The correspondence between the patient information, examination information, etc. and the radar chart items is set in advance based on past diagnostic findings, etc., before automatic selection.

[0065] Furthermore, the control unit 31 may make primary items among the evaluation items stand out by displaying them in bold on the radar chart item setting screen shown in FIG.

[0066] Furthermore, in the above, the lung field region is targeted as the analysis region, but other organs may also be targeted. Specifically, as shown in Figure 11, the cardiac ROI (Region of Interest) may be targeted, and the signal value change (S_inspiration / S_expiration) calculated from the average signal value (S_inspiration) of the cardiac ROI during inspiration (left diagram of Figure 11) and the average signal value (S_expiration) of the cardiac ROI during expiration (right diagram of Figure 11) may be used as an evaluation item.

[0067] Although the above description deals with dynamic images, still images may also be used, in which case the image capturing device 1 functions as a capturing means for capturing still images. Specifically, the ratio of the heart to the thorax (cardiothoracic ratio) can be observed as an evaluation item for a still image such as that shown in Figure 12. In the example of Figure 11, the cardiothoracic ratio is expressed as (ab / cd) × 100.

[0068] Although the above description has been given of an example of a dynamic image obtained by radiography as a medical image, the medical image is not limited to this. For example, an ultrasound image may be used as a medical image. Specifically, using an ultrasound image such as that shown in Figure 13, a dynamic test (an examination in which the probe is pressed to observe changes in shape) may be performed to observe changes in shape based on the aspect ratio (evaluation items: a1 / b1, a2 / b2).

[0069] (Effects, etc.) From the above, the image processing device (diagnostic console 3) is equipped with an acquisition unit (control unit 31) that acquires medical images obtained by examining a subject, a calculation unit (control unit 31) that calculates the values ​​of evaluation items based on the medical images, a setting unit (control unit 31) that sets multiple target evaluation items from multiple evaluation items, a generation unit (control unit 31) that generates a radar chart using the values ​​of the evaluation items set by the setting unit, and an output unit (control unit 31) that outputs the radar chart, thereby making it possible to create an appropriate radar chart depending on the disease being analyzed and the observation area.

[0070] Furthermore, because medical images are dynamic images, the number of evaluation items that can be analyzed can be increased compared to still images, making it possible to create radar charts that are more suitable for diagnosis.

[0071] Furthermore, the calculation unit (control unit 31) calculates the value of the time-series information based on the dynamic image, so that the time-series information can also be used in the radar chart.

[0072] The time-series information also includes evaluation items related to organ movement and signal value changes associated with organ movement, such as maximum lung field area, minimum lung field area, lung field area change rate, maximum estimated volume, minimum estimated volume, right diaphragm displacement, left diaphragm displacement, amount of airway diameter narrowing, and signal value changes of the cardiac ROI.

[0073] Furthermore, the generating unit (control unit 31) generates a radar chart to which reference values ​​of normal cases corresponding to the evaluation items are added, thereby making it possible to visually compare data of normal people with data of patients.

[0074] Furthermore, the generating unit (control unit 31) generates a plurality of radar charts, which allows the users to compare the multiple charts simultaneously on the screen.

[0075] In addition, the image processing device (diagnostic console 3) is equipped with a selection unit (operation unit 33) that selects one or more radar charts from multiple radar charts, and the output unit (control unit 31) outputs one or more radar charts, so that instead of selecting evaluation items one by one to create a radar chart, the selection is made based on multiple images of the radar chart, making the selection of radar charts smoother.

[0076] Furthermore, the output unit (control unit 31) outputs a plurality of radar charts, which can be compared on the screen.

[0077] Furthermore, by having the setting unit (control unit 31) set evaluation items based on order information, the user can check the initial display screen with the items selected, and after checking the items necessary and recommended for diagnosis, can reselect the items or set them as they are, making it possible to utilize past knowledge. It also reduces the effort required to select evaluation items. Furthermore, if a radar chart is automatically generated using evaluation items automatically selected based on order information, it can further reduce the effort required.

[0078] In addition, the image processing device (diagnostic console 3) is equipped with a reception unit (operation unit 33) that accepts the setting of evaluation items through user operation, and the setting unit (control unit 31) sets the evaluation items accepted by the reception unit (operation unit 33), thereby making it possible to accurately select evaluation items according to request.

[0079] Furthermore, the number of evaluation items set by the setting unit (control unit 31) is variable, so that the parameters of the radar chart can be changed depending on the disease to be analyzed and the observation site.

[0080] In addition, the image processing system (image processing system 100) is equipped with an acquisition unit (control unit 31) that acquires medical images obtained by radiographically imaging a subject, a calculation unit (control unit 31) that calculates values ​​of evaluation items based on the medical images, a generation unit (control unit 31) that generates a radar chart using the evaluation items and values, and an output unit (control unit 31) that outputs the radar chart, thereby making it possible to change the parameters of the radar chart depending on the disease being analyzed and the area being observed.

[0081] In addition, the program causes the computer of the image processing system, which has an acquisition unit that acquires medical images obtained by radiographically imaging the subject, to function as a calculation unit that calculates the values ​​of evaluation items based on the medical images, a generation unit that generates a radar chart using the evaluation items and values, and an output unit that outputs the radar chart, thereby making it possible to change the parameters of the radar chart depending on the disease being analyzed and the area being observed.

[0082] The above-described embodiment is a preferred example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0083] For example, in the above embodiment, the control unit 31 generates a radar chart using one medical image (dynamic image), but it may also generate a radar chart using multiple types of medical images (dynamic images, still images, etc.).

[0084] In the above description, examples have been disclosed in which a hard disk or a semiconductor nonvolatile memory is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Portable recording media such as CD-ROMs can also be used as other computer-readable media. Furthermore, carrier waves can also be used as a medium for providing the program data according to the present invention via a communication line.

[0085] In addition, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each device constituting the image processing system can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 100 Image Processing System 1. Imaging device 11 Radiation source 12 Radiation exposure control device 13 Radiation detection unit 14 Reading control device 2. Filming console 21 Control section 22 Memory section 23 Control section 24 Display 25 Communications Department 26 Bus 3 Diagnostic Console 31 control unit (acquisition unit, calculation unit, setting unit, generation unit, output unit) 32 Storage section 33 Operation unit (selection unit, reception unit) 34 Display section 35 Communications Department 36 Bus

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires a medical image, which is a dynamic image obtained by inspecting a subject; a setting unit that sets a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; a generating unit that generates a radar chart using the calculated values ​​of the evaluation items set by the setting unit; an output unit that outputs the radar chart together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image on the same screen; An image processing device comprising:

2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the time-series information includes evaluation items related to organ movement and signal value changes accompanying organ movement.

3. 3. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the generating unit generates the radar chart to which a reference value of a normal case corresponding to the evaluation item is added.

4. 4. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the generating unit generates a plurality of radar charts.

5. a selection unit that selects one or more radar charts from the plurality of radar charts through a user operation; Equipped with The image processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the output unit outputs the one or more selected radar charts.

6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the output unit outputs the plurality of radar charts.

7. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit sets the evaluation items based on order information.

8. a reception unit that receives the setting of the evaluation item through a user operation, 8. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit sets the evaluation items accepted by the accepting unit.

9. 9. The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the number of the evaluation items set by the setting unit is variable.

10. An image processing system comprising an inspection device that acquires a medical image that is a dynamic image, and an image processing device connected to the inspection device, an acquisition unit that acquires medical images from the inspection device; a setting unit that sets a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; a generating unit that generates a radar chart using the calculated values ​​of the evaluation items set by the setting unit; an output unit that outputs the radar chart together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image on the same screen; An image processing system comprising:

11. The image processing device computer, an acquisition unit that acquires a medical image, which is a dynamic image obtained by inspecting a subject; a setting unit for setting a plurality of target evaluation items from among a plurality of evaluation items; a generating unit that generates a radar chart using the calculated values ​​of the evaluation items set by the setting unit; an output unit that outputs the radar chart together with a graph showing time-series information calculated based on the dynamic image on the same screen; A program that functions as a

Images