X-ray diagnostic apparatus and method for controlling the X-ray diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

To efficiently perform long imaging with a simple configuration.SOLUTION: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment comprises: acquisition means; display control means; and imaging execution means. The acquisition means acquires a partial image expressing a portion of a subject being an X-ray imaging object. The display control means displays a superimposition image in which imaging guide information expressing a prescribed position within an imaging range is superimposed on the partial image on a display unit. The imaging execution means sets a position of the imaging guide information in the superimposition image and executes X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the present specification and drawings are directed to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus and an X-ray diagnostic Device control Regarding the method. [Background technology]

[0002] Long-length radiography is known in which a C-arm or a bed is moved along the body axis of a subject while irradiating the subject with X-rays to collect multiple X-ray images, and the collected multiple X-ray images are stitched together to generate a long-length image.

[0003] In long-length imaging, images are acquired by narrowing the X-ray aperture to a slit shape to reduce artifacts caused by differences in the table-to-object distance (TOD) of the target object. Prior to image acquisition for long-length imaging, the user must set the long-length imaging range, including the imaging start position and imaging end position. However, this setting is cumbersome for the user, due to the fact that it is difficult to grasp the overall image in the slit state. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-167263 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve is to efficiently perform long-length photography using a simple configuration. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the configurations shown in the embodiments described below can also be considered as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes an acquisition unit, a display control unit, and an imaging execution unit. The acquisition unit acquires a partial image representing a part of a subject to be X-rayed. The display control unit causes a display unit to display a superimposed image in which imaging guide information representing a predetermined position in an imaging range is superimposed on the partial image. The imaging execution unit sets a position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, and executes X-ray imaging of the subject in accordance with the setting of the position of the imaging guide information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining long length photography according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a long captured image according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a guide information position setting process according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen including imaging guide information according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the photographing process according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen including a live image according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining generation of a long captured image according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, parts with the same reference numerals perform the same operations, and redundant description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0009] (First embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 includes an imaging unit 3, a bed 5, a drive unit 7, an operation unit 9, an X-ray high-voltage device 11, a processing circuit 21, a memory circuit 23, a display unit 25, and an input interface 27. The processing circuit 21, the memory circuit 23, and the input interface 27 are built into, for example, a console device 10. The imaging unit 3 includes an X-ray tube 13 that irradiates X-rays onto the subject P, an X-ray diaphragm 15, an iris control unit 16 that controls the drive of the X-ray diaphragm 15, an X-ray detector 17 that detects X-rays, and a holding device 19. The bed 5 is provided with an operation unit 9 for operating the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5. The drive unit 7 includes a drive control unit 70 that controls the drive of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5, an imaging system movement drive unit 71, and a tabletop movement drive unit 73.

[0010] The X-ray high voltage device 11 includes electrical circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, a high voltage generator, and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has the function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 13 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage according to the X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube 13. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. The X-ray high voltage device 11 may be provided in the holding device 19.

[0011] The X-ray tube 13 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermions from a cathode (filament) toward an anode (target) when a high voltage is applied from the X-ray high voltage device 11 and a filament current is supplied. X-rays are generated when thermions collide with the target. The X-ray tube 13 is, for example, a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermions. Note that the X-ray tube 13 is not limited to the rotating anode type, and any type of X-ray tube can be used.

[0012] The X-ray aperture 15 is provided in front of the X-ray radiation window in the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray aperture 15 has four aperture blades made of metal plates such as lead. The aperture blades are driven by a driving device (not shown) under the control of the aperture control unit 16 in accordance with the region of interest input by the user via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27. The X-ray aperture 15 adjusts the region where X-rays are blocked to any size by sliding the aperture blades with the driving device. With the adjusted aperture blades, the X-ray aperture 15 blocks X-rays outside the opening region. In this way, the X-ray aperture 15 narrows down the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 13 so that they are irradiated onto the region of interest of the subject P. The aperture control unit 16 controls the driving of the X-ray aperture 15 in accordance with instructions from the processing circuitry 21.

[0013] The X-ray detector 17 detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray detector 17 is, for example, a flat panel detector (hereinafter referred to as FPD). The FPD has multiple semiconductor detection elements. There are two types of semiconductor detection elements: a direct conversion type that directly converts X-rays into electrical signals, and an indirect conversion type that converts X-rays into light using a phosphor and then converts the light into electrical signals. Either type may be used for the FPD. Electrical signals generated by the multiple semiconductor detection elements in response to incidence of X-rays are output to an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter referred to as A / D converter), not shown. The A / D converter converts the electrical signals into digital data. The A / D converter outputs the digital data to the processing circuit 21. Note that an image intensifier may be used as the X-ray detector 17.

[0014] The holding device 19 is a C-arm that supports the X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray detector 17. The holding device 19 is rotated around the subject P lying on the bed 5 by a motor (not shown). Here, the holding device 19 is supported so as to be rotatable about three orthogonal axes, the X, Y and Z axes, and is rotated around each axis by a drive unit (not shown).

[0015] The processing circuitry 21 controls the overall operation of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 in response to electrical signals of input operations output from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27. For example, the processing circuitry 21 has, as hardware resources, processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0016] Various processing functions executed by the processing circuitry 21 are stored in the form of computer-executable programs in the storage circuitry 23. The processing circuitry 21 is a processor that realizes the functions corresponding to each program by reading and executing the programs from the storage circuitry 23. In other words, each circuit that has read each program has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0017] Specifically, the processing circuitry 21 executes an operation control function 211, an image generation function 212, and a display control function 213 using a processor that executes a program loaded into memory. Here, the processing circuitry 21 is an example of a control unit. The processing circuit that realizes the operation control function 211 is an example of an acquisition means. The processing circuit that realizes the operation control function 211 and the image generation function 212 is an example of an imaging execution means. The processing circuit that realizes the display control function 213 is an example of a display control means.

[0018] The operation control function 211, the image generation function 212, and the display control function 213 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and the operation control function 211, the image generation function 212, and the display control function 213 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

[0019] In addition, the processing circuit 21 may be realized by a processor such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), other Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), or Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs).

[0020] In the operation control function 211, the processing circuit 21 controls the drive unit 7, the X-ray high voltage device 11, the aperture control unit 16 (X-ray aperture 15), the X-ray detector 17, the memory circuit 23, the display unit 25, etc. based on input operations received from the user via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27.

[0021] The processing circuitry 21 acquires setting information related to the actual radiography (long radiography) and a partial image, such as an X-ray fluoroscopic image taken for positioning the subject P. Here, the partial image is an image showing a part of the subject P, who is the target of X-ray radiography in the actual radiography (long radiography). The imaging range of the partial image is larger than the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15 that blocks X-rays in the actual radiography of the subject P. Here, "fluoroscopy" refers to a moving X-ray image obtained by continuously irradiating the subject with X-rays. On the other hand, "actual radiography (long radiography)" refers to a still X-ray image obtained by irradiating the subject with X-rays. Here, long radiography can be expressed as radiography in which the position of the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15 is changed on the subject P, and multiple X-ray images based on the acquisition range are acquired.

[0022] Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 changes the display position of the imaging guide information superimposed on a partial image such as an X-ray image for positioning based on a user operation. Note that in the following description, a partial image on which imaging guide information is superimposed may simply be referred to as a superimposed image. The processing circuitry 21 determines whether at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 has been moved in response to a user operation, i.e., whether the subject P represented by the partial image has moved. When the processing circuitry 21 determines that the subject P represented by the partial image has moved, it acquires a new partial image after the movement. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 performs X-ray imaging of the subject P according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, i.e., the display position of the imaging guide information superimposed on the partial image. Specifically, the processing circuitry 21 sets the start position of long-length imaging (main imaging) according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 performs X-ray imaging from the set start position.

[0023] In the image generation function 212, the processing circuitry 21 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17. Specifically, the processing circuitry 21 generates projection data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17. Next, the processing circuitry 21 receives an input signal from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27, and performs processes such as defective pixel correction, gain correction, and offset correction on the output signal from the X-ray detector 17 to generate X-ray image data. The processing circuitry 21 performs synthesis processing, subtraction processing, and the like using the X-ray image data. The processing circuitry 21 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display control function 213 or the memory circuitry 23. Note that the processing circuitry 21 may also generate image data for display using the generated X-ray image data, and output the display image to the display unit 25.

[0024] For example, the processing circuitry 21 performs a reconstruction process as a synthesis process using X-ray image data, in which multiple X-ray images acquired in long-length imaging are stitched together according to their imaging positions to generate data for a long-length imaging image (X-ray image). Furthermore, for example, the processing circuitry 21 generates imaging guide information (image) for long-length imaging on the image of the X-ray image for positioning based on setting information for the actual imaging and the aperture opening for positioning imaging. In other words, the processing circuitry 21 generates imaging guide information that indicates the long-length imaging range, such as the imaging start position and the imaging end position, on the image of the X-ray image for positioning. In other words, the imaging guide information is information that indicates a predetermined position in the long-length imaging range. The processing circuitry 21 may generate a display image using the generated imaging guide information and output this display image to the display unit 25.

[0025] In the display control function 213, the processing circuitry 21 generates an X-ray image for display using the X-ray image data generated by the image generation function 212, and displays the display image on the display 251 of the display unit 25. For example, the processing circuitry 21 generates imaging guide information (image) for display using imaging guide information generated by the image generation function 212, and displays the imaging guide information (image) on the display 251 of the display unit 25 by superimposing it on the X-ray image for display. The processing circuitry 21 may generate the imaging guide information (image) based on setting information related to the actual imaging and the aperture opening for positioning imaging. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 may generate an image indicating the imaging guide information when imaging guide information that has not been visualized is supplied from the image generation function 212. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 changes the display position of the imaging guide information on the X-ray image based on an input operation received from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 from the user. Furthermore, the processing circuitry 21 changes the positioning X-ray image on which the imaging guide information is superimposed in response to acquisition of a new projection image by the operation control function 211.

[0026] The memory circuitry 23 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an integrated circuit storage device that stores various information, or a circuit that combines a plurality of such storage devices. The memory circuitry 23 includes, for example, a storage device for primary storage and a storage device for long-term storage. The medical image data sequentially stored in the primary storage device is updated, for example, periodically. The memory circuitry 23 also stores, for example, projection data, image data, and programs corresponding to various functions that are read and executed by the processing circuitry 21. In this embodiment, storing or preserving various information in the memory circuitry 23 may also be referred to as "recording."

[0027] The storage circuitry 23 may be a drive device that reads and writes various information from and to portable storage media such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and a flash memory, or a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), in addition to an HDD or SSD. The storage circuitry 23 may also be located in an external storage device connected via a network. Furthermore, when the storage circuitry 23 includes multiple storage devices, some of the storage devices may be storage devices connected via a network.

[0028] The display unit 25 is composed of a display 251 that displays medical images, etc., an internal circuit that supplies display signals to the display 251, and peripheral circuits such as connectors and cables that connect the display 251 to the internal circuit. The internal circuit generates display data by superimposing additional information such as subject information and projection data generation conditions on image data. Next, the internal circuit performs D / A conversion and TV format conversion on the obtained display data. The internal circuit displays the display data that has undergone these conversions on the display 251 as a medical image. In addition, the display unit 25 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) and the like for receiving various operations from the user.

[0029] For example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescence display (OLED), a plasma display, or any other display can be appropriately used as the display 251. The display 251 may be a desktop type, or may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 21.

[0030] The operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 each accept various input operations from the user, convert the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and output the signals to the processing circuit 21. For example, the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 each accept from the user operations for operating at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5, X-ray conditions related to X-ray generation, conditions related to image processing executed by the image generation function 212, etc. As the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27, for example, a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, foot switch, touchpad, touch panel display, etc. can be used as appropriate. The operation unit 9 is provided, for example, in an examination room. The input interface 27 is mounted, for example, on a console device 10 installed in an operation room separate from the examination room.

[0031] In this embodiment, each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 is not limited to those including physical operation parts such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touchpad, and touch panel display. For example, examples of each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 also include an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs this electrical signal to the processing circuit 21. Each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 may be configured as a tablet terminal or the like that is capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 21.

[0032] Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining long-length photography according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining a long-length photography image (X-ray image) according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 illustrates an example of a case where long-length photography is performed in photography direction D1 for a photography range R1 from position G1 corresponding to one end of the X-ray diaphragm 15 at the photography start position. Fig. 2 also illustrates an example of a case where positioning photography is performed including the photography start position of the main photography (long-length photography).

[0033] Long-length imaging is imaging in which X-rays are irradiated onto the subject P while moving at least one of the support device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 along the body axis direction of the subject P (imaging direction D1 in FIG. 2), thereby collecting multiple X-ray images and stitching together the collected multiple X-ray images to generate a long-length image. In FIG. 2, a long-length image is generated by stitching together multiple X-ray images corresponding to each imaging range. In other words, each imaging range is an acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15 that blocks X-rays during X-ray imaging of the subject P.

[0034] The stitching of X-ray images in long-length photography is performed, for example, based on the target object in the image. FIG. 3 illustrates images (IMG21, IMG22, . . .) relating to regions (R11, R12, . . .) on the detection surface. For example, the regions (R21, R22, . . .) of the images (IMG21, IMG22, . . .) are stitched together based on the position information of the target object in each image to generate a single long-length photographed image IMG2. Note that the generation of long-length photographed images can be performed using a known method, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. When stitching multiple X-ray images together in this way, in order to reduce artifacts due to differences in TOD (Table To Object Distance) of the target object, images are collected in a slit state with the X-ray aperture narrowed during the actual photography.

[0035] In this situation, the user needs to set the long imaging range before collecting long imaging images. However, this setting is cumbersome for the user because it is difficult to grasp the overall image in the slit state. In response to this, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is configured to display imaging guide information superimposed on the positioning X-ray image during positioning imaging.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a position setting process of guide information according to an embodiment. Here, a case where imaging guide information is superimposed on an LIH (Last Image Hold) display image of a fluoroscopic image is illustrated. The LIH display image is a captured image (still image) of a fluoroscopic image acquired in positioning imaging. Note that, although an LIH display image is described as an example here, imaging guide information may be superimposed on a fluoroscopic image instead of the LIH display image, or imaging guide information may be superimposed on a still image or video captured by an optical camera. Here, various images on which imaging guide information is superimposed are examples of partial images representing a part of a subject P who is the object of X-ray imaging. Note that, in the following description, the LIH display image of a fluoroscopic image may also be simply referred to as LIH.

[0037] 4 is performed prior to long-length photography and is started in response to a user operation from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27, for example.

[0038] The operation control function 211 acquires setting information for the main imaging (step S101). The setting information for the main imaging includes the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15 for the main imaging, the direction and speed of movement of the X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray detector 17, etc. The setting information for the main imaging also includes stroke information for long imaging. The stroke information is a stroke length that defines the long imaging range (the length between the imaging start position and the imaging end position).

[0039] The stroke length can also be expressed as the length of the imaging range in the imaging direction for long-length imaging. The stroke length is set to a distance depending on the body shape of the subject P, the imaging region, etc., such as 100 cm for imaging the entire spine.

[0040] The stroke length is assumed to be predetermined for each body shape and imaging region of the subject P and stored in the memory circuitry 23, etc. In this case, the operation control function 211 acquires the stroke length from the memory circuitry 23, etc., in accordance with the subject information, etc., input by the user.

[0041] The operation control function 211 may modify the stroke length acquired from the memory circuitry 23 or the like in response to an input operation by the user via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27. The stroke length may also be directly input by the user via, for example, the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27.

[0042] The operation control function 211 drives the X-ray aperture 15 so that the aperture opening for positioning is larger than the aperture opening during actual imaging (step S102). Note that the aperture opening for positioning is assumed to be predetermined and stored in the memory circuitry 23, for example.

[0043] After the X-ray aperture reaches the aperture opening for positioning, the operation control function 211 starts acquiring X-ray image data (step S103). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17 and temporarily stores, i.e., temporarily stores, the data in the memory circuitry 23.

[0044] The display control function 213 superimposes and displays the shooting guide information on the LIH (step S104). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates the shooting guide information based on the setting information for the actual shooting and the aperture opening for positioning acquired by the operation control function 211. In addition, the display control function 213 displays the LIH on which the shooting guide information is superimposed on the display 251.

[0045] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 300 including imaging guide information 330 according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 illustrates an example of the display screen 300 including object information 301, current acquisition conditions 303, information 305 related to the main imaging, and a positioning image 310.

[0046] The current acquisition conditions 303 include, for example, fluoroscopy conditions. The information 305 related to the actual imaging includes, for example, the protocol name of long-length imaging and typical reconstruction conditions. Typical reconstruction conditions may include, for example, a stitching mode and blend width (width of the overlap area) for generating a long-length imaging image. Here, the positioning image 310 is an LIH 311 of a fluoroscopic image on which imaging guide information 330 is superimposed. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the imaging guide information 330 has guides 331, 333, 335, and 337.

[0047] The guide 331 is a display that indicates imaging start position information. In Fig. 5, the guide 331 is a display that guides the imaging start position of the long imaging image. The guide 333 indicates a position that is determined based on the guide 331 and the aperture opening (irradiation range) of the X-ray aperture 15. In other words, the guides 331 and 333 indicate the image range of the first long imaging image. Furthermore, during actual imaging, X-ray imaging is performed sequentially for each image range indicated by the guides 331 and 333.

[0048] The guide 335 is a display that indicates the shooting direction. In the example of Fig. 5, the guide 335 is an image of an arrow that indicates the long-length shooting direction.

[0049] The guide 337 is a display showing imaging range information. The imaging range information is, for example, information for explicitly showing on the LIH the range that will not be imaged by the actual imaging. In the example of FIG. 5, the guide 337 is a mask image (hatched in FIG. 5) that shows the range that will not be imaged by the actual imaging by masking the LIH 311. In other words, the guide 337 is an image for performing semi-transparent mask processing (masking) on ​​the LIH 311. Note that semi-transparent mask processing can also be expressed as processing for displaying positions on the LIH that are not imaged because X-rays are blocked by the X-ray aperture 15 with a lower illuminance (pixel value) on the image than positions on the LIH that are imaged. Note that the imaging range information may be, for example, information for explicitly showing on the LIH the range that will be imaged by the actual imaging.

[0050] After the display screen 300 is displayed, the operation control function 211 sets the imaging start position (step S105). First, the user moves at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 while looking at the display screen 300, thereby adjusting the range where the user wants to start imaging to fit between the two lines (guides 331, 333). In response to an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 according to the user's operation after the adjustment is complete, the operation control function 211 sets the position of the guide 331 at that time as the imaging start position. Then, the flow in FIG. 4 ends.

[0051] After the flow of Fig. 4 is completed, the actual imaging is performed. In the actual imaging, by moving at least one of the support device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 in the body axis direction of the subject P, it is possible to start long-length imaging from the imaging start position designated by the user in the position setting process of the guide information according to this embodiment. In other words, the imaging range of the long-length imaging according to this embodiment is a range set based on the preset stroke information and the position of the imaging guide information set in the superimposed image.

[0052] 5, the start position information is displayed at the center of the image of the LIH 311, but is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 213 may display the information in accordance with the position where actual acquisition will be performed, such as when acquisition starts after the acceleration operation is completed. For example, when long-length imaging is started by moving the bed 5 toward the head, the start position information is displayed at the top of the display screen 300 in the example shown in FIG.

[0053] In the present embodiment, the case where the imaging guide information 330 is superimposed on the LIH 311 has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. The image on which the imaging guide information 330 is superimposed is not limited to the LIH of a perspective image, but may be a photographed image or an image obtained by a visible light camera or the like.

[0054] Note that, on the image for positioning, shooting guide information relating to two or more shooting positions may be superimposed and displayed.

[0055] As imaging guide information, an overlap area between adjacent imaging positions during actual imaging, which is secured for long-length stitching (reconstruction), can also be superimposed and displayed on the positioning image.

[0056] Regarding the acquisition of the LIH of the fluoroscopic image on which the imaging guide information is superimposed, there are no restrictions on the aperture (vertical blades, horizontal blades) of the X-ray aperture 15 or the size of the collimator. Therefore, the aperture aperture for positioning may be fully open, or the shape of the opening may be, for example, a rectangular shape that is long in the imaging direction D1 (body axis direction of the subject P), or a predetermined aperture predetermined by the user may be used. In any case, the slit width for the actual imaging is converted into a size on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 17 and superimposed display is performed.

[0057] In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which a stroke length is set and a long shooting range is set in response to a shooting start position specified by a user, but this is not limiting, and there may be cases in which the stroke length is not used when setting a long shooting range.

[0058] For example, the position of the end of the body axis direction of the subject P that can be imaged by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 can be used as the imaging end position. Even in this case, a long imaging range can be set according to the user's specification of the imaging start position. For example, when imaging the lower limbs, if imaging starts from the head side, the position of the end of the body axis direction of the subject P is the end of the lower limb on the opposite side from the head. In such a case, the position of the end of the body axis direction of the subject P can be determined by the end position of the bed 5.

[0059] In this embodiment, the case where the imaging guide information for guiding the imaging start position is displayed on the LIH is exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. According to the technology of this embodiment, imaging guide information for guiding the imaging end position can also be displayed on the LIH.

[0060] For example, a stroke length may be set, and a long imaging range may be set in response to a user's specification of an imaging end position. In this case, in the actual imaging, by moving at least one of the support device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 in the body axis direction of the subject P, long imaging can be started from an imaging start position defined by the imaging end position specified by the user and the setting of the stroke length. In other words, the stroke information may be selected and set from predetermined positions such as the end (start position, end position) or intermediate portion of the range in which long imaging is possible, in addition to the stroke length set by a numerical value.

[0061] According to this embodiment, it is also possible to display on the LIH imaging guide information that guides to positions other than the imaging start position and imaging end position. For example, there may be an intermediate imaging position between the imaging start position and imaging end position. In other words, the user can specify the intermediate imaging position using the display of guide information according to this embodiment.

[0062] For example, when a stroke length is set, a long imaging range is set in response to a user's designation of an imaging intermediate position, extending from the imaging intermediate position by half the stroke length on both sides in the body axis direction of the subject P. Similarly, for example, the end positions in the body axis direction of the subject P that can be imaged by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 can also be used as imaging intermediate positions.

[0063] The user can also specify both the shooting start position and the shooting end position by using the display of the guide information according to this embodiment. That is, in the position setting process of the guide information according to this embodiment, the long shooting range may be set according to the shooting start position and the shooting end position specified by the user.

[0064] As described above, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment generates imaging guide information indicating the range on the LIH to be imaged by the actual imaging based on the setting information related to the actual imaging and the aperture opening for positioning, and displays the generated imaging guide information superimposed on the LIH for positioning. This configuration allows the user to perform positioning with a wide aperture opening. Furthermore, during positioning, the user can easily grasp which position on the positioning image will be imaged. In other words, according to the technology according to the embodiment, the long imaging range can be easily set by displaying the imaging guide information during positioning imaging performed prior to the actual imaging. Therefore, according to the technology according to the embodiment, long imaging can be performed efficiently with a simple configuration.

[0065] (Second embodiment) Next, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a second embodiment will be described, focusing mainly on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0066] In this embodiment, after the position of the shooting guide information is set in the process of setting the position of the guide information according to the first embodiment, long length shooting is performed.

[0067] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the photographing process according to the embodiment.

[0068] Prior to the process related to the actual shooting (steps S202 to S210), a position setting process for the shooting guide information is carried out (step S201). The position setting process for the shooting guide information has been described in the first embodiment with reference to FIG. 4, and therefore will not be described here.

[0069] Thereafter, the operation control function 211 determines whether or not to start actual photography (long-length photography) based on, for example, an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 in response to a user operation (step S202). As an example, it is determined that actual photography will start when the user starts pressing a button to instruct photography. If it is not determined that actual photography will start (step S202: No), the flow in FIG. 6 returns to the processing of step S201. On the other hand, if it is determined that actual photography will start (step S202: Yes), the flow in FIG. 6 proceeds to the processing of step S203.

[0070] The operation control function 211 drives the X-ray aperture 15 to the aperture opening for the actual imaging (step S203), for example, in the same manner as the processing of step S102 in Fig. 4. It should be noted that the aperture opening for the actual imaging is assumed to be predetermined and stored in the memory circuitry 23 or the like, for example.

[0071] After the X-ray aperture reaches the aperture opening for actual imaging, the operation control function 211 starts acquiring X-ray image data (step S204). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17 and temporarily stores the data in the storage circuitry 23. Furthermore, each time the image generation function 212 acquires X-ray image data, it performs temporary reconstruction by stitching the acquired data with previously acquired images to sequentially generate long images. That is, during long-length imaging, each time the image generation function 212 acquires an X-ray image at each position of the acquisition range of the subject P corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15, it sequentially generates a long image based on the acquired X-ray image. The image generation function 212 temporarily stores the sequentially generated long images in the storage circuitry 23 (step S205). Furthermore, the display control function 213 displays the live image generated in the processing of step S205, i.e., the temporarily reconstructed long-length image, on the display 251 (step S206).

[0072] 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 400 including a live image 410 according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 illustrates the display screen 400 including object information 401, a protocol selection screen 403, reconstruction conditions 405, a reconstruction condition change screen 407, and the live image 410.

[0073] The protocol selection screen 403 is an operation screen for selecting, for example, a preset protocol for long-length imaging. The reconstruction conditions 405 may include, for example, a stitching mode and a blend width (width of the overlapping area) for generating a long-length imaging image according to the selected protocol. The reconstruction condition change screen 407 is an operation screen for changing the settings of the reconstruction conditions 405, such as the stitching mode and blend width.

[0074] The live image 410 is a long captured image generated by temporary reconstruction in which newly acquired captured images are added sequentially along the capturing direction D1 without changing the size of the long captured images (captured images) that have already been generated. Therefore, the size of the long captured image generated by temporary reconstruction increases by the size of the captured image at each position each time imaging is performed at each position.

[0075] In the example shown in Fig. 7, a newly acquired captured image is pasted, for example, at a position indicated by a dashed frame. Note that in the example shown in Fig. 7, each captured image is indicated by a solid frame to illustrate how the newly acquired captured images are sequentially added along the imaging direction D1. In other words, the solid and dashed frame in the live image 410 in Fig. 7 are not included in the live image 410.

[0076] It is assumed that the size of each captured image in the temporary reconstruction is predetermined and stored in the memory circuitry 23 or the like. In this case, the size of each captured image is determined based on, for example, the longitudinal length of the bed 5 of the long imaging range set in the guide information position setting process in step S201 and the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 during the actual imaging. Alternatively, the size of each captured image may be determined based on the longitudinal length of the bed 5 that can be imaged by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 and the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 during the actual imaging. For example, the size of each captured image becomes smaller as the longitudinal length of the bed 5 increases with respect to the long imaging range expected before the long imaging is completed.

[0077] 5, the display screen 400 may be displayed as a display screen including object information 301, current acquisition conditions 303, information 305 related to the main imaging, and live images 410. In this case, the current acquisition conditions 303 include, for example, information related to the sequence of long-length imaging. Furthermore, the information 305 related to the main imaging includes, for example, the name of the protocol for long-length imaging and representative reconstruction conditions. Representative reconstruction conditions may include, for example, a stitching mode and a blend width (width of the overlap region) for generating a long-length imaging image.

[0078] The operation control function 211 determines whether or not to end the actual radiography (step S207). As an example, when the user finishes pressing the button that instructs radiography, that is, when the user releases the button that started to be pressed in the processing of step S202, it is determined that the actual radiography is to end. In other words, the operation control function 211 accepts an operation to stop X-ray radiography until collection of X-ray images in the long radiography range according to the position setting of the radiography guide information is completed. As an example, when radiography is completed up to the radiography end position set in the position setting processing of the guide information in step S201, it is determined that the actual radiography is to end. When it is not determined that the actual radiography is to end (step S207: No), the flow in FIG. 6 returns to the processing of step S204.

[0079] On the other hand, when it is determined that the actual radiography is to be terminated (step S207: Yes), the image generation function 212 acquires all projection image data obtained in the actual radiography and temporarily reconstructed X-ray image data (step S208). Here, the acquired temporarily reconstructed X-ray image data is image data based on the long images generated and stored until an operation to stop the X-ray radiography is performed or until radiography of the radiography range corresponding to the setting of the position of the radiography guide information in the superimposed image is completed. In addition, the image generation function 212 generates long radiography image data by main reconstruction, which combines all X-ray images (radiography images) obtained in the actual radiography, and saves, i.e., stores, the data in the memory circuitry 23 (step S209). In addition, the display control function 213 displays the long radiography image reconstructed in the processing of step S209 on the display 251 (step S210). Thereafter, the flow of FIG. 6 ends.

[0080] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining generation of long captured images 500 and 600 according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 illustrates a live image (long captured image 500) at the end of main imaging and a long captured image 600 generated by main reconstruction.

[0081] Prior to the actual reconstruction, the image generation function 212 acquires an image size L1 of the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image and a predetermined image size L2 of the long image. The image size L1 of the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image is acquired based on temporarily reconstructed X-ray image data stored in the memory circuitry 23 or the like. The image size L2 of the long image generated by the actual reconstruction is, for example, predetermined and stored in the memory circuitry 23 or the like. Here, each image size L1, L2 is the number of pixels of each image. More specifically, each image size L1, L2 is the number of pixels in the long image capturing direction of each image, i.e., the stitching direction.

[0082] The image generation function 212 acquires the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 per pixel of the live image based on the image size L1 of the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image, i.e., the live image obtained by temporary reconstruction. The image generation function 212 also determines the size of each X-ray image to be stitched together in the actual reconstruction based on the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 per pixel of the live image and the size ratio between the two image sizes L1 and L2. The image generation function 212 then performs actual reconstruction to stitch together all of the X-ray images obtained in the actual imaging. In this way, the image generation function 212 performs actual reconstruction to generate a long image of a predetermined image size based on the X-ray images collected in the X-ray imaging, based on the image size of the X-ray image generated by temporary reconstruction.

[0083] Although the above example illustrates a case in which the processing related to the actual reconstruction (steps S208 to S210) is performed as a series of steps together with the processing of the actual photography (steps S202 to S207), the present invention is not limited to this. The processing related to the actual reconstruction may also be realized as post-processing.

[0084] Note that the processing related to the actual reconstruction (steps S208 to S210) does not necessarily have to be performed. That is, in the temporary reconstruction performed during long-length photography, the captured images at each position are stitched together in the same way as in the actual reconstruction, so the live image generated using the captured image at the last photographing position can also be treated as the long-length photographed image generated by the actual photography. In this case, the long-length photographed image generated by the temporary reconstruction may be subjected to processing to convert it into an image size suitable for display.

[0085] Although the above example illustrates a case in which the same stitching as in the actual reconstruction is performed in the temporary reconstruction, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the temporary reconstruction can be a process in which captured images at each position are arranged in the imaging direction and displayed without considering the blend width, etc. In this case, the long captured image is generated in the process related to the actual reconstruction, taking the blend width into consideration. Of course, the process related to the actual reconstruction may also perform a reconstruction for determining the image size and a reconstruction for generating the long captured image. Even with these configurations, the user can easily check the imaging position even at that point during long imaging. In other words, the user can easily check up to which position of the subject imaging has been completed, and can easily determine the timing to release the button instructing imaging and end imaging.

[0086] Note that the long photographed image generated by the main reconstruction may be subjected to image quality improvement processing such as noise reduction processing. Furthermore, for example, when the main reconstruction is not performed, the long photographed image generated by the temporary reconstruction may be subjected to image quality improvement processing such as noise reduction processing.

[0087] While the example has been given in which the live image generated in the processing of step S205 during long-length photography, i.e., the temporarily reconstructed long-length photographed image, is displayed on the display 251, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 213 may sequentially display photographed images from each position at the same position on the display screen during long-length photography. In this display mode, unlike the live monitor mode in which live images are displayed, the size of the image displayed at each point in time remains constant from the start to the end of long-length photography. Note that photographed images such as live images may not be displayed during long-length photography, depending on, for example, user settings.

[0088] In this way, the image generation function 212 acquires the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 corresponding to the imaging range of the long-length imaging based on the provisionally reconstructed X-ray image. The image generation function 212 also generates a final reconstructed image (long-length imaging image 600) based on a live image stitched together based on a target object in the image, i.e., a provisionally reconstructed image in consideration of the width of the overlapping area in stitching. This not only enables efficient long-length imaging with a simple configuration, but also makes it easy to grasp the range generated as a long-length imaging image by actual imaging with the X-ray aperture 15 narrowed, i.e., the range to be imaged. Furthermore, a long-length imaging image matching a predetermined image size L2 can be generated with higher accuracy than when the image size is estimated from the encoder of the imaging unit 3 or the bed 5. In other words, the technology according to this embodiment can prevent the occurrence of blank areas in the long-length imaging image that do not include the imaging image. Therefore, it is possible to prevent degradation in the image quality of the long-length imaging image generated by actual imaging with the X-ray aperture 15 narrowed.

[0089] In the first embodiment, a case where long-length imaging is performed as the main imaging is described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. The technology according to the first embodiment can also be applied to bone mineral density (BMD) measurement.

[0090] BMD measurement may be performed using the X-ray diagnostic device 1, but the size of the BMD measurement target, such as a femur, is often smaller than the detector size of the X-ray detector 17 of the X-ray diagnostic device 1. For this reason, in BMD measurement, from the viewpoint of analytical accuracy, images are collected with the X-ray aperture 15 narrowed, as in the long-length imaging described above. In BMD measurement, the user also needs to set the imaging range prior to image collection.

[0091] In this situation, for example, in BMD measurement, the user changes the display position of the imaging guide information on the display screen 300 so that the range to be imaged falls between the two lines (guides 331, 333). In other words, the user adjusts the display position of the imaging guide information on the image of the LIH. Note that when the display position of the imaging start position information is changed, the size of the imaging range information is also changed.

[0092] In BMD measurement, the imaging start position information may be, for example, an image of a rectangular frame. In this case, the user adjusts the size and position of the frame so that the desired imaging range fits within the frame.

[0093] Furthermore, in BMD measurement, the operation control function 211 sets the position of the guide 331 at that time as the imaging start position in response to an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 according to the user's operation after the adjustment is completed. In other words, the operation control function 211 can also set the imaging range (imaging field of view) of the bone density measurement as the main imaging according to the display position of the imaging guide information on the image of the LIH.

[0094] In long-length imaging, similarly to BMD measurement, the display position of the imaging guide information 330 on the image of the LIH 311 may be adjustable. In this case, the user can set the imaging start position for long-length imaging by changing the display position of the imaging guide information on the display screen 300.

[0095] In addition, in BMD measurement, the user may move at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 while looking at the display screen 300, thereby adjusting the area to be imaged so that it fits between the two lines (guides 331, 333) or frames.

[0096] As described above, the technology according to the first embodiment allows efficient BMD measurement with a simple configuration.

[0097] In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to each of the above-described embodiments, the X-ray images may be acquired with the subject P in an upright position or with the subject P in a recumbent position.

[0098] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to efficiently perform long-length photography with a simple configuration.

[0099] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are intended to be included within the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as within the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1 X-ray diagnostic equipment 3. Filming Department 5 berths 7 Drive unit 9 Control section 10 Console device 11. X-ray high voltage device 13 X-ray tube 15 X-ray aperture 16 Aperture control section 17 X-ray detector 19 Holding device 21 Processing circuit (control unit) 23 Memory circuit (memory) 25 Display section 27 Input Interface 70 Drive control unit 71 Photography system movement drive unit 73 Top plate movement drive unit 211 Operation control function (acquisition means, shooting execution means) 212 Image generation function (photography execution means) 213 Display control function (display control means) 251 Display

Claims

1. 1. An X-ray diagnostic apparatus for performing long-length photography of a subject by changing a position of an acquisition range corresponding to an aperture opening of an X-ray aperture and acquiring a plurality of X-ray images based on the acquisition range, an acquisition means for acquiring a first partial X-ray image representing a part of the subject, for setting a first acquisition range defined based on an imaging start position of the long length imaging and the aperture opening; a display control means for causing a display unit to display a first superimposed image in which first guide information representing the first acquisition range is superimposed on the first X-ray partial image; a photography execution means for setting conditions for long-length photography and executing the long-length photography, the acquiring means further acquires a second partial X-ray image representing a part of the subject for setting a second acquisition range defined based on an imaging end position of the long length imaging and the aperture opening; the display control means causes the display unit to display a second superimposed image in which second guide information representing the second acquisition range is superimposed on the second X-ray partial image; the photographing execution means sets conditions for the long photographing including a third collection range defined based on a photographing position between the photographing start position represented by the first guide information set in the first superimposed image and the photographing end position represented by the second guide information set in the second superimposed image, both of which are acquired by a user's operation, and the aperture opening, based on a setting of a superimposition position of the first guide information in the first superimposed image and a setting of a superimposition position of the second guide information in the second superimposed image; X-ray diagnostic equipment.

2. the display control means further performs one of superimposing a display indicating a direction of long-length imaging of the subject, masking a collection range, and masking a region other than the collection range on at least one of the first superimposed image and the second superimposed image.

2. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. the imaging execution means sequentially generates long images based on the acquired X-ray images each time the X-ray images are acquired; the display control means causes the generated long image to be displayed on the display unit.

3. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

4. the imaging execution means accepts an operation to stop the long length imaging until the collection of the X-ray images under the setting of the long length imaging conditions is completed. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the photographing execution means, in response to an operation to stop the long photographing, records image data based on the long image generated up until the operation is performed; The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the acquiring means determines whether or not the subject represented by the first X-ray partial image or the second X-ray partial image has moved, and when determining that the subject has moved, acquires a new X-ray partial image after the movement; the display control means causes the display unit to display a superimposed image in which the acquisition range is superimposed on the X-ray partial image after the movement. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. an imaging range of the first X-ray partial image and the second X-ray partial image is larger than an acquisition range corresponding to an aperture opening of an X-ray aperture that blocks X-rays in the long-length imaging; The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. 1. A control method for an X-ray diagnostic apparatus for performing long-length photography of a subject by changing a position of an acquisition range corresponding to an aperture opening of an X-ray aperture, and acquiring a plurality of X-ray images based on the acquisition range, the method comprising: acquiring a first partial X-ray image representing a part of the subject for setting a first acquisition range defined based on an imaging start position of the long length imaging and the aperture opening; displaying a first superimposed image on a display unit, the first superimposed image being obtained by superimposing first guide information representing the first acquisition range on the first X-ray partial image; further acquiring a second partial X-ray image representing a part of the subject for setting a second acquisition range defined based on the imaging end position of the long length imaging and the aperture opening; displaying a second superimposed image on the display unit, the second superimposed image being obtained by superimposing second guide information representing the second acquisition range on the second X-ray partial image; based on a setting of a superimposition position of the first guide information on the first superimposed image and a setting of a superimposition position of the second guide information on the second superimposed image, both of which are acquired by a user's operation, set a condition for the long length photography including a third collection range that is defined based on a photography position between the photography start position represented by the first guide information set on the first superimposed image and the photography end position represented by the second guide information set on the second superimposed image, and the aperture; Perform the long-length photography. A method for controlling an X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

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