Control device, image acquisition device, control method, and control program

Abstract

To provide a control device, an image acquisition device, a control method, and a control program capable of suppressing deterioration of a compression member 40.SOLUTION: A console 50 comprises at least one processor. The processor acquires type information indicating the type of the compression member attached to an image acquisition device for taking a radiation image by applying radiation to a mamma compressed between a photographing platform and the compression member, and sets an upper limit value of a compression force to apply to the mamma by the compression member, on the basis of the type information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, an image acquisition device, a control method, and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] Image acquisition devices for capturing radiographic images of the breast have been known. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of improving the accuracy of breast cancer detection, devices capable of acquiring ultrasound images of the breast in addition to radiographic images have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of acquiring an X-ray image of the breast, determining the coordinates of an ROI that is observable on the X-ray image and includes an abnormal area, and scanning the target object using an ultrasound imaging system using the coordinates of the ROI. It also discloses that the breast is compressed by compression paddles when acquiring X-ray and ultrasound images. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-125080 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In image acquisition devices that acquire radiological and / or ultrasonic images of the breast, it is desirable to have a detachable compression member for compressing the breast, which can be replaced with a compression member of a suitable material, size, and shape depending on the shape (size, etc.) of the breast, the tissue composition (e.g., fat mass, mammary gland mass), and the purpose of imaging.

[0005] However, different materials, sizes, and shapes of compression members result in different strengths. In particular, compression members with relatively weak strength may deteriorate faster than compression members with relatively strong strength. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can appropriately suppress deterioration for each compression member.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a control device, an image acquisition device, a control method, and a control program that can suppress deterioration of a compression member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure is a control device comprising at least one processor, which acquires type information indicating the type of compression member attached to an image acquisition device that irradiates radiation onto a breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member to capture a radiological image, and sets an upper limit value of the compression force that the compression member applies to the breast based on the type information.

[0008] In the first aspect, the type information may indicate at least one of the material, size, and shape of the compression member.

[0009] In the first aspect, the type information may indicate at least the material of the pressing member.

[0010] In the first aspect, the processor may set a relatively high value as the upper limit value when the type information indicates that the compression member is of a type having a relatively high strength, and may set a relatively low value as the upper limit value when the type information indicates that the compression member is of a type having a relatively low strength.

[0011] In the first aspect, when the type information indicates a material containing polymethylpentene, the processor may set the upper limit to a value that is relatively lower than those for other materials.

[0012] In the first aspect, the processor may obtain, for each compression member, a log including usage information indicating at least one of the compression force applied by the compression member to the breast, the compression time and number of compressions, and the elapsed time since the compression member was first used.

[0013] In the first aspect, the processor may issue a notification when the usage information satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of compression member.

[0014] In the first aspect, the processor may derive the load amount of the compression member based on the usage information, and may issue a notification when the load amount satisfies a condition predetermined for each type of compression member.

[0015] In the first aspect, the processor may set a relatively low value as the upper limit when the usage information satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of compression member.

[0016] In the first aspect, the processor may derive the load amount of the compression member based on the usage information, and set a relatively low value as the upper limit value when the load amount satisfies predetermined conditions for each type of compression member.

[0017] In the first aspect, the processor may reduce the compressive force after the radiographic image capture is completed to be lower than the compressive force before the radiographic image capture is completed, based on the type information.

[0018] In the first aspect, when the type information indicates a material containing polymethylpentene, the processor may reduce the compression force after the radiographic image capture is completed to be lower than the compression force before the radiographic image capture is completed.

[0019] In the first aspect, the processor may acquire the amount of movement of the compression member in the direction of compression against the breast, monitor the deformation of the compression member based on the amount of movement, and, when deformation of the compression member is detected, perform at least one of issuing an alert and stopping compression by the compression member.

[0020] In the first aspect, the processor may detect that the compression member has been deformed when the amount of movement is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0021] A second aspect of the present disclosure is an image acquisition device comprising the control device according to the first aspect, a radiation source, a radiation detector, an imaging table disposed between the radiation source and the radiation detector, and a compression member that compresses the breast between the imaging table and the radiation detector.

[0022] In the second aspect, the device may further include an ultrasonic probe disposed between the radiation source and the compression member.

[0023] A third aspect of the present disclosure is a control method, which includes a process of acquiring type information indicating the type of a compression member attached to an image acquisition device that captures a radiographic image by irradiating radiation onto a breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member, and setting an upper limit of the compression force that the compression member applies to the breast based on the type information. The computer runs .

[0024] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a control program that causes a computer to acquire type information indicating the type of compression member attached to an image acquisition device that irradiates radiation onto a breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member to capture a radiological image, and to execute a process of setting an upper limit value of the compression force that the compression member applies to the breast based on the type information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the above aspects, the control device, image acquisition device, control method, and control program of the present disclosure can suppress deterioration of the compression member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an image acquisition system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view showing an example of the appearance of the image acquisition device. [Figure 3] 1A to 1C are three-view diagrams illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a compression member. [Figure 4] 1A to 1C are three-view diagrams illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a compression member. [Figure 5]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a console. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a console. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of type information of a compression member. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an upper limit value of compression force set based on type information. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control process. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of usage information. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a condition using usage information. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a deformed compression member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0028] First, the configuration of an image acquisition system 1 to which an image acquisition device 10 of the present disclosure is applied will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image acquisition system 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the image acquisition system 1 includes the image acquisition device 10 and a console 50. The image acquisition device 10 and the console 50, and the console 50 and an external RIS (Radiology Information System) 6 are configured to be connectable via a wired or wireless network. The console 50 is an example of a control device of the present disclosure.

[0029] In the image acquisition system 1, the console 50 acquires imaging orders and the like from the RIS 6, and controls the image acquisition device 10 in accordance with the imaging orders and user instructions, etc. The image acquisition device 10 captures a radiological image by irradiating radiation R onto the breast compressed between the imaging table 16 and the compression member 40. The image acquisition device 10 also acquires an ultrasound image of the compressed breast via the compression member 40.

[0030] Next, the schematic configuration of the image acquisition device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a side view showing an example of the appearance of the image acquisition device 10, as viewed from the right side of the subject. As shown in Fig. 2, the image acquisition device 10 includes a radiation source 17R, a radiation detector 28, an imaging table 16 arranged between the radiation source 17R and the radiation detector 28, a compression member 40 that compresses the breast between the imaging table 16, and an ultrasound probe 30. In the image acquisition device 10, a user such as a doctor or technician positions the subject's breast on an imaging surface 16A of the imaging table 16.

[0031] The image acquisition device 10 includes an arm unit 12, a base 14, and a shaft unit 15. The arm unit 12 is held by the base 14 so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z direction). The shaft unit 15 connects the arm unit 12 to the base 14. The arm unit 12 is rotatable relative to the base 14 around the shaft unit 15 as a rotation axis. Furthermore, the arm unit 12 may have an upper portion including a radiation irradiation unit 17 and a lower portion including an imaging table 16 that are rotatable relative to the base 14 around the shaft unit 15 as a rotation axis, separately.

[0032] The arm 12 includes a radiation irradiator 17 and an imaging table 16. The radiation irradiator 17 includes a radiation source 17R and is configured to be able to change the irradiation field of radiation (e.g., X-rays) irradiated from the radiation source 17R. The irradiation field may be changed, for example, by a user operating the operation unit 26, or may be changed by the control unit 20 depending on the type of compression member 40 attached.

[0033] The imaging stand 16 includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 22, an I / F (Interface) unit 24, an operation unit 26, and a radiation detector 28. The control unit 20 controls the overall operation of the image acquisition device 10 in accordance with the control of the console 50. The control unit 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. (not shown). The ROM stores various programs in advance, including programs executed by the CPU for controlling the acquisition of radiographic images and ultrasound images. The RAM temporarily stores various data.

[0034] Radiation image and ultrasound image data, various other information, etc. are stored in the storage unit 22. The storage unit 22 is realized by a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a flash memory.

[0035] The I / F unit 24 communicates various types of information with the console 50 via wired or wireless communication. Specifically, the I / F unit 24 receives information related to the control of the image acquisition device 10 from the console 50. The I / F unit 24 also transmits radiographic image and ultrasound image data to the console 50.

[0036] The operation unit 26 is a part provided on the imaging stand 16 or the like that can be operated by the user with the hands or feet, and is, for example, a switch, a button, a touch panel, or the like.

[0037] The radiation detector 28 is disposed inside the imaging table 16, detects radiation R that has passed through the breast and the imaging table 16, generates a radiographic image based on the detected radiation R, and outputs image data representing the generated radiographic image. The type of radiation detector 28 is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, an indirect conversion type radiation detector that converts radiation R into light and then converts the converted light into electric charges, or a direct conversion type radiation detector that directly converts radiation R into electric charges.

[0038] A probe unit 38 and a compression unit 48 are connected to the arm 12. A support part 36 that detachably supports the ultrasonic probe 30 is attached to the probe unit 38. A drive part (not shown) provided in the probe unit 38 moves the support part 36 (ultrasonic probe 30) in the vertical and horizontal directions (X, Y, and Z directions). The support part 36 is preferably made of a material that transmits radiation R.

[0039] The ultrasonic probe 30 is used to obtain an ultrasonic image of the breast compressed by the compression member 40, and is disposed between the radiation source 17R and the compression member 40. It irradiates the breast with ultrasonic waves via the compression member 40 and receives waves reflected from the breast. The probe unit 38 also contains a converter (not shown) that converts the waves reflected from the breast received by the ultrasonic probe 30 into an ultrasonic image, and the ultrasonic image is obtained by the converter.

[0040] Specifically, the ultrasonic probe 30 includes an ultrasonic transducer array. The ultrasonic transducer array has a configuration in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers are arranged one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally. The ultrasonic transducer may be formed by forming electrodes on both ends of a piezoelectric body, such as a piezoelectric ceramic typified by lead zirconate titanate (PZT: Lead Zirconate Titanate), a piezoelectric single crystal typified by lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT: Lead Magnesium Niobate-Lead Titanate), or a polymer piezoelectric element typified by polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF). Alternatively, for example, the ultrasonic transducer may be a capacitive micro-machined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT).

[0041] Furthermore, the image acquisition device 10 may be configured so that a plurality of different types of ultrasound probes 30 can be attached interchangeably. Specifically, ultrasound probes 30 with different performance and dimensions may be attached depending on the subject's physique (e.g., breast size), breast tissue composition (e.g., fat mass and mammary gland mass), and type of imaging (e.g., magnification imaging and spot imaging). For example, a linear probe (for superficial imaging, etc.) with a center frequency of approximately 7.5 MHz, a convex probe (for abdominal imaging, etc.) with a center frequency of approximately 3.5 MHz, and a sector probe (for cardiac imaging, etc.) with a center frequency of approximately 2.5 MHz may be used.

[0042] A support part 46 that supports the compression member 40 is detachably attached to the compression unit 48. A drive part (not shown) provided in the compression unit 48 moves the support part 46 (compression member 40) in the up-down direction (Z direction).

[0043] The compression member 40 is disposed between the radiation source 17R and the imaging table 16, and compresses the breast by sandwiching it between the radiation source 17R and the imaging table 16. FIG. 3 shows three views of an example of the compression member 40. The three views in FIG. 3 include a top view of the compression member 40 seen from above (the radiation irradiation unit 17 side), a side view seen from the subject side, and a side view seen from the right side of the subject. As shown in FIG. 3, the compression member 40 includes a compression portion 42 and a support portion 46.

[0044] The support part 46 includes a mounting part 47 and an arm 49. The mounting part 47 mounts the compression member 40 to the image acquisition device 10, specifically to a drive part of a compression unit 48. The arm 49 supports the compression part 42.

[0045] The compression unit 42 has a generally flat bottom 43 surrounded by walls 44 of generally uniform height, and has a concave cross-sectional shape. The compression unit 42 is preferably made of an optically transparent or translucent material so that positioning and the state of compression can be confirmed during breast compression. The compression unit 42 is also preferably made of a material that is highly transmissive to radiation R and ultrasound. The compression unit 42 is also preferably made of a material that has excellent strength, such as drop strength and compression strength.

[0046] Examples of such materials that can be used include resins such as polymethylpentene (PMP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylic, polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polymethylpentene, in particular, has an acoustic impedance that affects the transmittance and reflectance of ultrasound waves, which is closer to that of the human body (breast) than other materials, and can reduce the proportion of noise imparted to ultrasound images. Therefore, polymethylpentene is a suitable material for the compression portion 42.

[0047] Furthermore, the image acquisition device 10 may be configured to allow a plurality of different types of compression members 40 to be attached interchangeably. Specifically, compression members 40 of different materials, sizes, and shapes may be attached depending on the subject's physique (e.g., breast size), breast tissue composition (e.g., fat mass and mammary gland mass), and type of imaging (e.g., magnification imaging and spot imaging). For example, a compression member according to the size of the breast, a compression member for axillary imaging, a compression member for magnification imaging, and a compression member for so-called spot imaging, which captures a radiographic image of only the area where a lesion is present, may be used. In other words, the compression member 40 is not limited to one that compresses the entire breast, but may also be one that is smaller than the breast and compresses only a portion of the breast.

[0048] FIG. 4 shows a three-view diagram of a compression member 40S for small breasts, an example of a different configuration from the compression member 40 of FIG. 3. The three-view diagram of FIG. 4 includes a top view of the compression member 40S as seen from above (the radiation irradiation unit 17 side), a side view as seen from the subject's side, and a side view as seen from the subject's right side. Similar to the compression member 40 of FIG. 3, the compression member 40S includes a compression section 42 and a support section 46. The bottom section 43 of the compression member 40S is not flat, and the side facing the attachment section 47 is higher than the side facing the chest wall (the side farther from the attachment section 47). Furthermore, the wall section 44 does not have a uniform height, and the height of a portion facing the chest wall is lower than the height of the remaining portion. This shape allows the compression member 40S to easily position and compress even small breasts.

[0049] In this way, at least one of the compression member 40 for compressing the breast and the ultrasound probe 30 for acquiring ultrasound images can be detachable in the image acquisition device 10. In this case, the image acquisition device 10 may detect the type of compression member 40 and ultrasound probe 30 that are attached.

[0050] For example, a plurality of pins, the arrangement of which varies depending on the type of compression member 40, may be provided on the attachment portion 47 of the compression member 40 as identification information, and the identification information may be read by a sensor (such as a photointerrupter) that is capable of detecting the arrangement of the pins and that is provided on the compression unit 48. Alternatively, for example, a marker (such as a barcode or two-dimensional code) that corresponds to the type of compression member 40 may be provided at an arbitrary position on the compression member 40 as identification information, and the identification information may be read by a sensor (such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor) that can detect the marker.

[0051] Alternatively, for example, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag having identification information according to the type of compression member 40 may be provided at any position on the compression member 40, and the identification information may be read by an RFID reader capable of reading the RFID tag. Alternatively, for example, the weight of each type of compression member 40 may be associated with the identification information and stored in advance in the storage unit 22, and the weight of the attached compression member 40 may be measured with a sensor capable of detecting weight, and the identification information (type of compression member 40) may be determined based on the measured value.

[0052] Similarly, the type of the attached ultrasonic probe 30 may be identified according to, for example, a pin, a marker, an RFID tag, weight, or the like.

[0053] The image acquisition device 10 may also detect the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member 40. For example, when the compression member 40 compresses the breast, a reaction force equal to the compression force is applied to the drive unit of the compression member 40. Utilizing this, a strain gauge (e.g., a load cell) that detects the reaction force applied to the drive unit may be provided in the compression unit 48, and the reaction force detected by the strain gauge may be detected as the compression force. Alternatively, for example, a semiconductor pressure sensor, a capacitance pressure sensor, or the like may be used to detect the compression force. Alternatively, for example, various sensors for detecting the compression force may be provided on the compression member 40 side instead of on the compression unit 48 side.

[0054] The upper surface 43A and / or the contact surface 43B of the bottom portion 43 of the compression member 40 may be coated with a gel or liquid ultrasonically transparent medium. For example, a known ultrasound examination jelly having an acoustic impedance similar to that of the human body (breast) may be used as such a medium. That is, the image acquisition device 10 may acquire, via the compression member 40, an ultrasound image of a breast compressed by the compression member 40 coated with a gel or liquid ultrasonically transparent medium. In this case, air can be prevented from entering the interface between the ultrasound emitting surface of the ultrasonic probe 30 and the upper surface 43A and / or the interface between the contact surface 43B and the breast. This reduces the difference in acoustic impedance at each interface, thereby reducing the proportion of noise in the ultrasound image.

[0055] Furthermore, the method of imaging the breast using the image acquisition device 10 is not particularly limited. For example, it may be craniocaudal (CC) imaging, mesolateral oblique (MLO) imaging, magnified imaging that images a portion of the breast, or spot imaging. CC imaging is a method of imaging the breast in a compressed state by sandwiching the breast between the imaging table 16 and the compression member 40 in the vertical direction (Z direction). MLO imaging is a method of imaging the breast in a compressed state, including the axillary region, by sandwiching the breast between the imaging table 16 and the compression member 40 with the arm unit 12 tilted so that the rotation angle with respect to the base 14 is equal to or greater than 45 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0056] Furthermore, for example, image acquisition device 10 may be configured to perform tomosynthesis imaging. In tomosynthesis imaging, radiation R is irradiated from radiation source 17R toward the breast from multiple irradiation positions with different irradiation angles, and multiple radiation images of the breast are captured. That is, in tomosynthesis imaging, the angles of imaging table 16, compression member 40, breast, etc. are kept fixed, and imaging is performed by changing the rotation angle of radiation irradiator 17 relative to base 14.

[0057] Furthermore, the image acquisition device 10 may be capable of positioning the subject's breasts not only when the subject is standing (standing position), but also when the subject is sitting in a chair, wheelchair, etc. (sitting position).

[0058] The console 50 sets an upper limit of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member 40 according to the type of compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10. The console 50 also controls the image acquisition device 10 so as to acquire a radiographic image according to the imaging order acquired from the RIS 6 and instructions from the user. The console 50 also controls the position of the ultrasound probe 30 so as to acquire an ultrasound image aligned with the position of the region of interest included in the radiographic image captured by the image acquisition device 10. The console 50 will be described below.

[0059] An example of the hardware configuration of the console 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 5, the console 50 includes a CPU 51, a non-volatile storage unit 52, and a memory 53 serving as a temporary storage area. The console 50 also includes a display 54 such as a liquid crystal display, an operation unit 55 such as a touch panel, a keyboard, and a mouse, and an I / F unit 56. The I / F unit 56 communicates with the image acquisition device 10, the RIS 6, and other external devices via wired or wireless communication. The CPU 51, the storage unit 52, the memory 53, the display 54, the operation unit 55, and the I / F unit 56 are connected via a bus 58 such as a system bus and a control bus so as to be able to exchange various information with each other.

[0060] The storage unit 52 is realized by a storage medium such as an HDD, an SSD, or a flash memory. The storage unit 52 stores an information processing program 57 for the console 50. The CPU 51 reads the information processing program 57 from the storage unit 52, loads it into the memory 53, and executes the loaded information processing program 57. The console 50 may be, for example, a personal computer, a server computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, or the like, as appropriate.

[0061] The storage unit 52 also stores image data of radiographic images and ultrasound images acquired by the image acquisition device 10, as well as various other information. The image data of radiographic images and ultrasound images may be stored in association with at least one of an imaging order and imaging information. The imaging information may be, for example, at least one of subject information and imaging type included in the imaging order, photographer information indicating the photographer who performed the imaging (e.g., a user such as a doctor or technician), and date and time information indicating the date and time when the imaging was performed.

[0062] An example of the functional configuration of the console 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. As shown in Fig. 6, the console 50 includes an acquisition unit 60, a setting unit 62, and a control unit 64. The CPU 51 executes the information processing program 57, causing the CPU 51 to function as the acquisition unit 60, the setting unit 62, and the control unit 64.

[0063] (Setting the upper limit of compression force) The acquiring unit 60 acquires type information indicating the type of the pressing member 40 attached to the image acquiring device 10. The type information is information indicating at least one of the material, size, and shape of the pressing member 40 attached to the image acquiring device 10. In particular, it is preferable that the type information indicates at least the material of the pressing member 40 attached to the image acquiring device 10.

[0064] FIG. 7 shows an example of type information for the compression member 40. FIG. 7 shows Table T, which associates the identification information of the compression member 40 with the material, size including width (X direction), depth (Y direction), and height (Z direction), and shape. The "CC / MLO" type shown in the shape column refers to a compression member with a flat bottom 43, as shown in FIG. 3, for example. The "small breast CC / MLO" type refers to a compression member with an uneven bottom 43, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, that is shaped to make it easier for the user to remove their hand when positioning. The "spot imaging" type and the "axillary" type refer to compression members of sizes suitable for spot imaging and axillary imaging, respectively. The "biopsy" type refers to a compression member with a hole in the bottom 43 through which a needle can be inserted to collect breast cells and / or tissue.

[0065] For example, the acquisition unit 60 may acquire identification information indicating the type of the pressing member 40 detected by the image acquisition device 10, and identify the type information of the pressing member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10 by comparing the identification information with the table T. The table T may be stored in advance in the storage unit 52, for example.

[0066] The setting unit 62 sets an upper limit of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member 40 based on the type information acquired by the acquisition unit 60. Specifically, when the type information indicates that the compression member 40 is of a type having relatively weak strength, the setting unit 62 sets a relatively low value as the upper limit of the compression force. In other words, when the type information indicates that the compression member 40 is of a type having relatively strong strength, the setting unit 62 sets a relatively high value as the upper limit of the compression force. "Strength" refers to mechanical strength evaluated by, for example, bending strength and tensile yield stress (yield point stress), etc.

[0067] For example, the strength of the compression member 40 is thought to vary depending on the material. As described above, resins such as polymethylpentene (PMP) and polycarbonate (PC) can be used as materials for the compression member 40, with PMP being particularly suitable from the standpoint of acoustic impedance. However, it is known that the strength of PMP is weaker than other materials such as PC. For example, the bending strength of PC is approximately 91 to 94 MPa (megapascals), while that of PMP is approximately 25 to 40 MPa. Furthermore, for example, the tensile yield stress of PC is approximately 63 to 69 MPa, while that of PMP is approximately 25 to 32 MPa. Therefore, when the type information acquired by the acquisition unit 60 indicates a material containing polymethylpentene (PMP), the setting unit 62 may set the upper limit of the compression force to a value relatively lower than that for other materials (e.g., PC).

[0068] Furthermore, for example, it is considered that the strength of the compression member 40 differs depending on the size and shape. For example, between the compression member 40 in Fig. 3 and the compression member 40S in Fig. 4, the compression member 40 in Fig. 3, which has a larger bottom 43, is more easily deformed and therefore weaker in strength. Therefore, when the type information acquired by the acquisition unit 60 indicates a size and shape that result in a relatively weak strength, the setting unit 62 may set the upper limit of the compression force to a value that is relatively lower than when the type information indicates other sizes and shapes.

[0069] FIG. 8 shows an example of an upper limit value of the compressive force that is set based on the type information. As shown in FIG. 8, the setting unit 62 may set a predetermined upper limit value of the compressive force for each type information (i.e., at least one of the material, size, and shape of the compressing member 40). Note that when multiple upper limits are set based on the type information, for example, when the type information simultaneously satisfies No. 1 and No. 2 in FIG. 8, the setting unit 62 may set the upper limit value of the compressive force to the lowest value (150 N (Newtons)). The predetermined upper limit value of the compressive force for each type information may be stored in advance in the memory unit 52, for example.

[0070] (acquisition of radiological images) The acquisition unit 60 acquires an imaging order from the RIS 6. The imaging order includes, for example, subject information such as the name, sex, and date of birth of the subject to be imaged, as well as the type of imaging to be performed. The type of imaging is, for example, a type of imaging designated for each of the left and right breasts, such as CC imaging, MLO imaging, magnification imaging, spot imaging, and tomosynthesis imaging.

[0071] The control unit 64 causes the display 54 to display instructions to users such as doctors and technicians to position and compress the breast in accordance with the imaging order acquired by the acquisition unit 60. The control unit 64 also controls the image acquisition device 10 so that the compression force does not exceed the upper limit set by the setting unit 62. When the user has completed positioning and compression of the breast, the control unit 64 instructs the image acquisition device 10 to capture a radiographic image in accordance with the imaging order.

[0072] (Acquisition of ultrasound images) After a radiographic image is captured by the image capture device 10 in response to an image capture instruction from the control unit 64, the acquisition unit 60 acquires the radiographic image. Specifically, the acquisition unit 60 may acquire a radiographic image stored in the storage unit 22 of the image capture device 10 via the I / F unit 56, may acquire a radiographic image already stored in the storage unit 52, or may acquire a radiographic image saved in an external device.

[0073] The control unit 64 extracts a region of interest included in the radiographic image acquired by the acquisition unit 60. The region of interest is a region of abnormal shadow that appears in the radiographic image due to a lesion such as calcification or a tumor. The region of interest may be extracted using, for example, a known CAD (Computer Aided Detection / Diagnosis) technique, or a region designated by the user via the operation unit 55 may be extracted as the region of interest.

[0074] As a method for extracting a region of interest using CAD technology, for example, a method using a learning model such as a convolutional neural network (CNN) may be applied. For example, the control unit 64 may extract a region of interest from a radiographic image using a learning model that is trained to receive a radiographic image as input and extract and output a region of interest included in the radiographic image.

[0075] The control unit 64 controls the position of the ultrasound probe 30 in the image acquisition device 10 so that the region of interest extracted from the radiation image is captured in the ultrasound image. Specifically, the control unit 64 identifies a position on the compression member 40 that corresponds to the region of interest, and instructs the image acquisition device 10 to move the ultrasound probe 30 to the identified position on the compression member 40.

[0076] Next, the operation of the console 50 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. In the console 50, the CPU 51 executes the information processing program 57, thereby executing the control processing shown in Fig. 9. The control processing is executed, for example, when a command to start execution is given by the user via the operation unit 55.

[0077] In step S10, the acquisition unit 60 acquires type information indicating the type of compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10. In step S12, the setting unit 62 sets an upper limit value for the compression force that the compression member 40 applies to the breast based on the type information acquired in step S10. In step S14, the acquisition unit 60 acquires an imaging order from the RIS 6. In step S16, the control unit 64 displays on the display 54 instructions to position and compress the breast in accordance with the imaging order acquired in step S14, and controls the image acquisition device 10 so that a compression force that exceeds the upper limit value set in step S12 is not applied.

[0078] In step S18, the control unit 64 instructs the image acquisition device 10 to capture a radiographic image in accordance with the imaging order acquired in step S14. In step S20, the acquisition unit 60 acquires the radiographic image captured by the image acquisition device 10 in accordance with the instruction in step S18. In step S22, the control unit 64 extracts a region of interest included in the radiographic image acquired in step S20. In step S24, the control unit 64 instructs the image acquisition device 10 to move the ultrasound probe 30 to a position where the region of interest extracted in step S22 appears in the ultrasound image, and this control process ends.

[0079] As described above, the console 50 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes at least one processor, which acquires type information indicating the type of compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10, which irradiates radiation R onto the breast compressed between the imaging table 16 and the compression member 40 to capture a radiological image, and sets an upper limit value for the compression force that the compression member 40 applies to the breast based on the type information.

[0080] That is, with the console 50 according to this embodiment, the upper limit of the compression force can be appropriately set depending on the type of compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10. For example, even if the compression member 40 is replaced with one made of an appropriate material, size, and shape depending on the shape (e.g., size of the breast), tissue composition (e.g., fat mass and mammary gland mass), and imaging purpose, the upper limit of the compression force can be appropriately controlled depending on the strength of each compression member 40. Therefore, regardless of the type of compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10, strong compression that would deform the compression member 40 is not applied, and deterioration of the compression member 40 can be appropriately suppressed.

[0081] In the first embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, a relatively low upper limit of the compressing force is set when the compressing member 40 is determined to have a relatively low strength based on at least one of the material, size, and shape of the compressing member 40. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the upper limit of the compressing force may be determined in advance according to the strength of each type of compressing member 40 (i.e., each piece of identification information), and stored in the storage unit 52 in addition to the table T of Fig. 7. In this case, the upper limit of the compressing force can be set more appropriately for each type (material, size, and shape) of the compressing member 40.

[0082] [Second embodiment] It is believed that the rate at which the compression members 40 deteriorate due to repeated compression varies depending on the type of compression member 40, i.e., the strength of the compression members 40. Therefore, the console 50 according to the second embodiment records the usage status of each compression member 40 and manages the compression members 40 according to different standards depending on the type of compression member 40. The functions of the console 50 according to the second embodiment will be described below, but some explanations that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0083] The acquisition unit 60 acquires, for each compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10, a log containing usage information indicating at least one of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member 40, the compression time, the number of compressions, and the elapsed time since the compression member 40 was first used. The compression time is the time during which the compression member 40 applies a compression force equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold to the breast. FIG. 10 shows an example of a log containing usage information for a compression member 40.

[0084] For example, the image acquisition device 10 may detect unique identification information for each attached compression member 40, and record the identification information in association with the compression force and compression time detected by the sensor in the storage unit 22. After the image acquisition device 10 has completed acquisition of a radiological image and / or an ultrasound image, the acquisition unit 60 may acquire the identification information, compression force, and compression time recorded in the storage unit 22 of the image acquisition device 10, and create a log of usage information for each identification information and store it in the storage unit 52. Note that the image acquisition device 10 may detect unique identification information for each attached compression member 40, for example, based on pins, markers, RFID tags, weight, etc., similar to the identification information for each type of compression member 40 described above.

[0085] The control unit 64 controls to issue a notification when the usage information acquired by the acquisition unit 60 satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of compression member 40. Specifically, when the control unit 64 determines that the compression member 40 may be deteriorated based on the usage information, the control unit 64 may issue a notification to warn the user and urge the user to replace the compression member 40. For example, the control unit 64 may display the notification content on the display 54 of the console 50. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 64 may issue a notification by turning on and / or off an LED (Light Emitting Diode) provided in the console 50 or the image acquisition device 10. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 64 may issue a notification by emitting a sound from a speaker provided in the console 50 or the image acquisition device 10.

[0086] Fig. 11 shows an example of predetermined conditions for each type of compression member 40. As shown in Fig. 11, the predetermined conditions are thresholds related to, for example, the number of compressions, the amount of load applied to the compression member 40, and the time elapsed since the compression member 40 was first used. For example, the compression member 40 deteriorates as compressions are repeated. Therefore, the control unit 64 may issue an alert when the number of compressions exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0087] Furthermore, for example, the greater the load applied to the compression member 40, the faster the deterioration of the compression member 40 progresses. Therefore, the control unit 64 may derive the load amount of the compression member 40 based on the usage information, and issue a notification when the derived load amount satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of compression member 40. Specifically, the stronger the compression force and the longer the compression time, the faster the deterioration of the compression member 40 progresses. Therefore, the control unit 64 may derive the load amount L as an integrated value expressed by the following formula, where P is the compression force and T is the compression time for each compression performed by the compression member 40, and A is a predetermined constant. L = Σ(P × T × A)

[0088] Furthermore, for example, the compression member 40 deteriorates over time due to light, humidity, temperature changes, and the like. It is also desirable to periodically replace the compression member 40 from a hygienic standpoint. Therefore, the control unit 64 may issue a warning when the time elapsed since the compression member 40 was first used exceeds a predetermined threshold. The elapsed time can be determined, for example, based on the period from the first use date recorded in the log to the present time.

[0089] The control unit 64 may control whether or not to issue a notification by appropriately combining the conditions related to the number of compressions, the load amount, and the elapsed time. For example, the notification may be issued when any one of the conditions is satisfied, or when all of the conditions are satisfied.

[0090] For compression members 40 that may be deteriorating, the progression of deterioration may be slowed by lowering the upper limit of the compression force that the compression members 40 apply to the breast. Therefore, the control unit 64 may perform control to set a relatively low value as the upper limit of the compression force that the compression members 40 apply to the breast when the usage information acquired by the acquisition unit 60 satisfies predetermined conditions for each type of compression member 40. Similarly, the control unit 64 may set a relatively low value as the upper limit of the compression force when the load amount derived based on the usage information satisfies predetermined conditions for each type of compression member 40.

[0091] For example, the upper limit of the compressing force of a compressing member 40 made of PMP material is 150 N in the initial state (when the number of compressions is 0) (see FIG. 8). When the usage information regarding the compressing member 40 satisfies the condition No. 1 in FIG. 11, the control unit 64 may reset the upper limit of the compressing force to a relatively lower value (for example, 130 N). Also, for example, the control unit 64 may set a condition in stages, and when a condition indicating more advanced deterioration is met (for example, when the number of compressions exceeds 400,000), the control unit 64 may set the upper limit of the compressing force to a lower value (for example, 120 N).

[0092] As described above, the console 50 according to this embodiment can appropriately manage the degree of deterioration in consideration of the type and usage of the compression member 40 attached to the image acquisition device 10. Therefore, deformation of the compression member 40 that may occur due to deterioration of the compression member 40 can be suppressed.

[0093] [Third embodiment] In radiographic imaging, strong compression of the breast is required during radiation R irradiation to reduce radiation dose, improve image quality, and suppress body movement. On the other hand, acquiring ultrasound images can take longer than acquiring radiographic images due to tasks such as scanning the ultrasound probe 30 while viewing the images to search for lesions. Continuing to compress the breast with the same strong compression force as during radiographic imaging during this period is undesirable because it accelerates deterioration of the compression member 40 and places a burden on the subject. Therefore, the console 50 according to the third embodiment changes the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member 40 during each stage: radiographic imaging and ultrasound image acquisition. The functions of the console 50 according to the third embodiment are described below, but some explanations overlapping with those of the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0094] The control unit 64 performs control to reduce the pressure after radiographic imaging is completed compared to the pressure before radiographic imaging is completed (particularly during the period when radiation R is being irradiated) based on the type information acquired by the acquisition unit 60. Specifically, when the type information indicates that the pressing member 40 is of a type having a relatively low strength, the control unit 64 may reduce the pressure after radiographic imaging is completed.

[0095] For example, the compression force before the completion of radiographic imaging is assumed to be 120 N. When the type information indicates a material containing polymethylpentene (PMP), which has a relatively low strength, the control unit 64 may lower the compression force after the completion of radiographic imaging from the compression force (120 N) before the completion of radiographic imaging, for example, to 80 N. This configuration makes it possible to appropriately suppress deterioration of the compression member 40.

[0096] If the compression member 40 is a type having a relatively high strength, the compression force may be maintained at the same level before and after radiographic imaging. However, from the perspective of reducing the burden on the subject, it is preferable to reduce the compression force after radiographic imaging is completed. In this case, the control unit 64 may vary the amount of reduction in the compression force before and after radiographic imaging is completed depending on the type of compression member 40. For example, the compression force before radiographic imaging is completed is set to a uniform 120 N regardless of the type of compression member 40. The control unit 64 may reduce the compression force after radiographic imaging is completed to 100 N if the type information indicates a material containing PC, which has a relatively high strength, or to 80 N if the type information indicates a material containing PMP, which has a relatively low strength.

[0097] In addition, the user may instruct the release of compression after acquiring an ultrasound image via the operation unit 55 of the console 50 and / or the operation unit 26 of the image acquisition device 10, or the control unit 64 may instruct the release of compression when acquiring an ultrasound image from the image acquisition device 10.

[0098] [Fourth embodiment] If compression force is applied to the compression member 40 when it has deteriorated, it may become deformed, making it unable to compress the breast properly. Therefore, the console 50 according to the fourth embodiment monitors the deformation state of the compression member 40. The functions of the console 50 according to the fourth embodiment will be described below, but some explanations that overlap with those of the first to third embodiments will be omitted.

[0099] The acquisition unit 60 acquires the amount of movement of the compression member 40 in the compression direction (vertical direction / Z direction) relative to the breast while the compression member 40 is compressing the breast in the image acquisition device 10. As the amount of movement of the compression member 40 in the compression direction, for example, the amount of drive from a reference position of a drive unit provided in the compression unit 48 may be used, or a measurement value by a sensor that measures the position of the drive unit or compression member 40 in the compression direction may be used.

[0100] The sensor for measuring the position may be, for example, a device for measuring the distance to the object, such as a TOF (Time of Flight) camera. A TOF camera is a camera that captures distance images using the TOF method, and measures the distance between the TOF camera and the object based on the time it takes to receive the reflected light or the phase change between the emitted light and the received light. The distance image captured by the TOF camera contains distance information for each pixel that indicates the distance between the TOF camera and the object.

[0101] The control unit 64 monitors the deformation of the compression member 40 based on the amount of movement acquired by the acquisition unit 60. Specifically, the control unit 64 may detect that the compression member 40 has been deformed when the amount of movement becomes larger than a predetermined threshold. For example, the threshold may be the amount of movement of the previous compression performed on the subject whose breast is currently being compressed, when that subject has previously undergone breast compression. The amount of movement of the previous compression may be stored in the storage unit 52, for example.

[0102] 12 is a schematic diagram of a deformed compression member 40. In FIG. 12, the attachment portion 47 side of the compression member 40 has been displaced from position z1 of the normal, undeformed compression member 40 shown by the dotted line to position z2 in the direction of further compressing the breast. In this case, the amount of movement of the compression member 40 from the reference position z0 increases. The control unit 64 may detect that the compression member 40 has been deformed when the difference between the amount of movement (z0 to z2) in the current compression and the amount of movement (z0 to z1) in the previous compression is greater than a threshold value (for example, ±2 to 3 mm).

[0103] Furthermore, when the control unit 64 detects deformation of the compression member 40, it at least performs one of issuing an alert and stopping compression by the compression member 40. For example, the control unit 64 may display an alert indicating that the compression member 40 may be deformed on the display 54 of the console 50. For another example, the control unit 64 may issue an alert by turning on and / or off an LED provided in the console 50 or the image acquisition device 10. For another example, the control unit 64 may issue an alert by emitting a sound from a speaker provided in the console 50 or the image acquisition device 10. According to such an embodiment, if there is a possibility that the compression member 40 has been deformed, it is possible to prompt the user to check, thereby enabling appropriate compression of the breast.

[0104] In the fourth embodiment, the deformation of the pressing member 40 is monitored based on the amount of movement, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 64 may monitor the deformation of the pressing member 40 using a sensor such as a TOF camera.

[0105] In the above embodiments, the image capture device 10 reads the identification information provided on the compression member 40, and the capture unit 60 acquires the identification information and compares it with the table in FIG. 7 to identify the type information of the compression member 40. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the type information may be input by the user via the operation unit 55. Furthermore, for example, the size and shape of the compression member 40, which are included in the type information, may be acquired by measurement. As a means for measuring the size and shape of the compression member 40, for example, a device that measures the distance to the subject, such as a TOF camera, may be used.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, the image acquisition device 10 controlled by the console 50 includes an ultrasound probe 30. However, this is not limiting. For example, the image acquisition device controlled by the console 50 may be a general mammography device including a radiation source, a radiation detector, an imaging table disposed between the radiation source and the radiation detector, and a compression member that compresses the breast between the imaging table. Even in this case, for example, when different types of compression members 40 (i.e., different strengths) are interchangeably attached to the mammography device, the console 50 can set an upper limit of the compression force according to the strength of the compression member 40, thereby suppressing deterioration of the compression member 40.

[0107] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the console 50 is an example of a control device of the present disclosure, but a device other than the console 50 may have the functions of the control device of the present disclosure. In other words, some or all of the functions of the acquisition unit 60, the setting unit 62, and the control unit 64 may be provided in a device other than the console 50, such as the image acquisition device 10 or an external device. For example, the control unit 20 of the image acquisition device 10 may acquire type information indicating the type of compression member 40, and set an upper limit of the compression force that the compression member 40 applies to the breast based on the type information.

[0108] Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, the following various processors can be used as the hardware structure of processing units that perform various processes, such as the control unit 20, the acquisition unit 60, the setting unit 62, and the control unit 64. As described above, the various processors include a CPU, which is a general-purpose processor that executes software (programs) and functions as various processing units, as well as dedicated electrical circuits that are processors having a circuit configuration specifically designed to perform specific processes, such as a programmable logic device (PLD), which is a processor whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0109] A single processing unit may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, multiple processing units may be configured with a single processor.

[0110] Examples of configuring multiple processing units with a single processor include, first, a form in which one processor is configured with a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as multiple processing units, as typified by computers such as client and server. Second, a form in which a processor is used to realize the functions of the entire system including multiple processing units with a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, as typified by systems on chips (SoCs). In this way, various processing units are configured using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors as a hardware structure.

[0111] Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware structure of these various processors can be an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0112] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, various programs in the image acquisition device 10 are pre-stored (installed) in the ROM included in the control unit 20, and the information processing program 57 in the console 50 is pre-stored in the storage unit 52. However, this is not limiting. The various programs and the information processing program 57 in the image acquisition device 10 may be provided in a form recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Furthermore, the various programs and the information processing program 57 in the image acquisition device 10 may be downloaded from an external device via a network. Furthermore, the technology disclosed herein extends to not only programs but also storage media that non-temporarily store programs.

[0113] The technology of the present disclosure can also be appropriately combined with the above-described exemplary embodiments and examples. The above-described description and illustrations are detailed descriptions of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure and are merely examples of the technology of the present disclosure. For example, the above description of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects is an example of the configuration, functions, actions, and effects of the parts related to the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, it goes without saying that unnecessary parts may be deleted, new elements may be added, or new elements may be replaced with other parts from the description and illustrations shown above, within the scope of the gist of the technology of the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1. Image Acquisition System 2 Breasts 6 RIS 10 Image acquisition device 12 Arm section 14 Foundation 15 Shaft 16. Photo stand 16A Shooting surface 17 Radiation Irradiation Unit 17R radiation source 20 Control Unit 22, 52 storage section 24, 56 I / F section 26, 55 Operation section 28 Radiation detector 30 Ultrasound Probe 36 Support part 38 Probe Unit 40, 40S compression member 42 Compression area 43 Bottom 43A Top 43B Contact surface 44 Wall 46 Support part 47 Mounting part 48 Compression Unit 49 Arms 50 console 51 CPU 53 Memory 54 Display 57 Information Processing Program 58 Bus 60 Acquisition Department 62 Setting section 64 Control Unit R Radiation

Claims

1. at least one processor; The processor: Acquire type information indicating the type of compression member attached to an image acquisition device that captures a radiographic image by irradiating radiation onto the breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member; Based on the type information, an upper limit of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member is set. Control device.

2. The type information indicates at least one of the material, size, and shape of the compression member. The control device according to claim 1 .

3. The type information indicates at least the material of the compression member. The control device according to claim 2 .

4. The processor: If the type information indicates that the compression member is of a type having a relatively high strength, a relatively high value is set as the upper limit; When the type information indicates that the compression member is of a type having a relatively low strength, a relatively low value is set as the upper limit. The control device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The processor: When the type information indicates a material containing polymethylpentene, the upper limit is set to a value that is relatively lower than that for other materials. The control device according to claim 4.

6. The processor: A log is obtained for each compression member, the log including usage information indicating at least one of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member, the compression time, the number of compressions, and the elapsed time since the compression member was first used. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The processor: When the usage information satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of the compression member, a notification is given. The control device according to claim 6.

8. The processor: deriving a load amount of the compression member based on the usage information; When the load amount satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of the compression member, a notification is given. The control device according to claim 6 or 7.

9. The processor: When the usage information satisfies a predetermined condition for each type of the compression member, a relatively low value is set as the upper limit. The control device according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

10. The processor: deriving a load amount of the compression member based on the usage information; When the load amount satisfies a condition that is predetermined for each type of the compression member, a relatively low value is set as the upper limit. The control device according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. The processor: Based on the type information, the pressure after the radiographic image capturing is completed is reduced to be lower than the pressure before the radiographic image capturing is completed. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The processor: When the type information indicates a material containing polymethylpentene, the compressive force after the radiographic image capturing is completed is reduced to be lower than the compressive force before the radiographic image capturing is completed. The control device according to claim 11.

13. The processor: acquiring a movement amount of the compression member in a compression direction relative to the breast; monitoring deformation of the compression member based on the amount of movement; When the deformation of the compression member is detected, at least one of a notification and a stop of compression by the compression member is executed. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The processor: When the amount of movement becomes larger than a predetermined threshold, it is detected that the compression member has been deformed. The control device according to claim 13.

15. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; A radiation source; a radiation detector; an imaging table disposed between the radiation source and the radiation detector; a compression member that compresses the breast between the imaging table and the compression member; An image acquisition device comprising:

16. and an ultrasound probe disposed between the radiation source and the compression member.

16. The image acquisition device of claim 15.

17. Acquire type information indicating the type of compression member attached to an image acquisition device that captures a radiographic image by irradiating radiation onto the breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member; Based on the type information, an upper limit of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member is set. A control method for computer-implemented processing.

18. Acquire type information indicating the type of compression member attached to an image acquisition device that captures a radiographic image by irradiating radiation onto the breast compressed between an imaging table and a compression member; Based on the type information, an upper limit of the compression force applied to the breast by the compression member is set. A control program that causes a computer to execute a process.

Images