Program, medical image management device, medical image management system, and medical image management method

Abstract

To provide a program, a medical image management apparatus, a medical image management system, and a medical image management method that can more suitably select an image processing parameter at the time of image processing of a medical image for an animal.SOLUTION: A program causes a control unit 31 (computer) of a medical image management apparatus 3 to execute: a reception step (S2) of receiving inputting, by an operator, of information on an affected animal; a specification step (S3) of specifying a type of the animal based on the information on the affected animal; and a display control step (S27) of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen based on the type of the animal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a medical image management apparatus, a medical image management system, and a medical image management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, medical image management systems have been known in which operators such as doctors and technicians use image generation devices such as CR (Computed Radiography) imaging devices and DR (Digital Radiography) imaging devices to photograph patients who visit a medical facility, and then apply image processing such as gradation processing to the obtained images so that they can be used for diagnosis, and output the processed images.

[0003] In this regard, Patent Document 1 describes a small-scale diagnostic system that includes an image generating device and a control device that performs all of the following: image processing, input of examination information, linking of images to examination information, and display of images and examination information. This small-scale diagnostic system automatically recognizes the area of ​​a captured image, determines image processing conditions using image processing parameters corresponding to the area, performs image processing using the image processing conditions, and generates a final captured image for diagnosis. Furthermore, the image processing conditions for the final captured image can be adjusted by the operator. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-117469 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In recent years, the digitalization of medical images has become widespread, and in addition to image processing for each part of the body, image adjustments suitable for diagnosis are also required. As a result, the frequency of image adjustments made by operators is increasing. Under these circumstances, the small-scale diagnostic system of Patent Document 1 requires an operator, such as a doctor, to perform input operations to adjust the density, contrast, etc. of the generated diagnostic final image according to the purpose, which is cumbersome for the operator. Incidentally, the small-scale diagnostic system of Patent Document 1 is intended for human patients, not for animal patients. In the case of animals, image processing parameters differ depending on the animal species, making the process even more complicated.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a program, a medical image management device, a medical image management system, and a medical image management method that can more appropriately select image processing parameters when processing medical images of animals. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the program of the present invention comprises: The computer of the medical image management device a receiving step of receiving input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identifying step of identifying the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control step of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection step of selecting an object element corresponding to the object element name; The target element selected by the selection step a reading step of reading out image processing parameters corresponding to the The data read out by the reading step a determining step of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters; a generating step of generating a processed medical image by performing image processing on image data of the medical image under the image processing conditions; Execute the following.

[0008] Furthermore, the medical image management device of the present invention comprises: a reception unit that receives input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identification unit that identifies the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control unit that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection unit for selecting a target element corresponding to the target element name; The target element selected by the selection unit a readout unit that reads out image processing parameters corresponding to the image processing parameters from a storage unit; The data read by the reading unit a determination unit that determines image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters; a generating unit that performs image processing on image data of a medical image under the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image; It has.

[0009] Furthermore, the medical image management system of the present invention comprises: a reception unit that receives input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identification unit that identifies the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control unit that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection unit for selecting a target element corresponding to the target element name; The target element selected by the selection unit a readout unit that reads out image processing parameters corresponding to the image processing parameters from a storage unit; The data read by the reading unit a determination unit that determines image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters; a generating unit that performs image processing on image data of a medical image under the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image; Equipped with.

[0010] The medical image management method of the present invention further comprises: a receiving step of receiving input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identifying step of identifying the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control step of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection step of selecting an object element corresponding to the object element name; The target element selected by the selection step a reading step of reading out image processing parameters corresponding to the The data read out by the reading step a determining step of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters; a generating step of generating a processed medical image by performing image processing on image data of the medical image under the image processing conditions; A medical image management method using a program executed by a computer, comprising: [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a program, a medical image management device, a medical image management system, and a medical image management method that can more appropriately select image processing parameters when processing medical images of animals. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a medical image management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the medical image management apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a target element presetting screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a parameter editing screen for each objective element. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a photographing process. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an image capture process. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a target element selection screen. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a target element selection screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a target element selection screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a target element selection screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0014] First, the device configuration of a medical image management system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of the medical image management system 1.

[0015] The medical image management system 1 is a system applied to medical facilities such as small-scale veterinary clinics that treat patient animals. As shown in Fig. 1, the medical image management system 1 includes an image generation device 2, a medical image management device 3, and a reception device 4. The image generation device 2 includes an ultrasound diagnostic device (US: UltraSonography) 2a, an endoscope (ES: EndoScope) 2b, an electrocardiogram recording device (ECG: ElectroCardioGram) 2c, a CR reader 2d, and a DR reader 2e. Here, the term "sick animals" refers to animals that are sick and receiving veterinary treatment, and includes livestock and pets.

[0016] 1, the image generating device 2 may be configured to include, for example, a computed tomography (CT) imaging device, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging device, a digital camera that captures the external appearance of the body such as the skin, etc. Furthermore, the image generating device 2 may be configured to include a plurality of the same type of image generating devices 2, for example, two DR reading devices 2e. Furthermore, the combination of image generating devices 2 provided in the medical image management system 1 is not limited to the example shown here.

[0017] The image generating device 2, medical image management device 3, and reception device 4 are connected to a communication network 5 such as a LAN (Local Area Network) via, for example, a switching hub (not shown). The medical image management device 3 is an information processing device such as a workstation installed in the examination room where the veterinarian is stationed. The medical image management device 3 has functions to control the startup and processing conditions of the image generating device 2, to acquire image data from the image generating device 2 and display the image data in association with patient information, and to function as a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) that stores and manages the image data in association with patient information. The patient information includes the type of animal, its physique, weight, etc. The type of animal includes classifications such as dog, cat, bird, and horse. The physique of an animal refers to the shape of the animal's body, and even animals of the same type can have different physiques depending on more detailed classifications. For example, if the type of animal is a dog, classifications based on physique include large dogs, medium dogs, and small dogs. The weight of the animal refers to the weight of the patient. The patient information is stored in the medical image management device 3 for each patient.

[0018] The DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard is generally used as a communication method within a hospital, and DICOM MWM (Modality Worklist Management) and DICOM MPPS (Modality Performed Procedure Step) are used for communication between devices connected via a LAN. Note that communication methods applicable to this embodiment are not limited to this. Furthermore, some devices connected via a LAN may not comply with the DICOM standard.

[0019] A medical facility in which the medical image management system 1 is installed may have, for example, a reception desk, a waiting room, an examination room, a radiography room, and an examination room. The reception device 4 is located at the reception desk. The medical image management device 3 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 2a are located in the examination room. The radiography room is equipped with a CR imaging device (not shown), a CR reader 2d, a DR imaging device (not shown), and a DR reader 2e. The CR imaging device emits radiation to a CR cassette via a patient as a subject, thereby recording a radiographic image. The DR imaging device irradiates radiation via a patient as a subject, thereby generating and storing radiographic image data. The medical image management device 3 also functions as a console for the DR imaging device and is connected to the DR imaging device via a communication network 5. The endoscope 2b and electrocardiogram recording device 2c are located in the examination room.

[0020] A receptionist is stationed at the reception desk of the medical facility, and the receptionist gives a reception number tag on which a reception number is printed to distinguish each patient animal when it comes in for a checkup, for example, in the order in which they are received. The receptionist also obtains the name of the patient animal from the information on the patient animal's medical card or the medical questionnaire filled out by the patient animal's owner, and inputs the correspondence between the reception number and the patient animal's name into the reception device 4.

[0021] After checking in, the owner has the patient wait in the waiting room and enter the examination room when the veterinarian calls. A medical image management device 3 is placed on the examination desk in the examination room, and displays image data of the area of ​​the patient to be diagnosed (photographed), test results of the tests conducted on the patient, etc. An ultrasound diagnostic device 2a is also installed in the examination room.

[0022] When a veterinarian examines a patient in the examination room, if necessary, radiographic images are taken using a CR imaging device and a CR reading device 2d, radiographic images are taken using a DR imaging device and a DR reading device 2e, ultrasound images are taken using an ultrasound diagnostic device 2a, endoscopic images are taken using an endoscope 2b, and an electrocardiogram is recorded using an electrocardiogram recording device 2c. The captured image data is then displayed on a medical image management device 3 and stored in association with patient information.

[0023] In this way, the image generation device 2 is a modality that takes photographs of the patient's body part as a subject, digitally converts the photographed images to generate image data of the photographed images, and records specified test results to generate image data.

[0024] The ultrasound diagnostic device 2a has an ultrasound probe (not shown) that outputs ultrasound waves, and an ultrasound diagnostic device main body (not shown) that is connected to the ultrasound probe and converts the ultrasound waves (echoes) received by the ultrasound probe into image data of an internal tissue image. The ultrasound diagnostic device 2a transmits ultrasound waves from the ultrasound probe into the body, receives sound waves (echo signals) reflected by the internal tissue again with the ultrasound probe, and generates digital ultrasound image data corresponding to the echo signals by the ultrasound diagnostic device main body.

[0025] A converter 21, which is a conversion means (converter) that performs conversion from analog signals to digital signals, is connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic device 2a, and the ultrasonic diagnostic device 2a is connected to the communication network 5 via the converter 21. By passing the converter 21 in this way, even when data in a format that does not conform to the standards (e.g., communication protocols) of other external devices connected to the communication network 5 is output from the ultrasonic diagnostic device 2a, the data can be appropriately converted and transmitted / received to / from the external devices connected to the communication network 5.

[0026] The endoscope 2b is a flexible tube with a small imaging device (not shown) attached to the tip thereof. The imaging device includes an objective optical system, such as an optical lens, an imaging unit disposed at the imaging position of the objective optical system, and an illumination unit, such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode), that provides the illumination necessary for imaging (all not shown). The imaging unit includes a solid-state imaging element, such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor), that photoelectrically converts incident light into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of incident light. The objective optical system is configured to focus light from the illumination unit using an optical lens and form an image on the solid-state imaging element of the imaging unit. The light incident on the solid-state imaging element is photoelectrically converted, outputting image data of the captured image as an electrical signal.

[0027] The electrocardiogram recording device 2 c detects electrocardiogram waveforms to acquire and record waveform data, and transmits the generated image data (waveform data) to the medical image management device 3 .

[0028] The CR reader 2d reads image data from a CR cassette (not shown), which is a radiation image conversion medium on which radiation image information of a region of a patient is recorded. The CR cassette contains a radiation image conversion plate equipped with, for example, a stimulable phosphor sheet that stores radiation energy, and is placed within the radiation exposure area of ​​the CR imaging device during imaging. When the CR cassette is exposed to radiation, it stores an amount of radiation in accordance with the radiation transmittance distribution of the region to be imaged in the stimulable phosphor layer of the stimulable phosphor sheet, and records radiation image information of the region to be imaged in this stimulable phosphor layer.

[0029] When a CR cassette containing radiographic information of the region to be radiographed is loaded into the CR reader 2d, the CR reader 2d irradiates the stimulable phosphor sheet in the CR cassette with excitation light, photoelectrically converts the stimulable phosphor emitted from the sheet, and A / D converts the resulting image signal to generate radiographic image data of the radiographed image. The CR reader 2d may be an integrated device integrated with the CR radiographing device.

[0030] The DR reader 2e is a device that reads image data of a radiation image from a storage unit of a radiation image conversion medium that stores radiation image information of an imaged region, and generates image data of the radiation image corresponding to X-rays irradiated through the imaged region of the subject.

[0031] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the medical image management device 3. As shown in FIG. 2, the medical image management device 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an input unit 33, a display unit 34, a communication unit 35, and an image DB (Data Base) management unit 36. The various units of the medical image management device 3 are connected via a bus 37.

[0032] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU (central processing unit) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and loads a specified program from among the system programs and application programs stored in the memory unit 32 into the RAM, and executes various processes (including the photographing process and image capture process described below) in cooperation with the CPU.

[0033] The control unit 31 also accepts input of information on sick animals by the operator. Furthermore, the control unit 31 identifies the type of animal from the patient animal information stored for each patient animal. Furthermore, the control unit 31 displays an image of the animal on the display unit 34 (a target element screen 343a, which will be described later) based on the type of animal.

[0034] The storage unit 32 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), a nonvolatile semiconductor memory, etc., and stores various programs as well as various data such as patient information for each patient, site-specific parameters for performing site-specific image processing on image data of captured images, and target element-specific parameters for performing target element-specific image processing. The various programs include an imaging program for performing imaging processing, which will be described later, and an image capture program for performing image capture processing.

[0035] The input unit 33 has a keyboard with character input keys, number input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse, and outputs key press signals operated by an operator such as a veterinarian or technician via the keyboard and position operation signals by the mouse to the control unit 31.

[0036] The display unit 34 has a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and displays various screens according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 31. Note that the input unit 33 may be configured to have a touch panel formed on the display panel of the display unit 34, receive touch input from the operator, and output a touch operation signal to the control unit 31.

[0037] The communication unit 35 is configured by a network interface and the like, and transmits and receives information to and from each device of the image generating device 2 and the reception device 4 connected to the communication network 5 via a switching hub.

[0038] The image DB management unit 36 ​​is configured with an HDD, SSD, etc., and stores image data of captured images in association with patient information as an image DB. As shown in Figure 2, the image DB management unit 36 ​​has a confirmed image area 36a that stores image data of confirmed images that are associated with the patient information of the patient animal, and an unconfirmed image area 36b that stores image data of unconfirmed images that are not associated with the patient information of the patient animal.

[0039] The reception device 4 is an information processing device for performing reception registration of visiting patients, accounting calculations, insurance point calculations, etc., and is equipped with a control unit consisting of a CPU and RAM, an operation unit consisting of a keyboard, mouse, etc., a memory unit consisting of a HDD, etc., a display unit consisting of an LCD, etc., and a communication unit for communicating with each device connected to the communication network 5. When the reception device 4 is instructed to display a reception input screen from the operation unit, it displays the reception input screen on the display unit through software processing in cooperation with the CPU and a program stored in the memory unit. When reception information (reception number + patient name) is entered by the input unit via this reception input screen, a patient information list of the received patient is created (updated) and stored in the memory unit, and is transmitted to the medical image management device 3 as appropriate via the communication unit.

[0040] Next, the operation of the medical image management system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. The operator selects the target element in advance before capturing an image using the image generating device 2 on the target element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Figure 3, which is displayed on the display unit 34, and this allows the control unit 31 to set the target element. The target element pre-setting screen 341 can be opened by starting up a setting tool installed in the medical image management device 3 .

[0041] The target element is a location or viewpoint that an operator such as a veterinarian wants to see for diagnosis in the image generated by the image generating device 2. For example, locations that an operator such as a veterinarian wants to see include the tip of the nose and the head in the head region, the cervical vertebrae and neck in the neck region, the thoracic vertebrae and chest in the chest region, the upper abdomen and lower abdomen in the abdomen region, the pelvis, hip joint, lumbar vertebrae in the pelvis region, the shoulder and arm (scapula, humerus, elbow joint) in the upper limb region, the femoral system (femur, knee joint, tibia) in the lower limb region, the carpal bones and phalanges in the hand region, and the tarsal bones and calcaneus in the foot region. Furthermore, for example, a disease name can be used as a viewpoint, and when a specific disease is suspected, image processing specialized for the set disease name can be performed by setting the disease name as the target element. Furthermore, pregnancy is also included as a viewpoint. The above-mentioned target elements are only some examples, and the target elements can be set according to the imaging method (imaging direction: ventral, dorsal, side), the part that the veterinarian or other operator wants to see, the size (small, medium, large, extra large) and weight of the patient, the sex of the patient, and the age of the patient (second setting step).

[0042] When the operator pre-sets a target element, he or she starts the setting tool, opens the target element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, selects "Specify target element" in target element setting 341a, and selects the desired target element from the drop-down list. In the example shown in Fig. 3, "Front chest" is selected. Then, the control unit 31 stores the input information on the target element in the storage unit 32.

[0043] Furthermore, the target element may be set at any timing, such as before capturing an image by the image generating device 2 or during the capturing process described below. If the target element is not set in advance, the operator starts the setting tool, opens the target element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, and selects "Do not specify target element" in target element setting 341a.

[0044] Furthermore, since the control unit 31 stores the target element corresponding to the previously performed target element-specific image processing in the storage unit 32, it is possible to set in advance to use the target element specified last time. In this case, the operator starts the setting tool, opens the target element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, and selects "Use the target element specified last time" in target element setting 341a. Previously specified objective elements may be stored for each veterinarian who operates the medical image management device 3, each patient animal photographed by the image generation device 2, or each medical image management device 3. In this case, it is possible to set the optimal objective element corresponding to the veterinarian, the patient animal, and the medical image management device 3.

[0045] Furthermore, by pressing setting button 341b on target element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, a target element-specific parameter set corresponding to each target element can be set. Target element-specific parameters are parameters such as gradation processing and bone / soft tissue correction processing used when performing target element-specific image processing corresponding to each target element. In setting the target element-specific parameter set, multiple target element-specific parameter sets are prepared in which target element-specific parameter values ​​have been input in advance, and by selecting one of them, multiple types of target element-specific parameter values ​​can be set at once.

[0046] Furthermore, by pressing the edit button 341c on the objective element pre-setting screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, an objective element-specific parameter editing screen 342 shown in Fig. 4 can be opened and the objective element-specific parameters corresponding to each objective element can be edited. Specifically, an objective element displayed on the objective element-specific parameter editing screen 342 is pressed and each parameter value is input.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the photographing process, which is the flow from receiving the patient animal to receiving the image. In this embodiment, a case where DR imaging is performed in the medical image management system 1 will be described. In the medical image management device 3, when an instruction to execute the photographing process is input by an operator such as a veterinarian or technician via the input unit 33, the control unit 31 executes the photographing process in accordance with the photographing program stored in the memory unit 32.

[0048] In the radiography room of the medical facility, the patient animal to be DR-imaging-targeted is placed on the imaging table of the DR imaging device in advance. In addition, in the medical image management device 3, all patient information such as the patient animal to be DR-imaging-targeted is received from the reception device 4 or generated in response to input from the operator via the input unit 33, and is stored in the memory unit 32.

[0049] In the photographing process shown in FIG. 5, first, the control unit 31 receives a click input of a patient reception button from the operator via the input unit 33 (step S1). Then, the control unit 31 receives and registers the selected input of patient information of the patient to be photographed by DR imaging from the patient information stored in the storage unit 32 from the operator via the input unit 33 (step S2; reception step). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as a reception unit. Then, the control unit 31 identifies the type of the patient animal based on the patient animal information (step S3; identification step). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as an identification unit. Note that in step S3, the control unit 31 may identify not only the type of the patient animal but also the physique and weight of the patient animal.

[0050] Then, the control unit 31 receives an input from the operator via the input unit 33 indicative of clicking the examination start button. The control unit 31 then receives the input (step S4). Then, the control unit 31 displays a patient screen on the display unit 34, which displays image data of the radiation image obtained by DR imaging (step S5). The patient screen includes an imaging preparation button for transitioning to a state in which image data of DR imaging is imported.

[0051] Then, the control unit 31 receives a click input of the imaging preparation button from the operator via the input unit 33 (step S6).

[0052] Then, the control unit 31 accepts a DR imaging operation input from the operator via the input unit 33, and transmits the operation information to the DR imaging device via the communication unit 35 to perform DR imaging (step S7). The DR reading device 2e automatically detects the X-rays irradiated from the DR imaging device, generates image data of one radiographic image, and transmits the image data to the medical image management device 3. Then, the control unit 31 receives the captured image data from the DR reading device 2e via the communication unit 35, and stores it in the undetermined image area 36b of the image DB management unit 36 ​​(step S8).

[0053] Then, the control unit 31 executes an image capture process in accordance with the image capture program stored in the storage unit 32 (step S9). FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the image capture process.

[0054] First, the control unit 31 identifies the part from the contour, shape, etc. of the subject in the image data of the captured image generated by the DR reading device 2e (step S21). Then, the control unit 31 reads out the site-specific parameters corresponding to the site identified in step S21 from the storage unit 32 (step S22). Then, the control unit 31 determines the region-specific image processing conditions based on the region-specific parameters read out in step S22 (step S23). Then, the control unit 31 performs part-specific image processing such as gradation processing to adjust the contrast of the image, processing to adjust the density, and frequency processing to adjust the sharpness on the image data using the part-specific image processing conditions determined in step S23, and generates a first image (step S24). Then, the control unit 31 displays the first image generated in step S24 on the display unit 34 (step S25).

[0055] Then, the control unit 31 determines whether or not the target element has been set in advance (step S26). If the target element has not been set in advance (step S26; NO), the control unit 31 accepts input of the target element from the operator via the input unit 33 and determines whether the target element has been specified (step S27).

[0056] When setting the target element, the control unit 31 displays a target element selection screen 343 shown in Fig. 7 on the display unit 34 (display control step). At this time, the control unit 31 functions as a display control unit. Then, the control unit 31 accepts input from the operator via the input unit 33 (selection step). The control unit 31 displays an image of the animal and the name of the object element corresponding to each object element on the object element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the object element selection screen 343, based on the type (which may be the physique or weight) of the patient (animal) identified in step S3 (identification step) (display control step). The image of the animal is a schematic diagram of the animal, for example. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the type of animal is a dog, and the image of the animal is a schematic diagram of a dog. If the type of animal identified in step S3 (identification step) is "cat," the target element screen 343a shown in Figure 8 is displayed, if it is "bird," the target element screen 343a shown in Figure 9 is displayed, and if it is "other," the target element screen 343a shown in Figure 10 is displayed. The image of the animal displayed on the target element screen 343a is switched depending on the type of animal. Also, although not shown, by displaying an image of an animal based on the animal's physique, it is possible to switch between, for example, a "large dog," a "medium dog," and a "small dog" even for the same breed of dog. In addition, by pressing a target element in the target element screen 343a, the target element can be selected. In the example ("Dog") shown in Fig. 7, "Head" which is part information in the image of the animal is selected. In the example ("Other") shown in Fig. 10, the shooting method and physique can be selected. Moreover, by pressing the selection clear button 343b, the selection of the target element can be cleared. Moreover, by pressing the cancel button 343c, the setting of the target element can be canceled and the target element selection screen 343 can be closed. In addition, by pressing the OK button 343d, the setting of the objective element is confirmed, and the objective element is The raw information is stored in the storage unit 32, and the target element selection screen 343 can be closed. 7 to 9, the images of animals are schematic diagrams, but may be photographs, icons, etc. Images are not limited to the above examples as long as the type of animal can be confirmed by looking at the image of the animal. Moreover, by switching the tabs ("Dog," "Cat," "Bird," "Other") on the target element screen 343a, the animal images can be switched.

[0057] If the target element is not specified (step S27; NO), the control unit 31 displays an image on the patient screen of the display unit 34 (step S28). The image in this case is the first image.

[0058] Furthermore, if a target element has been set in advance (step S26; YES), or if a target element has been designated (step S27; YES), the control unit 31 reads out target element-specific parameters (image processing parameters) corresponding to the set or designated target element from the storage unit 32 (step S29; reading step). That is, the target element-specific parameters correspond to the type of patient animal, etc. (which may be the physique or weight) identified in step S3. Then, the control unit 31 determines the image processing conditions (image processing conditions) for each objective element based on the parameters for each objective element read out in step S29 (step S30; determining step). Then, the control unit 31 performs the image processing for each target element on the image data of the first image under the image processing conditions for each target element determined in step S30, generates a second image (processed medical image) (step S31; generation step), and proceeds to step S28. In this case, the image displayed on the patient screen of the display unit 34 is the second image.

[0059] Then, the control unit 31 accepts a change in the target element from the operator via the input unit 33, and determines whether or not the target element has been changed (step S32). If the target element is not changed (step S32; NO), the control unit 31 displays the image on the patient screen (step S33), ends the image capture process, and returns to the photographing process shown in Fig. 5. The image displayed in this case is the image displayed in step S28.

[0060] Furthermore, if the target element has been changed (step S32; YES), the control unit 31 executes steps S34 to S36 (changing steps) similar to steps S29 to S31, and then proceeds to step S33. The image to be displayed in this case is the image generated by performing image processing for each target element in step S36.

[0061] Returning to the photographing process shown in Fig. 5, the control unit 31 links the image data of the image displayed in step S43 of the image import process shown in Fig. 6 with the patient information selected in step S2 (step S10), and stores the linked image data and patient information in the confirmed image area 36a of the image DB management unit 36. Then, the control unit 31 displays the image data and patient information linked in step S10 on the patient screen (step S11), and ends the photographing process. The processes of steps S7 to S11 are repeated the number of times equal to the number of pieces of image data to be photographed.

[0062] (effect) As described above, according to this embodiment, the program of the medical image management system 1 causes the control unit 31 (computer) of the medical image management device 3 to execute a reception step (S2) of receiving animal patient information input by the operator, a determination step (S3) of identifying the type of animal based on the patient information, and a display control step (S27) of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen based on the type of animal. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0063] Furthermore, the specifying step (S3) further specifies the physique of the animal based on the patient information, and the display control step (S27) displays an image of the animal on the image processing parameter selection screen based on the physique of the animal. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0064] In addition, the program of the medical image management system 1 causes the control unit 31 to execute a reading step (S29) of reading image processing parameters corresponding to the type of animal from the memory unit, a determination step (S30) of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters, and a generation step (S31) of applying image processing to the image data of the medical image using the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals.

[0065] In addition, the identification step (S3) further identifies the animal's physique based on the patient information, and the program of the medical image management system 1 causes the control unit 31 to execute a reading step (S29) of reading image processing parameters corresponding to the animal's physique from the memory unit, a determination step (S30) of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters, and a generation step (S31) of applying image processing to the image data of the medical image using the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals.

[0066] In addition, the identification step (S3) identifies the weight of the animal based on the patient information, and the program of the medical image management system 1 causes the control unit 31 to execute a reading step (S29) of reading image processing parameters corresponding to the weight of the animal from the memory unit, a determination step (S30) of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters, and a generation step (S31) of applying image processing to the image data of the medical image using the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0067] In addition, the program of the medical image management system 1 causes the control unit 31 to execute a selection step (S27) of selecting animal body part information from the animal image, a reading step (S29) of reading image processing parameters corresponding to the body part information from the memory unit, a determination step (S30) of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters, and a generation step (S31) of applying image processing to the image data of the medical image using the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals.

[0068] The medical image management device 3 also has a reception unit (control unit 31) that receives input of animal patient information from the operator, an identification unit (control unit 31) that identifies the type of animal based on the patient information, and a display control unit (control unit 31) that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen based on the type of animal. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0069] The medical image management system 1 also includes a reception unit (control unit 31) that receives input of patient animal information from the operator, an identification unit (control unit 31) that identifies the type of animal based on the patient animal information, and a display control unit (control unit 31) that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen based on the type of animal. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0070] The medical image management method also includes a reception step for receiving input of patient information of an animal by an operator, an identification step for identifying the type of animal based on the patient information, and a display control step for displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen based on the type of animal. Therefore, image processing parameters can be more suitably selected when processing medical images of animals. Specifically, the image of the animal makes it easier to visually recognize the target animal on the target element screen 343a (image processing parameter selection screen) within the target element selection screen 343, which makes it easier to select image processing parameters.

[0071] (Other embodiments) The above description of the embodiment is an example of a suitable medical image management device, a medical image management method, and a program according to the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[0072] For example, in the above embodiment, the target element is set by input from the operator via the input unit 33, or the target element corresponding to the target element-specific image processing performed last time is set, but this is not limited to this. The control unit 31 may use artificial intelligence to determine the selection of the target element. The control unit 31 collects data by linking the imaging region identified in the medical image with the target element input by the operator and storing the linked data in the storage unit 32 or an external storage device. The control unit 31 then learns the collected data to construct a learning model regarding the relationship between the imaging region and the target element. The control unit 31 determines the optimal target element using the constructed learning model based on the imaging region identified in the medical image. Therefore, the operator does not need to input the target element, and the optimum target element can be set automatically.

[0073] In addition, in step S25 of the image capture process in the above embodiment, the control unit 31 displays the first image generated in step S24 on the display unit 34, but this is not limited to this. The control unit 31 does not have to display the first image on the patient screen.

[0074] In the above embodiment, when the operator presets a target element, the operator opens the target element preset screen 341 shown in Fig. 3, selects "Specify target element" in target element setting 341a, and selects the desired target element from a drop-down list, but this is not limited to this. When selecting a target element, the operator may open the target element selection screen 343 shown in Fig. 7 and perform input.

[0075] Furthermore, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each part constituting the medical image management system 1 in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 1 Medical image management system 2. Image generation device 2a Ultrasound diagnostic equipment 2b Endoscopy 2c Electrocardiogram recording device 2d CR reader 2e DR reader 3 Medical image management device 31 Control unit (reception unit, identification unit, display control unit) 32 Storage section 33 Input section 34 Display section 35 Communications Department 36 Image DB Management Department 4 Reception device

Claims

1. The computer of the medical image management device a receiving step of receiving input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identifying step of identifying the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control step of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection step of selecting an object element corresponding to the object element name; a reading step of reading, from a storage unit, image processing parameters corresponding to the target element selected by the selection step; a determination step of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters read by the reading step; a generating step of generating a processed medical image by performing image processing on image data of the medical image under the image processing conditions; A program that executes the following.

2. The identifying step further identifies the physical size of the animal based on the patient information; 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the display control step displays the image of the animal on the image processing parameter selection screen based on the physique of the animal.

3. a reception unit that receives input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identification unit that identifies the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control unit that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection unit for selecting a target element corresponding to the target element name; a reading unit that reads, from a storage unit, image processing parameters corresponding to the target element selected by the selection unit; a determination unit that determines image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters read by the read unit; a generating unit that performs image processing on image data of a medical image under the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image; A medical image management device having the above.

4. a reception unit that receives input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identification unit that identifies the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control unit that displays an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection unit for selecting a target element corresponding to the target element name; a reading unit that reads, from a storage unit, image processing parameters corresponding to the target element selected by the selection unit; a determination unit that determines image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters read by the read unit; a generating unit that performs image processing on image data of a medical image under the image processing conditions to generate a processed medical image; A medical image management system comprising:

5. a receiving step of receiving input of patient information of an animal by an operator; an identifying step of identifying the type of the animal based on the patient information; a display control step of displaying an image of the animal on an image processing parameter selection screen together with a target element name corresponding to a target element indicating a predetermined part, based on the type of the animal; a selection step of selecting an object element corresponding to the object element name; a reading step of reading, from a storage unit, image processing parameters corresponding to the target element selected by the selection step; a determination step of determining image processing conditions based on the image processing parameters read by the reading step; a generating step of generating a processed medical image by performing image processing on image data of the medical image under the image processing conditions; A medical image management method using a program executed by a computer, comprising:

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