X-ray image processing apparatus, X-ray image processing method, and program

Abstract

In this x-ray image processing device (100), a display control unit (29) displays an entire x-ray image (141) and a partial x-ray image (142) corresponding to a selected vertebral body (40) alongside on a display unit (101), or displays the entire x-ray image (141) and the partial x-ray image (142) corresponding to the selected vertebral body (40) in a switching manner on the display unit (101).

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray image processing apparatus, an X-ray image processing method, and a program, and more particularly to an X-ray image processing apparatus, an X-ray image processing method, and a program for which an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of a vertebral body is input.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an X-ray image processing apparatus for which an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of a vertebral body is input is known. Such an X-ray image processing apparatus is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-219763.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-219763 discloses an image measurement apparatus that displays a side image of a vertebral body taken from the side of a human body on a display unit. A plurality of vertebral bodies are shown in the side image. In this image measurement apparatus, with a plurality of vertebral bodies shown on the display unit, for one target vertebral body, when the user operates a mouse button, the positions of the upper edge of the anterior edge, the lower edge of the anterior edge, the upper edge of the center, the lower edge of the center, the upper edge of the posterior edge, and the lower edge of the posterior edge of the vertebral body (hereinafter referred to as evaluation positions) are specified. Then, the image measurement apparatus measures the anterior edge height, the center height, and the posterior edge height of the vertebral body based on the specified evaluation positions. The user evaluates the shape of the vertebral body based on the measured anterior edge height, center height, and posterior edge height of the vertebral body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Although not explicitly stated in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-219763, it is believed that the vertebrae displayed on the display unit represent only a portion of the vertebrae visible in the captured lateral image (X-ray image). In this case, there is a problem in that the user cannot easily recognize which of the vertebrae visible in the lateral image corresponds to the vertebrae whose evaluation position the user has specified.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one of its objectives is to provide an X-ray image processing device, an X-ray image processing method, and a program that can easily recognize which of multiple vertebrae in an X-ray image the vertebra being evaluated is. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the X-ray image processing apparatus according to the first aspect of this invention comprises an image acquisition unit that acquires an X-ray image showing a vertebral body, and an image processing unit that processes the X-ray image acquired by the image acquisition unit, wherein the image processing unit includes an image generation unit that generates a whole X-ray image showing a plurality of vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies among the plurality of vertebral bodies, an evaluation position input unit that inputs an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral bodies shown in the partial X-ray image, a selection unit that selects one of the plurality of vertebral bodies on the whole X-ray image, and a display control unit that, when one of the plurality of vertebral bodies is selected by the selection unit, causes the display unit to display a partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body and information indicating the evaluation position, wherein the image generation unit generates a whole X-ray image on which a selection marker indicating the vertebral body selected by the selection unit is displayed, and the display control unit A selection sign was displayed. The overall X-ray image, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation location are displayed side by side on the display unit, or, A selection sign was displayed. The display switches between showing the overall X-ray image, a partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation location.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objective, the X-ray image processing method according to the second aspect of this invention comprises the steps of: acquiring an X-ray image showing a vertebral body; generating a whole X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the multiple vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image; inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body shown in the partial X-ray image; selecting one of the multiple vertebral bodies on the whole X-ray image; and, if one of the multiple vertebral bodies is selected, displaying a partial X-ray image and information indicating the evaluation position corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit, wherein the step of generating the whole X-ray image includes generating a whole X-ray image on which a selection marker indicating the selected vertebral body is displayed, and the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit is A selection sign was displayed. The overall X-ray image, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation location are displayed side by side on the display unit, or, A selection sign was displayed. The process includes switching between displaying a whole X-ray image, a partial X-ray image corresponding to a selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation location on the display unit.

[0009] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objective, a program according to the third aspect of this invention includes the steps of: acquiring an X-ray image showing a vertebral body; generating a whole X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the multiple vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image; inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body shown in the partial X-ray image; selecting one of the multiple vertebral bodies on the whole X-ray image; and, if one of the multiple vertebral bodies is selected, displaying a partial X-ray image and information indicating the evaluation position corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit, wherein the step of generating the whole X-ray image includes generating a whole X-ray image on which a selection marker indicating the selected vertebral body is displayed, and the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit is A selection sign was displayed.The overall X-ray image, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation location are displayed side by side on the display unit, or, A selection sign was displayed. The process includes the step of switching between displaying a whole X-ray image, a partial X-ray image corresponding to a selected vertebra, and information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] In the X-ray imaging apparatus in the first aspect, the X-ray image processing method in the second aspect, and the program in the third aspect, as described above, the display control unit either displays the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra side by side on the display unit, or switches between displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra on the display unit. As a result, the vertebra being evaluated by the user is displayed on the display unit as a partial X-ray image simultaneously with the overall X-ray image, or after switching to the overall X-ray image. Consequently, the user can see both the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image, making it easy to recognize which of the multiple vertebrae in the X-ray image is being evaluated by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray image processing device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an X-ray imaging device. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the evaluation positions used to assess the shape of the vertebral body. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the learning method of a learning model according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure illustrates the estimation of the vertebral body region according to one embodiment, and the estimation of evaluation positions for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates how to rotate individual vertebral images so that the centerline of the rectangular vertebral body is horizontal. [Figure 7]It is a diagram for explaining how to rotate the image of each vertebral body so that the center line of the frustum-shaped vertebral body becomes horizontal. [Figure 8] It is a diagram for explaining a vertebral body shape evaluation image according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining an overall X-ray image according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining a partial X-ray image according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining an analysis result image according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining an analysis result creation image according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart for explaining an X-ray image processing method according to an embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an X-ray image processing apparatus according to a modified example. [Figure 15] It is a diagram for explaining a vertebral body shape evaluation image according to a modified example.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments embodying the present invention will be described based on the drawings.

[0013] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 13, the configuration of an X-ray image processing apparatus 100 according to an embodiment will be described. Note that the X-ray image processing apparatus 100 is used for diagnosing the shape of the vertebral body 40 caused by a fracture of the vertebral body 40 of the subject 80 (see FIG. 2).

[0014] As shown in Figure 3, there are quantitative and semi-quantitative evaluation methods for determining the shape of the vertebral body 40 resulting from a fracture of the vertebral body 40 from X-ray images 10 of the thoracic and lumbar spine. The QM method (Quantitative Measurement) is known as a quantitative evaluation method. In the QM method, the anterior edge height (A), central height (C), and posterior edge height (P), which are the heights of the anterior edge 41, central 42, and posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40, are measured in the X-ray images 10 of the thoracic and lumbar spine. The presence or absence of a fracture of the vertebral body 40 is determined from the ratio of the anterior edge height (A), central height (C), and posterior edge height (P). For example, if either the ratio of central height (C) to anterior edge height (A), C / A, or the ratio of central height (C) to posterior edge height (P), C / P, is less than 0.8, it is determined that the vertebral body 40 is fractured. Furthermore, if the ratio of the anterior edge height (A) to the posterior edge height (P), A / P, is less than 0.75, it is determined that the vertebral body 40 is fractured. Note that the determination of whether or not the vertebral body 40 is fractured is made by the user (physician). The X-ray image processing device 100 described below is used to assist the user (physician) in determining whether or not the vertebral body 40 is fractured, and does not determine whether or not the vertebral body 40 is fractured.

[0015] (Configuration of X-ray imaging processing equipment) As shown in Figure 1, the X-ray image processing device 100 comprises an image acquisition unit 1, an image processing unit 2, and a storage unit 3.

[0016] The image acquisition unit 1 is configured to acquire an X-ray image 10 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40 (see Figure 5). In this embodiment, the image acquisition unit 1 is configured to acquire an X-ray image 10 taken by the X-ray imaging device 200 from an image server 210, such as a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System). The image acquisition unit 1 includes, for example, an input / output interface.

[0017] The image processing unit 2 is configured to process the X-ray image 10 acquired by the image acquisition unit 1. The image processing unit 2 is a computer composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The image processing unit 2, consisting of the CPU and other hardware components, includes the following as functional blocks of software (program 2a): a vertebral region estimation unit 20, a vertebral body-specific image generation unit 21, a position estimation unit 22, an image generation unit 23, an evaluation parameter calculation unit 24, a judgment result input unit 25, a position change input unit 26, a vertebral body addition unit 27, a selection unit 28, a display control unit 29, an analysis result output unit 30, and a threshold determination unit 31. Details of each functional block of the image processing unit 2 will be described later. The position change input unit 26 is an example of the "evaluation position input unit" in the claims.

[0018] In this embodiment, the memory unit 3 is configured to store a first trained model 3a that has been trained using a first training X-ray image 12a (see Figure 4) showing multiple vertebral regions 40a as training data. Specifically, the first trained model 3a is trained using the first training X-ray image 12a showing multiple vertebral regions 40a and a first labeled image 13a in which labels have been assigned to multiple vertebral bodies 40 in the first training X-ray image 12a as training data. The memory unit 3 is also configured to store a second trained model 3b that has been trained using a second training X-ray image 12b (see Figure 4) showing the anterior edge 41, central part 42, and posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40 as training data. Specifically, the second training X-ray image 12b is trained using the following as training data: the second training X-ray image 12b showing the anterior edge 41, central 42, and posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40, and the second labeled image 13b in which labels are assigned to the anterior edge 41, central 42, and posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40 in the second training X-ray image 12b. The storage unit 3 includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or non-volatile memory.

[0019] (Configuration of X-ray imaging equipment) As shown in Figure 2, the X-ray imaging device 200 comprises an X-ray source 50, an X-ray detection unit 51, an imaging device control unit 52, and an imaging device image processing unit 53. The imaging device control unit 52 is electrically connected to the X-ray source 50 and the imaging device image processing unit 53. The X-ray detection unit 51 is also electrically connected to the imaging device image processing unit 53. The X-ray imaging device 200 generates an X-ray image 10 showing multiple vertebrae 40 by imaging a patient 80 in a lateral recumbent position. The X-ray imaging device 200 then sends the generated X-ray image 10 to an image server 210. In the example shown in Figure 2, electrical connections are illustrated with dashed lines, and information input and output are illustrated with solid arrows.

[0020] The X-ray source 50 generates X-rays when a high voltage is applied. The X-rays generated by the X-ray source 50 are configured to irradiate the X-ray detection unit 51 in the direction in which it is located.

[0021] The X-ray detection unit 51 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 50 and converts the detected X-rays into electrical signals. The X-ray detection unit 51 is, for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The detection signal (image signal) from the X-ray detection unit 51 is sent to the image processing unit 53 of the imaging device.

[0022] The imaging device control unit 52 is configured to control the X-ray imaging device 200. The imaging device control unit 52 includes, for example, a CPU, ROM, and RAM.

[0023] The imaging device image processing unit 53 is configured to generate an X-ray image 10 based on a detection signal sent from the X-ray detection unit 51. The imaging device image processing unit 53 includes, for example, a processor such as a GPU or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) configured for image processing.

[0024] The X-ray image 10 generated in the imaging device image processing unit 53 is sent to the image server 210.

[0025] (Manufacturing a learning model) As shown in Figure 4, the training method for the first learning model 4a includes the steps of: acquiring a first training X-ray image 12a in step 110; acquiring a first label image 13a in step 111; and training the first learning model 4a to individually estimate multiple vertebral regions 40a (see Figure 5) from the first training X-ray image 12a using the first training X-ray image 12a and the first label image 13a as training data in step 112. The first learning model 4a is, for example, a convolutional neural network (CNN) or incorporates a convolutional neural network in part.

[0026] The training method for the second learning model 4b includes the steps of: acquiring a second training X-ray image 12b (step 110a); acquiring a second label image 13b (step 111a); and training the second learning model 4b to estimate evaluation positions for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 from the second training X-ray image 12b (step 112a), using the second training X-ray image 12b and the second label image 13b as training data. The second learning model 4b is, for example, a convolutional neural network (CNN) or incorporates a convolutional neural network in part.

[0027] (Vertebral body area estimation department) In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the vertebral region estimation unit 20 uses a first trained model 3a to individually estimate multiple vertebral regions 40a from the X-ray image 10. As a result, a vertebral label image 120 is obtained in which the positions of multiple vertebral bodies 40 are identified in the X-ray image 10.

[0028] (Vertebral body image generation unit) In this embodiment, the vertebral body image generation unit 21 generates a vertebral body image 130 that includes one of the multiple vertebral body regions 40a estimated by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20. Specifically, the vertebral body image generation unit 21 generates a vertebral body image 130 of a predetermined size based on the center of each of the multiple vertebral body regions 40a estimated by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20. That is, the vertebral body image 130 is an image with a predetermined length L1 in the vertical direction and a predetermined length L2 in the horizontal direction, centered on the center of each of the multiple vertebral body regions 40a estimated by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20.

[0029] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the vertebral body image generation unit 21 may rotate the vertebral body image 130 so that the center line 40b of the vertebral body 40 depicted in the vertebral body image 130 becomes horizontal. That is, instead of the upper or lower side of the roughly rectangular vertebral body 40 shown in Figure 6 being aligned horizontally, the vertebral body image 130 may be rotated so that the center line 40b connecting the centers of the left and right sides of the vertebral body 40 in the vertical direction becomes horizontal. As a result, even if the vertebral body 40 has a trapezoidal shape as shown in Figure 7, for example, the vertebral body image 130 is rotated so that the vertebral body 40 is aligned horizontally. In this way, by estimating the evaluation position using the second trained model 3b on the vertebral body image 130 rotated so that the center line 40b of the vertebral body 40 is horizontal, it becomes possible to improve the accuracy of the evaluation position estimation.

[0030] (Position estimation part) In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the position estimation unit 22 uses a second trained model 3b to estimate evaluation positions for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 from the individual vertebral body images 130. Specifically, the position estimation unit 22 uses a second trained model 3b, which was trained using a second training X-ray image 12b showing the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40 as training data, to estimate the positions of the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 from the individual vertebral body images 130. Note that these positions are examples of "evaluation positions" within the scope of the claims.

[0031] (Evaluation parameter calculation unit) In this embodiment, the evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 based on the evaluation position. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 calculates the anterior edge height (A) based on the upper edge 41a and lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, which are estimated by the position estimation unit 22. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 also calculates the central height (C) based on the upper edge 42a and lower edge 42b of the central 42. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 also calculates the posterior edge height (P) based on the upper edge 43a and lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 then calculates the ratio of central height (C) to anterior edge height (A), C / A, the ratio of central height (C) to posterior edge height (P), and the ratio of anterior edge height (A) to posterior edge height (P), A / P, as evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40. Note that C / A, C / P, and A / P are examples of the "first ratio," "second ratio," and "third ratio" of the claims, respectively.

[0032] (Image generation unit) In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 that includes the vertebral body 40 and the evaluation position. Specifically, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 that includes evaluation parameters in addition to the vertebral body 40 and the evaluation position. The vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 generated by the image generation unit 23 is displayed on a display unit 101 (see Figure 1) which is provided separately from the X-ray image processing device 100. Note that the display unit 101 may be provided in the X-ray image processing device 100.

[0033] In this embodiment, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140, which includes an overall X-ray image 141 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40. The image generation unit 23 also generates an overall X-ray image 141 on which position markers 141a indicating predetermined positions of each of the multiple vertebral body regions 40a estimated by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20 are superimposed. The position markers 141a are, for example, circular in shape. The predetermined positions are, for example, the centroid positions of the vertebral body regions 40a.

[0034] In this embodiment, the image generation unit 23 generates a whole X-ray image 141 in which multiple vertebral bodies 40 and identification markers 141b that identify the multiple vertebral bodies 40 are superimposed. In Figure 8, the letters T2 to T12 are displayed next to the vertebral bodies 40 as identification markers 141b.

[0035] In this embodiment, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140, which includes a partial X-ray image 142 in which evaluation positions are superimposed on an image of a predetermined vertebral body 40. The image generation unit 23 generates a partial X-ray image 142 in which the positions of the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 are superimposed on the partial X-ray image 142. For example, the above positions are represented by circular markers (black circles shown in Figure 8).

[0036] In this embodiment, the image generation unit 23 generates a partial X-ray image 142 in which the identification markers 141b (T2 to T12) are superimposed. For example, the identification marker 141b (T8) is displayed above the partial X-ray image 142.

[0037] Furthermore, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 that includes C / A, C / P, and A / P as evaluation parameters. For example, next to the identification marker 141b (T2~T12) that identifies the vertebral body 40, the C / A, C / P, and A / P of the vertebral body 40 corresponding to the identification marker 141b are displayed. In other words, the image generation unit 23 generates a list image 143 in which the identification marker 141b and C / A, C / P, and A / P are displayed in a list format.

[0038] (Judgment result input section) The judgment result input unit 25 receives the user's judgment result regarding whether or not the vertebral body 40 is deformed (whether or not it is fractured). For example, the judgment result is entered by the user on the display unit 101. In Figure 8, the judgment result (G0, G1, G2, or G3, etc.) is entered in the SQ column next to the evaluation parameter.

[0039] (Position change input section) In this embodiment, the position change input unit 26 receives the positions of the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 as evaluation positions. In other words, the position change input unit 26 receives input for changing the evaluation position of the vertebral body shape evaluation image 140. For example, the user drags and drops one of the circular markers of the evaluation positions (upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, upper edge 42a of the central 42, lower edge 42b of the central 42, upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43) on the partial X-ray image 142 displayed on the display unit 101. This changes the evaluation position. In addition, the evaluation parameters are recalculated in accordance with the change in the evaluation position.

[0040] (Additional vertebral body) In this embodiment, the vertebral body addition unit 27 receives input for the addition of vertebral bodies 40 captured on the overall X-ray image 141. For example, the user clicks with the mouse on the overall X-ray image 141 displayed on the display unit 101 in an area that has not been estimated as a vertebral body region 40a by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20. As a result, a predetermined range centered on the clicked position is newly added as a vertebral body region 40a. The position estimation unit 22 then estimates the evaluation positions (upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, upper edge 42a of the central 42, lower edge 42b of the central 42, upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43) for the vertebral bodies 40 added by the vertebral body addition unit 27. The image generation unit 23 then generates a partial X-ray image 142 in which the evaluation positions are superimposed on the vertebral bodies 40 added by the vertebral body addition unit 27. Furthermore, the evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 calculates C / A, C / P, and A / P as evaluation parameters for the added vertebral body 40. The image generation unit 23 generates a list image 143 that includes the evaluation parameters of the added vertebral body 40. For example, if the vertebral body region 40a of the vertebral body 40 corresponding to T12 has not been estimated by the vertebral body region estimation unit 20, the user clicks the vertebral body 40 corresponding to T12 with the mouse. As a result, the evaluation parameters of the vertebral body 40 corresponding to T12 are calculated, and a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 including the calculated evaluation parameters is generated.

[0041] (Selection unit, display control unit) In this embodiment, the selection unit 28 selects the position marker 141a on the overall X-ray image 141. Then, when the position marker 141a is selected by the selection unit 28, the display control unit 29 displays the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the selected position marker 141a on the display unit 101.

[0042] The display control unit 29 either displays the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the selected vertebral body 40 side by side on the display unit 101, or switches between displaying the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the selected vertebral body 40 on the display unit 101. In Figure 8, the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142 are displayed side by side on the display unit 101. A list image 143 is also displayed next to the partial X-ray image 142. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, if a position marker 141a is selected while only the overall X-ray image 141 is displayed, the display of the overall X-ray image 141 may be switched to display the partial X-ray image 142 and list image 143 corresponding to the selected position marker 141a, as shown in Figure 10. Furthermore, while the partial X-ray image 142 and evaluation parameters are displayed, clicking a toggle button (not shown) with the mouse switches the display to show only the overall X-ray image 141 shown in Figure 9.

[0043] For example, as shown in Figure 8, suppose a partial X-ray image 142 of T8 is displayed on the display unit 101, and the user clicks on a position marker 141a other than T8 on the overall X-ray image 141 with the mouse. As a result, the selection unit 28 selects the clicked position marker 141a, and the display control unit 29 displays the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the clicked position marker 141a on the display unit 101.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the image generation unit 23 generates an overall X-ray image 141 in which a selection marker 141c indicating the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28 is superimposed on the overall X-ray image 141. The image generation unit 23 generates an overall X-ray image 141 in which the selection marker 141c is superimposed on the position marker 141a of the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28. For example, the selection marker 141c is a circle along the outer edge of the position marker 141a. Also, the color of the selection marker 141c and the color of the position marker 141a are different. Also, the color of the identification marker 141b of the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28 is different from the color of the identification marker 141b of the vertebral body 40 that has not been selected. In Figure 8, the vertebral body 40 T8 is selected, and the letters T8 are shown in bold to indicate that they are different from the others. Furthermore, the identification marker 141b, T8, for the selected vertebral body 40 is displayed above the partial X-ray image 142. In addition, the evaluation parameters for the selected vertebral body 40 are enclosed in a square frame in the list image 143.

[0045] Furthermore, the vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 includes a slider 144a for adjusting the sharpness of the overall X-ray image 141 (partial X-ray image 142), and a slider 144b for adjusting the contrast. The vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 also displays the patient ID and patient name of the patient 80.

[0046] (Analysis result output section) In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the analysis result output unit 30 commands the output of the analysis results of the shape of the vertebral bodies 40. For example, a report button 145 is displayed in the upper left of the vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 displayed on the display unit 101. When the user clicks the report button 145 with the mouse, the output of the analysis results is commanded. When the analysis result output unit 30 commands the output of the analysis results, the image generation unit 23 generates an analysis result image 150, as shown in Figure 11, which includes an overall X-ray image 141 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40 and evaluation parameters (C / A, C / P, and A / P) for each of the multiple vertebral bodies 40. The analysis result image 150 is displayed on the display unit 101. The overall X-ray image 141 and the list image 143 are displayed side by side on the display unit 101. In addition to the evaluation parameters, the judgment results (G0, G1, G2, or G3, etc.) are also displayed.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the image generation unit 23 generates an analysis result image 150 which includes a whole X-ray image 141 in which multiple vertebral bodies 40 and identification markers 141b (T2~T12) that identify the multiple vertebral bodies 40 are superimposed, and evaluation parameters associated with the identification markers 141b. The analysis result image 150 also displays the analysis result ID (Study ID), the date and time of analysis (Study Date), the patient ID (Patient ID), the patient name (Patient Name), gender, date of birth, etc.

[0048] In this embodiment, when the analysis result output unit 30 commands the image generation unit 23 to output analysis results, it generates an analysis result image 150 that includes a whole X-ray image 141 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40, evaluation parameters for each of the multiple vertebral bodies 40, and partial X-ray images 142 selected by the user. Specifically, when the analysis result output unit 30 commands the output of analysis results, the analysis result creation image 160 (user interface) shown in Figure 12 is displayed on the display unit 101. The analysis result creation image 160 displays the analysis result image 150 along with a partial X-ray image selection unit 161 for selecting the partial X-ray images 142 to be displayed in the analysis result image 150. For example, four partial X-ray image selection units 161 are displayed. In addition, identification markers 141b (T2~T12) are displayed in the lower right corner of the partial X-ray images 142.

[0049] Furthermore, the analysis result image 160 displays a comment input section 162 for entering comments, a username input section 163 for entering the user's name, and a destination selection section 164 for selecting the destination to send the analysis results. The analysis result image 160 also displays a send button 165. When the user clicks the send button 165 with the mouse on the display unit 101, the analysis result image 150 is sent to the image server 210.

[0050] (Threshold determination unit) In this embodiment, the threshold determination unit 31 determines whether the shape of the vertebral body 40 exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the evaluation parameters. The image generation unit 23 then, based on the determination result of the threshold determination unit 31, makes the display of at least one of the identification marker 141b and the evaluation parameters different for vertebral bodies 40 that exceed the predetermined threshold and vertebral bodies 40 that do not exceed the predetermined threshold. For example, in the analysis result images 150 shown in Figures 11 and 12 (vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 shown in Figure 8), the color of the evaluation parameters of vertebral bodies 40 where either C / A or C / P is less than 0.8, or where A / P is less than 0.75, is different from the color of the evaluation parameters of other vertebral bodies 40. For example, since the identification marker 141b for T10 has a C / A of less than 0.8 (0.75), the color of the evaluation parameter (C / A) for vertebral body T9 40 is different from the color of the evaluation parameters of other vertebral bodies 40. In Figures 11 and 12 (Figure 8), the evaluation parameters for T9 are shown in bold. Furthermore, the color of the identification marker 141b for vertebrae 40 exceeding a predetermined threshold may be different from the color of the identification marker 141b for vertebrae 40 not exceeding the predetermined threshold.

[0051] (X-ray image processing method) Next, we will explain the X-ray image processing method.

[0052] As shown in Figure 13, in step 300, the image acquisition unit 1 acquires an X-ray image 10 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40 from an image server 210, such as a PACS.

[0053] In step 301, the vertebral region estimation unit 20 uses the first trained model 3a to individually estimate multiple vertebral regions 40a from the X-ray image 10.

[0054] In step 302, the vertebral body image generation unit 21 generates a vertebral body image 130 that includes one of the estimated multiple vertebral body regions 40a.

[0055] In step 303, the position estimation unit 22 uses the second trained model 3b to estimate the evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 from the individual vertebral body images 130. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 then calculates the evaluation parameters based on the evaluation position.

[0056] In step 304, the image generation unit 23 generates a vertebral body shape evaluation image 140 that includes the vertebral body 40 and the evaluation position. Specifically, the image generation unit 23 generates an overall X-ray image 141, a partial X-ray image 142 in which the evaluation position is superimposed, and a list image 143.

[0057] In step 305, if a change in the evaluation position is input by the position change input unit 26, in step 305a, the evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 calculates the evaluation parameters based on the changed evaluation position.

[0058] In step 306, if the vertebral body 40 captured in the overall X-ray image 141 is added by the vertebral body addition unit 27, in step 306a, the position estimation unit 22 estimates the evaluation position for the vertebral body 40 added by the vertebral body addition unit 27. The image generation unit 23 generates a partial X-ray image 142 in which the evaluation position is superimposed on the vertebral body 40 added by the vertebral body addition unit 27. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 calculates evaluation parameters based on the added evaluation position.

[0059] In step 307, if the analysis result output unit 30 is instructed to output the analysis result of the shape of the vertebral body 40, in step 307a, the image generation unit 23 generates an analysis result image 150 which includes a whole X-ray image 141, a partial X-ray image 142 selected by the user, and a list image 143.

[0060] (Effects of this embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0061] In this embodiment, as described above, the display control unit 29 either displays the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the selected vertebral body 40 side by side on the display unit 101, or switches between displaying the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142 corresponding to the selected vertebral body 40 on the display unit 101. As a result, the vertebral body 40 being evaluated by the user is displayed on the display unit 101 as a partial X-ray image 142 simultaneously with the overall X-ray image 141, or by switching to the overall X-ray image 141. Consequently, the user can check both the overall X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142, making it easy to recognize which of the multiple vertebral bodies 40 shown in the overall X-ray image 141 is the vertebral body 40 being evaluated by the user.

[0062] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 generates a whole X-ray image 141 on which a selection marker 141c indicating the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28 is superimposed. This allows the user to easily recognize which of the multiple vertebral bodies 40 shown in the whole X-ray image 141 has been selected.

[0063] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 generates an overall X-ray image 141 in which position markers 141a indicating predetermined positions of each of the multiple vertebral body regions 40a are superimposed. On the overall X-ray image 141, the selection marker 141c is superimposed on the position marker 141a of the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28. As a result, since the selection marker 141c is superimposed on the position marker 141a of the vertebral body 40, the user can more easily recognize which of the multiple vertebral bodies 40 shown in the overall X-ray image 141 has been selected.

[0064] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 generates at least one of the following: a whole X-ray image 141 in which multiple vertebral bodies 40 and identification markers 141b that identify the multiple vertebral bodies 40 are superimposed; and a partial X-ray image 142 in which the identification markers 141b are superimposed. As a result, since the identification markers 141b are displayed in at least one of the whole X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142, the user can easily identify which vertebral body 40 is which among the multiple vertebral bodies 40.

[0065] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 generates a partial X-ray image 142 in which the evaluation position is superimposed on the vertebral body 40. As a result, the evaluation position on the vertebral body 40 can be easily visually identified because it is superimposed on the partial X-ray image 142.

[0066] In this embodiment, as described above, when the image generation unit 23 receives a command from the analysis result output unit 30 to output the analysis results, it generates an analysis result image 150 that includes an overall X-ray image 141 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40 and evaluation parameters for each of the multiple vertebral bodies 40. As a result, after the user determines that the evaluation position is appropriate, the user can easily view the analysis result image 150 by inputting a command to output the analysis results of the shape of the vertebral bodies 40.

[0067] In this embodiment, as described above, when the image generation unit 23 is instructed by the analysis result output unit 30 to output the analysis results, it generates an analysis result image 150 that includes a whole X-ray image 141 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40, evaluation parameters for each of the multiple vertebral bodies 40, and a partial X-ray image 142 selected by the user. This allows the user to view the whole X-ray image 141 and evaluation parameters, as well as the partial X-ray image 142 of the vertebral body 40 of interest.

[0068] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 generates an analysis result image 150 which includes an overall X-ray image 141 in which multiple vertebral bodies 40 and identification markers 141b that identify the multiple vertebral bodies 40 are superimposed, and evaluation parameters associated with the identification markers 141b. This allows the user to easily recognize the correspondence between the vertebral bodies 40 in the overall X-ray image 141 and the evaluation parameters.

[0069] In this embodiment, as described above, the image generation unit 23 makes the display mode of at least one of the identification marker 141b and the evaluation parameter different for vertebrae 40 that exceed a predetermined threshold and vertebrae 40 that do not exceed a predetermined threshold. This allows the user to easily distinguish between vertebrae 40 that exceed a predetermined threshold and vertebrae 40 that do not exceed a predetermined threshold.

[0070] [Differentiation] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the description of the embodiments above, and further includes all modifications (exceptions) within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0071] For example, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the position estimation unit 22 estimates evaluation positions for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 from the vertebral body individual images 130 using the second trained model 3b, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as in the modified X-ray image processing device 400 shown in Figures 14 and 15, the evaluation positions may be specified by the user. The image processing unit 402 of the X-ray image processing device 400 includes an evaluation position input unit 420. The user operates the mouse button 430 on a partial X-ray image 142 showing multiple vertebral bodies 40 displayed on the display unit 101. As a result, the evaluation position input unit 420 receives the positions of the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40 as evaluation positions. The evaluation parameter calculation unit 24 then calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body 40 based on the evaluation positions. The evaluation position input unit 420 and the image processing unit 2, which consists of a CPU and the like, are functional blocks of the software (program 402a). The other configurations are the same as in the above embodiment.

[0072] In the modified X-ray image processing device 400, as described above, the evaluation position input unit 420 receives the positions of the upper edge 41a of the anterior edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the anterior edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the central 42, the lower edge 42b of the central 42, the upper edge 43a of the posterior edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the posterior edge 43 of the vertebral body 40 as evaluation positions. This makes it easy to recognize which of the multiple vertebral bodies 40 shown in the overall X-ray image 141 the vertebral body 40 for which the evaluation position is specified is, even when the evaluation position is entered by the user.

[0073] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the selection marker 141c is superimposed on the position marker 141a of the vertebral body 40 selected by the selection unit 28 on the overall X-ray image 141, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the position marker 141a and the selection marker 141c may be displayed side by side.

[0074] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the identification mark 141b is displayed in both the whole X-ray image 141 and the partial X-ray image 142, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the identification mark 141b may be displayed in only one of the whole X-ray image 141 or the partial X-ray image 142.

[0075] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the upper edge 41a of the front edge 41, the lower edge 41b of the front edge 41, the upper edge 42a of the center 42, the lower edge 42b of the center 42, the upper edge 43a of the rear edge 43, and the lower edge 43b of the rear edge 43 were input as evaluation positions, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, positions other than those described above may be input as evaluation positions.

[0076] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the analysis result image 150 includes a partial X-ray image 142 selected by the user, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the analysis result image 150 may not include a partial X-ray image 142.

[0077] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example in which the color of at least one of the identification marker 141b and the evaluation parameter differs between vertebrae 40 that exceed a predetermined threshold and vertebrae 40 that do not exceed a predetermined threshold, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the identification marker 141b and the evaluation parameter of vertebrae 40 that exceed a predetermined threshold may be enclosed in a border.

[0078] [Aspect] Those skilled in the art will understand that the exemplary embodiments described above are specific examples of the following embodiments.

[0079] (Item 1) An image acquisition unit that acquires X-ray images showing multiple vertebral bodies, The system includes an image processing unit that processes the X-ray image acquired by the image acquisition unit, The aforementioned image processing unit, An image generation unit that generates a whole X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies among the plurality of vertebral bodies, An evaluation position input unit for inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body on the aforementioned partial X-ray image, On the aforementioned overall X-ray image, there is a selection unit for selecting the vertebral body, The system includes a display control unit that, when the vertebral body is selected by the selection unit, displays the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit, The display control unit displays the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body side by side on the display unit, or switches between displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit.

[0080] (Item 2) The X-ray image processing apparatus according to item 1, wherein the image generation unit generates the overall X-ray image in which a selection marker indicating the vertebral body selected by the selection unit is superimposed on the overall X-ray image.

[0081] (Item 3) The image generation unit, The overall X-ray image is generated in which positional markers indicating predetermined positions in each of the multiple vertebral regions are superimposed. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to item 2, which generates the overall X-ray image in which the selection marker is superimposed on the position marker of the vertebra selected by the selection unit on the overall X-ray image.

[0082] (Item 4) The image generation unit, The process involves generating the overall X-ray image in which the plurality of vertebral bodies and identification markers that identify the plurality of vertebral bodies are superimposed, An X-ray image processing apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3, which performs at least one of the following: generating the partial X-ray image in which the identification mark is superimposed.

[0083] (Item 5) The evaluation position input unit receives the following inputs as evaluation positions: the upper edge of the anterior edge, the lower edge of the anterior edge, the upper edge of the center, the lower edge of the center, the upper edge of the posterior edge, and the lower edge of the posterior edge of the vertebral body. The aforementioned image processing unit, The system further includes an evaluation parameter calculation unit that calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body based on the evaluation position, The evaluation parameter calculation unit, Based on the upper edge and lower edge of the front edge, the front edge height is calculated; based on the upper edge and lower edge of the center, the center height is calculated; and based on the upper edge and lower edge of the rear edge, the rear edge height is calculated. An X-ray image processing apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the apparatus calculates, as evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body, a first ratio which is the ratio of the central height to the anterior edge height, a second ratio which is the ratio of the central height to the posterior edge height, and a third ratio which is the ratio of the anterior edge height to the posterior edge height.

[0084] (Item 6) The X-ray image processing apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the image generation unit generates the partial X-ray image in which the evaluation position is superimposed on the vertebral body.

[0085] (Item 7) The aforementioned image processing unit, An evaluation parameter calculation unit calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body based on the evaluation position, The system further includes an analysis result output unit that commands the output of the analysis results of the vertebral body shape, The X-ray image processing apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the image generation unit generates an analysis result image including the overall X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebrae and the evaluation parameters for each of the plurality of vertebrae when the analysis result output unit is instructed to output the analysis result.

[0086] (Item 8) The X-ray image processing apparatus according to item 7, wherein the image generation unit generates an analysis result image that includes the overall X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebrae, the evaluation parameters for each of the plurality of vertebrae, and the partial X-ray image selected by the user, when the analysis result output unit is instructed to output the analysis result.

[0087] (Item 9) The X-ray image processing apparatus according to item 8, wherein the image generation unit generates the analysis result image, which includes the overall X-ray image in which the plurality of vertebrae and identification markers for identifying the plurality of vertebrae are superimposed, and the evaluation parameters associated with the identification markers.

[0088] (Item 10) The image processing unit further includes a threshold determination unit that determines whether the deformation of the vertebral body exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the evaluation parameters, The X-ray image processing apparatus according to item 9, wherein the image generation unit, based on the determination result of the threshold determination unit, causes the display mode of at least one of the identification marker and the evaluation parameter to differ between the vertebral body that exceeds the predetermined threshold and the vertebral body that does not exceed the predetermined threshold.

[0089] (Item 11) The steps include obtaining an X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies, The steps of generating a whole X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies among the plurality of vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image, The step of inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body on the aforementioned partial X-ray image, The steps include selecting the vertebral body on the overall X-ray image, If the vertebral body is selected, the system includes the step of displaying the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit. An X-ray image processing method comprising the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit, which includes the step of displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body side by side on the display unit, or the step of switching between displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit.

[0090] (Item 12) The steps include obtaining an X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies, The steps of generating a whole X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies among the plurality of vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image, The step of inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body on the aforementioned partial X-ray image, The steps include selecting the vertebral body on the overall X-ray image, If the vertebral body is selected, the system includes the step of displaying the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit. A program that includes the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit, which involves displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body side by side on the display unit, or switching between displaying the overall X-ray image and the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebral body on the display unit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0091] 1 Image acquisition unit 2 Image Processing Unit 2a Program 10 X-ray image 23 Image generation unit 24 Evaluation parameter calculation unit 26 Position change input section (evaluation position input section) 28 Selection Section 29 Display Control Unit 30 Analysis Result Output Unit 31 Threshold determination unit 40 vertebral bodies 40a vertebral region 41 Leading edge 41a Upper edge of the anterior edge (evaluation position) 41b Lower edge of the anterior margin (evaluation position) 42 center 42a Upper center edge (evaluation position) 42b Lower center edge (evaluation point) 43 Trailing edge 43a Upper edge of the trailing edge (evaluation position) 43b Lower edge of the posterior margin (evaluation position) 100 X-ray imaging processing equipment 101 Display section 141 Overall X-ray image 141a Location indicator 141b Identification mark 141c Selection Marker 142 Partial X-ray image 150 Analysis result images 400 X-ray imaging processing equipment 402 Image Processing Unit 402a Program 420 Evaluation position input section A Front edge height C center height P trailing edge height C / A ratio 1 C / P ratio (second ratio) A / P Third Ratio

Claims

1. An image acquisition unit that acquires X-ray images showing the vertebral bodies, The system comprises an image processing unit that processes the X-ray image acquired by the image acquisition unit, The aforementioned image processing unit, An image generation unit that generates a whole X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies among the multiple vertebral bodies, An evaluation position input unit for inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body as seen in the aforementioned partial X-ray image, On the aforementioned overall X-ray image, a selection unit is provided to select one of the multiple vertebral bodies, The selection unit selects one of the plurality of vertebrae, and the display control unit displays the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra and information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit, including: The image generation unit generates the overall X-ray image on which a selection marker indicating the vertebral body selected by the selection unit is displayed. The display control unit displays the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position side by side on the display unit, or switches between displaying the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit.

2. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image generation unit generates an overall X-ray image in which the selection markers indicating the vertebrae selected by the selection unit are superimposed on the overall X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebrae.

3. The image generation unit, The overall X-ray image is generated in which the selection markers, which are superimposed on position markers indicating the predetermined positions of each of the plurality of vertebrae, are displayed. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 2, which generates an overall X-ray image in which the selection marks are superimposed on the position marks of the vertebrae selected by the selection unit on an overall X-ray image showing the plurality of vertebrae.

4. The image generation unit, The process involves generating the overall X-ray image in which the selection marker is displayed, in which the plurality of vertebral bodies and the identification marker that identifies the plurality of vertebral bodies are superimposed. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 1, which performs at least one of the following: generating the partial X-ray image in which the identification mark is superimposed.

5. The evaluation position input unit receives the following inputs as evaluation positions: the upper edge of the anterior margin, the lower edge of the anterior margin, the upper edge of the center, the lower edge of the center, the upper edge of the posterior margin, and the lower edge of the posterior margin of the vertebral body. The aforementioned image processing unit, The system further includes an evaluation parameter calculation unit that calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body based on the evaluation position, The evaluation parameter calculation unit, Based on the upper edge and lower edge of the front edge, the front edge height is calculated; based on the upper edge and lower edge of the center, the center height is calculated; and based on the upper edge and lower edge of the rear edge, the rear edge height is calculated. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus calculates a first ratio, which is the ratio of the central height to the anterior edge height, a second ratio, which is the ratio of the central height to the posterior edge height, and a third ratio, which is the ratio of the anterior edge height to the posterior edge height, as evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body.

6. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image generation unit generates the partial X-ray image in which the evaluation position is superimposed on the vertebral body.

7. The aforementioned image processing unit, An evaluation parameter calculation unit calculates evaluation parameters for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body based on the evaluation position, The system further includes an analysis result output unit that commands the output of the analysis results of the vertebral body shape, The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image generation unit generates an analysis result image including the overall X-ray image showing the selection markers in which the plurality of vertebrae are visible, and the evaluation parameters for each of the plurality of vertebrae, when the analysis result output unit is instructed to output the analysis result.

8. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein when the analysis result output unit is instructed to output the analysis result, the image generation unit generates an analysis result image that includes the overall X-ray image showing the selection markers in which the plurality of vertebrae are visible, the evaluation parameters for each of the plurality of vertebrae, and the partial X-ray image selected by the user.

9. The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image generation unit generates an analysis result image which includes the plurality of vertebrae and the selection markers on which the plurality of vertebrae are superimposed, and the evaluation parameters associated with the identification markers.

10. The image processing unit further includes a threshold determination unit that determines whether the deformation of the vertebral body exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the evaluation parameters, The X-ray image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the image generation unit, based on the determination result of the threshold determination unit, makes the display mode of at least one of the identification mark and the evaluation parameter different for vertebrae that exceed the predetermined threshold and vertebrae that do not exceed the predetermined threshold.

11. The steps include obtaining an X-ray image showing the vertebral body, The steps include generating a whole X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image, The step of inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body shown in the aforementioned partial X-ray image, The steps include selecting one of the multiple vertebral bodies on the overall X-ray image, If one of the multiple vertebrae is selected, the step of displaying the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra and information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit, Equipped with, The step of generating the overall X-ray image includes generating the overall X-ray image in which a selection marker indicating the selected vertebral body is displayed on the overall X-ray image, An X-ray image processing method comprising the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit, the step of displaying the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position side by side on the display unit, or the step of switching between displaying the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit.

12. The steps include obtaining an X-ray image showing the vertebral body, The steps include generating a whole X-ray image showing multiple vertebral bodies and a partial X-ray image showing some of the vertebral bodies based on the acquired X-ray image, The step of inputting an evaluation position for evaluating the shape of the vertebral body shown in the aforementioned partial X-ray image, The steps include selecting one of the multiple vertebral bodies on the overall X-ray image, If one of the plurality of vertebrae is selected, the system includes the step of displaying the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra and information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit. The step of generating the overall X-ray image includes generating the overall X-ray image in which a selection marker indicating the selected vertebral body is displayed on the overall X-ray image, A program that includes the step of displaying the partial X-ray image on the display unit, which involves displaying the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position side by side on the display unit, or switching between displaying the overall X-ray image on which the selection marker is displayed, the partial X-ray image corresponding to the selected vertebra, and the information indicating the evaluation position on the display unit.

Images