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

Abstract

To reduce a mistake in the setting of a reconstruction range.SOLUTION: An X-ray diagnostic device according to an embodiment includes a generation unit and a display control unit. The generation unit generates an image schematically representing a reconstruction range and a rotation center on the basis of setting values related to the reconstruction range of tomosynthesis imaging of a subject and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging. The display control unit displays the image on a display.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , ,

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, a medical image processing apparatus, a method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In X-ray diagnostic apparatuses such as mammography and X-ray fluoroscopy tables, tomosynthesis imaging can be used to obtain an image with reduced overlap of the subject compared to an image obtained by normal imaging. In an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, a numerical value indicating a reconstruction range is set according to a user's operation, the set numerical value is displayed to prompt the user for confirmation, and tomosynthesis imaging is performed according to the user's instruction. After the tomosynthesis imaging is completed, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus can generate a tomographic image with reduced overlap of the subject within the reconstruction range. Therefore, in tomosynthesis imaging, it is possible to improve diagnostic accuracy, observe only a desired site, identify the position of a device such as a catheter, and the like.

[0003] For example, tomosynthesis imaging in mammography can reduce the overlap of tumors, breasts, and fat, and thus can clearly depict tumors compared to an image obtained by normal imaging. Also, tomosynthesis imaging in an X-ray fluoroscopy table can reduce the overlap of three-dimensionally distributed bronchi and pulmonary emphysema, and thus can clearly depict pulmonary emphysema compared to an image obtained by normal imaging. Further, tomosynthesis imaging in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) using an X-ray fluoroscopy table makes it easier to grasp the course of the bile duct when inserting a catheter into the bile duct and advancing it, and thus makes it easier to advance the catheter. Note that tomosynthesis imaging can be performed not only in mammography and X-ray fluoroscopy tables but also in any X-ray diagnostic apparatus capable of imaging a subject from a plurality of imaging angles.

[0004] According to the consideration of the present inventor, in the above-described X-ray diagnostic apparatus, since the setting of the reconstruction range is important, it is preferable to be able to reduce errors in setting the reconstruction range. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-155519 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is to reduce errors in setting the reconstruction range. However, the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment comprises a generation unit and a display control unit. The generation unit generates an image schematically representing the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject, based on set values ​​relating to the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging. The display control unit displays the image on a display. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating tomosynthesis imaging in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging in the first embodiment. [Figure 5]Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing two examples of display screens used for setting up the comparative example. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display screen used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the display screen used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing a modified version of the display screen shown in Figure 8. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the display screen used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the display screen used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging in the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes the X-ray diagnostic apparatus and medical image processing apparatus according to each embodiment with reference to the drawings. To make the explanation more concrete, the following description will use the case where the X-ray diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray fluoroscopy bed apparatus as an example. However, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus is not limited to an X-ray fluoroscopy bed apparatus, but may be any X-ray bed apparatus such as a mammography apparatus, an X-ray television bed apparatus, or a C-arm type X-ray bed apparatus. Similarly, to make the explanation more concrete, the following description will assume that the medical image processing apparatus is incorporated into the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. That is, the following description of the medical image processing apparatus also applies to the X-ray diagnostic apparatus. However, the medical image processing apparatus may be used independently without being incorporated into the X-ray diagnostic apparatus.

[0010] <First Embodiment> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 2 is a schematic diagram for explaining tomosynthesis imaging. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 comprises a tomosynthesis imaging apparatus 2 and a medical image processing apparatus 3.

[0011] The tomosynthesis imaging apparatus 2 comprises an X-ray tube 5, an X-ray detector 7, an X-ray tube movement mechanism 9, a detector movement mechanism 11, a tomosynthesis control mechanism 13, and a top plate 15.

[0012] The X-ray tube 5 is located in the X-ray tube moving mechanism 9. The X-ray tube 5 generates X-rays by receiving a high voltage and filament current from a high voltage generator (not shown).

[0013] The X-ray detector 7 is mounted on the detector movement mechanism 11 in a direction that detects X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 5. The X-ray detector 7 detects both the X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 5 that have passed through the subject P on the top plate 15 and the X-rays that have not passed through the subject P. The X-ray detector 7 is implemented, for example, by a flat panel detector (FPD). The FPD has multiple elements arranged in two dimensions. Each element detects the X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 5 and converts the detected X-rays into electrical signals. The electrical signals generated by each element are output to an analog-to-digital converter (A / D converter, not shown). The A / D converter converts the electrical signals into digital data. The A / D converter outputs the digital data to a processing circuit 31, which will be described later.

[0014] The X-ray tube moving mechanism 9 moves the X-ray tube 5. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2 for example, the X-ray tube moving mechanism 9 supports the X-ray tube 5 so that it can move around the rotation center C. The X-ray tube moving mechanism 9 may also support the X-ray tube 5 so that it can rotate along an arc-shaped trajectory, or it may support the X-ray tube 5 so that it can move linearly along the longitudinal direction of the top plate 15. The "rotation center" is the position where the centerlines of the projected images intersect when projecting from multiple angles. In tomosynthesis imaging using an X-ray diagnostic device, by rotating and sliding the X-ray flat-panel detector in addition to the rotation and sliding movements of the X-ray tube, it becomes possible to perform tomosynthesis imaging by setting the rotation center to an arbitrary height on the top plate rather than on the detector surface. To elaborate, the "rotation center" corresponds to the point on the imaging axis that passes through the focal point of the X-ray tube 5 and the center of the detection surface of the X-ray detector 7, and which is not displaced by the movement of the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7. In Figure 2(a), the rotation center C is located approximately in the center of the subject P; in Figure 2(b), the rotation center C is located outside the subject P; and in Figure 2(c), the rotation center C is located near the boundary between the subject P and the top plate 15. Of these, from the viewpoint of maximizing the reconstruction range R, which corresponds to the effective area E within the subject P, it is preferable to set the position of the rotation center C approximately in the center of the subject P, as shown in Figure 2(a). Furthermore, the upper end T of the reconstruction range R can be set to the distance from the top plate 15 to the upper end of the subject P, and the lower end B of the reconstruction range R can be set to the distance from the top plate 15 to the lower end of the subject P. The reconstruction range R corresponds to the range in which a reconstructed image of the subject P can be generated by tomosynthesis imaging. The effective area E is the area projected at all imaging angles. To elaborate, the effective area E corresponds to the area through which the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 5 pass at all imaging angles of tomosynthesis imaging. In other words, in Figure 2, the effective region E corresponds to the area where three triangles, with the X-ray detector 7 as the base and the X-ray tube 5 as the vertex, overlap. Also, in Figure 2, the reconstruction range R corresponds to the area where the effective region E and the subject P overlap.

[0015] The detector moving mechanism 11 moves the X-ray detector 7. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, the detector moving mechanism 11 supports the X-ray detector 7 so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the top plate 15. Note that although the height of the X-ray detector 7 shown in FIG. 2 varies depending on the position, actually, the detector moving mechanism 11 moves the X-ray detector 7 without changing its height. The amount of movement of the X-ray detector 7 increases in proportion to the distance between the center of the detection surface and the rotation center C. Further, the detector moving mechanism 11 may support the X-ray detector 7 so as to be rotatable along an arc-shaped orbit like a C-arm.

[0016] The tomography control mechanism 13 synchronously controls the X-ray tube moving mechanism 9 and the detector moving mechanism 11 so as to execute tomography imaging by moving the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 while sandwiching the subject P and synchronizing them. For example, the tomography control mechanism 13 causes the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 disposed opposite to each other with the subject P sandwiched therebetween to cross left and right in FIG. 1 with the subject P sandwiched therebetween, and while one moves from left to right along the longitudinal direction of the top plate 15, the other moves in the opposite direction from right to left, and synchronously controls the X-ray tube moving mechanism 9 and the detector moving mechanism 11. During tomography imaging, the X-ray tube 5 may be moved linearly or the X-ray tube 5 may be moved in an arc shape. The same applies to the X-ray detector 7. The X-ray detector 7 is moved so that X-rays are irradiated onto the detection surface as the X-ray aperture or the X-ray tube 5 moves.

[0017] The top plate 15 places the subject P thereon. In the case of imaging with the subject in a standing position, the top plate 15 supports the standing subject P. In FIG. 1, the subject P is placed on the top plate 15 such that the longitudinal direction of the top plate 15 substantially coincides with the longitudinal direction (body axis direction) of the subject P.

[0018] Further, the medical image processing apparatus 3 includes a communication interface 21, a memory 23, an input interface 25, a display 27, a control circuit 29, and a processing circuit 31.

[0019] The communication interface 21 is a circuit for communicating with external devices via wired or wireless connection. External devices include, for example, a tomosynthesis imaging device 2, a radiology department information management system (RIS), a hospital information system (HIS), a server included in a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), or other workstations.

[0020] Memory 23 consists of memory for recording electrical information, such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hardware Disk Drive), and image memory, as well as peripheral circuits such as memory controllers and memory interfaces associated with these memories. Memory 23 stores numerical values ​​for each setting item set for tomosynthesis imaging. Memory 23 stores multiple tomographic images obtained by tomosynthesis imaging. Memory 23 may also store X-ray images generated by the processing circuit 31. Memory 23 may also store various data used for setting up tomosynthesis imaging. Examples of such data include background images and rulers, which can be used as appropriate.

[0021] The input interface 25 is implemented by a trackball, switch buttons, mouse, keyboard, touchpad for input operations by touching the operating surface, and a touch panel display that integrates a display screen and touchpad for inputting various instructions, commands, information, selections, and settings from the operator. The input interface 25 is connected to the control circuit 29 and processing circuit 31, etc., and converts the input operations received from the operator into electrical signals and outputs the converted electrical signals to the control circuit 29 and processing circuit 31. Note that the input interface 25 is not limited to those equipped with physical operating components such as a trackball, switch buttons, mouse, and keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs these electrical signals to the control circuit 29 and processing circuit 31, etc. is also included as an example of the input interface 25. The input interface 25 accepts input from the operator regarding desired X-ray conditions, X-ray imaging position, and the start and end of X-ray imaging.

[0022] The display 27 consists of a display unit for displaying medical images and the like, an internal circuit that supplies display signals to the display unit, and peripheral circuits such as connectors and cables that connect the display unit and the internal circuit. The display 27 displays various data and the above-mentioned medical images and the like according to the control of the control circuit 29 and the processing circuit 31. As the display 27, for example, a CRT display (Cathode Ray Tube Display), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescent display (OELD), a plasma display, or any other display known in the art can be used as appropriate.

[0023] The control circuit 29 includes, as hardware resources, a dedicated or general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and predetermined memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The processor of the control circuit 29 comprehensively controls the operation and processing of each component in the tomosynthesis imaging apparatus 2 using a control program stored in memory.

[0024] The processing circuit 31 is a circuit for performing predetermined processing on data stored in the memory 23. The processing circuit 31 includes a predetermined processor such as a CPU or MPU and a predetermined memory such as ROM or RAM as hardware resources. The memory of the processing circuit 31 stores a program. This program is executed by the processor of the processing circuit 31, and through the execution of this program, the processing circuit 31 functions as a medical image processing function 31a, a setting function 31b, a guide image processing function 31c, and a display control function 31d. The program may be edited as appropriate.

[0025] The medical image processing function 31a generates an X-ray image by preprocessing the digital data output from the X-ray detector 7. Preprocessing includes correction of sensitivity non-uniformity between elements in the X-ray detector 7 and correction for omissions (defects). The medical image processing function 31a may output the generated X-ray image to the memory 23.

[0026] Furthermore, the medical image processing function 31a applies image processing to the generated X-ray image. For example, the medical image processing function 31a applies correction processing, such as scattered radiation correction processing, to the generated X-ray image. In addition, in tomosynthesis imaging, the medical image processing function 31a reconstructs volume data based on the multiple X-ray images generated according to multiple positions of the X-ray tube 5. The medical image processing function 31a then reconstructs volume data based on the multiple X-ray images that have undergone image correction processing to acquire multiple tomographic images. These multiple tomographic images are, for example, images arranged in a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface of the top plate 15.

[0027] The setting function 31b sets numerical values ​​as set values ​​for geometric conditions including the reconstruction range R of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject P. Specifically, the setting function 31b sets set values ​​for the reconstruction range R of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject and the rotation center C of the tomosynthesis imaging. While displaying an image (guide image) based on the set values, the setting function 31b moves a part of the guide image in response to user operation and changes the set values. However, this is the case when the guide image is a GUI. The set values ​​may include the positions of the upper end T and lower end B of the reconstruction range R and the position of the rotation center C in the tomosynthesis imaging.

[0028] The guide image processing function 31c generates an image (guide image) that schematically represents the reconstruction range R and the rotation center C based on the setting values ​​set by the setting function 31b. The guide image processing function 31c may also generate the guide image as a GUI (graphical user interface). The guide image represents the upper end T and lower end B of the reconstruction range R and the rotation center C. The guide image may also represent the upper end T and lower end B of the reconstruction range R and the rotation center C on a single axis.

[0029] The display control function 31d displays data such as processing in progress and processing results from the medical image processing function 31a, the setting function 31b, and the guide image processing function 31c on the display 27. For example, the display control function 31d displays a tomographic image obtained by the medical image processing function 31a on the display 27. The display control function 31d also displays a screen used for settings by the setting function 31b on the display 27. For example, the display control function 31d also displays an image (guide image) generated by the guide image processing function 31c on the display 27. The display control function 31d may selectively switch between displaying a first display screen containing only the setting value and a second display screen containing both the setting value and the guide image on the display 27 according to the user's operation.

[0030] Next, the operation of the settings for tomosynthesis imaging will be explained using Figures 3 and 4.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, in step ST10, the processing circuit 31 sets information regarding tomosynthesis acquisition and reconstruction in response to the user's operation of the input interface 25. Information regarding acquisition includes, for example, acquisition time, total number of frames, spatial resolution (high resolution / standard), field of view (FOV), imaging angle, and SID (distance between the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7), and numerical values ​​for each of these can be set as appropriate. For example, the SID (source image distance) is set to the value when the imaging axis passing through the focal point of the X-ray tube 5 and the center of the detection surface of the X-ray detector 7 is vertical. This imaging axis may also be called the center line. The imaging angle may be set to a value of center line ± imaging angle. For example, the setting value for an imaging angle of 40 degrees may be set to center line ± 20 degrees. Information regarding reconstruction is numerical values ​​related to geometric conditions, including the reconstruction range. Information related to reconstruction includes, for example, numerical values ​​such as the upper and lower limits T and B of the reconstruction range R, the rotation center C in tomosynthesis imaging, and the pitch of the tomographic image.

[0032] After step ST10, in step ST20, the processing circuit 31 generates a guide image that schematically represents, for example, the reconstruction range R and the rotation center C, based on the set values. The guide image is, for example, an image that represents the upper end T and lower end B of the reconstruction range R and the rotation center C on a single axis.

[0033] After step ST20, in step ST30, the processing circuit 31 displays the generated guide image on the display 27. The processing circuit 31 may also display a first display screen 27a on the display 27, which does not include the guide image but includes the set value, as shown on the left side of Figure 4. In this case, when the cursor cs clicks button 27b in response to user operation, the processing circuit 31 may expand a second display screen 27c, which includes the set value and the guide image gd, and display it on the display 27, as shown on the right side of Figure 4. The processing circuit 31 may also selectively switch between the first display screen 27a and the second display screen 27c and display them on the display 27 in response to user operation.

[0034] The guide image gd is an image that shows the upper limit T and lower limit B of the reconstruction range R, and the rotation center C, on a single axis. Therefore, by visually inspecting the guide image gd, users can easily determine whether there are any errors in setting the reconstruction range. The upper limit T, lower limit B, and rotation center C of the reconstruction range R shown in the guide image gd are displayed in an adjustable manner. In addition, the effective area E is represented by a thick green line (thick black line in the figure) in the guide image gd. Under normal circumstances, the effective area E includes the positions of the upper limit T, lower limit B, and rotation center C of the reconstruction range R. Therefore, even if the user corrects the setting of the upper limit T, lower limit B, or rotation center C, it is possible to make the correction correctly by ensuring that the corrected position is within the effective area E.

[0035] After step ST30, the processing circuit 31 determines whether or not it has received user input (step ST40), and if it has, it changes the settings according to the input (step ST50). For example, the upper end T, lower end B, and rotation center C of the reconstruction range R are adjusted according to the user's drag-and-drop or slide operation, and accordingly, the corresponding various settings of the reconstruction range shown on the right side of the guide image gd shown in Figure 4 are changed. In addition to changing the positions of the upper end T, lower end B, and rotation center C of the reconstruction range shown in the guide image gd, the user may also perform an operation to count up or count down the various settings of the reconstruction range shown on the right side of the guide image gd in predetermined units. If the various settings of the reconstruction range shown on the right side of the guide image gd are changed according to the user's operation, the positions of the upper end T, lower end B, and rotation center C shown in the guide image gd are also changed.

[0036] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step ST40 is negative, it is determined whether to terminate or not (step ST60), and if negative, the process returns to step ST40. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step ST60 is termination, the processing related to the settings for tomosynthesis imaging is terminated. This makes it possible to perform tomosynthesis imaging based on the settings.

[0037] As described above, according to the first embodiment, an image schematically representing the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject is generated based on the set values ​​for the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging, and this image is displayed on the display. In this way, by displaying an image based on the set values, it becomes easier for the user to understand whether the set values ​​are appropriate or not, thereby reducing errors in setting the reconstruction range.

[0038] For example, in the comparative example shown in Figure 5, a medical image processing device 3* for setting reconstruction information and another control console 3*-1 for setting tomosynthesis acquisition information are connected via a network Nw. In the medical image processing device 3*, no image based on the set values ​​is displayed; instead, a first display screen 27a* showing only the set values ​​is displayed on the display 27*. Similarly, in the control console 3*-1, no image based on the set values ​​is displayed; instead, a display screen 27a*-1 showing only the set values ​​is displayed on the display 27*-1. In such comparative examples, it is difficult for the user to intuitively grasp the positional relationship between the upper end, lower end, and rotation center of the reconstruction range, raising concerns about setting the reconstruction range incorrectly. Also, in the comparative example, if the reconstruction range is made unnecessarily wide to prevent setting errors, extra time is required for reconstruction. Therefore, setting an appropriate reconstruction range is necessary. In contrast, according to the first embodiment, as described above, an image based on the set values ​​is displayed, making it easier for the user to intuitively grasp the positional relationship between the upper end, lower end, and rotation center of the reconstruction range, thus reducing errors in setting the reconstruction range.

[0039] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the image may be generated as a GUI (Graphical User Interface), and the settings may be changed in response to user operations such as moving a part of the image while it is being displayed. In this case, in addition to the effects described above, the settings can be easily changed while viewing the image.

[0040] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the above setting values ​​may include the positions of the upper and lower ends of the reconstruction range and the position of the rotation center in tomosynthesis imaging, and the above image may be an image that shows the upper end, lower end and rotation center on a single axis. In this case, in addition to the effects described above, a configuration that displays a simple image schematically representing the upper end, lower end and rotation center allows the user to easily visually confirm these settings. For example, the user can see at a glance the rotation center, the upper end and lower end of the reconstruction range displayed on a single axis.

[0041] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, a first display screen containing only the set value and a second display screen containing both the set value and the image may be selectively switched and displayed on the display according to the user's operation. In this case, in addition to the effects described above, the user can confirm both the first display screen and the second display screen.

[0042] Furthermore, although the first embodiment described an example in which the guide image gd is displayed before tomosynthesis imaging is performed, it may also be displayed after tomosynthesis imaging is performed, and various settings (such as the upper and lower limits of the reconstruction range) that can be changed after tomosynthesis imaging may be set.

[0043] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described. Parts identical to those described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted. Here, we will primarily describe the differences.

[0044] The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment and uses a guide image that represents more settings than the guide image gd described above. For example, if the guide image gd described above is a simple version, the guide image according to the second embodiment may be a graphical version. Accordingly, the setting values ​​used to generate the guide image and the generated guide image are as follows.

[0045] In other words, the setting value further includes the imaging angle for tomosynthesis. Specifically, the setting value includes the upper and lower limits of the reconstruction range, the position of the rotation center in tomosynthesis, and the imaging angle for tomosynthesis. The setting value may also further include the field of view for tomosynthesis and the distance between the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector in tomosynthesis.

[0046] Accordingly, the guide image processing function 31c of the processing circuit 31 generates a guide image based on the set value, which further includes the contours of the X-ray beams from each X-ray tube at both ends of the imaging angle, and the effective region enclosed by those contours. Specifically, the guide image includes, in addition to the guide image representing the upper end, lower end, and rotation center of the reconstruction range described above, the contours of the X-ray beams and the effective region. Here, of the two ends of the imaging angle, one end corresponds to the start position of tomosynthesis imaging, and the other end corresponds to the end position of tomosynthesis imaging.

[0047] Furthermore, the guide image processing function 31c of the processing circuit 31 may superimpose the guide image onto a background image that shows the reconstruction range from a direction in which it can be seen. In this case, the display control function 31d of the processing circuit 31 displays the guide image superimposed on the background image on the display 27. The background image is stored in memory 23 in advance. As the background image, a camera image taken of the subject from the side (from a direction in which the reconstruction range can be seen), a virtual image generated from a sketch or CT image of the subject drawn from the side (from a direction in which the reconstruction range can be seen), or an image projected from the side (from a direction in which the reconstruction range can be seen) of a 3D model of the subject created based on information representing the subject's physical characteristics (height, build, sex, nationality, etc.) may be used. In this case, by automatically changing the position of the background image based on the position information of the top plate 15, it becomes easier to grasp a more specific situation.

[0048] Furthermore, the guide image processing function 31c of the processing circuit 31 may superimpose a ruler onto the guide image. In this case, the display control function 31d of the processing circuit 31 displays the guide image with the superimposed ruler on the display 27. Note that the ruler may be superimposed on the guide image regardless of whether or not there is a background image.

[0049] Furthermore, the guide image processing function 31c of the processing circuit 31 may superimpose the background image, guide image, and ruler in that order. In this case, the display control function 31d displays the superimposed image, which is the background image, guide image, and ruler superimposed in that order, on the display 27.

[0050] Next, the operation of the settings for tomosynthesis imaging will be explained using Figures 3, 6 through 11.

[0051] Similar to the first embodiment, in step ST10, the processing circuit 31 sets information related to tomosynthesis acquisition and reconstruction in response to the user's operation of the input interface 25. The information set includes, for example, the positions of the upper end T and lower end B of the reconstruction range R, the position of the rotation center C in tomosynthesis imaging, the field of view (FOV) and imaging angle, and the SID (distance between the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 in tomosynthesis imaging). In addition, as shown in Figure 7, a setting screen 27a1 may be displayed on the display 27 to enable settings related to the background image. In Figure 7, the background image settings allow selection of None, Ruler, and Bone. However, the background image is not limited to these; any desired image, such as an image of the device near the top plate 15, can be used.

[0052] After step ST10, the processing circuit 31 executes steps ST21 to ST28 shown in Figure 6. Based on the settings, the processing circuit 31 calculates information about the guide image gd1 as shown in Figure 8 (step ST21). For example, the processing circuit 31 calculates the contour BL of the X-ray beam from each X-ray tube 5 at both ends of the imaging angle based on the imaging angle, field of view (FOV), and SID. The contour BL can be calculated, for example, as the remaining two sides of a triangle with the field of view (FOV) as the base and the X-ray tube 5 at the position obtained from the imaging angle and SID as the vertex. The processing circuit 31 also calculates the effective region E enclosed by the contour BL of the X-ray beam at both ends of the imaging angle. Furthermore, the processing circuit 31 calculates a rectangular frame F by using the length of the field of view (FOV) as the upper and lower sides, placing the upper and lower sides separated by the distance between the upper end T and the lower end B, and connecting the ends of the upper and lower sides with the left and right sides, respectively.

[0053] After step ST21, the processing circuit 31 generates a guide image based on the results obtained in step ST21 (step ST22).

[0054] After step ST22, the processing circuit 31 determines whether or not to use a background image based on the settings on the setting screen 27a1 (step ST23). For example, if the setting on the setting screen 27a1 is "No background image" (None), it is determined that a background image will not be used. If a background image is not used, the process proceeds to step ST30, where a guide image is displayed. In this case, as shown in Figure 8, a guide image gd1 without a background image is displayed. The processing circuit 31 may also display a guide image gd11, which is an enlarged version of the frame F surrounding the reconstruction range R, as shown in Figure 9. The guide image gd11 draws horizontal dashed lines within the frame F based on the pitch of the tomographic image calculated based on the settings in step ST10.

[0055] On the other hand, if the determination in step ST23 is to use a background image, the processing circuit 31 determines whether the background image is a side view of the 3D image based on the settings in setting screen 27a1 (step ST24). For example, if the setting in setting screen 27a1 is "Bone" for 3D, the background image is determined to be a side view of the 3D image. In this case, the processing circuit 31 aligns the 2D fluoroscopic image from above (X-ray image of subject P) with the 3D image from above (bone image) (step ST25). The processing circuit 31 then creates a background image using the side view of the 3D image (side view of the bone image) based on the alignment result (step ST26). After that, the processing circuit 31 superimposes a guide image onto the background image (step ST27) and proceeds to step ST30 to display the guide image. In this case, as shown in Figure 10, a guide image gd2 with a background image bk1 representing the side view of the bone is displayed.

[0056] Furthermore, let's assume that the result of the determination in step ST24 is determined to be that the background image is not a side view of the 3D image. For example, if the setting on setting screen 27a1 is neither "None" nor "Bone," then the background image is determined to be not a side view of the 3D image. This corresponds to the case in Figure 7 where the setting on setting screen 27a1 is "Ruler." However, it is not limited to the case of a ruler; for example, the setting could be "2D image." In any case, if the background image is not a side view of the 3D image, the processing circuit 31 aligns the background image from the position of the top plate 15 (step ST28). After that, the processing circuit 31 superimposes the guide image onto the background image (step ST27) and proceeds to step ST30 to display the guide image. In this example, in step ST27, the ruler is further superimposed. In this case, as shown in Figure 11, a guide image gd3 is displayed which has a background image bk2 representing the X-ray diagnostic device from a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the bed, and a ruler ru.

[0057] In step ST30, regardless of which of the guide images gd1 to gd3 from Figures 8 to 11 is displayed, the processing from step ST40 onward will be executed as described above.

[0058] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the setting value further includes the imaging angle for tomosynthesis imaging. Based on this setting value, an image is generated that includes the contours of the X-ray beams from each X-ray tube at both ends of the imaging angle, the effective region enclosed by the contours, the reconstruction range, and the position of the rotation center. Therefore, compared to the guide image gd according to the first embodiment, an image is generated that further represents the contours of the X-ray beams from each X-ray tube at both ends of the imaging angle and the effective region enclosed by the contours, which is expected to further reduce errors in setting the reconstruction range. In addition, since the contours of the X-ray beams are displayed, it becomes easier to visually inspect the effective region.

[0059] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, the generated image may be superimposed on a background image that shows the reconstruction range from a direction in which it can be seen, and the superimposed image may be displayed on the display. In this case, it is expected that errors in setting the reconstruction range can be further reduced depending on the content of the background image.

[0060] Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, a ruler may be superimposed on the image, and the image with the superimposed ruler may be displayed on the display. In this case, it is expected that errors in setting the reconstruction range can be further reduced depending on the ruler.

[0061] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, although an example was described in which the guide images gd1 and gd2 are displayed before tomosynthesis imaging is performed, they may also be displayed after tomosynthesis imaging is performed, and various settings (such as the upper and lower limits of the reconstruction range) that can be changed after tomosynthesis imaging may be set.

[0062] According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce errors in setting the reconstruction range.

[0063] In the above description, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as a CPU (central processing unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor performs its functions by reading and executing a program stored in memory. Alternatively, instead of storing the program in memory, the program may be directly embedded within the processor's circuitry. In this case, the processor performs its functions by reading and executing the program embedded within the circuitry. In this embodiment, each processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit; multiple independent circuits may be combined to form a single processor and perform its functions. Furthermore, the multiple components shown in Figure 1 may be integrated into a single processor to perform its functions.

[0064] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] 1. X-ray diagnostic equipment 2. Tomosynthesis imaging system 3 Medical Image Processing Equipment 5 X-ray tube 7 X-ray detector 9 X-ray tube movement mechanism 11 Detector movement mechanism 13. Tomosynthesis control mechanism 15 Top plate 21 Communication Interface 23 memory 25 Input Interfaces 27 displays 27a 1st display screen 27a1 Settings screen 27b button 27c 2nd display screen 29 Control circuits 31 Processing Circuit 31a Medical image processing function 31b Settings function 31c Guide Image Processing Function 31d Display control function C is the center of rotation. cs cursor E Effective Area gd,gd1~gd3 guide images P Subject R reconstruction range T top B Bottom edge BL Outline

Claims

1. A generation unit generates an image representing the positional relationship between the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject, based on set values ​​relating to the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging. A display control unit that displays the aforementioned image on a display, A processing unit that generates a tomographic image by reconstruction based on the X-ray image obtained by tomosynthesis imaging, according to the reconstruction range, An X-ray diagnostic device equipped with [specific features / features].

2. The aforementioned setting includes the positions of the upper and lower ends of the reconstruction range and the position of the rotation center in the tomosynthesis imaging. The display control unit displays the upper and lower ends of the reconstruction range in an adjustable manner. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The above image shows the upper end, lower end, and rotation center of the reconstruction range on a single axis. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned image further shows the upper and lower edges of the region projected at all imaging angles of the tomosynthesis imaging. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The aforementioned setting further includes the shooting angle for the tomosynthesis imaging. The generation unit generates an image that further includes the contours of the X-ray beams from each X-ray tube at both ends of the imaging angle and the effective region enclosed by the contours, based on the set value. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2.

6. The system includes an overlay section that superimposes the aforementioned image onto a background image representing the reconstruction range from a direction in which it can be seen, The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the display control unit causes the image superimposed on the background image to be displayed on the display.

7. The superimposed section superimposes a ruler onto the image, The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the display control unit causes the image on which the ruler is superimposed to be displayed on the display.

8. The display control unit selectively switches between displaying on the display a first display screen containing only the set value and a second display screen containing both the set value and the image, according to the user's operation. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The system further includes an input unit that accepts input to change the display position of a portion of the aforementioned image, The display control unit displays the image whose display position has been changed and the setting value corresponding to the change input, in accordance with the change input. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the input for changing the setting value is a change input for changing the display position of the upper or lower end of the reconstruction range.

11. The system further includes an input unit that accepts input for changing the aforementioned setting value, The display control unit displays an image whose display position has been changed according to the change input, and a set value according to the change input. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. A generation unit generates an image representing the positional relationship between the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject, based on set values ​​relating to the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging. A display control unit that displays the aforementioned image on a display, A processing unit that generates a tomographic image by reconstruction based on the X-ray image obtained by tomosynthesis imaging, according to the reconstruction range, A medical image processing device equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

13. Based on the settings for the reconstruction range of the tomosynthesis imaging of the subject and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis imaging, an image representing the positional relationship between the reconstruction range and the rotation center is generated. Display the aforementioned image on the screen, Depending on the reconstruction range, a tomographic image is generated by reconstruction based on the X-ray image obtained by tomosynthesis imaging. method.

14. The processor, A generation unit generates an image representing the positional relationship between the reconstruction range and the rotation center of a tomosynthesis image of a subject, based on set values ​​relating to the reconstruction range and the rotation center of the tomosynthesis image. A display control unit that displays the aforementioned image on a display, and A processing unit that generates a tomographic image by reconstruction based on the X-ray image obtained by tomosynthesis imaging, according to the reconstruction range, A program designed to function as such.

Images