Magnetic resonance imaging system and magnetic resonance imaging apparatus

Abstract

To efficiently perform an MRI examination.SOLUTION: A magnetic resonance imaging system according to an embodiment includes a first terminal, a second terminal, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. The first terminal controls the imaging timing. The second terminal sets imaging conditions. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus executes magnetic resonance imaging on the basis of the imaging conditions according to control of the imaging timing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a magnetic resonance imaging system and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] It is known that an examination using a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus (MRI examination) causes greater stress to patients than examinations using other medical imaging diagnostic apparatuses. This is due to the fact that the examination time of the MRI examination is longer than that of examinations using other medical imaging diagnostic apparatuses, and patients are likely to feel a sense of constriction or compression depending on the examination site (for example, the head). Therefore, for medical staff engaged in MRI examinations, care for reducing patient stress (patient care) is an important skill.

[0003] In addition, in order to obtain appropriate Magnetic Resonance (MR) images by MRI examination, it is also an important skill for medical staff to properly set the patient on the examination table and perform the settings of the MRI apparatus related to imaging (apparatus settings).

[0004] Generally, in an MRI examination, the work of patient setting including the above-mentioned patient care and the work of apparatus setting are performed by one medical staff. However, it is considered that it is burdensome for one medical staff to perform these tasks that require different skills. It is also considered that there are differences in proficiency in these skills. Therefore, there is a need for a system that can efficiently perform MRI examinations when multiple tasks in MRI examinations are shared by different medical staff.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] One of the problems that the embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings aim to solve is to efficiently perform MRI examinations. 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 magnetic resonance imaging system according to this embodiment comprises a first terminal, a second terminal, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. The first terminal controls the imaging timing. The second terminal sets the imaging conditions. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus performs magnetic resonance imaging based on the imaging conditions in accordance with the controlled imaging timing. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of each part of the magnetic resonance imaging system before examination. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of each part of the magnetic resonance imaging system during an examination. [Figure 5] Figure 5 illustrates a nearby operation screen displayed on a nearby terminal. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an example of a remote control screen displayed on a remote terminal. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging system according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail an embodiment of the magnetic resonance imaging system with reference to the drawings.

[0010] (First embodiment) Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging system according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the magnetic resonance imaging system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100, a nearby terminal 10, and a remote terminal 20.

[0011] In Figure 1, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 and the nearby terminal 10 are directly connected. Furthermore, the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20 are connected via a network (NW).

[0012] The nearby terminal 10 may be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 via a network NW. The remote terminal 20 may also be connected to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 via a network NW. Furthermore, the remote terminal 20 may be directly connected to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100, the nearby terminal 10, or both, without using a network NW. In other words, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100, the nearby terminal 10, and the remote terminal 20 are not limited by their connection configurations.

[0013] In this embodiment, the magnetic resonance imaging system 1 is operated by at least two medical professionals (for example, a first medical professional and a second medical professional). Specifically, the first medical professional operates the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 and the nearby terminal 10. The second medical professional operates the remote terminal 20.

[0014] The nearby terminal 10 is, for example, a computer that mainly controls the imaging timing for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. The nearby terminal 10 is provided, for example, in the MRI room where the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 is installed. The MRI room includes, for example, an examination room and an operation room adjacent to the examination room. Specifically, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 is provided in the examination room, and the nearby terminal 10 is provided in the operation room.

[0015] The nearby terminal 10 includes an interface 11, a display 12, a storage device 13, and a processing circuit 14.

[0016] The interface 11 has a circuit that receives various instructions and information inputs from an operator (the first medical staff). The interface 11 has, for example, a circuit related to a pointing device such as a mouse or an input device such as a keyboard. Further, the input device may include a microphone. Through this microphone, the first medical staff can communicate with the second medical staff who operates the remote terminal 20.

[0017] Note that the circuit included in the interface 11 is not limited to a circuit related to physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, the interface 11 may have an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the nearby terminal 10 and outputs the received electrical signal to various circuits.

[0018] The display 12 displays various information related to patient monitoring and the progress of the examination under the control of the processing circuit 14. In other words, information that the first medical staff directly involved in patient care should confirm is displayed on the display 12.

[0019] The storage device 13 stores information regarding an operation screen (first operation screen) for controlling imaging timing. Specifically, the storage device 13 stores information regarding an operation screen (first operation screen) for controlling imaging timing. The storage device 13 stores programs corresponding to various functions executed by the processing circuit 14.

[0020] The storage device 13 is, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, an optical disk, or the like. The storage device 13 may also be a drive device that reads and writes various information to and from a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM drive, a DVD drive, a flash memory, or the like.

[0021] The processing circuit 14 has, as hardware resources, a processor (not shown), a memory such as a ROM (Read-Only Memory) and a RAM, and controls the nearby terminal 10. The processing circuit 14 has, for example, a control function 141. The control function 141 is stored in the storage device 13 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuit 14 is a processor that realizes a function corresponding to the program by reading out and executing the program corresponding to this function from the storage device 13. In other words, the processing circuit 14 in a state where the program is read out has the above-described function.

[0022] The control function 141 is a function for controlling the nearby terminal 10. Specifically, by the control function 141, the processing circuit 14 reads out a control program stored in the storage device 13 and expands it in the memory, and controls each circuit of the nearby terminal 10 according to the expanded control program.

[0023] For example, the processing circuit 14, using the control function 141, reads instruction information (first instruction information) for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 from the storage device 13 based on a command input from the first medical professional via the interface 11. The processing circuit 14 then transmits the first instruction information to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Alternatively, the processing circuit 14 may transmit the first instruction information to the remote terminal 20. This allows the remote terminal 20 to understand the instructions given to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 by the nearby terminal 10.

[0024] The first instruction information includes, for example, instructions regarding the control of imaging timing for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. The instructions regarding the control of imaging timing include at least the start and pause of the examination related to the performance of magnetic resonance imaging. Specifically, the instructions regarding the control of imaging timing include, for example, the start of the examination, pause, resumption (restart of the examination), interruption of the examination, and end of the examination. The first instruction information may also include correction information related to the correction of patient information.

[0025] The remote terminal 20 is, for example, a computer primarily used to set imaging conditions for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. The remote terminal 20 is located in a different location from where the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 and the nearby terminal 10 are installed. This different location is, for example, a different hospital from the hospital where the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 and the nearby terminal 10 are installed. Furthermore, the location of the remote terminal 20 is not limited to a hospital. For example, the remote terminal 20 may be installed in the home of a second medical professional. Moreover, the remote terminal 20 does not necessarily have to be located in a different location from where the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 and the nearby terminal 10 are installed.

[0026] The remote terminal 20 includes an interface 21, a display 22, a storage device 23, and a processing circuit 24.

[0027] Interface 21 has a circuit that receives various instructions and information inputs from the operator (second medical professional). Interface 21 has a circuit related to a pointing device such as a mouse, or an input device such as a keyboard. The input device may also include a microphone. Through this microphone, the second medical professional can converse with the first medical professional operating the nearby terminal 10.

[0028] Furthermore, the circuits of interface 21 are not limited to circuits related to physical operating components such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, interface 21 may have an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the remote terminal 20, and outputs the received electrical signals to various circuits.

[0029] The display 22, under the control of the processing circuit 24, displays various information related to editing imaging conditions and post-processing. In other words, the display 22 displays information that should be checked by a second healthcare professional who does not directly interact with the patient.

[0030] The storage device 23 stores information related to the operation screen (second operation screen) for setting imaging conditions. The storage device 23 also stores programs corresponding to various functions executed by the processing circuit 24.

[0031] The storage device 23 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, or an optical disc. Alternatively, the storage device 23 may be a drive device that reads and writes various information to and from a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM drive, DVD drive, or flash memory.

[0032] The processing circuit 24 has hardware resources such as a processor (not shown), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and RAM, and controls the remote terminal 20. The processing circuit 24 has, for example, a control function 241. The control function 241 is stored in the storage device 23 in the form of a program that can be executed by a computer. The processing circuit 14 is a processor that realizes the function corresponding to the program by reading the program corresponding to this function from the storage device 23 and executing it. In other words, the processing circuit 24, in the state where the program has been read, has the above function.

[0033] The control function 241 is a function that controls the remote terminal 20. Specifically, the control function 241 causes the processing circuit 24 to read the control program stored in the storage device 23, load it into memory, and control each circuit of the remote terminal 20 according to the loaded control program.

[0034] For example, the processing circuit 24, using the control function 241, reads instruction information (second instruction information) for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 from the storage device 23 based on a command input from a second medical professional via the interface 21. The processing circuit 24 then transmits the second instruction information to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Alternatively, the processing circuit 24 may transmit the second instruction information to the nearby terminal 10. This allows the nearby terminal 10 to understand the instructions given to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 by the remote terminal 20.

[0035] The second set of instruction information includes, for example, instructions regarding the setting of imaging conditions for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Instructions regarding the setting of imaging conditions include, for example, information regarding the imaging protocol (examination protocol) and imaging position. The second set of instruction information may also include notification instruction information and patient information. The notification instruction information includes the content and timing of the notification from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 to the remote terminal 20. By notifying the remote terminal 20 in response to the notification instruction information, the second healthcare professional operating the remote terminal 20 can, for example, know the processing status of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 at a time of their choosing.

[0036] The notification instruction information may also be included in the imaging protocol set by the remote terminal 20. In this case, the timing of the notification is before or after any sequence. Specifically, the imaging protocol includes processing related to notifications following a predetermined imaging sequence. The predetermined imaging sequence is, for example, a positioning imaging sequence and a main imaging sequence. Therefore, the timing of the notification is, for example, after the completion of positioning imaging and after the completion of main imaging. Alternatively, the timing of the notification may be after the generation of the positioning image and MR image. The content of the notification is an alert directed to a second medical professional operating the remote terminal 20, for example, an alert prompting adjustment of the imaging position to determine the imaging position and an alert indicating the completion of main imaging. These notifications allow the second medical professional to perform adjustments to the imaging position, give instructions for additional examinations, and give instructions for the completion of examinations at appropriate times, even if they are not near the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100.

[0037] The overview of the magnetic resonance imaging system 1, the configuration of the nearby terminal 10, and the configuration of the remote terminal 20 have been described above. Next, the specific configuration of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 will be described.

[0038] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment includes a static magnetic field magnet 101, a gradient magnetic field coil 103, a gradient magnetic field power supply 105, a bed 107, a bed control circuit 109, a transmitting circuit 113, a transmitting coil 115, a receiving coil 117, a receiving circuit 119, an imaging control circuit 121, an interface 123, a display 125, a storage device 127, and a processing circuit 129. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 may also have a hollow cylindrical shim coil between the static magnetic field magnet 101 and the gradient magnetic field coil 103.

[0039] The static magnetic field magnet 101 is, for example, a magnet formed in a hollow, approximately cylindrical shape. The static magnetic field magnet 101 generates a uniform static magnetic field in the bore 111, which is the space into which the subject P is inserted. For example, a superconducting magnet can be used as the static magnetic field magnet 101.

[0040] The gradient coil 103 is, for example, a hollow, roughly cylindrical coil. The gradient coil 103 is placed inside the static magnetic field magnet 101. The gradient coil 103 is formed by combining three coils corresponding to the mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes. The Z-axis direction is assumed to be the same direction as the static magnetic field. The Y-axis direction is assumed to be the vertical direction, and the X-axis direction is assumed to be perpendicular to the Z and Y axes. The gradient coil 103 generates a gradient magnetic field that is superimposed on the static magnetic field. Specifically, the three coils in the gradient coil 103 receive current individually from the gradient power supply 105 to generate a gradient magnetic field in which the magnetic field strength changes along the X, Y, and Z axes.

[0041] The gradient magnetic fields in the X, Y, and Z axes generated by the gradient magnetic field coil 103 form, for example, a frequency encoding gradient magnetic field (also called a readout gradient magnetic field), a phase encoding gradient magnetic field, and a slice selection gradient magnetic field. The frequency encoding gradient magnetic field is used to change the frequency of the MR signal according to the spatial position. The phase encoding gradient magnetic field is used to change the phase of the magnetic resonance (MR) signal according to the spatial position. The slice selection gradient magnetic field is used to determine the imaging cross-section.

[0042] The gradient magnetic field power supply 105 is a power supply device that supplies current to the gradient magnetic field coil 103 under the control of the imaging control circuit 121.

[0043] The examination bed 107 is a device equipped with a top plate 107a on which the subject P is placed. Under the control of the examination bed control circuit 109, the examination bed 107 inserts the top plate 107a on which the subject P is placed into the bore 111. The examination bed 107 is installed, for example, in an examination room where the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 is installed, such that its longitudinal direction is parallel to the central axis of the static magnetic field magnet 101.

[0044] The bed control circuit 109 is a circuit that controls the bed 107. The bed control circuit 109 drives the bed 107 according to instructions from the operator (first medical professional) via the interface 123, thereby moving the top plate 107a in the longitudinal direction, the vertical direction, and possibly the left-right direction.

[0045] The transmitting circuit 113, under the control of the imaging control circuit 121, supplies high-frequency pulses corresponding to the Larmor frequency, etc., to the transmitting coil 115.

[0046] The transmitting coil 115 is an RF (Radio Frequency) coil positioned inside the gradient magnetic field coil 103. The transmitting coil 115 receives a high-frequency pulse from the transmitting circuit 113 and generates a transmitting RF wave (RF pulse) corresponding to a high-frequency magnetic field. The transmitting coil is, for example, a whole-body coil (WB coil). The WB coil may be used as a transmitting and receiving coil.

[0047] The receiving coil 117 is an RF coil positioned inside the gradient magnetic field coil 103. The receiving coil 117 receives the MR signal radiated from the subject P by the high-frequency magnetic field. The receiving coil 117 outputs the received MR signal to the receiving circuit 119. The receiving coil 117 is, for example, one or more coils, and is typically a coil array having multiple coil elements. In Figure 2, the transmitting coil 115 and the receiving coil 117 are shown as separate RF coils, but the transmitting coil 115 and the receiving coil 117 may be implemented as an integrated transmitting and receiving coil. The transmitting and receiving coil is, for example, a local transmitting and receiving RF coil such as a head coil.

[0048] The receiving circuit 119, under the control of the imaging control circuit 121, generates a digital MR signal, which is digitized complex number data, based on the MR signal output from the receiving coil 117. Specifically, the receiving circuit 119 performs various signal processing on the MR signal output from the receiving coil 117, and then performs analog-to-digital (A / D) conversion on the processed data. The receiving circuit 119 generates a digital MR signal (hereinafter referred to as MR data) by sampling the A / D converted data. The receiving circuit 119 outputs the generated MR data to the imaging control circuit 121.

[0049] The imaging control circuit 121 controls, for example, the gradient power supply 105, the transmitting circuit 113, and the receiving circuit 119 according to the imaging protocol output from the processing circuit 129, and performs imaging of the subject P. The imaging protocol has various pulse sequences depending on the examination. The imaging protocol has presets for the magnitude of the current supplied to the gradient coil 103 by the gradient power supply 105, the timing of the current being supplied to the gradient coil 103 by the gradient power supply 105, the magnitude of the high-frequency pulse supplied to the transmitting coil 115 by the transmitting circuit 113, the timing of the high-frequency pulse being supplied to the transmitting coil 115 by the transmitting circuit 113, and the timing of the MR signal being received by the receiving coil 117.

[0050] Interface 123 has circuits that receive various instructions and information inputs from the operator (first medical professional). Interface 123 has circuits related to pointing devices such as a mouse or input devices such as a keyboard. However, the circuits of interface 123 are not limited to circuits related to physical operating components such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, interface 123 may have electrical signal processing circuits that receive electrical signals corresponding to input operations from external input devices (e.g., nearby terminal 10 and remote terminal 20) provided separately from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100, and output the received electrical signals to various circuits.

[0051] The display 125 displays various MR images generated by the image generation function 129b, various information related to imaging and image processing, etc., under the control of the control function 129a in the processing circuit 129 described later. The display 125 is a display device such as a CRT display, liquid crystal display, organic EL display, LED display, plasma display, or any other display or monitor known in the art.

[0052] The storage device 127 stores MR data filled into k-space via the image generation function 129b, image data generated by the image generation function 129b, and the like. The storage device 127 also stores various imaging protocols and imaging conditions including multiple imaging parameters that define the imaging protocols. The storage device 127 also stores programs corresponding to various functions executed by the processing circuit 129.

[0053] The storage device 127 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, a hard disk drive, a solid state drive, or an optical disc. Alternatively, the storage device 127 may be a drive device that reads and writes various information to and from a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM drive, DVD drive, or flash memory.

[0054] The processing circuit 129 has hardware resources such as a processor (not shown), ROM (Read-Only Memory), and RAM, and controls the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. The processing circuit 129 has a control function 129a, an image generation function 129b, an acquisition function 129c, and a notification function 129d. The various functions performed by the control function 129a, image generation function 129b, acquisition function 129c, and notification function 129d are stored in the storage device 127 in the form of programs that can be executed by a computer. The processing circuit 129 is a processor that reads the programs corresponding to these various functions from the storage device 127 and executes them to realize the functions corresponding to each program. In other words, the processing circuit 129 in the state where each program has been read will have multiple functions as shown in the processing circuit 129 in Figure 2.

[0055] In Figure 1, the various functions described above are explained as being realized by a single processing circuit 129, but it is also possible for multiple independent processors to realize the functions by executing programs. In other words, the various functions described above may be composed as programs and one processing circuit may execute each program, or specific functions may be implemented in dedicated, independent program execution circuits.

[0056] In the above explanation, the term "processor" refers to circuits such as CPUs (Central Processing Units), GPUs (Graphics Processing Units), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and Programmable Logic Devices (e.g., Simple Programmable Logic Devices (SPLDs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs)).

[0057] The processor implements various functions by reading and executing programs stored in the storage device 127. Alternatively, instead of storing programs in the storage device 127, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate programs into its circuitry. In this case, the processor implements functions by reading and executing programs incorporated into the circuitry. Similarly, the bed control circuit 109, transmission circuit 113, reception circuit 119, and imaging control circuit 121 are also composed of electronic circuits such as the processor described above. Furthermore, the control function 129a, image generation function 129b, acquisition function 129c, and notification function 129d of the processing circuit 129 are examples of a control unit, image generation unit, acquisition unit, and notification unit, respectively.

[0058] The control function 129a is a function that controls the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Specifically, the control function 129a causes the processing circuit 129 to read the control program stored in the storage device 127, load it into memory, and control each circuit of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 according to the loaded control program.

[0059] For example, the processing circuit 129 reads the imaging protocol from the storage device 127 based on the imaging conditions input by the operator (first medical professional) via the interface 123 using the control function 129a. Alternatively, the processing circuit 129 may generate the imaging protocol based on the imaging conditions. The processing circuit 129 transmits the imaging protocol to the imaging control circuit 121 and controls imaging for the subject P.

[0060] Furthermore, the processing circuit 129 may read the imaging protocol from the storage device 127 based on the imaging conditions input from the remote terminal 20 operated by a second medical professional via the control function 129a. Alternatively, the processing circuit 129 may receive the imaging protocol directly from the remote terminal 20. In other words, the processing circuit 129 may register the imaging protocol with the second medical professional operating the remote terminal 20.

[0061] The image generation function 129b is a function that generates MR images from MR data. Specifically, the image generation function 129b causes the processing circuit 129 to fill the k-space with MR data. The processing circuit 129 generates an MR image by performing, for example, a Fourier transform on the MR data filled in the k-space. The MR image corresponds to, for example, a morphological image of the subject P. The processing circuit 129 outputs the MR image to the display 125 and the storage device 127. The processing circuit 129 may also output the MR image to the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20.

[0062] The acquisition function 129c is a function that acquires instruction information from a source other than the interface 123 of the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Specifically, the processing circuit 129 acquires first instruction information transmitted from the nearby terminal 10 and second instruction information transmitted from the remote terminal 20 using the acquisition function 129c.

[0063] The notification function 129d is a function that notifies the remote terminal 20 of given information from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. Specifically, the notification function 129d causes the processing circuit 129 to notify the remote terminal 20 of an alert in accordance with the notification instruction information included in the second instruction information.

[0064] In summary, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment performs magnetic resonance imaging based on imaging conditions set by a remote terminal (second terminal) in accordance with the control of the imaging timing via a nearby terminal (first terminal).

[0065] The components of the magnetic resonance imaging system according to the first embodiment have been described above. Next, the operation of each component using this magnetic resonance imaging system will be explained using the sequence diagrams in Figures 3 and 4.

[0066] Figure 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of each part of the magnetic resonance imaging system before inspection. The sequence diagram in Figure 3 shows the processing for the magnetic resonance imaging device 100, the nearby terminal 10, and the remote terminal 20, respectively. In the sequence diagram in Figure 3, communication from the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 to the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20 is omitted. It is assumed that information regarding the status of the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 is shared with both the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20.

[0067] (Step ST110) The remote terminal 20 accepts patient information input. Patient information is entered, for example, by a second healthcare professional operating the remote terminal 20.

[0068] (Step ST120) After receiving the patient information, the remote terminal 20 transmits the patient information to the magnetic resonance imaging device 100.

[0069] (Step ST130) Upon receiving patient information, the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 registers the patient information.

[0070] (Step ST140) When patient information is registered in the magnetic resonance imaging device 100, the nearby terminal 10 displays the patient information. At this time, the first healthcare professional operating the nearby terminal 10 verifies the patient's identity based on the patient information. If there is an error in the patient information, the patient information correction process in step ST150 is performed.

[0071] (Step ST150) If there is an error in the patient information transmitted from the remote terminal 20, the following steps ST151 to ST153 are performed as a patient information correction process.

[0072] (Step ST151) The nearby terminal 10 accepts input of correction information. The input of correction information is performed, for example, by the operation of the nearby terminal 10 by the first medical professional.

[0073] (Step ST152) After receiving the correction information, the nearby terminal 10 transmits the correction information to the magnetic resonance imaging device 100.

[0074] (Step ST153) Upon receiving correction information, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 registers the correction information.

[0075] (Step ST160) After receiving patient information, the remote terminal 20 accepts input of the imaging protocol. Input of the imaging protocol is performed, for example, by a second healthcare professional operating the remote terminal 20.

[0076] (Step ST170) After receiving the imaging protocol input, the remote terminal 20 transmits the imaging protocol to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100.

[0077] (Step ST180) Upon receiving the imaging protocol, the magnetic resonance imaging system 100 registers the imaging protocol.

[0078] (Step ST190) When an imaging protocol is registered in the magnetic resonance imaging device 100, the nearby terminal 10 displays the imaging protocol. At this time, the first medical professional operating the nearby terminal 10 confirms the start of the examination based on the imaging protocol.

[0079] (Step ST200) The nearby terminal 10 receives a command to start the examination for the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100. The command to start the examination is given, for example, by the operation of the nearby terminal 10 by a first medical professional.

[0080] (Step ST210) After receiving the command to start the inspection, the nearby terminal 10 instructs the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 to start the inspection.

[0081] (Step ST220) After receiving the instruction to start the examination, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 begins the examination according to the configured imaging protocol.

[0082] Figure 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating the operation of each part of the magnetic resonance imaging system during inspection. Similar to the sequence diagram in Figure 3, the sequence diagram in Figure 4 represents the processing for the magnetic resonance imaging device 100, the nearby terminal 10, and the remote terminal 20. In the sequence diagram in Figure 4, communication from the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 to the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20 is omitted, with the exception of some notification processing. Information regarding the status of the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 is shared with both the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20.

[0083] (Step ST310) When the examination begins, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 performs positioning imaging. For example, when performing an examination of the head, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 performs positioning imaging of the head.

[0084] (Step ST320) After positioning imaging is performed, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 generates a positioning image based on the data obtained from the positioning imaging.

[0085] (Step ST330) After generating a positioning image, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 transmits the positioning image to the remote terminal 20. At this time, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 instructs the remote terminal 20 to adjust the imaging position.

[0086] (Step ST340) Upon receiving the positioning image, the remote terminal 20 displays the positioning image. The remote terminal 20 also issues a notification regarding the adjustment of the imaging position based on the notification instructions. This notification allows the second medical professional operating the remote terminal 20 to begin adjusting the imaging position without delay.

[0087] (Step ST350) When the positioning image is displayed on the remote terminal 20, the remote terminal 20 accepts adjustment of the imaging position. The adjustment of the imaging position is performed, for example, by operating the remote terminal 20 by a second medical professional.

[0088] (Step ST360) After the imaging position has been adjusted, the remote terminal 20 transmits the imaging position information to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100.

[0089] (Step ST370) Upon receiving imaging position information, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 sets the imaging position.

[0090] (Step ST380) After setting the imaging position, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 performs the main imaging at the set imaging position. Note that before performing the main imaging, the apparatus may receive a command to start the main imaging from a nearby terminal 10.

[0091] (Step ST390) After performing the imaging, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 generates an MR image based on the data obtained from the imaging.

[0092] (Step ST400) After generating the MR image, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 transmits the MR image to the remote terminal 20. At this time, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 instructs the remote terminal 20 to notify it that the imaging process is complete.

[0093] (Step ST410) Upon receiving the MR image, the remote terminal 20 displays the MR image. The remote terminal 20 also issues a notification regarding the completion of this imaging process based on the notification instructions. This notification allows the second healthcare professional operating the remote terminal 20 to begin making a decision regarding whether or not to perform additional tests without delay. The following steps will describe the case where no additional tests are performed.

[0094] (Step ST420) When the MR image is displayed on the remote terminal 20, the remote terminal 20 receives a report that the examination is complete. The report of the examination completion is made, for example, by a second healthcare professional operating the remote terminal 20.

[0095] (Step ST430) The remote terminal 20 reports the completion of the examination to the nearby terminal 10. Based on this report, the first medical professional operating the nearby terminal 10 can make a decision regarding the completion of the examination.

[0096] (Step ST440) The nearby terminal 10 receives a command to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 to complete the examination. The command to complete the examination is given, for example, by the operation of the nearby terminal 10 by a first medical professional.

[0097] (Step ST450) After receiving the command to end the inspection, the nearby terminal 10 instructs the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 to end the inspection.

[0098] (Step ST460) After receiving the instruction to end the examination, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 terminates the examination in accordance with the set imaging protocol.

[0099] If an additional examination is to be performed on the same imaging site after step ST410, the second medical professional operates the remote terminal 20 and adds a sequence for the additional examination of the same imaging site to the imaging protocol. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 then registers the additional sequence received from the remote terminal 20, and the processing of the entire magnetic resonance imaging system 1 returns to step ST380.

[0100] Furthermore, if additional examinations are to be performed on other imaging sites after step ST410, the second medical professional operates the remote terminal 20 to add a new sequence for the additional examination of the other site to the imaging protocol. In this case, since positioning for the other site is required, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 registers the new sequence received from the remote terminal 20, and the processing of the entire magnetic resonance imaging system 1 returns to step ST310.

[0101] Figure 5 illustrates a proximity operation screen displayed on a nearby terminal. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the proximity operation screen 200 of the nearby terminal 10 includes an information area 210 and a control button area 220. The content displayed on the proximity operation screen 200 is limited to information that should be confirmed by the first healthcare professional directly interacting with the patient.

[0102] The information area 210 includes scan information 211, image information 212, vital information 213, elapsed time information 214, and protocol progress information 215.

[0103] Scan information 211 includes patient information and safety information. Patient information includes, for example, patient ID, name, gender, height, and weight. Safety information includes the SAR value and PNS percentage for the sequence currently being imaged.

[0104] Image information 212 includes MR images related to the current scan. If locator imaging is being performed, image information 212 may display an image of any one cross section (e.g., a transverse section) or images of all cross sections (e.g., sagittal, transverse, and coronal sections).

[0105] Vital information 213 includes, for example, electrocardiogram, heart rate, blood pressure, pulse wave, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate.

[0106] The elapsed time information 214 includes, for example, the elapsed time since the start of the test, the total test time, the number of sequences performed, and the total number of sequences.

[0107] Protocol progress information 215 shows the total sequences included in the protocol in the order they are executed, represented by icons. In Figure 5, as an example, icons for completed sequences are shaded, and icons for sequences currently being executed are shaded according to their progress. This allows the primary healthcare professional to easily check which sequences have been executed and which are currently being executed.

[0108] The control button area 220 includes a test start button 221, a pause / resume button 222, a test interruption button 223, and a test end button 224.

[0109] Furthermore, the proximity operation screen 200 may also include camera images from the camera capturing the patient. In this case, the camera is installed in the MRI room. By including camera images in the proximity operation screen 200, the first medical professional can check the patient's condition on the same screen without shifting their gaze to another screen.

[0110] Furthermore, the nearby operation screen 200 may also include information about the environment in which the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100 is installed (environmental information). Environmental information may include, for example, information about lighting inside the bore, information about air being blown into the bore, and information about room temperature.

[0111] Figure 6 illustrates a remote control screen displayed on a remote terminal. For example, as shown in Figure 6, the remote control screen 300 of the remote terminal 20 includes locator information 310, protocol information 320, and detailed information 330. The content displayed on the remote control screen 300 is limited to information that a second healthcare professional who does not directly interact with the patient should review.

[0112] The locator information 310 displays sagittal, transverse, and coronal images acquired by locator imaging. The second medical professional uses the locator information 310 to determine the imaging position.

[0113] Protocol information 320 displays multiple sequences included in the protocol set for the magnetic resonance imaging device 100. A second medical professional uses protocol information 320 to add sequences, etc. Protocol information 320 corresponds to protocol progress information 215 in Figure 5.

[0114] Detailed information 330 displays detailed settings for each sequence. A second healthcare professional uses detailed information 330 to make changes to the settings, etc.

[0115] The remote control screen 300 may also display a camera image instead of the locator information 310. Specifically, when patient setting is in place, the remote control screen 300 displays the camera image of the camera capturing the patient. In addition, if an abnormality occurs with the patient, the remote control screen 300 displays the camera image of the camera capturing the patient. If an abnormality occurs with the patient, this may be interpreted as, for example, when a nearby terminal 10 issues an instruction to interrupt the examination, or when the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 is shut down urgently.

[0116] Furthermore, the remote control screen 300 may include MR images related to the current scan. By including MR images on the remote control screen 300, a second healthcare professional can use them to decide on additional examinations (additional imaging) and re-imaging.

[0117] As described above, the magnetic resonance imaging system according to the first embodiment comprises a first terminal for controlling the imaging timing, a second terminal for setting imaging conditions, and a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that performs magnetic resonance imaging based on the imaging conditions in accordance with the control of the imaging timing.

[0118] Therefore, the magnetic resonance imaging system according to the first embodiment is specialized in having separate medical professionals handle patient setting tasks, including patient care, and device setting tasks, such as setting imaging conditions, thus enabling efficient MRI examinations.

[0119] (Application example of the first embodiment) The notification function of the first embodiment primarily notifies a given information from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus to a remote terminal, but is not limited to this. For example, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus may also notify a given information to a nearby terminal. Furthermore, this notification function may be provided in both the nearby terminal 10 and the remote terminal 20. In this case, a given information may be notified from the nearby terminal 10 to the remote terminal 20, or from the remote terminal 20 to the nearby terminal 10. The content notified from the nearby terminal 10 to the remote terminal 20 may be, for example, an alert prompting adjustment of the imaging position. The content notified from the remote terminal 20 to the nearby terminal 10 may be, for example, an alert prompting the start of imaging.

[0120] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, one remote terminal configured settings for one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device. In contrast, in the second embodiment, one remote terminal configured settings for each of multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices.

[0121] Figure 7 shows an example configuration of a magnetic resonance imaging system according to the second embodiment. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the magnetic resonance imaging system 1A according to this embodiment comprises a magnetic resonance imaging device 100-1 and a nearby terminal 10-1, a magnetic resonance imaging device 100-2 and a nearby terminal 10-2, a magnetic resonance imaging device 100-3 and a nearby terminal 10-3, and a remote terminal 20A.

[0122] Hereafter, magnetic resonance imaging devices 100-1, 100-2, and 100-3 will be collectively referred to as multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices. Similarly, nearby terminals 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3 will be collectively referred to as multiple nearby terminals.

[0123] In Figure 7, the magnetic resonance imaging device 100-1 and the nearby terminal 10-1 are directly connected. Similarly, the magnetic resonance imaging device 100-2 and the nearby terminal 10-2 are directly connected, and the magnetic resonance imaging device 100-3 and the nearby terminal 10-3 are also directly connected. Furthermore, nearby terminals 10-1, 10-2, and 10-3 are connected to the remote terminal 20A via a network (NW).

[0124] Each of the multiple nearby terminals may be connected to each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices via a network NW. Furthermore, the remote terminal 20A may be directly connected to each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices, each of the multiple nearby terminals, or both, without using a network NW. In other words, the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices, the multiple nearby terminals, and the remote terminal 20A are not limited by their connection configurations.

[0125] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the remote terminal 20A sets imaging conditions and other settings for each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices. Hereafter, as a specific example, we will describe its application to a hospital group consisting of Hospital A, Hospital B, Hospital C, and a central hospital that oversees them.

[0126] As shown in Figure 7, magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100-1 and proximity terminal 10-1 are installed at Hospital A, magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100-2 and proximity terminal 10-2 are installed at Hospital B, and magnetic resonance imaging apparatus 100-3 and proximity terminal 10-3 are installed at Hospital C. In addition, remote terminal 20A is installed at the central hospital.

[0127] Remote terminal 20A differs from remote terminal 20 of the first embodiment in that it can set imaging conditions for each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices. However, the operation and control of remote terminal 20A for each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices are the same as those of remote terminal 20. The operation screen displayed on remote terminal 20A may, for example, display all of them for each of the multiple hospitals, or it may be displayed in a way that allows switching between multiple hospitals using tabs or similar methods.

[0128] Furthermore, it is desirable that the medical professional operating the remote terminal 20A be an expert in device configuration. Traditionally, MRI examinations were handled entirely by a single medical professional, which could lead to inconsistencies in device configuration between hospitals. However, with the magnetic resonance imaging system of this embodiment, a single medical professional can configure the devices in multiple hospitals, thus reducing the potential for inconsistencies in device configuration between hospitals.

[0129] Each of the multiple magnetic resonance imaging devices and each of the multiple neighboring terminals has substantially the same configuration as the magnetic resonance imaging device 100 and neighboring terminal 10 of the first embodiment, so their description is omitted.

[0130] As described above, the magnetic resonance imaging system according to the second embodiment comprises a plurality of first terminals that control the imaging timing, a second terminal that sets imaging conditions for each of the plurality of first terminals, and a plurality of magnetic resonance imaging devices that correspond to each of the plurality of first terminals and perform magnetic resonance imaging based on the imaging conditions in accordance with the control of the imaging timing.

[0131] Therefore, the magnetic resonance imaging system according to the second embodiment allows a single medical professional to configure settings for examinations performed at multiple hospitals, thereby reducing variability in settings.

[0132] According to at least one embodiment described above, MRI examinations can be performed efficiently.

[0133] While several embodiments 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 a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments are possible 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]

[0134] 1,1A Magnetic Resonance Imaging System 10, 10-1, 10-2, 10-3 Nearby terminals 11,21 Interface 12,22 displays 13,23 Storage device 14,24 Processing Circuit 20,20A Remote terminal 100, 100-1, 100-2, 100-3 Magnetic Resonance Imaging System 101 Static Magnetic Field Magnet 103 Gradient field coil 105 Gradient magnetic field power supply 107 berths 107a Top plate 109 Bed control circuit 111 Bore 113 Transmitter Circuit 115 Transmitter coil 117 Receiving coil 119 Receiving circuit 121 Imaging control circuit 123 Interface 125 displays 127 Storage device 129 Processing Circuit 129a Control function 129b Image generation function 129c acquisition function 129d Notification function 141 Control Functions 200 Neighbor Operation Screen 210 Information area 211 Scan Information 212 Image Information 213 Vital Information 214 Elapsed Time Information 215 Protocol Progress Information 220 Control button area 221 Start Test Button 222 Resume button 223 Test Interruption Button 224 Test completion button 241 Control Functions 300 Remote control screen 310 Locator Information 320 Protocol Information 330 Detailed Information

Claims

1. A first terminal that controls the imaging timing in response to an operation input, A second terminal that sets imaging conditions for one or more sequences included in the protocol in response to operational input, A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that performs magnetic resonance imaging based on the imaging conditions in accordance with the control of the imaging timing, It is equipped with, The first terminal displays an icon indicating the progress of one or more sequences included in the protocol that are currently being executed. The second terminal displays information indicating whether each sequence is not yet executed or has been executed, and adds or deletes sequences to the protocol in response to operation input. Magnetic resonance imaging system.

2. The first terminal transmits first instruction information, including instructions for controlling the imaging timing, to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. The second terminal transmits second instruction information, including instructions regarding the setting of the imaging conditions, to the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 1.

3. The instructions relating to the control of the imaging timing include at least the start and pause of the inspection relating to the execution of the magnetic resonance imaging, The instructions for setting the imaging conditions include information regarding the imaging protocol and imaging position. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 2.

4. The instructions relating to the control of the imaging timing further include restarting the examination, interrupting the examination, and ending the examination. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 3.

5. The second instruction information includes notification instruction information that includes the content and timing of notification to be notified from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus to the second terminal. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus is An acquisition unit that acquires the first instruction information from the first terminal and the second instruction information from the second terminal, A notification unit that notifies the second terminal of an alert in accordance with the notification instruction information. It further possesses, The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned notification instruction information is included in the imaging protocol. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned alert prompts the operator of the second terminal to adjust the imaging position to determine the imaging position. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 5.

8. The aforementioned alert prompts the operator of the second terminal to decide whether or not to perform additional magnetic resonance imaging. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 5.

9. The second instruction information includes patient information, The first instruction information includes correction information relating to the correction of the patient information, A magnetic resonance imaging system according to any one of claims 2 to 8.

10. The first terminal displays a plurality of icons corresponding to each of the plurality of sequences included in the protocol, and displays the display correspondence of the icons for executed sequences in a manner that is distinguishable from the display correspondence of icons for unexecuted sequences. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 1.

11. The first terminal displays icons from among the plurality of icons in a state corresponding to the progress of the sequence that is currently being executed. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 10.

12. The second terminal, upon receiving a protocol termination signal transmitted from the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, displays an image captured by the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus and accepts the addition of a sequence related to additional inspection to the protocol via an operation input. When the second terminal accepts the addition of the sequence, the magnetic resonance imaging apparatus adds the added sequence to the protocol. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 1.

13. The magnetic resonance imaging apparatus starts magnetic resonance imaging of the present image in response to the addition of the sequence if the imaging area of ​​the added sequence and the already executed sequence are the same, and starts capturing a positioning image in response to the addition of the sequence if the imaging area of ​​the added sequence and the already executed sequence are different. The magnetic resonance imaging system according to claim 12.

14. A plurality of first terminals that control the imaging timing in response to operation input, For each of the aforementioned plurality of first terminals, a second terminal sets imaging conditions for one or more sequences included in the protocol in response to the operation input, A plurality of magnetic resonance imaging devices, each corresponding to one of the plurality of first terminals, which perform magnetic resonance imaging based on the imaging conditions in accordance with the control of the imaging timing, It is equipped with, The first terminal displays an icon indicating the progress of one or more sequences included in the protocol that are currently being executed. The second terminal displays information indicating whether each sequence is not yet executed or has been executed, and adds or deletes sequences to the protocol in response to operation input. Magnetic resonance imaging system.

15. A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus that performs magnetic resonance imaging based on imaging conditions set by a second terminal in response to an operation input for one or more sequences included in a protocol, in accordance with control of imaging timing in response to operation input via a first terminal, The first terminal displays an icon indicating the progress of one or more sequences included in the protocol that are currently being executed. The second terminal displays information indicating whether each sequence is not yet executed or has been executed, and adds or deletes sequences to the protocol in response to operation input. Magnetic resonance imaging device.

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