JP2007111515A - X-ray ct apparatus and method of controlling the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an X-ray CT apparatus by which appropriate scanogram without defect can be acquired even if the X-ray CT apparatus has an asymmetrical shape X-ray detector. <P>SOLUTION: This X-ray CT apparatus is equipped with an X-ray detector which has first and second ends in a direction orthogonally crossing the body axis of a subject and the X-ray irradiation axis, the first end is positioned nearer to the X-ray irradiation axis than the second end is and the second end is positioned further from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end is. The CT apparatus acquires projection data from the first direction and projection data from the second direction, and superimposes projection data corresponding to the first direction and the second direction to produce one scan range setting image. The X-ray CT apparatus is equipped also with a floodlight means to indicate the X-ray irradiating range to the first end side and the second end side by floodlighting. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention creates an appropriate scanogram (scan range setting image) having no defect even if a detector having an asymmetric shape with respect to a line connecting the focal point of the X-ray tube and the rotation center is arranged. The present invention relates to an X-ray CT apparatus capable of performing the above.

  In general, when imaging an inside of a subject with an X-ray CT apparatus, first, a scan range setting image is obtained (see, for example, “Patent Document 1”). The scan range setting image is a scanogram that is an X-ray fluoroscopic image of a predetermined range of the subject. In imaging inside the subject, the position where the tomographic image is to be imaged is determined based on this scanogram. Then, the X-ray CT apparatus obtains a tomographic image by scanning the determined position with X-rays. When obtaining a scanogram, the X-ray CT apparatus irradiates X-rays while moving the bed top on which the subject is placed in the body axis direction without rotating the X-ray tube. Based on the projection data obtained by this X-ray irradiation, a scanogram 30 as shown in FIG. 1 is created and displayed on the screen of the display means.

In positioning for capturing a tomographic image, a position for capturing the tomographic image is set on the scanogram. The set positions are represented by, for example, lines L ₁ , L ₂ ... L _n shown in FIG. When performing a scan to obtain a tomographic image, the bed top plate on which the subject is placed is once returned to its original position after imaging for scanogram creation, and then moved again. The bed top plate is moved to place the X-ray tube at the positions L _{1 to} L _n . The X-ray tube performs X-ray irradiation while rotating around the subject at each position. The tomographic images of the subject at the positions L _{1 to} L _n are obtained as captured images based on projection data obtained by X-ray irradiation.

  In recent years, an X-ray detector provided in an X-ray CT apparatus has an asymmetric shape with respect to an irradiation axis of radiation extending from the focal point of the X-ray tube through the X-ray tube and the rotation center of the X-ray detector. is there. The X-ray detector having this asymmetric shape is formed so as to be asymmetrical from the irradiation axis of the radiation irradiated from the X-ray tube, and the edge of the detector is near the irradiation axis and the side far from the irradiation axis. And divided.

  However, when scanogram imaging is performed using an X-ray CT apparatus equipped with an X-ray detector having an asymmetric shape, the shape of the X-ray detector, which is a device that collects X-rays transmitted through the subject, is determined on the irradiation axis. Due to the left-right asymmetry, there is a problem that a part of the imaging region of the subject is lost from the collected FOV (Field Of View).

JP-A-5-192327

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an appropriate scanogram having no defect even in an X-ray CT apparatus including an X-ray detector having an asymmetric shape. It is to provide an X-ray CT apparatus that can be obtained.

  In the first aspect of the present invention for solving the above problems, the X-ray tube has a first end and a second end in a direction orthogonal to the body axis and the X-ray irradiation axis of the subject, An X-ray detector in which the first end is located closer to the X-ray irradiation axis than the second end, and the second end is located farther from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end And the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are moved to a first rotational angle position to obtain projection data from a first direction, and the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are A scan control means for acquiring projection data from the second direction by moving to the second rotation angle position, and combining projection data corresponding to the first direction and projection data corresponding to the second direction And an image processing means for generating one scan range setting image.

  In the second aspect of the present invention, the X-ray tube has a first end and a second end in a direction orthogonal to the body axis of the subject and the X-ray irradiation axis. And an X-ray detector in which the first end is located near the X-ray irradiation axis and the second end is located farther from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end; And a light projecting unit that indicates the X-ray irradiation range on the end side and the second end side by light projection.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, even when a scanogram is created by an X-ray CT apparatus including an asymmetric X-ray detector, projection data (scanogram data) is obtained from two directions, By combining them, one appropriate projection data can be generated. Therefore, the setting accuracy of the scan position is not impaired.

  According to the second aspect, since the X-ray irradiation range projected by the light projecting unit can determine in advance whether or not a part of the subject is missing when scanogram imaging is performed from one side, Prevent re-shooting and useless exposure.

  Hereinafter, an X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same function and configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

  The X-ray CT apparatus includes a rotation / rotation (rotate / rotate) type in which an X-ray tube and a radiation detector are rotated as one body, and a large number of detection elements arranged in a ring shape. There are various types such as a fixed / rotation (STATIONION / ROTATE) type in which only the X-ray tube rotates around the subject, and the present invention is applicable to any type. Here, the rotation / rotation type that currently occupies the mainstream will be described.

  In addition, to reconstruct one-slice tomographic image data, projection data for about 360 ° around the periphery of the subject is required, or projection data for 180 ° + view angle is required by the half-scan method. It is said. The present invention can be applied to any reconstruction method. Here, a case where a tomographic image is reconstructed from projection data of about 360 ° will be described.

  In addition, the mechanism for converting incident X-rays into electric charges includes an indirect conversion type in which X-rays are converted into light by a phosphor such as a scintillator and the light is converted into electric charges by a photoelectric conversion element such as a photodiode, and X-rays Generation of electron-hole pairs in semiconductors by the transfer and transfer to the electrodes, that is, a direct conversion type utilizing a photoconductive phenomenon, is the mainstream. Any of these methods may be adopted as the X-ray detector. Here, the former indirect conversion form will be described.

In recent years, a so-called multi-tube type X-ray CT apparatus in which a plurality of pairs of an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are mounted on a rotating frame has been commercialized, and peripheral technologies have been developed. The present invention can be applied to both a conventional single-tube X-ray CT apparatus and a multi-tube X-ray CT apparatus. Here, a single tube type will be described.
(Constitution)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the X-ray CT has a gantry 1 and a computer system 3. The gantry 1 includes an X-ray tube 10 and an X-ray detector 23. The X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 are mounted on a ring-shaped rotating frame 12. The rotating frame 12 is driven to rotate about the Z axis by the gantry driving device 25.

  A central portion of the rotating frame 12 is opened. The subject P placed on the top 2a of the bed 2 is inserted into the opening. A collimator 22 is disposed between the X-ray tube 10 and the opening. The collimator 22 is composed of a substance that shields X-rays such as lead and tungsten, and narrows the X-ray irradiation range. The couch 2 is equipped with a top plate driving unit 2b for moving the top plate 2a in the direction of its long axis (parallel to the rotation axis). The top plate driving unit 2b has a top plate position detection unit such as a rotary encoder for detecting the position of the top plate 2a.

  A tube voltage is applied between the cathode and the anode of the X-ray tube 10 by the high voltage generator 21. A filament current is supplied from the high voltage generator 21 to the filament of the X-ray tube 10. X-rays are generated by applying a tube voltage and supplying a filament current.

  The X-ray detector 23 has a two-dimensional array structure of a plurality of detection elements 26 having an isotropic property of 0.5 mm × 0.5 mm, for example. For example, 916 detection elements are arranged in the channel direction at a pitch of 0.5 mm. For example, 40 rows of 916 detection elements are arranged in the slice direction at a pitch of 0.5 mm.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the X-ray detector 23 has an asymmetric shape with respect to the irradiation axis CL connecting the rotation center of the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 and the focal point of the X-ray tube 10. Yes. In the X-ray detector 23 having this asymmetric shape, in the direction orthogonal to the body axis and the irradiation axis CL, the first end 23a on one side is more than the second end 23b on the other side. The second end 23b is located farther from the irradiation axis CL than the first end 23a.

  When an X-ray detector 23 having such an asymmetric shape is used to capture an image for setting a scan range for a subject P that does not fit in the FOV from one direction, the scanogram data acquired by the imaging is The image is output as an image in which a defect D is generated on the end 23a side of the specimen P.

  Therefore, in the X-ray CT apparatus of the present embodiment, the scan frame 30 is rotated by the scan controller 30 via the gantry driving device 25 to acquire scanogram data from one direction as shown in FIG. 6 (a)), and scanogram data is acquired from the opposite direction (see FIG. 6 (b)). Then, the two scanogram data are combined to generate scanogram data having no missing portion D (details will be described later).

  The data collecting device 24 is generally called a DAS (Data Acquisition System). The data acquisition device 24 converts a signal output from the X-ray detector 23 for each channel into a voltage signal, amplifies the voltage signal, and converts the amplified voltage signal into a digital signal. This digital signal, also called raw data, is supplied to a computer system 3 outside the gantry 1.

  The preprocessing unit 34 of the computer system 3 performs correction processing such as sensitivity correction on the raw data output from the data collection device 24, and outputs it as projection data. This projection data is sent to and stored in the data storage device 35 of the computer system 3.

  The computer system 3 includes an input unit 39 including a keyboard and a mouse, a display 38, a scan controller 30, an image processing unit 31, a reconstruction unit 36, a scan plan setting unit 43, the preprocessing unit 34, and the storage device 35. The tube current calculation unit 37 is configured.

  The reconstruction unit 36 selects various reconstruction processes such as a general fan beam reconstruction method (also called fan beam convolution back projection method), helical interpolation method, Feldkamp method, and cone beam reconstruction method. Can be used.

  The helical interpolation method is a reconstruction method for obtaining projection data on a reconstruction surface by interpolation from projection data for two rotations that can be used in combination with the fan beam reconstruction method. The Feldkamp method is a reconstruction method when the projection ray intersects the reconstruction surface like a cone beam, and it is treated as a fan projection beam when convolved on the assumption that the cone angle is small. Back projection is an approximate image reconstruction method that processes along a ray during scanning. The cone beam reconstruction method is a reconstruction method in which projection data is corrected according to the angle of the ray with respect to the reconstruction surface, as a method of suppressing the cone angle error more than the Feldkamp method.

  The image processing means 31 generates one appropriate scanogram data by combining two scanogram data obtained by irradiating the subject P with X-rays from two opposite directions. Here, combining the two scanogram data means, for example, extracting scanogram data on the second end 23b side far from the irradiation axis CL from the irradiation axis CL from the two scanogram data, It is synthesized with CL as the center.

  In the X-ray detector 23 used in the present embodiment, the defect portion D is generated on the first end 23a side close to the irradiation axis CL. Therefore, in order to supplement the scanogram data of the defective portion D, the scanogram data on the side where the defective portion D occurs is used among the scanogram data obtained by irradiation from the opposite direction.

  In the synthesis of these scanogram data, the respective positions of the subject P with respect to the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 (spatial coordinates) are almost the same in the two opposite directions. It is desirable to adjust the image magnification (size) of the nogram data. The relative position (spatial coordinates) of the subject P with respect to the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 is positional information of the bed 2 on which the subject P is placed (specifically, the top plate 2a of the bed 2 and the X-rays). The distance may be determined based on the distance to the detector 23).

  The scan plan setting unit 43 has a function necessary for guiding the determination of the scan plan by the operator in an interactive manner. For example, the scan plan setting unit 43 constructs a screen that prompts input of items such as patient information, examination purpose, examination site, and the like, and displays the screen on the display 38.

  The tube current calculation unit 37 calculates the tube current supplied to the X-ray tube 10 when setting the scan plan.

  In the X-ray CT apparatus of the present embodiment, a laser display is provided on the gantry 1. The laser display clearly indicates the imageable range when the scanogram is imaged only from one direction by the asymmetrically arranged X-ray detector 23. This laser display irradiates a laser from the installation position of the X-ray tube 10 toward the first end 23 a and the second end 23 b of the X-ray detector 23. By irradiating a laser when the subject P is placed on the bed 2, the laser display unit is placed on the body surface of the subject P or on the bed 2 as shown in FIG. A line L indicating the position of the first end 23a and the second end 23b is marked. In the conventional laser display, as an aid for properly placing the subject P with respect to the irradiation axis CL of the X-ray tube 10, the upper direction (the front direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2). ) And the left-right direction (the left-right direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2), the line L indicating only the center position was marked (see FIG. 4B).

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of scanogram imaging according to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present embodiment. First, the subject P is placed on the bed 2 on its back (S1).

  Next, the imaging range when the scanogram is imaged only from one direction is displayed with a laser by the laser display provided on the gantry 1 (S2). From this laser display, laser is irradiated from the installation position of the X-ray tube 10 toward the first end 23a and the second end 23b, and an imaging range is marked on the body surface of the subject P that blocks the laser. (See FIG. 4A).

  At this time, when the subject P does not fit in the range between the two laser displays (within the FOV) (S3-No), the examiner uses the input unit 39 to set the “scanogram imaging from two directions” mode. select. The scan controller 30 that has received the selection of the “scanogram imaging from two directions” mode performs “scanogram imaging from two directions”.

  On the other hand, when the subject P is within the range between the two laser displays (within the imageable region) (S3-Yes), the examiner selects the “normal” mode using the input unit 39. The scan controller 30 that has received the selection of the “normal” mode performs scanogram imaging from the first direction (for example, upward direction (the face direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2 on its back)). (S6), scanning is started based on the obtained scanogram data (S8).

  In “scanogram imaging from two directions”, first, as shown in FIG. 6A, the scan controller 30 performs scanogram imaging at the first position (S4). In scanogram imaging at the first position, the scan controller 30 positions the X-ray tube 10 in the first direction and then exposes the subject P to X-rays. Here, the scanogram imaging from the first direction in the present embodiment means that the X-ray tube 10 is positioned in the upward direction of the subject P (the face direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2 on its back), Scanogram imaging in a state where the X-ray detector 23 is positioned downward (backward direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2 on its back) across the subject P.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 6B, the scan controller 30 causes scanogram imaging at the second position (S5). That is, in the scanogram imaging at the second position, the scan controller 30 rotates the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 about the subject P by 180 ° from the first direction to move the X-ray tube 10 to the first position. After being positioned in the direction 2, the subject P is exposed to X-rays. Here, the scanogram imaging from the second direction in the present embodiment means that the X-ray tube 10 is positioned in the downward direction of the subject P (the back direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2 on its back), Scanogram imaging in a state where the X-ray detector 23 is positioned in the upward direction (the face direction of the subject P placed on the bed 2 on its back) across the subject P.

  After acquiring the scanogram data in the first direction and the scanogram data in the second direction, the image processing means 31 obtains each scanogram data based on the position information of the bed 2 at the time of each photographing. Process and synthesize.

  FIGS. 7A and 8A are examples of scanograms of the subject P when scanogram imaging is performed from the first direction and the second direction in the present embodiment, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an extracted portion extracted from the scanogram of the subject P in the first direction by the image processing means 31, and FIG. 8B is a diagram showing the extracted portion from the scanogram of the subject P in the second direction. It is a figure which shows the extracted extraction part.

  As shown in FIGS. 7A and 8A, it can be seen that the defect portion D is generated on the first end 23a side near the irradiation axis CL in each direction. Accordingly, as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 8B, the image processing unit 31 can detect the second end 23b from the irradiation axis CL based on a scanogram photographed from the first direction and the second direction. The scanogram data up to are extracted, and the extracted scanogram data are arranged side by side with the irradiation axis CL in between.

  The image processing means 31 refers to the top plate position signal transmitted from the top plate position detection unit in the top plate driving unit 2b of the bed 2 when acquiring each scanogram data in advance before synthesis. The image size of the scanogram data is adjusted so that the position information of the bed 2 on which the subject P is placed (specifically, the distance between the top 2a of the bed 2 and the X-ray detector 23) is the same. To do.

  The synthesized scanogram data is stored in the data storage device 35. This adjustment processing refers to processing for aligning the image size of scanogram data (the number of dots constituting the image) with the scanogram data acquired in either the first direction or the second direction. .

  In this way, the X-ray provided with the X-ray detector 23 having an asymmetric shape is obtained by synthesizing the portion on the second end 23b side far from the irradiation axis CL of the scanogram data photographed from two opposite directions. Even in the case of a CT apparatus, it is possible to obtain appropriate scanogram data having no missing portion D.

  In the X-ray CT apparatus, a scan plan for tomographic imaging of a subject is set using appropriate scanogram data without the defective portion D. FIG. 9 shows an example of a scan plan setting screen. On the scan plan screen, a patient information display area Ea, a gantry information display area Eb, and a scanogram display area Ec are displayed at the top, and a scan condition display area Ed is displayed at the bottom.

  Patient information is displayed in the patient information display area Ea, gantry information is displayed in the gantry information display area Eb, scanograms are displayed in the scanogram display area Ec, and detailed information is displayed in the scan condition display area Ed. Scan conditions are displayed.

  The scan conditions include helical scan start position item Ia and end position item Ib linked with scan lines, scan mode item Ic, scan number item Id, tube voltage (kV) item Ie, tube Current (mA) item If, scan speed (imaging time in parentheses) item Ig representing the time required for one rotation of the X-ray tube 10, reconstruction mode item Ih, field of view (FOV) item Ii A plurality of items such as a helical pitch item Ij representing the distance the top plate moves at the scan speed are included.

  In the item If of the tube current (mA), a pull-down menu PM is prepared together with a box for directly inputting a tube current value (see FIG. 10). In the pull-down menu PM options, automatic (Auto) is prepared together with a plurality of tube current values. This automatic setting function of the tube current value is such that when the operator designates an image SD that is an index representing image quality, the tube current value required to realize the designated image SD is automatically set on the system side. It is a function to set.

  Here, image noise is inevitable in the reconstructed image. The image noise is typically represented by a standard deviation indicating variation in CT values obtained when a homogeneous phantom is photographed. Usually, the standard deviation indicating the image noise is referred to as an image SD. In order to make a diagnosis by observing the reconstructed image, for example, in order to distinguish whether the shadow on the image is noise or a tumor, it is necessary to consider the image SD of the image. The image SD tends to depend on the X-ray transmission dose mainly determined by the relationship between the tube current and the subject.

  The tube current calculation unit 37 calculates a tube current value necessary for realizing the image SD selected by the operator. When a necessary parameter is input, the tube current calculation unit 37 calculates a tube current value according to a predetermined calculation formula. The tube current value is expressed by the following calculation formula including a function of the water equivalent thickness DPb corresponding to the object thickness.

Ib = (SDa ² / SDinput ² ) × (mAs / t) × PkV × Psl × PHP × PFW × PFC × Pmode × exp (−μ (DPa−DPb))
SDa: An image SD obtained by photographing and reconstructing a water phantom having a water equivalent thickness DPa as a reference with a reference tube current, a reference tube voltage, a reference photographing slice thickness, a reference image slice thickness, and a reference reconstruction function.
SDinput; the image SD desired by the operator for the final image
mAs: Standard tube current time product (sec)
t: Scanning speed (sec)
PkV; coefficient Psl according to tube voltage; coefficient PHP according to imaging slice thickness; coefficient PFW according to helical pitch; coefficient PFC according to ratio of image slice thickness to imaging slice thickness; coefficient Pmode according to reconstruction function ; Coefficient μ corresponding to normal mode or exposure reduction mode for X-ray exposure; X-ray absorption coefficient DPa for water; Reference water equivalent thickness (mm)
DPb: Water equivalent thickness (mm) equivalent to the thickness of the subject

  The water equivalent thickness DPb corresponding to the subject thickness is derived from a scanogram obtained by supplementing the defect portion D by synthesizing scanograms taken from two directions. Other parameters are obtained from operator input or stored in advance.

  The water equivalent thickness DPb corresponding to the subject thickness is calculated by obtaining a parameter from the synthesized scanogram and applying it to the following calculation formula.

DPb = DW × (SP / AW) ^1/2
DW; diameter SP of water phantom approximate to the size of the subject; pixel integrated value AW for one line in the slice direction obtained by scanning the subject with scanogram; pixel for one line obtained by scanning the water phantom Integrated value

  The AW is obtained by scanning a cylindrical water phantom approximating the size of the subject and scanning and imaging the pixel values for one line in the scanogram. The SP obtains a scanogram of the subject and integrates pixel values for one line in the scanogram. In the X-ray CT apparatus having the X-ray detector 23 having an asymmetrical shape, the scanogram used for calculating the AW and SP is obtained by capturing the scanogram from two directions and supplementing the defect portion D. This is a synthesized scanogram.

  The water equivalent thickness DPb corresponding to the subject thickness is the thickness of the subject converted when the subject is water. When the pixel values for one line are integrated in the scanogram in which the defect portion D is generated, the water equivalent thickness DPb is calculated as the thickness of the subject excluding the defect portion D. On the other hand, as in this embodiment, by calculating the water equivalent thickness DPb from the scanogram synthesized so as to supplement the defect portion D, the water equivalent thickness Dpb that accurately represents the thickness of the entire subject can be calculated. Thereby, a highly accurate tube current value can be calculated.

  The X-ray CT apparatus takes a scanogram from two directions, calculates the tube current based on the scanogram obtained by synthesizing the missing part D, and makes a scan plan based on the input of the examiner. Set and create a tomographic image of the subject according to the scan plan.

  Hereinafter, a first modification of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the above-described embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 11 shows a modified example of X-ray irradiation when scanning a scanogram from two directions. In the above-described embodiment, the X-ray irradiation range is from the first end 23a side to the second end 23b side so as to straddle the irradiation axis CL. In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, when scanning a scanogram from two directions, each X-ray irradiation range may be a range from the irradiation axis CL to the second end 23b side far from the irradiation axis CL.

  The collimator 22 is configured by arranging a plurality of pairs of collimator blocks 22a and 22b that approach or separate from each other about the irradiation axis CL. The X-ray CT apparatus positions or closes the tip of the collimator block 22a located on the first end 23a side to the irradiation axis CL during scanogram imaging.

  As a result, the collimator 22 narrows the range from the irradiation axis CL to the first end 23a side, and blocks X-ray passage in the range. Therefore, X-rays are not irradiated from the irradiation axis CL to the first end 23a side. The X-ray CT apparatus captures a scanogram from two directions in a state where the range from the irradiation axis CL to the first end 23 a side is blocked by the collimator 22. The captured two-way scanogram includes only the scanogram data of the second end 23b from the irradiation axis CL. The scanograms in these two directions are synthesized with the irradiation axis CL as the center.

  As a result, useless radiation exposure on the first end 23a side close to the irradiation axis CL from the irradiation axis CL of the subject can be prevented, and a scanogram in which the defect portion D does not occur can be obtained.

  Furthermore, a second modification of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the above-described embodiment will be described. In the embodiment described above, the image size is adjusted based on the position information of the bed 2 when the scanograms from two directions are combined. In addition, the X-ray CT apparatus may scan scanograms from two directions so as to partially overlap the imaging ranges, and adjust the image size by comparing the sizes of the subject P appearing in the overlapping imaging ranges. Good.

  FIG. 12 schematically shows a state in which scanograms are photographed from two directions with a part of the photographing ranges being overlapped. As shown in FIG. 12, in scanogram imaging from one side, a range FOV2 is obtained by adding a predetermined range from the irradiation axis CL to the first end 23a in the range FOV1 on the second end 23b side from the irradiation axis CL. And In scanogram imaging from the other side, only the range from the irradiation axis CL to the second end 23b side may be used.

  The collimator 22 positions the tip of the collimator block 22a so as to be separated from the irradiation axis CL by a predetermined range. In this state, the subject P is irradiated with X-rays. The image processing means 31 extracts the range FOV1 on the second end 23b side from the irradiation axis CL as the combined scanogram data. Furthermore, the image processing means 31 extracts the range FOV2 that has been photographed in duplicate from the respective scanogram data.

  FIG. 13 schematically shows a scanogram of overlapping imaging ranges. FIG. 13A shows the overlapping range taken from the first direction, and FIG. 13B shows the overlapping range taken from the second direction. In the X-ray CT apparatus, when the rotation center of the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 23 and the body axis of the subject P are misaligned, the size of the subject P shown in the scanogram taken from two directions is small. Differently, the image size needs to be adjusted. If the rotation center and the body axis are misaligned, the distance between the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 and the body axis when the scanogram is taken from each direction is different. When the distance between the focal point and the body axis is different, the size of the subject P shown in the scanogram is different.

  The image processing means 31 compares the sizes of the subject P appearing on the scanograms of the overlapping imaging ranges, and obtains the other magnification based on one. When the magnification is obtained, the image processing means 31 multiplies the scanogram on the second end 23b side from the other irradiation axis CL by the reciprocal of the obtained magnification to match the image sizes of both scanograms. When the image sizes are matched, the image processing unit 31 synthesizes both scanograms around the irradiation axis CL, and generates a scanogram without the missing portion D.

  As described above, according to the present invention, even when a scanogram is created by an X-ray CT apparatus equipped with an asymmetric X-ray detector, projection data (scanogram data) is obtained from two opposite directions. By combining each of them, one appropriate projection data can be generated, so that the setting accuracy of the scan position is not impaired.

  In addition, at the time of tomography, since the tube current value is determined using appropriate scanogram data having no missing portion, the tube current value that accurately realizes the image quality (image SD) designated by the operator. Therefore, the operator can acquire an image with the planned image quality, and the opportunity for re-scanning and the like is reduced.

  In addition, when a scanogram is taken in advance from one side by a laser projector indicating the X-ray irradiation range on the first end 23a side and the second end 23b side by projection, and a part of the subject is captured in advance. Since it can be determined whether or not it is missing, scanogram re-shooting can be prevented, and unnecessary exposure can be prevented.

  Further, in scanogram imaging from two directions, only the second end 23b side far from the irradiation axis CL to the irradiation axis CL is imaged and the both are combined, so that the first is close to the irradiation axis CL from the irradiation axis CL of the subject. 1 can prevent unnecessary radiation exposure on the end 23a side, and can obtain a scanogram in which the defect portion D does not occur.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention at the stage of implementation. Furthermore, the above embodiment includes various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, some constituent requirements may be deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the embodiment.

The scanogram image | photographed with the conventional X-ray CT apparatus is shown. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the structure of the mount frame of X-ray CT apparatus. FIG. 4 shows light projection by a laser projector provided in the X-ray CT apparatus, FIG. 5A shows light projection according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 5B shows conventional light projection. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the drive part of a X-ray CT apparatus. It is a figure which shows the range which can image | photograph for the positioning by X-ray CT apparatus. One direction scanogram data processed by the image processing means of the X-ray CT apparatus is shown, (a) shows the scanogram data, and (b) shows a scanogram on the second end side from the irradiation axis. The state where the gram data is extracted is shown. The other directional scanogram data processed by the image processing means of the X-ray CT apparatus is shown, (a) shows the scanogram data, and (b) shows the scanogram on the second end side from the irradiation axis. The state where the gram data is extracted is shown. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen of the scanning plan which an X-ray CT apparatus displays. A state in which a pull-down menu for setting tube current is displayed on the screen of the scan plan displayed by the X-ray CT apparatus is shown. A first modification example when the X-ray CT apparatus captures a scanogram will be described. The 2nd modification in case an X-ray CT apparatus image | photographs a scanogram is shown. Of the scanograms photographed according to the second modification, the scanogram data of the overlapping range is shown.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Stand 2 Bed 3 Computer system 10 X-ray tube 12 Rotating frame 21 High voltage generator 22 Collimator 23 X-ray detector 23a 1st end 23b 2nd end 24 Data acquisition device (DAS)
Reference Signs List 25 gantry drive device 30 scan controller 31 image processing means 34 preprocessing unit 35 data storage device 36 reconstruction unit 37 tube current calculation unit 38 display 39 input unit 43 scan plan setting unit P subject (patient)
CL irradiation axis

Claims (11)

An X-ray tube;
It has a first end and a second end in a direction perpendicular to the body axis of the subject and the X-ray irradiation axis, and the first end is located closer to the X-ray irradiation axis than the second end. An X-ray detector in which the second end is located farther from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end;
The X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are moved to the first rotation angle position to obtain projection data from the first direction, and the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector are moved to the second position. Scanning control means for moving to the rotation angle position of the projection data and acquiring projection data from the second direction;
Image processing means for generating one scan range setting image by combining the projection data corresponding to the first direction and the projection data corresponding to the second direction;
Providing
X-ray CT apparatus characterized by this. The image processing means includes
Projection data on the second end side from the X-ray irradiation axis acquired from the first direction, and projection data on the second end side from the X-ray irradiation axis acquired from the second direction. And generating the one scan range setting image,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. The image processing means includes
Based on the position of the subject when acquiring projection data in the first direction and the position of the subject when acquiring projection data in the second direction with respect to the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector. Combining the display sizes of the projection data and combining the projection data to generate the one scan range setting image,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. Further comprising light projecting means for projecting the X-ray irradiation range of the first end side and the second end side by projecting;
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: A collimator for narrowing the X-ray irradiation range irradiated from the X-ray tube;
The collimator is
In the X-ray irradiation from the first direction and the second direction, the range on the second end side from the X-ray irradiation axis is narrowed to the irradiation range,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. A collimator for narrowing the X-ray irradiation range irradiated from the X-ray tube;
The collimator is
In the X-ray irradiation from the first direction and the second direction, the range on the second end side from the X-ray irradiation axis is narrowed to the irradiation range,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 2. A collimator for narrowing the X-ray irradiation range irradiated from the X-ray tube;
The collimator is
When X-ray irradiation is performed from each of the first direction and the second direction, the X-ray irradiation axis extends from the X-ray irradiation axis to the first end direction in a range on the second end side. The range with the specified range added is narrowed down to the irradiation range,
The image processing means includes
The display size of each subject is acquired and compared from the projection data in the predetermined range obtained from the first direction and the second direction, and the first direction and the second direction are based on the comparison result. Generating the one scan range setting image by combining the display sizes of the projection data obtained from
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. A collimator for narrowing the X-ray irradiation range irradiated from the X-ray tube;
The collimator is
When X-ray irradiation is performed from each of the first direction and the second direction, the X-ray irradiation axis extends from the X-ray irradiation axis to the first end direction in a range from the X-ray irradiation axis to the second end. The range with the specified range added is narrowed down to the irradiation range,
The image processing means includes
The display size of each subject is acquired and compared from the projection data in the predetermined range obtained from the first direction and the second direction, and the first direction and the second direction are based on the comparison result. Generating the one scan range setting image by combining the display sizes of the projection data obtained from
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 2. An X-ray tube;
It has a first end and a second end in a direction perpendicular to the body axis of the subject and the X-ray irradiation axis, and the first end is located closer to the X-ray irradiation axis than the second end. An X-ray detector in which the second end is located farther from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end;
A light projecting means for projecting the X-ray irradiation range of the first end side and the second end side;
Providing
X-ray CT apparatus characterized by The light projecting means is
Projecting a central line intersecting the X-ray axis and a line indicating a boundary position of the X-ray irradiation range on the first end side and the second end side;
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 9. An X-ray tube;
It has a first end and a second end in a direction perpendicular to the body axis of the subject and the X-ray irradiation axis, and the first end is located closer to the X-ray irradiation axis than the second end. An X-ray detector in which the second end is located farther from the X-ray irradiation axis than the first end;
A method for controlling an X-ray CT apparatus comprising:
Setting angles of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector to obtain projection data corresponding to a first direction;
Setting the angles of the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector to obtain projection data corresponding to a second direction different from the first direction;
Combining the projection data acquired from the first direction and the projection data acquired from the second direction to generate one scan range setting image;
Including,
A control method of an X-ray CT apparatus characterized by the above.