JP2007117580A - Small-scale diagnostic system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image small-scale diagnostic system which enables an easy and efficient diagnosis when used in a small-scale facility. <P>SOLUTION: The small-scale diagnostic system is equipped with an image generating device 2 for generating captured images of an examined object based on image data acquired by imaging the examined object, a control device 3 having an entry part 34 for entering identification information to specify the imaged examined object, a communication part 36 for receiving image data of the captured image generated by the image generating device 2, and a CPU 31 for performing image processing to generate a determined captured image out of captured images received by the communication part 36 and relating processing to relate the determined captured image to the identification information by taking the determined captured image generated from the image data received by the communication part 36 after entering the identification information before the other identification information is entered as the determined captured image corresponding to the identification information, and a server 4 for saving the determined captured image and identification information which are related. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a small-scale diagnosis system, and more particularly to a small-scale diagnosis system mainly used in a small-scale facility.

  Conventionally, an image generation device such as a CR device or an FPD device is used to image a patient to be examined by a technician, and gradation processing is performed so that the obtained image can be provided for diagnosis. 2. Description of the Related Art A diagnostic system is known that adds image processing, outputs an image-processed image to a film, and provides it for interpretation by a doctor.

  Such a large-scale diagnosis system is responsible for receiving patients and issuing examination orders (acceptance), responsible for actually photographing patients in the radiographing room (engineer), and obtaining gradation, etc. Interpretation to determine whether or not to provide diagnostics for a given image, and in some cases to modify contrast and density (such as an engineer appointed from a general engineer), or to interpret (diagnose) the presence or absence of a disease based on the image A plurality of persons in charge, such as a person in charge (doctor), share the roles and proceed with the diagnosis.

  Conventionally, this patient's image was hard-copied on film and used for diagnosis (interpretation). However, in recent years, as seen in PACS systems, etc. For example, in diagnosis of breast images and the like, a high-definition workstation (viewer) is displayed in comparison with a workstation (PC: Personal Computer) having a general display resolution. ) Filmless systems that display images and perform diagnosis (interpretation) have also appeared (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In a large-scale facility that has been envisaged in the past, there are a plurality of image generation apparatuses and engineers who operate the image generation apparatus, and a console for operating the image generation apparatus, a viewer for checking image data by a doctor, etc. Separate roles are provided. These devices cooperate with each other via a network.

  In such a system, the locations in charge of each of the above roles are often located in large hospitals such as the reception floor 1F and the radiology department underground, and multiple patients within the radiology department. The situation where a plurality of engineers use a plurality of imaging devices to perform imaging simultaneously is stationary, and a plurality of patients are constantly staying in each process, and the generated images and individual patients are In order to ensure that there is no mistake in the mapping, an ID is assigned to each work in each process, via a network of HIS (Hospital Information System) or RIS (Radiology Information System) The association is performed (see, for example, Patent Document 2 and Patent Document 3).

  For example, at the 1F reception desk, the examination content (imaging content) is determined based on the patient's main complaint and is registered together with the patient name. Thereby, a patient list as shown in FIG. 7A is created. The above patient list is added at any time and displayed on the 1F reception workstation (hereinafter referred to as “WS”). At the same time, the above patient list is stored in the radiology department of B1 via a network such as RIS / HIS (here, “console” is in the radiology department, setting of radiographing conditions and RIS / HIS radiographing order). This is a workstation that displays information and images of patients. In order to increase the efficiency of distributed processing, a plurality of consoles are usually provided, but these are also connected to each other via a network, and a predetermined inspection ID is selected at an arbitrary console. In order to prevent duplicate shooting among multiple technicians, a method of notifying that the patient list is being processed (flushing display, changing color, or beep warning if the same examination is specified, etc.) Used.

A radiology engineer uses a console close to him / her, selects an examination ID to be taken from the displayed patient list, and registers an ID (cassette ID) of a CR plate to be used. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7B, the cassette ID registered in the “cassette ID” field of the patient list is displayed. An engineer, for example, holds four cassettes and moves to the imaging room to take an image of the patient. Thereafter, the photographed cassette is read by a reading device. The reading device reads the cassette ID attached to the inserted cassette, attaches it to the image data and transmits the cassette ID, and finally the correspondence between the examination ID (patient ID) and the generated image data is attached. . The generated image data is transmitted to the console where the engineer has selected the examination ID, and displayed on the console. At this stage, the imaging positioning is confirmed. If the positioning is poor, the imaging is performed again, and it is also determined whether or not to apply density and contrast correction and frequency enhancement processing. Thereafter, the image is stored in a server waiting for interpretation (waiting for diagnosis). The image interpretation doctor extracts and displays an image related to a predetermined patient from an image stored in the image interpretation waiting workstation (often equipped with a high-definition monitor for the viewer function) and the image interpretation waiting server. Diagnosis).
US Pat. No. 5,235,510 JP 2002-159476 A JP 2002-311524 A

  However, according to a survey by the inventors of the present application, in the case of a relatively small facility such as a practitioner or clinic, the number of installed image generation devices is small, the assistant positions the patient, and the assistant completes the positioning. In many cases, the doctor himself / herself contacts the doctor to control the X-ray exposure switch, or the doctor himself performs all operations including patient positioning.

  Also, for example, in the case of a large-scale facility, it is assumed that the patient has to travel between multiple floors in the facility after taking a picture until receiving a doctor's diagnosis. In some cases, since the facilities are small, the distance traveled by the patient after taking a picture until receiving a doctor's diagnosis is short.

  Under such circumstances, it is difficult to confuse the captured image with the patient, and using a system similar to a large-scale facility requires the creation of test order information that begins with the input of the patient name, etc. On the contrary, the procedure becomes complicated and the medical efficiency is poor.

  In addition, in order to generate examination order information such as patient information and examination information of a patient in advance and associate the examination order information with a captured image, each device is connected with a network corresponding to a core system such as HIS / RIS. However, there is a problem that it is costly to construct such a system and becomes a burden for a small-scale facility.

  In addition, the above-mentioned association can be considered in cooperation with a receipt computer for small-scale facilities (Rececon) and electronic medical records, but it is difficult to perform uniform operation due to differences in the specifications of each device manufacturer, In the first place, even if the number of devices is reduced with the above-described configuration concept in a large-scale facility, it is not optimal for a small-scale facility.

  Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a small-scale diagnosis system that can perform simple and efficient diagnosis when used in a small-scale facility. And

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the small-scale diagnosis system according to claim 1 generates a digital image by photographing a patient who visits the hospital.
After that, the digital image is displayed in the viewer and provided for diagnosis.
The digital image displayed on the viewer is associated with the information on the patient,
In a small-scale diagnostic system for storing associated digital images and information about the patient,
Based on image data obtained by imaging the patient to be examined, an image generation device that generates a photographed image of the examination target;
An input means for inputting at least one of a search ID for identifying the imaged examination object or patient information related to the examination object;
Communication means for receiving image data of the captured image generated by the image generation device;
Image processing means for generating a confirmed captured image from the captured image received by the communication means;
After the input of the search ID or the patient information, the finalized captured image generated from the image data of the captured image received by the communication unit until another search ID or patient information is input, A control device having association means for associating with the inputted patient information;
The image processing apparatus includes: a storage unit that stores the confirmed captured image and the patient information associated with each other by the association unit.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the confirmation generated from the image data received by the communication unit after the search ID is input by the input unit of the control device and before another search ID is input. The captured image is associated with input patient information and stored in a storage unit.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the small-scale diagnosis system according to the first aspect, a plurality of the image generation devices are arranged, and one control device is arranged.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, photographed images generated by a plurality of image generation devices are sent to one control device and processed.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the small-scale diagnosis system according to the second aspect, the plurality of image generation apparatuses are configured in a plurality of types.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, photographing is performed by a plurality of types of image generation devices such as a CR device, an ultrasonic photographing device, and an endoscopic photographing device.

  The invention according to claim 4 has a function of correcting at least one of density and contrast of the photographed image in the small-scale diagnosis system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. It is characterized by.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the image processing means generates a definite photographed image suitable for diagnosis by correcting the density and contrast of the photographed image.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the definite photographing generated from the image data received by the communication unit after the search ID is input by the input unit of the control device and before another search ID is input. Since the image is associated with the patient information of the patient corresponding to the search ID, the association between the patient and the captured image can be performed easily and appropriately without introducing a basic system such as HIS / RIS. For this reason, in a relatively small environment such as a practitioner or clinic where it is not expected that multiple patients will be photographed in parallel, the patient's patient can be obtained by simple means without incurring costs for system maintenance. There is an effect that information and captured images can be appropriately managed.

  In addition, since the final captured image, which is the final diagnostic image, can be associated with the patient information of the patient using the same control device, it is possible to operate a special device or input imaging order information. The photographed images can be easily organized without doing so, and the burden on the doctor can be reduced. Furthermore, since the captured image is associated with patient information related to the patient to be examined, such as the patient name, and stored in a storage means such as a server, comparison for determining a healing trend during reexamination is performed. The captured image can be effectively used as a business image.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, even when imaging is performed using a plurality of image generation apparatuses, the generated captured image is, for example, a workstation (PC) placed in a room where a doctor performs a diagnosis. Since the information is sent to one control device and processed, an operator such as a doctor can easily organize the captured images without operating special equipment or performing key input operations. Therefore, particularly in a small-scale facility with a small number of personnel such as doctors, it is possible to reduce the burden on the doctors and improve the environment where the doctor can concentrate on the examination.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, since imaging can be performed by a plurality of types of image generation apparatuses such as a CR apparatus, an ultrasonic imaging apparatus, and an endoscopic imaging apparatus, it is suitable for each patient as necessary. Photographing can be performed using the apparatus. Even in this case, the generated photographed image is sent to one control device such as a workstation (PC) placed in a room where a doctor examines, and processed, so that an operator such as a doctor can use a special device. The captured images can be easily arranged without any operation or key input operation. Therefore, particularly in a small-scale facility with a small number of personnel such as doctors, it is possible to reduce the burden on the doctors and improve the environment where the doctor can concentrate on the examination.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the density and contrast of the photographed image can be corrected in a control device such as a workstation (PC) placed in a room where a doctor examines. A person can easily correct a captured image without moving between a plurality of apparatuses. Therefore, particularly in a small-scale facility with a small number of personnel such as doctors, it is possible to reduce the burden on the doctors and improve the environment where the doctor can concentrate on the examination.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of a small-scale diagnosis system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

  FIG. 1 shows a system configuration of a small-scale diagnosis system 1 in the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 shows an arrangement example of each apparatus in a medical facility when the small-scale diagnosis system 1 is applied.

  The small-scale diagnosis system 1 is a system applied to a relatively small-scale medical facility such as a practitioner or a clinic. As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a that is an image generation apparatus 2, an endoscopic imaging A device 2b, a CR (Computed Radiography) device 2c, a control device 3, a server 4, and a receiving device 11a are configured. Each device is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) via a switching hub (not shown). Or the like (hereinafter simply referred to as “network”) 6. The number of each device in the small-scale diagnosis system 1 is not particularly limited, but the control device 3 is a small-scale diagnosis system from the viewpoint of consolidating control of the entire system in one place and saving the operator's movement. It is preferable that only one is provided in one.

  In general, DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard is used as a communication method in a hospital, and DICOM MWM (Modality Worklist Management) or DICOM MPPS (DICOM MPPS) is used for communication between devices connected to a LAN. Modality Performed Procedure Step) is used. Note that the communication method applicable to this embodiment is not limited to this.

For example, in a small-scale medical facility such as a medical practitioner or a clinic, each device is arranged as shown in FIG.
That is, when the entrance 10 is entered, there is a reception 11 and a waiting room 12 provided with a reception device 11a for receiving a patient (test object). The reception device 11 is provided with the reception device 11a. When the patient performs reception using the reception device 11a, for example, a reception number in the reception order is given to the patient. At this time, for example, a receipt number tag (receipt slip or examination ticket) on which a receipt number is printed may be issued.
When receiving a patient, the receiving apparatus 11a creates a patient list in which patients are listed in the order of reception.
In addition, one person in charge of the counter may be assigned to the reception, and the person in charge may listen to the patient's name and input it via the reception device 11a. It is preferable that the receiving device 11a fulfills the function of a computer for reception (hereinafter referred to as “receiver computer”) by performing an operation of inputting related necessary items.

  Next to the waiting room 12, there is provided an examination room 13 where a doctor examines and diagnoses a patient across a door or the like. For example, on the examination desk (not shown) in the examination room 13, a doctor can input patient information (identification information) or the like, or display a photographed image on a viewer for confirmation. An apparatus 3 and a server 4 as storage means for storing various information such as photographed images are arranged. In the examination room 13, an ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a which is less necessary in a space isolated from the viewpoint of privacy and the like is also installed.

  Further, an X-ray imaging room 15 for performing X-ray imaging is provided on the opposite side of the examination room 13 across the corridor 14. In the X-ray imaging room 15, a CR device 2 c including an imaging device 22 and a reading device 23 is disposed. Further, an examination room 16 is provided next to the X-ray imaging room 15, and an endoscope imaging apparatus 2 b is disposed in the examination room 16.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the waiting room 12, the examination room 13, the X-ray imaging room 15, and the examination room 16 with the reception 11 are located on the same floor, and patients who undergo examination, imaging, and examination are accepted. Then, move to the examination room, receive an inquiry by the doctor, move to the imaging room or examination room, perform the imaging / inspection instructed by the doctor, return to the examination room again, and generate the captured image Based on this, a series of operations until a doctor's examination and diagnosis are received can be performed only by moving a relatively short distance between each room and the corridor 14. Note that the arrangement of each room and each device is not limited to that shown in FIG.

  The ultrasonic imaging device 2a is an ultrasonic probe that outputs ultrasonic waves, and an electronic device that is connected to the ultrasonic probe and converts sound waves (echo signals) received by the ultrasonic probe into image data of a captured image of the internal tissue. (Both not shown). The ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a sends ultrasonic waves into the body from the ultrasonic probe, receives again the sound waves (echo signals) reflected on the tissue in the body, and receives the captured images corresponding to the echo signals with an electronic device. It is designed to generate.

  The ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a is connected to a conversion device 21 that is a conversion means (converter) that performs conversion from an analog signal to a digital signal. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a is connected to the network 6 via the conversion device 21. It is connected to the. In this way, through the conversion device 21, even when data in a format that does not meet the standards of other external devices connected to the network 6 is output from the ultrasonic imaging device 2 a, the data is appropriately converted and connected to the network 6. Data can be transmitted / received to / from the external device.

The conversion device 21 is provided with an input operation unit 21a including, for example, a numeric keypad, a keyboard, and a touch panel. The input operation unit 21a is an information ancillary unit that is attached to the image data of a captured image that is captured by inputting a search ID. The configuration of the input operation unit 21a is not limited to the one shown here. For example, a card reader that reads information written on a card by inserting a card or a barcode reader that reads a barcode can be used. Good.
Here, the “search ID” is information for specifying an examination target (patient) that is an imaging target. For example, a serial number (reception number) written on an examination ticket (receipt slip) held by the patient No.), but is not limited to this.
In the present embodiment, a case where the reception number is used as a search ID input from the input operation unit 21a will be described below. For general practitioners, etc., the number of visits per day is usually about 10 to 40, and it is sufficient that the reception number (consecutive ticket serial number) is two digits. An inexpensive numeric keypad is preferable if possible.
The information input from the input operation unit 21a and attached to the captured image is not limited to the search ID. Information specifying the type of imaging, such as whether the imaging is simple imaging without using a contrast agent or imaging using a contrast agent, may be input. The input search ID and other information are appended to the image data of the captured image as supplementary information such as header information, and when the image data is transmitted to an external device, the information is also transmitted in association with the image data. .

  The endoscope imaging device 2b is a tube in which a small imaging device is provided at the distal end portion of a flexible tube (both not shown), and the imaging device is an objective optical configured by, for example, an optical lens. A system, an imaging unit disposed at an imaging position of the objective optical system, and an illumination unit configured by an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like and performing illumination necessary for imaging. ) The imaging unit includes, for example, a solid-state imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor). When light is incident, the imaging unit photoelectrically converts the signal into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of incident light. . The objective optical system is configured to condense an area illuminated by the illuminating unit with an optical lens and form an image on a solid-state imaging device included in the imaging unit, and light incident on the solid-state imaging device is photoelectrically converted. As a result, the image data of the captured image is output as an electrical signal.

  The imaging device 22 constituting the CR device 2c has a radiation source (not shown), and shoots a still image by irradiating the examination target (not shown) with radiation. There is a radiation image conversion medium (not shown) in which a radiation image conversion plate including a stimulable phosphor sheet that accumulates radiation energy, for example, is incorporated in an irradiation region of radiation irradiated from the radiation source at the time of imaging. The photostimulable fluorescence of the photostimulable phosphor sheet is arranged in the radiation image conversion medium so that the radiation dose according to the radiation transmittance distribution of the inspection object with respect to the radiation dose from the radiation source is arranged. It accumulates in the body layer and records the radiation image information to be inspected in this stimulable phosphor layer.

The reading device 23 is a device that loads a radiographic image conversion medium in which radiographic image information to be inspected is recorded, reads radiographic image information to be inspected from the radiographic image conversion medium, and generates a captured image. The control device 3 Based on the control signal from, the stimulable phosphor sheet of the radiation image conversion medium loaded in the apparatus was irradiated with excitation light, and thereby the photostimulated light emitted from the sheet was photoelectrically converted and obtained. A captured image is generated by A / D converting the image signal.
The CR device 2c may be an integrated device in which the photographing device 22 and the reading device 23 are integrated.

  Although not shown in the drawing, the retrieval device 23 of the endoscope imaging device 2b and the CR device 2c also uses a search ID in the image data at the time of imaging in the same manner as the input operation unit 21a of the conversion device 21 in the ultrasonic imaging device 2a. For example, a numeric keypad input unit is provided as a built-in or externally connected information supplementary unit for attaching information specifying the type of imaging or the like, and appends a search ID of the patient to the image data of the generated captured image It is like that.

  Next, the server 4 is a computer that includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a storage unit, an input unit, a display unit, a communication unit (all not shown), and the like. The server 4 includes a database 5 and constitutes a storage unit that stores captured images transmitted from the control device 3 via the communication unit.

  The control device 3 is, for example, a workstation (PC: Personal Computer) installed in the examination room 13 and may include a monitor (display unit) with a higher definition than a general PC. As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 3 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 32, a storage unit 33, an input unit 34, a display unit 35, a communication unit 36, and the like. Each part is connected by a bus 37.

  The CPU 31 reads out various programs such as a system program and a processing program stored in the storage unit 33, expands them in the RAM 32, and executes various processes including image processing and association processing described later according to the expanded programs. It is like that.

  The storage unit 33 includes an HDD (Hard Disc), a semiconductor nonvolatile memory, or the like. In the storage unit 33, various programs are stored as described above, and a part identification for identifying an imaging part as disclosed in the specifications of JP-A-H11-85950 and JP-A-2001-76141. Parameters (such as a look-up table for associating the contour, shape, etc. of the object to be imaged with the imaged region) and image processing parameters for performing image processing according to the identified imaged region (tone curve used for gradation processing) And the like, a look-up table defining the frequency, the enhancement degree of frequency processing, etc.) are stored.

  The storage unit 33 temporarily stores image data generated by the various image generation apparatuses 2. Note that when image data includes information specifying the type of imaging, patient identification information, and the like, the image data and these pieces of information are stored in association with each other. In addition, the storage unit 33 stores various types of information sent to the control device 3 such as a patient list created in the order of patient acceptance.

  The input unit 34 includes, for example, a keyboard having cursor keys, numeric input keys, and various function keys (not shown), and a pointing device such as a mouse, and specifies an examination target (patient) that is an imaging target. It is an input means for inputting a search ID to be performed and patient information related to each patient. The input unit 34 is configured to output an instruction signal input by a key operation on the keyboard or a mouse operation to the CPU 31.

  The display unit 35 includes, for example, a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). As will be described later, the display unit 35 includes image data, confirmed image data generated from the image data, and various types. Display means for displaying the identification information. The display unit 35 displays various screens in accordance with display signal instructions input from the CPU 31.

  In the present embodiment, for example, when a patient is received by the reception device 11 a, a patient list is generated according to the reception order and transmitted to the control device 3 via the network 6. When a doctor or the like inputs an instruction signal to display the patient list from the input unit 34, a patient list display screen 35 a as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display unit 35.

  When a patient is selected from the patient list on the display unit 35, the display screen of the display unit 35 is automatically switched to an image confirmation screen 35b as shown in FIG. When imaging is performed and image data acquired from the ultrasound imaging apparatus 2a, the endoscope imaging apparatus 2b, and the CR apparatus 2c, which are image generation apparatuses, are transmitted to the control apparatus 3, the image confirmation screen 35b is displayed. The captured image data is displayed on the screen.

As shown in FIG. 5, on the image confirmation screen 35b, an image display field 351 for displaying the image data generated by the various image generation devices 2 and an image for inputting an instruction for adjusting the image processing conditions. A processing condition adjustment field 352 is provided. The image display field 351 is provided corresponding to each display field of the image display field 351. The image data displayed in each display field is confirmed, and the image data is stored as confirmed image data. A button 353, an NG button 354 for instructing to discard and re-output the image data displayed in each display column, and the result of automatic part recognition of which part of the patient is taken for each captured image, An imaging region display field 355 for displaying the determined imaging region is arranged. When the image data is saved as finalized image data described later, a saved mark or the like may be displayed in each display field of the image display field 351.
The image confirmation screen 35b is provided with a reception number field 356a for inputting and displaying a reception number as a search ID and a patient name field 356b for inputting and displaying a patient name as patient information. In the present embodiment, an example in which a search ID is input and a reception number field 356a is provided as a display field, patient information is input and a patient name field 356b is provided as a display field will be described as an example. The input, display field, patient information input, and display field are not limited to those illustrated here.
In addition, the image confirmation screen 35b is provided with an inspection end button 357 for ending the inspection, a return button 358 for returning to the previous display screen, and the like. The image confirmation screen 35b may be provided with other display fields and buttons. For example, a field for displaying an acceptance number corresponding to the patient list may be provided.

  The communication unit 36 includes a network interface or the like, and transmits / receives data to / from an external device connected to the network 6 via a switching hub. That is, the communication unit 36 receives the image data of the captured image generated by the image generation device 2, and transmits the image data of the finalized captured image that has undergone image processing to an external device such as the server 4 as necessary. And function as output means for outputting.

  Next, various processes performed by the CPU 31 will be described.

  Further, the CPU 31 functions as an image processing unit that performs image processing according to the imaging region on the image data of the captured image generated by the image generation device 2 and received by the communication unit 36, and generates a definite captured image suitable for diagnosis. To do.

  Specifically, the CPU 31 first reads the part identification parameter from the storage unit 33 and automatically identifies the part to be photographed from the contour, shape, etc. of the photographing object that appears in the photographed image generated by the image generation device 2. I do. When the part of the captured image is identified, the CPU 31 reads out the image processing parameter corresponding to the captured part from the storage unit 33, determines the image processing condition based on the read parameter, and the image data under the determined image processing condition. Are subjected to image processing such as gradation processing for adjusting the contrast of the image, processing for adjusting the density, frequency processing for adjusting the sharpness, and the like, and a confirmed captured image for diagnosis is generated. Further, when an operator such as a doctor inputs from the image processing condition adjustment field 352 to adjust the density or contrast of the photographed image, the CPU 31 performs image processing of the photographed image accordingly. When the image processing is completed and the OK button 353 is pressed, the CPU 31 determines the image data of the captured image after the image processing as the image data of the final captured image.

Further, the CPU 31 performs association processing for associating a search ID for identifying a patient to be imaged and patient information that is unique information of each patient with a confirmed captured image after predetermined image processing. Functions as a means.
The CPU 31 receives the image data of the photographed image received by the communication unit 36 after the input of the search ID from the input unit 34 until the input of another search ID. Judge that it corresponds to.
When patient-specific patient information (patient name, etc.) corresponding to the input search ID is input, the final captured image generated from the captured image is associated with the patient information of the patient. It has become.

  Next, the operation of the image small-scale diagnosis system 1 in the present embodiment will be described.

  When a patient is received by the reception device 11a, a reception number in the reception order is given to the patient, and a patient list is generated by the reception device 11a. The patient list is sent to the control device 3 in the examination room 13 via the network 6. When the patient enters the examination room 13, the doctor opens the patient list display screen 35a on the display unit 35 of the control device 3 to display the patient list, and selects the patient from the list (usually in order from the top of the list). When a patient is selected from the patient list, the display screen of the display unit 35 is automatically switched to the image confirmation screen 35b. At the stage of selecting a patient, as shown in FIG. 6A, the reception number is displayed in the reception number column 356a, and the patient name column 356b is displayed on the screen in a blank state.

  The doctor interrogates the selected patient, determines the imaging and examination to be performed, and the patient moves to the imaging room 15 or the examination room 16 in which the image generating apparatus 2 is appropriately designated. If an inspection reservation is made in advance on that day, it may be moved directly from the reception to the imaging room 15 or the inspection room 16.

  When imaging is performed by a doctor or the like, information regarding the type of imaging is input from the input operation unit 21a of the image generation apparatus 2, and the image data of the captured image is transmitted via the network 6 in a state where the information is attached as header information. To the control device 3.

  When image data of a photographed image is sent from the image generation device 2 to the control device 3, the CPU 31 automatically identifies the part that has been photographed. When the imaging region is identified, the CPU 31 determines an image processing condition according to the imaging region, and performs image processing according to the condition for the image data of the captured image. Then, after image processing is performed, the photographed images are displayed in a list in the image display field 351 of the image confirmation screen 35b. In the image display field 351 of the image confirmation screen 35b, an image received by the communication unit 36 after a search ID is input from the input unit 34 until another search ID is input next time. The captured images of data are displayed as a list corresponding to the search ID. In this way, by separating the period until another search ID is input, the patient previously selected from the patient list and the patient who performed imaging have a one-to-one correspondence, and the captured image and There is no risk of mistaking the patient.

An operator such as a doctor confirms the captured image on the image confirmation screen 35b, and if there is no problem, confirms the captured image by using the OK button 353 as a confirmed captured image for diagnosis.
After confirming the photographed image, the doctor writes diagnostic findings on a paper chart or the like, and associates the image data of the confirmed photographed image with patient-specific patient information (patient name, etc.) as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the patient name corresponding to the reception number is input from the keyboard, and the image data of the confirmed captured image is associated with the input patient information (with the patient information as supplementary information) in the database 5 of the server 4. Save to a storage means such as
After this storage, an image search by the patient's name can be performed at any time. In addition, after describing the findings on the paper chart, the doctor gives the paper chart to the reception desk staff who uses the paper chart for generating receipt information for insurance score claim processing.

  On the other hand, when there is a problem with the image processing of the captured image, an operator such as a doctor adjusts the density and contrast of the captured image in the image processing condition adjustment field 352. If the image processing according to the imaging region is not properly performed, the correction of the parameter is performed by reflecting the adjustment of the density and contrast of the captured image performed in the image processing condition adjustment field 352 in the image processing parameter. You may make it perform. In addition, when adjustment is not possible only by adjustment of density, contrast, etc., such as a photographed image displayed in each display field is unclear, an NG button 354 for instructing to discard and re-output image data of the photographed image is provided. By operating, the image data of the photographed image is discarded, and the image data is re-output from the image generation apparatus 2.

  As described above, according to the image small-scale diagnosis system 1 according to the present embodiment, communication 36 is performed after the search ID is input at the input unit 34 of the control device 3 until another search ID is input. The determined captured image generated from the received image data is associated with the patient information of the patient. In this case, since the patient who is selected from the patient list and whose search ID is input is associated with the patient who has performed imaging, the imaging order information or the like is not input in advance before imaging. There is no risk of mistaking the patient and the captured image. As described above, since imaging order information such as an imaging region is not input or generated before imaging or examination, it is possible to reduce the burden of a doctor or the like by reducing the time required for a key input operation or the like.

  In addition, these functions that were previously divided between console workstations and viewer workstations, which were provided at different positions according to the division of roles, can be used as workflows for small-scale facilities such as practitioners and clinics. In view of this, a single control device (workstation) 3 can be used. Thereby, since the doctor does not need to go back and forth between a plurality of workstations and does not need to perform various operations, the burden is reduced, the doctor can concentrate on the diagnosis, and the diagnosis accuracy and efficiency can be improved.

  In addition, since the confirmed image data is stored in the database 5 of the server 4 in association with the patient information regarding the patient, the image data is effectively used as an image for comparison for judging a healing trend at the time of reexamination. be able to.

  Furthermore, since the photographed image data is displayed on the display unit 35 as a viewer for diagnosis, it is not necessary to use a film for diagnosis and storage of image data, and cost saving can be realized.

  In addition, since a plurality of types of image generation apparatuses 2 such as the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a, the endoscope imaging apparatus 2b, and the CR apparatus 2c are provided, the minimum necessary imaging and inspection can be performed. In addition, even when shooting is performed using a plurality of image generation apparatuses 2 as described above, images received by the communication 36 after the search ID is input by the input unit 34 and before another search ID is input. Since all the data are determined to correspond to the same search ID and are associated with the patient in a one-to-one relationship, there is no possibility that the patient and the captured image will be mistaken.

  Furthermore, since the converting means 21 is connected to the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a which is the image generating apparatus 2, the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a is an existing apparatus provided in each facility to which the small-scale diagnosis system 1 is applied. Even when outputting image data that does not meet the standards, the image data can be appropriately converted and applied. For this reason, the existing apparatus can be used as it is, and the burden of capital investment etc. is not required.

  In addition, since the input operation unit 21a of the conversion device 21 can attach information about the type of shooting to the image data of the shot image, it saves time and effort for inputting the type of shooting later and saves the insurance claim calculation. Can be

  In the present embodiment, the case where the image generation apparatus 2 includes the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a, the endoscope imaging apparatus 2b, and the CR apparatus 2c has been described as an example. However, the image generation apparatus 2 is a patient to be examined. Any device may be used as long as it includes an image generation unit that generates a captured image based on image data obtained by imaging, and is not limited to the one exemplified here. Those that use other radiographic image conversion media, those that acquire image data without using radiographic image conversion media and generate captured images based on this, and those that directly extract radiographic images as digital signals using a radiation detector Any apparatus that generates a captured image can be applied. Specifically, in addition to the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 2a, the endoscopic imaging apparatus 2b, and the CR apparatus 2c shown in the present embodiment, for example, CT (Computed Tomografhy), MRT (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), FPD (Flat Panel Detector) ), Mammography apparatus (mammography), and the like, but is not limited thereto.

In the present embodiment, the input unit 34 of the control device 3 functions as an input unit for inputting the search ID and patient information. However, the input unit is not limited to this, and may be, for example, another device. The input search ID and patient information may be sent to the control device 3 together with the patient list.
In this embodiment, the search ID is input first, and the patient-specific patient information corresponding to the image is input after the image is confirmed. However, the input of the search ID is omitted, and the patient-specific information is first input. The patient information may be input, the image may be acquired, and the confirmed image based on the acquired image may be associated with the patient information.

  In the present embodiment, the search ID, patient information, and information regarding the type of imaging regarding the patient who performed imaging and examination are transmitted to the receiving apparatus 11a having the receipt function. However, an electronic medical record is introduced. In such a case, the information may be sent to the electronic medical record, information that is missing on the electronic medical record, etc., may be input and transmitted from the electronic medical record to the accepting device 11a having the receipt control function.

  In the present embodiment, the confirmed captured image and the patient information associated therewith are stored in the server 4, but the confirmed captured image and the patient information associated therewith are stored as storage means. For example, the storage unit 33 of the control device 3 may be configured as a storage unit that stores the confirmed captured image and patient information associated therewith.

  In addition, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment and can be appropriately changed.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of one Embodiment of the image small-scale diagnosis system which concerns on this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning in the medical facility of each apparatus at the time of applying the image small-scale diagnosis system shown in FIG. It is a principal part block diagram which shows schematic structure of the control apparatus applied to the image small scale diagnostic system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the patient list confirmation screen in the image small scale diagnostic system shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the image confirmation screen in the image small scale diagnostic system shown in FIG. FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams illustrating an example of a reception number column and a patient name column on the image confirmation screen illustrated in FIG. 5. It is a figure which shows an example of the patient registration screen in the conventional large-scale diagnosis system.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image small scale diagnostic system 2a Ultrasound imaging device 2b Endoscopic imaging device 2c CR apparatus 3 Control apparatus 4 Server 6 Network 11a Reception apparatus 21 Print link 31 CPU
32 RAM
33 Storage unit 34 Input unit 35 Display unit 35a Patient list confirmation screen 35b Image confirmation screen 36 Communication unit

Claims (4)

Take a picture of the patient and create a digital image,
After that, the digital image is displayed in the viewer and provided for diagnosis.
The digital image displayed on the viewer is associated with the information on the patient,
In a small-scale diagnostic system for storing associated digital images and information about the patient,
Based on image data obtained by imaging the patient to be examined, an image generation device that generates a photographed image of the examination target;
An input means for inputting at least one of a search ID for identifying the imaged examination object or patient information related to the examination object;
Communication means for receiving image data of the captured image generated by the image generation device;
Image processing means for generating a confirmed captured image from the captured image received by the communication means;
After the input of the search ID or the patient information, the finalized captured image generated from the image data of the captured image received by the communication unit until another search ID or patient information is input, A control device having association means for associating with the inputted patient information;
A small-scale diagnosis system comprising: a storage unit that stores the confirmed captured image and the patient information associated by the association unit.   The small-scale diagnosis system according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of the image generation devices are arranged and one control device is arranged.   The small-scale diagnosis system according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of image generation apparatuses are configured in a plurality of types.   The small-scale diagnosis system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image processing unit has a function of correcting at least one of density and contrast of the photographed image.

Images