JP2002177262A - Computed tomography apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a CT apparatus capable of speedily setting the imaging region of the apparatus consisting of plural imaging sections in planning the imaging. SOLUTION: The CT apparatus displays a transmitted X-ray image CR for determining the position and plural (e.g. four) imaging sections XU1-4 on the screen of a display monitor 22 at the same time. When a specific imaging section among the imaging sections XU1-4 is adjusted, other sections related to the specific section are automatically adjusted in the same way following the adjustment of the specific section. Therefore, since other imaging sections related to a specific imaging section can be automatically adjusted following the adjustment of the specific imaging section by adjusting the specific imaging section only, it is not necessary to adjust each imaging section separately. As a result, the CT imaging region XU consisting of plural imaging sections XU1-4 can be set speedily in planning the imaging.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an X-ray CT apparatus (X-ray computed tomography apparatus), which enables an X-ray CT imaging area including a plurality of imaging areas to be set quickly in an imaging plan. Related to technology.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an X-ray CT apparatus which is not an exaggeration to call a general-purpose medical diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray tube 51 for irradiating a subject (patient) M with an X-ray fan beam FB as shown in FIG. And an X-ray imaging mechanism 53 in which an X-ray detector 52 in which a number of X-ray detection elements 52a are arranged in a line is opposed to each other with the subject M interposed therebetween. This X-ray C
The T apparatus first obtains a transmission X-ray image as a positioning image using the X-ray imaging mechanism 53, and then sets an X-ray CT imaging region by performing an imaging plan on the obtained transmission X-ray image. After that, actual X-ray tomography is performed using the X-ray imaging mechanism 53 again.

[0003] In this conventional X-ray CT apparatus, for example, when an X-ray tomography is to be performed with the imaged part as the head, the transmitted X-ray image of the head obtained as the positioning image as described above is used. An X-ray CT imaging area is set by performing an imaging plan above, and actual X-ray tomography is performed on the set X-ray CT imaging area. Specifically, FIG.
, An X-ray CT imaging area XU including a plurality of imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XUa to XUd) is set. In each of the imaging areas XUa to XUd, respective imaging conditions are set for each area, and one or more slices are imaged under the same imaging conditions in the same area. The imaging conditions (imaging conditions for slice imaging) include, for example, slice thickness, slice pitch, tube current, tube voltage, imaging speed, and the like.

In addition, each of the above-mentioned imaging areas XUa to XUd
In addition, the respective imaging conditions for each of these areas are created in advance by an operator and set in the conventional apparatus. As shown in FIG. 14, the transmission X-ray image CR for the positioning image taken earlier and the four imaging areas XU
Box cursors XBa to XBd indicating a to XUd are simultaneously displayed on the screen of the display monitor 55. The box cursors XBa to XBd are displayed at initial positions on the screen. In the state displayed in this manner, by performing a screen input operation or the like using an input device (not shown) such as a mouse, each of the box cursors XBa to XBd is moved to a desired position and the imaging areas XUa to XUd are moved. Is adjusted to set a real X-ray CT imaging region XU for X-ray tomography,
Each imaging area XUa- of the set X-ray CT imaging area XU
Slice imaging is performed on XUd in the order of XUa → XUb → XUc → XUd. Each imaging area XU in which each imaging condition is set for each area
The reason for setting a to XUd is that it is necessary to set the respective imaging conditions for each of the imaging areas XUa to XUd according to the state of the imaging region (for example, the state of the skull in the head as the imaging region). is there.

That is, the X-ray CT set in the imaging plan
The X-ray tube 51 and the X-ray detector 52 are moved along the X-ray tube 51 and the X-ray detector 52 while moving the tabletop 54 on which the subject M is placed in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface) according to the imaging region XU. And irradiates the subject M with the X-ray fan beam FB from the X-ray tube 51 and simultaneously outputs the X-ray detection data output from the X-ray detector 52 on each slice surface of the subject M. The data is collected as X-ray CT image creation data, and in the subsequent stage of the X-ray detector 52, image reconstruction is performed based on the collected X-ray detection data, and finally an X-ray CT image is created.

[0006]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional X-ray CT apparatus, when the X-ray CT imaging area XU is composed of a plurality of imaging areas, the setting of the X-ray CT imaging area XU cannot be performed quickly. There is a problem that there is often. That is, when the previous X-ray CT imaging area XU includes a plurality of imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XUa to XUd), each of the imaging areas XUa to XUd simultaneously displayed on the display screen is , The four imaging areas XUa to XUd are sequentially moved to desired positions one by one, so that the X-ray CT imaging area XU
It takes a fair amount of time to complete.

In view of the above circumstances, it is an object of the present invention to provide an X-ray CT apparatus which can quickly set an X-ray CT imaging area including a plurality of imaging areas when planning an imaging. .

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an X-ray CT apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that an image for positioning a subject and an imaging condition for each area are set and the same. An imaging area display control means for simultaneously displaying, on the screen of the display means, an imaging area in which one or more slice images are taken under the same imaging conditions, and an imaging area displayed on the screen of the display means Is set on the screen to set an X-ray CT imaging area composed of a plurality of imaging areas, and for each imaging area of the X-ray CT imaging area set by the imaging area setting means. In an X-ray CT apparatus provided with X-ray imaging means for performing slice imaging in a predetermined order to obtain X-ray CT image creation data, when a specific imaging area is adjusted by the imaging area setting means, An image pickup section automatic follow-up means for automatically performing to follow the same adjustment to the adjustment of the particular imaging area relative to the other imaging area is correlated with a specific imaging area.

Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first aspect, when the specific imaging area is adjusted by the imaging area setting means, the correlation automatically follows. It is configured to automatically perform the same adjustment as described above so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area for an imaging area in which the order of imaging is later than the specific imaging area as a relationship. It is characterized by the following.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first or second aspect, there is provided an imaging area connecting means for connecting the imaging areas on the screen of the display means in the order of imaging. When the position of a specific imaging area is changed by adjustment on the screen of the display means, the imaging area automatic following means changes the position of the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area. Is instructed to automatically change the imaging order to a position connected after the specific imaging area in the order of imaging.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first or second aspect, the imaging area automatic follow-up means has a size of a specific imaging area on a screen of the display means. Or, when the adjustment of the angle is performed, for the imaging area in which the order of imaging is later than the specific imaging area as the correlation, the same correspondence as described above so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area The size or the angle is automatically adjusted.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first or second aspect, wherein the same imaging area is displayed by superimposing a plurality of the same imaging area on the screen of the display means. The image capturing area automatic following means includes a superimposing means, and when the adjustment of a specific image capturing area among a plurality of image capturing areas superimposed and displayed on the screen of the display means is performed, the correlation The same adjustment as described above is automatically performed for an imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of a specific imaging area.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the first or fifth aspect, an imaging start position aligning means for aligning an imaging start position of an imaging area on a screen of the display means, Select one of imaging end position alignment means for aligning the imaging end position of the imaging area on the screen of the display means, and imaging center position alignment means for aligning the imaging center position of the imaging area on the screen of the display means. The imaging area automatic following means is configured to selectively operate one of an imaging start position, an imaging end position, and an imaging center position of a specific imaging area on a screen of the display means. Is changed, the corresponding position among the imaging start position, the imaging end position, and the imaging center position for the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area is specified. And instructing a corresponding one of the imaging start position alignment means, the imaging end position alignment means, and the imaging center position alignment means to automatically align the imaging position with the changed position. It is.

[Operation] Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention will be described. According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the first aspect, when an X-ray CT imaging region including a plurality of imaging regions is set, the imaging region display control means includes a positioning image of the subject and a region-by-region image. Each imaging condition is set,
In the same area, an imaging area in which one or more slice imaging is performed under the same imaging condition is simultaneously displayed on the screen of the display unit. An X-ray CT imaging area including a plurality of imaging areas is set by adjusting the imaging area displayed on the screen of the display means using the positioning image on the screen of the display means by the imaging area setting means. According to the set X-ray CT imaging area, that is, slice imaging is performed in a predetermined order for each imaging area of the X-ray CT imaging area, and X-ray CT image creation data is obtained. During the adjustment of the imaging area by the above-mentioned imaging area setting means, when a specific imaging area is adjusted, the imaging area automatic tracking means, for other imaging areas that are correlated with the specific imaging area, The same adjustment as described above is automatically performed so as to follow the adjustment of a specific imaging area. Therefore, it is not necessary to adjust each imaging area individually, and only by adjusting a specific imaging area, other imaging areas correlated with this specific imaging area follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area. X-ray C that is automatically adjusted during imaging
The setting of the T imaging region can be performed quickly.

Further, according to the X-ray CT apparatus according to the second aspect, the imaging area automatic follower has a correlation with the specific imaging area when the specific imaging area is adjusted by the imaging area setting means. The same adjustment as described above is automatically performed on another imaging area, that is, an imaging area in which the order of imaging is later than the specific imaging area so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area. Therefore, when setting an X-ray CT imaging region including a plurality of imaging zones, adjustment of each imaging zone is usually performed in the order of execution of imaging after setting, and adjustment of a subsequent imaging zone is performed in advance. In many cases, the adjustment is performed in accordance with the adjustment of the imaging area. As a result, a specific imaging area (for example, 2
Following the adjustment of the second imaging area, the same adjustment as that of the specific imaging area (for example, the second imaging area) is automatically performed on the subsequent imaging area (for example, the third imaging area or less). In addition to automatically and smoothly adjusting the subsequent imaging area, the automatic tracking adjustment similar to the adjustment of the specific imaging area is performed only for the subsequent imaging area and is performed in the advanced imaging area (for example, Setting of the X-ray CT imaging area without being disturbed by the automatic follow-up adjustment to the subsequent imaging area without disturbing the adjustment already performed for the advanced imaging area. Can be performed quickly.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an X-ray CT apparatus, comprising: an imaging area connecting means for connecting the imaging areas on the screen of the display means in the order of imaging; When the position of the specific imaging area is changed by the adjustment on the screen of the display means, the position of the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area is changed to a position connected after the specific imaging area. Is instructed to automatically change the imaging area, so that when the position of the specific imaging area is changed by the adjustment, the position of the imaging area following the specific imaging area is changed to the position of the specific imaging area. It is automatically changed to the position to be connected later in the order of imaging.

Further, according to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention, when the size or angle of the specific imaging area is adjusted on the screen of the display means, the automatic tracking of the imaging area is performed. For other imaging areas correlated with the imaging area, i.e., for imaging areas in which the order of imaging is later than that of the specific imaging area, the same as above so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area. Automatically adjust the size or angle. Therefore, when the size of the specific imaging area (the size of the slice cross section at the time of imaging) or the angle (slice angle) is adjusted, the imaging area corresponding to the imaging area whose imaging order is later than the specific imaging area is adjusted. The adjustment of the size or the angle is automatically performed so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area, and the setting of the X-ray CT imaging area, in which the size or the angle of the imaging area is adjusted, can be quickly performed.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention, the same imaging area superimposing means for superimposing and displaying the same imaging area by a plurality of times on the screen of the display means is provided. When the adjustment of the specific imaging area among the plurality of imaging areas displayed in a superimposed manner on the screen of the display means is performed, the other imaging areas correlated with the specific imaging area, The same adjustment as described above is automatically performed on an imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the imaging area. Therefore, even when an X-ray CT imaging region in which the same imaging area is overlapped by a plurality of times is set in order to inspect the same imaging region a plurality of times (phase imaging inspection mode), the same imaging region is superimposed. The adjustment of the imaging area having a later order of imaging than the specific imaging area of the plurality of imaging areas is automatically performed similarly to the adjustment of the specific imaging area, and the setting of the X-ray CT imaging area is quickly performed. And the degree of freedom in setting the X-ray CT imaging region is improved.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention, the automatic imaging area follow-up means includes an imaging start position, an imaging end position, and an imaging center position of a specific imaging area on the screen of the display means. If one of them is changed by the selection operation,
The corresponding positions among the imaging start position, the imaging end position, and the imaging center position of the imaging region in which the imaging order is later than the specific imaging region are automatically aligned with the changed position of the specific imaging region. Instruct the corresponding means among the imaging start position aligning means, the imaging end position aligning means, and the imaging center position aligning means. Therefore, when the imaging start position of the specific imaging area is changed, the imaging start position of the imaging area following the specific imaging area is automatically aligned with the changed position of the specific imaging area. Further, when the imaging end position of the specific imaging area is changed, the imaging end position of the imaging area subsequent to the specific imaging area is automatically aligned with the changed position of the specific imaging area. Further, when the imaging center position of the specific imaging area is changed, the imaging center position of the imaging area following the specific imaging area is automatically aligned with the changed position of the specific imaging area.

[0020]

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an X-ray C according to the embodiment.
It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of T apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 1, in the X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment, an X-ray tube 1 for irradiating an object M with an X-ray fan beam FB and a number of X-ray detecting elements 2a are arranged in a line. The X-ray imaging mechanism (X-ray imaging means) 3 in which the X-ray detector 2 is opposed to the subject M across the subject M, the X-ray tube 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are maintained in the opposed arrangement state. An imaging mechanism rotation driving unit 4 for rotating the subject M around the body axis Z, and a top and bottom capable of reciprocating in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M (a direction perpendicular to the paper surface) while the subject M is mounted. A plate 5 and the like are provided.
This X-ray CT apparatus uses an X-ray imaging mechanism 3 to perform X-ray CT.
Transmission X as positioning image for setting image area
X-ray images can be taken, and X-ray CT images are set according to the X-ray CT image area set using the X-ray imaging mechanism 3.
The configuration is such that image creation data can be obtained. Hereinafter, the configuration of each part of the embodiment device will be specifically described.

As shown in FIG. 1, as the rotational force of the motor 6 is transmitted to the rotating ring 9 via the pulley 7 and the belt 8,
Are configured to rotate. The X-ray tube 1 and the X-ray detector 2 of the X-ray imaging mechanism 3 are fixed to a rotating ring 9, and the X-ray tube is rotated as the rotating ring 9 rotates in conjunction with the forward or reverse rotation of the motor 6. 1 and the X-ray detector 2 rotate around the body axis Z of the subject M. Note that the imaging mechanism rotation drive unit 4 is configured to execute a necessary rotation drive operation under the control of the imaging mechanism control unit 10.

The irradiation control unit 11 includes a photographing control unit 16
The tube voltage, tube current, etc. of the high voltage generator (not shown) of the X-ray tube 1 are controlled in accordance with the set irradiation conditions from. X-ray tube 1
The X-ray detection data output from the X-ray detector 2 accompanying the irradiation of the X-ray fan beam FB from the
AS) 13.

Further, the top 5 is configured to be reciprocated in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M under the control of the top driving unit 12. The imaging mechanism control unit 10
The control of the illumination control unit 11 or the top plate driving unit 12 is performed by the console 14A, the mouse 14B, the operation monitor 15
Shooting control unit 1 according to the input operation from the camera and the shooting progress status
6 is executed in accordance with a command signal transmitted in a timely manner.

On the other hand, in the X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment, a data processing unit 17 for processing the X-ray detection data output from the X-ray detector 2 is provided at a stage subsequent to the data collection unit 13. The data processing unit 17 includes a transmission image memory 18 that stores a transmission X-ray image as a positioning image for setting an imaging region in the subject M. When performing preliminary imaging for capturing an image for positioning, the X-ray tube 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are stopped in the state shown in FIG.
While moving the table 5 on which the subject M is placed in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M, the X-ray tube 1 uses the X-ray fan beam FB.
At the same time, X-ray detection data output from the X-ray detector 2 is collected in association with the moving position of the top 5, and the obtained transmission X-ray image is stored in the transmission image memory 18 as a positioning image. Is done. In other words, the positioning image is obtained by relatively horizontally scanning the X-ray imaging mechanism 3 in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M.

On the other hand, the data processing section 17 has a detection data memory 19 for storing X-ray detection data as X-ray CT image creation data, and an image based on the X-ray detection data stored in the detection data memory 19. An image reconstruction unit 20 for performing reconstruction processing, and a CT tomographic image memory 21 for storing an X-ray CT image finally created are provided. X
When performing actual shooting to obtain line CT image creation data,
While moving the top 5 on which the subject M is placed in the direction of the body axis Z of the subject M, the X-ray tube 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are rotated around the body axis Z of the subject M, At the same time as the X-ray fan beam FB is irradiated on the subject M by the tube 1, the X-ray detection data of each slice surface of the subject M output from the X-ray detector 2 is collected and detected as X-ray CT image creation data. The data is stored in the data memory 19. That is, X-ray CT image creation data is obtained by relatively rotating and scanning the X-ray imaging mechanism 3 in the direction around the body axis Z of the subject M.

Further, a display monitor 22 is provided downstream of the data processing section 17. This display monitor 22
Displays a positioning image or an X-ray CT image on the screen in accordance with a command from the imaging control unit 16 or the like.

Further, the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment has a configuration for drafting an imaging plan using the positioning images as described below. That is, in the example apparatus, as shown in FIG. 2, the transmission X-ray image CR which is the positioning image taken in advance and the respective imaging conditions are set for each area, and the same imaging conditions are set in the same area. An imaging area display control unit 23 for simultaneously displaying, on the screen of the display monitor 22, imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XU1 to XU4) in which one or more slice imaging is performed; The position, size, angle, and the like of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are adjusted on the screen of the display monitor 22 by an input operation using 14B or the like, thereby setting the X-ray CT imaging area XU including the plurality of imaging areas XU1 to XU4. A photographing area setting unit 24; In FIG. 2, for example, the imaging part is the head of the subject M, and the transmission X-ray image CR is a transmission X-ray image of the head of the subject M viewed from the side. The X-ray CT imaging region XU is set using the CR as a guide.

As shown in FIG. 2, the imaging area XU1 corresponds to an area where four slice imaging SL1 having the same imaging conditions are performed, and the imaging area XU2 has four slice imaging SL2 having the same imaging conditions. The imaging area XU3 corresponds to the area to be imaged, and the two slice imaging SLs having the same imaging conditions
The imaging area XU4 corresponds to an area where four slice imaging SL4 with the same imaging conditions are performed. Incidentally, each slice imaging SL1 to SL
Comparing the slice thicknesses of No. 4 and No. 4, SL4>SL1> SL2
> SL3. In the case of head photography, the imaging area XU1
ＵXU4 are combined to set an X-ray CT imaging area XU so that slice imaging is performed while changing the slice thickness according to the state of the skull to obtain appropriate X-ray detection data. In the X-ray CT imaging area XU including the imaging areas XU1 to XU4, 14 slice imaging is performed.
FIG. 2 shows each of the imaging areas XU1 to XU for convenience of explanation.
Although there is a gap between adjacent areas of U4,
Actually, adjacent areas of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are continuous without any gap.

Specific factors of the above-mentioned imaging conditions (imaging conditions for slice imaging) include slice pitch, tube current, tube voltage, imaging speed, and the like in addition to the slice thickness. In the case of the example apparatus, each of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 in which the slice imaging having the same imaging condition is put together is created as a preset condition by an operator and registered in a database (not shown).

When making an imaging plan, the imaging area XU1
To XU4 are displayed on the screen of the display monitor 22 in the form of box cursors XB1 to XB4, and the shooting area setting unit 24 changes the position, size or shape of the box cursors XB1 to XB4 in response to an input operation using the mouse 14B or the like. By changing, the X-ray CT imaging area XU is set.

The X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment
In order to be able to quickly set the T shooting area XU,
Furthermore, the point which has the following structures is a remarkable feature. First, as shown in FIG.
An imaging area connecting unit 25 that connects the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 on the screen in the order of imaging, and an imaging start position alignment unit 26 that aligns the imaging start positions B of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4, as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the imaging area XU1
, XU4 to XU4, and an imaging center position alignment unit 28 for aligning the imaging center positions C of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4, as shown in FIG. The zone connecting unit 25, the imaging start position alignment unit 26, the imaging end position alignment unit 27, and the imaging center position alignment unit 28 are configured to be selectively operated by an input operation using the mouse 14B or the like.

In the case of the imaging area connecting section 25, the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are automatically connected at the start of operation. However, the imaging start position aligning section 26, the imaging end position aligning section 27, and In the case of the imaging center position alignment unit 28, the positions are not automatically aligned at the start of operation, but, for example, the imaging start position B, the imaging end position E, or the imaging center position C of the imaging area XU1 is clicked with the mouse 14B. The imaging start position B, the imaging end position E, or the imaging center position C of another imaging area is simultaneously aligned with the clicked position.

In the X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, a plurality of (for example, four) imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XU1) are displayed on the screen of the display monitor 22.
An identical imaging area superimposing unit 29 for superimposed display is provided. In FIG. 7, for convenience of explanation, each imaging area (4
Each imaging area (four imaging areas XU1) is shown slightly shifted so that it can be seen that the imaging areas XU1) are superimposed. This same imaging area superimposing section 29
Is used for setting an X-ray CT imaging region in the case of performing a phase imaging inspection mode in which the same imaging region is inspected a plurality of times, for example, repeating imaging before and after administration of an angiographic agent. The setting of the X-ray CT imaging region in the case of performing the phase imaging inspection mode, that is, the setting of a plurality (for example, four) of imaging areas is created in advance as a preset condition by an operator and registered in the database. The imaging areas are displayed in a superimposed state from the start of the operation of the same imaging area overlapping unit 29.

In addition, in the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment, upon receiving an input operation by clicking the mouse 14B, the imaging area setting unit 24 causes the imaging areas XU1 to XU as shown in FIG.
4 (in FIG. 8, the sizes of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are enlarged from the size shown by the two-dot chain line to the size shown by the solid line), or as shown in FIG. ,
The angle θ of the imaging sections XU1 to XU4 is changed (in FIG. 9, the angles of the imaging sections XU1 to XU4 are changed so as to be inclined from the direction indicated by the two-dot chain line to the direction indicated by the solid line).
Configuration. When the size of the imaging sections XU1 to XU4 changes, the size of the slice section changes. When the angle θ of the imaging sections XU1 to XU4 changes, the gantry (not shown) changes and the slice section with respect to the body axis Z of the subject M. (For example, an angle based on an axis perpendicular to the body axis Z of the subject M as a reference (0 °)) changes. In other words, if the angle θ of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 is changed, the tilt angle of the gantry at the time of imaging will change.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, when the specific imaging area is adjusted, the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment has another imaging area correlated with the specific imaging area, that is, as shown in FIG.
The order of imaging is later than the specific imaging area (subsequent)
An image pickup area automatic follow-up unit 30 is provided for automatically performing the same adjustment as described above on an image pickup area so as to follow the adjustment of a specific image pickup area. That is, when the imaging area connecting unit 25 is in operation, when the position of a specific imaging area (for example, the imaging area XU2) is changed by adjustment on the screen of the display monitor 22 by the imaging area setting unit 24, The imaging area automatic follow-up unit 30 does not change the imaging area (the imaging area XU1 in this case) that is more advanced (the imaging order is first) than the specific imaging area (in this case, the imaging area XU2), Subsequent imaging area (in this case, imaging area XU3,
XU4) is the specific imaging area (in this case, imaging area X
It instructs the imaging area connecting unit 25 to automatically change to the position connected after U2). Note that the “correlation” here means “the order of imaging in the imaging area” as described above.

When any one of the imaging start position alignment unit 26, the imaging end position alignment unit 27, and the imaging center position alignment unit 28 is in operation, the imaging area setting unit 24 controls the display monitor 22. When one of the imaging start position B, the imaging end position E, and the imaging center position C of a specific imaging area (for example, the imaging area XU2) is changed by a selection operation on the screen, the imaging area automatic following unit 30 changes The imaging area (in this case, imaging area XU1) that is more advanced (the imaging order is earlier) than the specific imaging area (in this case, imaging area XU2) is not changed, and the subsequent imaging area (in this case, imaging The corresponding position among the imaging start position B, the imaging end position E, and the imaging center position C for only the areas XU3 and XU4) is a specific imaging area (for example, the imaging area XU2).
The corresponding means of the imaging start position alignment unit 26, the imaging end position alignment unit 27, and the imaging center position alignment unit 28 are instructed to automatically align the positions after the change.

Further, when the same imaging area superimposing section 29 is in operation, a specific imaging area (for example, imaging area XU2) is adjusted (for example, the size of the imaging section is changed) by the imaging area setting section 24. , Imaging area automatic follow-up unit 30
Is the specific imaging area (in this case, imaging area XU2)
The imaging area (in this case, the imaging area XU1) which is more advanced (the imaging order is earlier) is not changed, and the same adjustment is performed only for the subsequent imaging area (in this case, the imaging areas XU3 and XU4). (In this case, the same adjustment as the size change of the imaging section XU2) is automatically performed.

Subsequently, in the embodiment apparatus having the above-described configuration, four imaging zones (XU1
To XU4), the process of setting the X-ray CT imaging area XU will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG.
FIGS. 0 (a) to (e) are schematic diagrams showing the progress of setting the X-ray CT imaging region by the embodiment device, and FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the progress of setting the X-ray CT imaging region by the embodiment device. .

In the following, the top plate 5 on which the subject M is placed is moved to set the subject M at the imaging start position, the transmission X-ray image CR of the positioning image has been captured, and the obtained transmission X-ray image CR has been obtained. The line image CR and the box cursors XB1 to XB4 indicating the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are displayed on the screen of the display monitor 22, and the imaging area connecting unit 25 and the imaging area automatic following unit 30 are started (FIG. 10). (See (a)). 10 (a) to 10 (e), for the sake of convenience of description, although there is a slight gap between adjacent areas of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 in a connected state, , There is no gap between the adjacent areas of the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 in a connected state and they are continuous.

[Step S1] For example, the operator operates (for example, drags) the imaging area XU1 shown in FIG. 10A with the mouse 14B, and manually moves the imaging area XU1 to the upper suitable position as shown in FIG. 10B. To move. Thus, the position of the imaging area XU1 is determined.

[Step S2] Imaging area automatic follow-up unit 3
0 indicates a subsequent imaging area XU as shown in FIG.
2 to XU4 are moved after the imaging area XU1, and the imaging area connecting unit 25 is instructed to be automatically connected. Since the matching position of the imaging area XU2 is a position following the imaging area XU1, the position of the imaging area XU2 is determined as it is. The matching position of the imaging area XU3 is
2, the imaging area XU3
Is determined. Also, the compatible position of the imaging area XU4 is
Since this is a position following the imaging area XU3, the position of the imaging area XU4 is determined as it is. Thus, the imaging area X
By simply changing the position of U1, the subsequent imaging area XU2
XU4 is automatically changed to a position following this imaging area XU1.

[Step S3] Further, the operator operates (for example, drags) the imaging area XU3 shown in FIG.
As shown in (d), it is assumed that the user has manually moved to a suitable position near the center on the rear side. Thus, the position of the imaging area XU3 is also determined.

[Step S4] Imaging area automatic follow-up unit 3
0 indicates a subsequent imaging area XU as shown in FIG.
It instructs the imaging area linking unit 25 to move only 4 after the imaging area XU3 and automatically connect them. Since the matching position of the imaging area XU4 is a position following the imaging area XU3, the position of the imaging area XU4 is determined as it is. Thus, only by changing the position of the imaging area XU3, the subsequent imaging area XU4 is automatically changed to a position following the imaging area XU3.

[Step S5] Four imaging areas XU1
~ XU4 are determined, the X-ray CT imaging area XU
Is completed.

As described in detail above, the X-ray CT of the embodiment
According to the device, when the position of a specific imaging area is changed by adjustment by the automatic imaging area tracking unit 30, the position of a subsequent imaging area is automatically changed to a position connected after the specific imaging area. Therefore, conventionally, it is necessary to individually change the positions of all of the plurality of imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XU1 to XU4), but the imaging area XU1 in which the imaging order is the first.
By simply performing the operation of changing the position of, the subsequent imaging area X
Since the position is changed so that U2 to XU4 follows,
A plurality of imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XU1 to XU
The X-ray CT imaging region XU consisting of U4) can be quickly set.

In the above description with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, if the position of a specific imaging area is changed, the position of the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area is changed. Although the adjustment process (position change) similar to the specific imaging area is automatically changed so as to follow the specific imaging area, and the progress process in which the X-ray CT imaging area XU is set quickly is described. By changing the size and angle of the imaging area instead of changing the position of the imaging area, the same automatic tracking adjustment as described above can be performed on the size and angle of the imaging area.

Further, the input operation for setting the X-ray CT imaging area will be described a little more specifically. When setting the X-ray CT imaging region, as shown in FIG.
, A plan mode screen is called up, screen switches for input operation (automatic adjustment selection switch SW1, cursor type group selection switch SW2, etc.) are displayed on the left side, and a transmission X-ray image CR and a box cursor XB are displayed on the right side.
1 to XB4 are displayed. The operator clicks the automatic adjustment selection switch SW1 with the mouse 14B to select one of the imaging area connection unit 25, the imaging start position alignment unit 26, the imaging end position alignment unit 27, and the imaging center position alignment unit 28. Can be activated.

For example, an X-ray CT in the case of performing a phase radiography inspection mode for radiographing the same radiographing site several times
Automatic adjustment selection switch SW to set the shooting area
1 may be operated to select a desired one of the imaging start position alignment unit 26, the imaging end position alignment unit 27, and the imaging center position alignment unit 28. For example, it is assumed that the automatic adjustment selection switch SW1 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select and operate the imaging start position alignment unit 26. Display monitor 2
On the screen 2, four box cursors XB corresponding to a plurality of imaging areas (for example, four imaging areas XU1)
In the state where 1 to XB4 are superimposed, the transmission X-ray image CR
Displayed at the same time. Suppose the second box cursor X
When B2 is selected and its position is changed, automatic follow-up adjustment is performed so that the imaging start position B of the third and subsequent box cursors XB3 and XB4 is aligned with the imaging start position B of the second box cursor XB2. Note that when the imaging end position alignment unit 27 or the imaging center position alignment unit 28 is selected,
In the same manner as described above, automatic follow-up adjustment is performed so as to align at the imaging end position and the imaging center position.

When the automatic adjustment selection switch SW1 is set to the "inter-group continuous mode",
5 is selected and operated, and adjustment can be made so that the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 are continuously connected as in the above-described embodiment. When the automatic adjustment selection switch SW1 is set to the "inter-group free mode", each of the imaging sections XU1 to XU4 can be freely adjusted independently of the other imaging sections. Further, by clicking the cursor group selection switch SW2 with the mouse 14B, the imaging areas XU1 to XU4 to be adjusted can be selected, and the box cursors XB1 to XB4 can be selected.
4 can be clicked to adjust the imaging area XU1 to XU1.
XU4 can be selected.

Further, when the FOV (field of view) adjustment control switch SW3 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the "subsequent" mode, and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary size by the mouse 14B, the imaging area automatic follower 30 Automatically performs the same adjustment as described above so as to follow a change in the size of a specific imaging area only for an imaging area subsequent to the specific imaging area. When the FOV (field of view) adjustment control switch SW3 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the “all” mode and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary size by the mouse 14B, the imaging area automatic following unit 30 Follow-up adjustment is performed not only for the subsequent imaging area but also for all imaging areas including the advanced imaging area, and the size of all the imaging areas is automatically adjusted in the same way as changing the size of a specific imaging area. To adjust. When the FOV (field of view) adjustment control switch SW3 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the “none” mode and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary size by the mouse 14B, the automatic tracking adjustment is not performed at all, and the Only a specific imaging area will be adjusted.

Further, when the tilt adjustment control switch SW4 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the “subsequent” mode, and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary angle (slice angle) by the mouse 14B, the imaging area automatic follow-up unit 30 Automatically performs the same adjustment (angle change) as described above so as to follow the change in the angle of the specific imaging area only for the imaging area subsequent to the specific imaging area. When the tilt adjustment control switch SW4 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the “all” mode and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary angle by the mouse 14B, the imaging area automatic follow-up unit 30
The automatic tracking adjustment is performed not only for the subsequent imaging area but also for the entire imaging area including the advanced imaging area, and the angles of all the imaging areas are changed in the same manner as the angle change of the specific imaging area. Adjust automatically. When the tilt adjustment control switch SW4 is clicked with the mouse 14B to select the “none” mode and the specific imaging area is changed to an arbitrary angle by the mouse 14B, no automatic follow-up adjustment is performed, and the specific imaging area is not performed. Only will be adjusted.

In the case of the X-ray CT apparatus according to the embodiment, the operation monitor 15 mainly registers the preset conditions in advance, inputs patient information, designates an imaging region, and displays the registered preset conditions. It is used when calling and specifying, and the input operation is performed by touching the screen.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, but can be modified as follows. (1) In the above-described embodiment, the position, size, and angle of the box cursor indicating the imaging area are changed by operating the mouse. However, the box cursor indicating the imaging area is operated by other input means such as a console. May be changed.

(2) In the above-described embodiment, the box cursor indicating a specific imaging area is adjusted (adjustment for changing the position, size, and angle of the imaging area), so that there is a correlation with the specific imaging area. Automatic follow-up adjustment is performed on the other imaging areas so as to make the same adjustment as the specific imaging area.However, the imaging area is adjusted by adjustment other than the box cursor such as adjusting the specific imaging area by numerical input. May be adjusted.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, as another example of the imaging area having a correlation with the specific imaging area, the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area has been described as an example. , “Correlation” is described as “the order of imaging in the imaging area”, but this “correlation” is not “order of imaging in the imaging area”, but is described next (“ Arrangement order of arrangement of imaging areas ”,“ order of size of imaging areas ”) and the like may be arbitrarily determined to provide a correlation between a specific imaging area and other imaging areas. For example, the “correlation” is defined as “order of arrangement of imaging areas”, that is, the order of arrangement of imaging areas displayed on the screen of the display monitor 22 (for example, left to right, right to left, top From the bottom, from the bottom to the top, etc.) ”. Specifically, when the arrangement order of the imaging areas is set (from left to right), the imaging area located at the leftmost position is set at the top, and the imaging areas located to the right of the imaging area are numbered in the order toward the right ( Numbering). Also,
Otherwise, the “correlation” is defined as “order of size of imaging area”, that is, the order of size of imaging area displayed on the screen of display monitor 22 (for example, from large to small, small to small). Order etc.) "). Specifically, when the size of the imaging areas is set in the order (large to small), the largest imaging area is set at the top, and numbering (numbering) is performed in an order of becoming smaller. is there. These "correlations" as described above
Is provided in the imaging area automatic following means.

[0057]

As described in detail above, according to the X-ray CT apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, when a specific imaging area is adjusted, it is shifted to another imaging area correlated with this specific imaging area. On the other hand, since there is a configuration in which the same adjustment as the specific imaging area is automatically performed so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area, it is not necessary to individually adjust each imaging area,
By simply adjusting a specific imaging area, other imaging areas correlated with this specific imaging area can be automatically adjusted to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area. The setting of the X-ray CT imaging region including the imaging area can be promptly performed.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention, when the specific imaging area is adjusted, the subsequent imaging area follows the adjustment of the specific imaging area in the same manner as the specific imaging area. Is automatically adjusted, so that the adjustment of the subsequent imaging area can be performed smoothly, and the same automatic tracking adjustment as the adjustment of the specific imaging area can be performed only for the subsequent imaging area. Since the adjustment is not performed on the advanced imaging area, the adjustment that has already been performed on the advanced imaging area is not disturbed by the automatic follow-up adjustment on the subsequent imaging area. Settings can be made quickly.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the third aspect of the present invention, the X-ray CT apparatus further includes an imaging area connecting means for connecting the imaging areas in the order of imaging, and the automatic imaging area follow-up means adjusts the position of a specific imaging area. Is changed, the instruction is given to the imaging area connecting means to automatically change the position of the subsequent imaging area to a position connected after the specific imaging area.
The setting operation of the T imaging region is easy.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the invention, when the size or the angle of the specific imaging area is adjusted, the imaging area whose order of imaging is later than that of the specific imaging area. In contrast to the above, since the apparatus includes an imaging area automatic following unit that automatically performs the same adjustment of the corresponding size or angle as described above so as to follow the adjustment of the specific imaging area, When the adjustment of (the size of the slice cross section at the time of imaging) or the angle (slice angle) is performed, the adjustment of the corresponding size or angle of the imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the specific imaging area is specified. Is automatically performed so as to follow the adjustment of the imaging area, and the setting of the X-ray CT imaging area by adjusting the size or angle of the imaging area can be quickly and easily performed.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention, when a specific imaging area is adjusted among a plurality of imaging areas in which the same imaging area is overlapped, the specific imaging area is adjusted. Is provided with an image pickup area automatic follow-up means for automatically following the same adjustment as described above only for the image pickup area subsequent to the image pickup section, so that the same imaged part is inspected a plurality of times (phase image pickup inspection mode). Even when the same imaging area is set for an X-ray CT imaging area in which a plurality of imaging areas are overlapped, the order of imaging is higher than a specific imaging area in the plurality of overlapping imaging areas. The subsequent adjustment of the imaging area can be automatically performed similarly to the adjustment of the specific imaging area, the X-ray CT imaging area can be set quickly, and the degree of freedom of setting the X-ray CT imaging area can be increased. Can improve Kill.

According to the X-ray CT apparatus of the present invention, an imaging start position, an imaging end position,
And, when one of the imaging center positions is changed by the adjustment, the corresponding imaging start position, imaging end position, imaging center position of the subsequent imaging area is specified by an instruction from the imaging area automatic following means, Since the imaging area is automatically adjusted to the changed position, the setting operation of the X-ray CT imaging area is easy to perform.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a screen of a display monitor during setting of an X-ray CT imaging area in the embodiment device.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a connection state of imaging areas for setting an X-ray CT imaging area.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which imaging start positions of an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area are aligned.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which imaging end positions of an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area are aligned.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which imaging center positions of an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area are aligned.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a state where the same imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area is superimposed.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state in which the size of an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area is changed.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the angle of an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area is changed.

FIGS. 10A to 10E show X-ray CT using the apparatus according to the embodiment.
It is a schematic diagram which shows the progress of a photography area setting.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the progress of setting an X-ray CT imaging area by the apparatus of the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a detailed view showing a plan mode screen on a display monitor of the embodiment device.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an X-ray imaging mechanism of a conventional X-ray CT apparatus.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a screen of a display monitor during setting of an X-ray CT imaging area in a conventional apparatus.

[Explanation of symbols]

 3 X-ray imaging mechanism 17 Data processing unit 22 Display monitor 23 Imaging area display control unit 24 Imaging area setting unit 25 Imaging area coupling unit 26 Imaging start position alignment unit 27 Imaging end position alignment unit 28 ... Imaging center position aligning section 29... Same imaging area superimposing section 30... Imaging area automatic follow-up section M.... Line CT imaging area

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A screen of a display means for displaying a positioning image of a subject and an imaging area in which respective imaging conditions are set for each area, and in which one or more slices are imaged under the same imaging conditions in the same area. An imaging area display control means for simultaneously displaying an image on the screen, and an imaging area for setting an X-ray CT imaging area comprising a plurality of imaging areas by adjusting the imaging area displayed on the screen of the display means on the screen. Setting means, and X-ray imaging means for performing slice imaging in a predetermined order on each imaging area of the X-ray CT imaging area set by the imaging area setting means to obtain X-ray CT image creation data. In an X-ray CT apparatus, when a specific imaging area is adjusted by the imaging area setting means, the same adjustment as described above is performed for other imaging areas correlated with the specific imaging area. An X-ray CT apparatus comprising: an imaging area automatic tracking unit that automatically performs adjustment so as to follow adjustment of an image area. 2. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said imaging area automatic tracking means adjusts a specific imaging area as said correlation when a specific imaging area is adjusted by said imaging area setting means. X-ray CT, wherein the same adjustment as described above is automatically performed so as to follow the adjustment of a specific imaging area for an imaging area whose imaging order is later than that of the X-ray CT. apparatus. 3. The X-ray C according to claim 1 or claim 2.
In the T apparatus, there is provided an imaging area connecting means for connecting the imaging areas on the screen of the display means in the order of imaging, and the automatic imaging area follow-up means is provided with a position of a specific imaging area on the screen of the display means. When is changed by the adjustment, the position of the imaging area that is later in the imaging order than the specific imaging area is automatically changed to the position connected after the specific imaging area in the imaging order. An X-ray CT apparatus for instructing the imaging area connecting means. 4. The X-ray C according to claim 1 or claim 2.
In the T device, when the size or the angle of a specific imaging area is adjusted on the screen of the display means, the imaging area automatic following means may change the order of imaging from the specific imaging area as the correlation. X-rays that are configured to automatically perform a corresponding size or angle adjustment similar to the above to follow a specific imaging area adjustment for a later imaging area. CT device. 5. X-ray C according to claim 1 or claim 2.
In the T apparatus, the same imaging area superimposing means for superimposing and displaying a plurality of identical imaging areas on the screen of the display means is provided, and the automatic imaging area follow-up means is superimposed on the screen of the display means. When the adjustment of the specific imaging area of the plurality of imaging areas displayed is performed, the same as described above is applied to the imaging area in which the order of imaging is later than the specific imaging area as the correlation. An X-ray CT apparatus characterized in that the X-ray CT apparatus is configured to perform adjustment automatically. 6. The X-ray C according to claim 1 or claim 5.
In the T device, an imaging start position aligning unit that aligns an imaging start position of an imaging area on a screen of the display unit, an imaging end position alignment unit that aligns an imaging end position of an imaging area on a screen of the display unit, and the display One of the imaging center position aligning means for aligning the imaging center position of the imaging area on the screen of the means is provided so that they can be selected and operated, and the imaging area automatic following means is provided by the display means. When one of the imaging start position, the imaging end position, and the imaging center position of the specific imaging area is changed by the selection operation on the screen, the imaging area for the imaging area whose imaging order is later than the specific imaging area is changed. The imaging start position aligning means and the imaging start position aligning means so that the corresponding position among the imaging start position, the imaging end position, and the imaging center position is automatically adjusted to the position after the change of the specific imaging area. X-ray CT apparatus characterized by instructing the corresponding means of the image pickup end position aligning means said image pickup center alignment means.