JP2004290329A - Medical image processor, medical network system and program for medical image processor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a medical image processor, medical network system and program for the medical image processor which can prevent the images outside the optimum range or those failing to coincide with the order from being outputted to external devices such as image display devices or image preserving devices. <P>SOLUTION: The medical image processor receives the medical image information from other devices (reception sources) and carries out the image processing thereof to transmit the results to other devices (output destinations). The statistic characters of the image data received are analyzed and when the results of the analysis of the statistic characters are not within the optimum range thereof previously designated, a warning is given against the images not within the optimum range and the transmission is reserved by the user's operation or after the elapse of a fixed time. Thus, the warning against the images not within the optimum range can prevent the images, failing to meet the requirements in the imaging or the image processing, from being outputted to the output destinations. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a medical image processing apparatus, a medical network system, and a program for a medical image processing apparatus that receive medical image information from another apparatus, process the image, and transmit the processed image to another apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Radiation images are widely used for diagnosing diseases and the like. In order to obtain such radiation images, radiation transmitted through a subject from an imaging modality radiation irradiating unit of a CR (computed radiography) is converted into a plate-like stimulable phosphor. After the absorption, the stimulable phosphor is excited while being scanned with, for example, a laser beam, so that the radiation energy (radiation image information) accumulated by the stimulable phosphor due to the absorption is emitted as fluorescence. There is known a medical image generating apparatus configured to read a radiation image by photoelectrically converting the fluorescence to obtain a radiation image signal. The fluorescence generated from the stimulable phosphor plate by the scanning of the laser light is collected, photoelectrically converted by a photomultiplier, the electric signal is amplified, and image processing is performed based on a digital signal converted from the analog signal. Thus, a radiation image is read to generate medical image information (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).
[0003]
Conventionally, medical image information read and generated by the above-described medical image generation apparatus is sent to an image processing apparatus to perform predetermined image processing, and output to an external apparatus such as an image display apparatus (viewer) or an image storage apparatus (server). ing. In this case, for example, in a case where a plurality of images of the same examination have mismatched patient information (patient ID number, name, gender, date of birth, etc.) or image information identical to a received image, image processing is performed. When there is inconsistency in the patient / examination information of the image information received by the device, the output is suspended (see Patent Document 2 below).
[0004]
However, the output suspension is a check for inconsistency in the patient / examination information, and the image has been relied on visually. For this reason, when the image is out of the proper range or when the image does not match the order, the image is likely to be output to an external device such as an image display device or an image storage device.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-11-3444783
[0006]
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-2002-281210
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the related art, and has been made to prevent an image outside an appropriate range or an image not matching the order from being output to an external device such as an image display device or an image storage device. It is an object to provide a program for an apparatus, a medical network system, and a medical image processing apparatus.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, a first medical image processing apparatus according to the present invention receives medical image information from another apparatus (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus (output destination). A medical image processing apparatus, comprising: means for analyzing a statistical property of received image data; means for designating an appropriate range of the statistical property in advance; and a result of analyzing the statistical property being obtained from the designated appropriate range. When it is out of the range, there is provided a means for warning that it is out of the appropriate range, and a means for suspending the transmission after the warning, after the operation of the user or after the elapse of a predetermined time.
[0009]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, based on the result of analyzing the statistical properties of image data, it is recognized that an image is out of an appropriate range, and a warning is issued to a user. Is prevented from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0010]
In the medical image processing apparatus, the range in which the statistical properties of the image data are analyzed is preferably the entire image, and the determination can be performed by simple image processing. Alternatively, the image processing apparatus further includes an anatomical region determining unit that determines an anatomical region for the image, and a range in which a statistical property of the image data is analyzed is a region of interest determined by the anatomical region determining unit. When image processing is performed by analyzing a region of interest, it is possible to specify a more appropriate appropriate range.
[0011]
In addition, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each examination region. By designating the appropriate range according to the type of examination, anatomical features and features obtained by an imaging method can be reflected, and a more accurate appropriate range can be defined. It becomes possible to specify. Alternatively, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each condition file, so that setting and selection can be easily performed.
[0012]
Further, the image is an image on which the image processing has not been performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, it is possible to warn that photographing is abnormal.
[0013]
Further, the image is an image on which the image processing for transmission is performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, a warning that the image processing is abnormal can be issued.
[0014]
A second medical image processing apparatus according to the present invention is a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus (output destination). Means for identifying information relating to the density and contrast of the received image accompanying information; means for designating an appropriate range of the information relating to the density and contrast in advance; and when the values of the density and contrast are out of the designated appropriate range. Means for warning that the transmission is out of the proper range, and means for suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a predetermined time after the warning.
[0015]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, it is recognized that the information related to the density and contrast of the image accompanying information is out of the appropriate range, and a warning is issued to the user. It is possible to prevent an image outside the range from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0016]
In the medical image processing apparatus, it is preferable that the appropriate range is set for each examination region. Alternatively, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each condition file.
[0017]
A third medical image processing apparatus according to the present invention is a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus (output destination). Means for identifying information on the imaging region of the received image accompanying information; object recognition means for recognizing the image of the object as a subject and determining the imaging region; the imaging region of the image accompanying information; and the imaging region determined by the object recognition And a means for warning that there is no match when the result of the comparison indicates that they do not match, and a means for suspending transmission after the warning or after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed. And
[0018]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, by comparing the information regarding the imaging region of the image accompanying information with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, and warning the user whether or not the subject is as the image accompanying information, It is possible to prevent an image in which the image accompanying information does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0019]
A fourth medical image processing apparatus according to the present invention is a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus (output destination). Means for identifying information on the shooting direction of the received image accompanying information,
[0020]
Subject recognition means for recognizing an image of a subject and determining a shooting direction; means for comparing a shooting direction of the image accompanying information with a shooting direction determined by the subject recognition; It is characterized by comprising means for warning not to do so, and means for suspending transmission after a user operation or after a certain time has passed after the warning.
[0021]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, by comparing information regarding the imaging direction of the image accompanying information with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, the user is warned whether or not the subject is as the image accompanying information, It is possible to prevent an image in which the image accompanying information does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0022]
A fifth medical image processing apparatus according to the present invention is a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another device (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another device (output destination). Means for receiving the imaging order information of the received image information from a device that manages the imaging order information; object recognition means for recognizing an image of an object as a subject and determining an imaging part; an imaging part based on the imaging order information; Means for comparing the imaged part determined by the recognition, as a result of the comparison, when they do not match, means for warning that they do not match, and after the warning, means for suspending the transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed, and , Is provided.
[0023]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, the imaging region according to the imaging order information of the image information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, and the user is warned whether or not the subject is as the imaging order information. It is possible to prevent an image in which the imaging order does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0024]
A sixth medical image processing device according to the present invention is a medical image processing device that receives medical image information from another device (reception source), performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another device (output destination). Means for receiving the photographing order information of the received image information from the apparatus for managing the photographing order information, object recognizing means for recognizing the image of the object as a subject, and determining the photographing direction; photographing direction according to the photographing order information; Means for comparing the imaging direction determined by recognition, means for warning that the two do not match when the result of the comparison does not match, and means for suspending transmission after the warning, after a user operation or after a certain time has elapsed , Is provided.
[0025]
According to this medical image processing apparatus, the imaging direction according to the imaging order information of the image information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by the image processing, and the user is warned whether the subject is as the imaging order information. It is possible to prevent an image in which the imaging order does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0026]
In the first to sixth medical image processing apparatuses described above, when an image out of the proper range or an image that does not match the order is recognized, the transmission (output) of the image is suspended so that the user can save time later. It is possible to judge right or wrong and change processing. Further, even when the user is not present, the output is automatically suspended after a certain period of time, so that it is possible to prevent output to another device of the output destination.
[0027]
The medical network system according to the present invention includes the above-described medical image processing apparatuses, a medical image generating apparatus that generates medical image information and transmits the generated medical image information to the medical image processing apparatus, and receives the image processed image information from the medical image processing apparatus. And a device for performing a predetermined process.
[0028]
According to the medical network system, it is possible to prevent an image outside the proper range or an image that does not match the order from being output from the medical image processing apparatus to an apparatus that performs predetermined processing, such as an image display apparatus or an image storage apparatus.
[0029]
A first program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus. Analyzing the statistical properties of, and specifying a proper range of the statistical properties in advance, and when the result of analyzing the statistical properties is out of the specified proper range, it is out of the proper range. The computer is made to execute a warning step and a step of suspending transmission after a warning or after a user operation or a predetermined time has elapsed.
[0030]
According to this program, based on the result of analyzing the statistical properties of image data, it is recognized that an image is out of an appropriate range, and a warning is issued to a user. It is possible to prevent an external image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0031]
Preferably, the range in which the statistical properties of the image data are analyzed is the entire image. Alternatively, an anatomical region determining step of determining an anatomical region for the image is further performed, and a range in which a statistical property of the image data is analyzed is the region of interest determined in the anatomical region determining step. Is preferred.
[0032]
In addition, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each examination region. By designating the appropriate range according to the type of examination, anatomical features and features obtained by an imaging method can be reflected, and a more accurate appropriate range can be defined. It becomes possible to specify. Alternatively, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each condition file, so that setting and selection can be easily performed.
[0033]
Further, the image is an image on which the image processing has not been performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, it is possible to warn that photographing is abnormal.
[0034]
Further, the image is an image on which the image processing for transmission is performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, a warning that the image processing is abnormal can be issued.
[0035]
A second program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus. Identifying the information relating to the density and contrast of the information; pre-specifying an appropriate range of the information relating to the density and contrast; and when the values of the density and contrast are out of the designated appropriate range, out of the appropriate range. And causing the computer to execute a step of issuing a warning that the transmission is suspended and a step of suspending transmission after a user operation or a predetermined time has elapsed after the warning.
[0036]
According to this program, it is recognized that the information on the density and contrast of the image accompanying information is out of the proper range, and a warning is issued to the user, so that the photographing fails or the image processing fails. It is possible to prevent the image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0037]
It is preferable that the appropriate range be set for each inspection site. Alternatively, it is preferable to set the appropriate range for each condition file.
[0038]
A third program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the received image information to another apparatus. A step of identifying information regarding the imaging region of the supplementary information, a step of recognizing the image of the subject as an object, and a step of determining the imaging region; and a step of comparing the imaging region of the image accompanying information with the imaging region determined by the object recognition. And, when the result of the comparison does not match, alerting the user that there is no match, and, after the warning, suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed, causing the computer to execute the steps. .
[0039]
According to this program, the information about the imaging region of the image accompanying information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, and a warning is issued to the user as to whether or not the subject is as the image accompanying information. It is possible to prevent an image that does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0040]
A fourth program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus for receiving medical image information from another device, performing image processing, and transmitting the received image information to another device. Identifying information on the shooting direction of the supplementary information; recognizing the subject in the image;
[0041]
Comparing the shooting direction of the image accompanying information with the shooting direction determined by the subject recognition; and as a result of the comparison, when they do not match, a step of warning that they do not match, after the warning, a user operation or Holding the transmission after a lapse of a predetermined time.
[0042]
According to this program, the information on the shooting direction of the image accompanying information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, and a warning is issued to the user as to whether or not the subject is in accordance with the image accompanying information. It is possible to prevent an image that does not match the actual image from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0043]
A fifth program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another device, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another device. Receiving the imaging order information from the device that manages the imaging order information, recognizing the image of the subject as an object, and determining the imaging region, the imaging region according to the imaging order information, and the imaging region determined by the object recognition. Performing the steps of: comparing, when the result of the comparison does not match, warning that they do not match; and after the warning, suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed. It is characterized by making it.
[0044]
According to this program, the imaging region according to the imaging order information of the image information is compared with the result of object recognition by image processing of the image, and a warning is issued to the user as to whether or not the subject is in accordance with the imaging order information. An image that does not match the actual image can be prevented from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0045]
A sixth program according to the present invention is a program for a computer provided in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus. Receiving the photographing order information from the apparatus that manages the photographing order information, recognizing the image of the subject, and determining the photographing direction; the photographing direction according to the photographing order information; and the photographing direction determined by the subject recognition. Performing the steps of: comparing, when the result of the comparison does not match, warning that they do not match; and after the warning, suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed. It is characterized by making it.
[0046]
According to this program, the photographing direction according to the photographing order information of the image information is compared with a result obtained by recognizing a subject by image processing of an image, and a warning is issued to a user as to whether or not the subject is in accordance with the photographing order information. An image that does not match the actual image can be prevented from being output to another device at the output destination.
[0047]
Note that each of the above-described programs is executed by displaying an interface that allows the user to appropriately perform each of the designation and transmission suspension operations for each designation step and each transmission suspension step.
[0048]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a medical network system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a medical network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0049]
The medical network system of FIG. 1 scans a stimulable phosphor panel on which radiation image information of a subject (patient) is recorded with excitation light to emit light, and photoelectrically converts the light to obtain image information (CR). a medical image generating apparatus 1 for generating a medical image by an imaging modality of radiography, a medical image processing apparatus 2 for inputting an image file from the medical image generating apparatus 1, performing image processing and outputting image information, and a personal computer (Personal computer), a workstation, and the like, and includes an image display device (viewer) 3 for a radiologist to make a diagnosis by referring to the image.
[0050]
The medical network system shown in FIG. 1 includes a personal computer or a workstation for displaying an image, and refers to an image but does not perform a diagnosis. An image storage device (image server) 5 which comprises a workstation or the like and stores image files in an image database and can search and read images from the image display device 3 and the reference terminal 4; and the medical image generating device 1 or the medical image A plurality of printers 6 and 7 for outputting image data from the processing device 2 to a recording medium such as a film or paper as a visible image. An RIS / HIS (order information management device) 8 for managing order information is connected to the medical network system in FIG.
[0051]
In the medical network system shown in FIG. 1, each of the devices 1 to 8 is connected online via a network 10, and can transmit and receive information to and from each other.
[0052]
Next, the following items A to H relating to the medical image processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 1 will be described in detail in order.
A. Device configuration
B. information
C. File
D. Input and display of main information
E. FIG. Image confirmation procedure
F. output
G. FIG. Output image formation
H. Utility functions
[0053]
A. Device configuration
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the medical image processing apparatus 2.
[0054]
a. The medical image processing device 2 shown in FIG. 2 includes a main control device 21 for controlling the operation of the entire radiographic image capturing system, a CRT display, a liquid crystal panel, and the like, and displays digital image data obtained by the medical image generating device 1 or the like. And an image display unit 22 which can be constituted by a personal computer, and includes an information input device such as an input keyboard and a mouse.
[0055]
As shown in FIG. 2, the medical image processing apparatus 2 further includes a receiving unit 40 that receives an image file from the image generation apparatus 1 and the like, and information and image processing of the received image file and the like that is configured by a hard disk device or a RAM. A storage unit 41 for storing the subsequent image information; an image processing unit 42 for performing image processing on the image information in the image file; an output image forming unit 43 for forming an output image to be output to an external device; An image confirmation processing unit 45 for displaying a reduced image on the image display unit 22 for image confirmation of the image and the like. The main control unit 21 controls the parts 40 to 43 and 45, the display device 22, and the like.
[0056]
b. The functions of the medical image processing apparatus 2 are as follows, and each function is controlled by the main controller 21.
(1) The receiving unit 40 receives an image file from the medical image generating apparatus 1 or the like.
(2) The image file is temporarily stored in the storage unit 41.
(3) The image quality is confirmed with the reduced image created by the image confirmation processing unit 45.
(4) The image processing section 42 performs image processing.
(5) An output image is formed by the output image forming unit 43.
(6) The output image is transferred to external devices (output destinations) such as the image display device 3, the image server 5, and the printers 6 and 7 via the network 10.
[0057]
B. information
Information handled by the medical image processing apparatus 2 can be classified into the following five types.
[0058]
a. Condition information
Condition information for receiving an image file and outputting it as a processed image file to an external device such as the image server 5 and includes the following.
(A) Image processing information
This is information on gradation processing and frequency processing in the image processing unit 42.
(B) Output device information
Information related to an external device such as the image server 5 that reproduces and outputs image data. The output area, the enlargement / reduction ratio, the output format (multi-format, divided shooting format), overlay, and gradation for each output device such as the image server 5. Specify the presence or absence of processing and frequency processing.
(C) Overlay information
There is information on the presence / absence / position of an overlay such as AP / PA / R / L / comment and cancellation mark (double line, x, etc.).
The position of the overlay on the image can be freely changed.
If the lead marker AP, PA, etc. is mistakenly photographed at the time of photographing, the erasure mark is overwritten on the lead marker portion on the image, and characters such as AP / PA are overlaid at any position. Errors can be clearly corrected.
(D) Special designation
Protect information: After outputting the image, save the image file until the protection is removed.
Hold (pending) information: Hold the transfer. Specify if you want to review the image later and then transfer it.
Priority (urgent) information: Designated when priority output is required, such as in emergency shooting. Registered at the head of the queue.
[0059]
b. Patient information
Information about the patient.
(A) Patient ID information
It includes the patient ID number, name, gender, date of birth, and the like.
(B) Order information
This is information for which a doctor requests imaging.
This includes information on the patient's condition, instructions on the date and time and method of the examination request, and the like.
[0060]
c. Implementation information
This is information on the result of reception and image processing.
(A) Reception result The shooting date and time are included.
(B) Image processing result
This is a calculation result of an image processing parameter, and performs image processing of image data based on the result at the time of output.
(C) System information
A part of the system information such as the system configuration at the time of shooting is included.
[0061]
d. System information
(A) Information for managing and controlling the system of FIG.
(B) Configuration of the system in FIG. 1 (connected external device such as image server 5 and the like).
(C) Parameters and tables for controlling the equipment constituting the system of FIG.
(D) Setting information related to the medical image generation device 1 as an input device
(E) Setting information on the output device, such as information on the printer 6 and HOST information.
[0062]
e. image data
(A) Image data received from the medical image generation device 1.
(B) Reduced image data for display created from image data for image confirmation
(C) Image processing reduced image data for image processing of the display reduced image in the image confirmation processing unit 45.
(D) Output image data that has been subjected to gradation processing, frequency processing, and the like.
[0063]
C. File
Files handled by the medical image processing apparatus 2 are stored in the storage unit 41 and can be classified into the following seven types.
[0064]
a. Condition file
The condition key is a key in which image processing conditions and output conditions for an image file are set in advance. There is a condition file corresponding to each condition key. The condition file includes the above condition information. Imaging site (lung field, abdomen, head, etc.), imaging position (standing, lying down, etc.), imaging direction (front, side, etc.), patient characteristics (gender, age, physique, etc.), disease name, technician to use And the like, and corresponding names and shooting information are set in advance. Then, main controller 21 sets a condition file group for each of the plurality of classifications, sets a plurality of condition files for each of the set condition file groups, and stores the same in storage unit 41. Select one of the most suitable conditions when receiving an image.
[0065]
b. Image header file
After receiving, an image header file is created. The image header is made up of a reservation file (that is, imaging information and patient information) for the imaging, and imaging execution information. When the user refers to or changes the imaging information, patient information, and imaging execution information, the user refers to the image header file.
[0066]
c. Reduced image file
This is image data obtained by reducing image data to a fraction.
(A) Reduced image data for display
The data displayed on the image display unit 22 in FIG. 2 uses this reduced display image.
(B) Reduced image data for image processing
This is reduced image data for calculating parameters for performing image processing. The reduction ratio is determined so that one pixel after reduction has the same length designated in advance. Thereby, the difference in the read pixel size can be corrected with the reduced image. The calculation of the image processing parameters is performed on the reduced image for image processing, and the image data is not used.
[0067]
d. Image file
(A) The image file is composed of image accompanying information (image header) and image data.
(B) The image header is composed of condition information, patient information, and implementation information.
The user refers to the condition information, the patient information, and the implementation information, and refers to the image header when making changes.
[0068]
e. Output image file
This is a file of output image data that has been subjected to specified processing among frequency processing, gradation processing, overlay, rotation, and scaling.
[0069]
f. System files
This is a file of the above system information.
[0070]
D. Input and display of main information
[0071]
a. Display received image information
Displays the received image as a thumbnail.
[0072]
b. Output information display
(1) Designate the output size, orientation, trimming position, output position, enlargement / reduction method, etc. Register in the condition file in advance.
{Circle around (2)} When the condition key is selected, the output area and the output image area are determined based on the conditions specified in advance, and are displayed on the screen of the image display unit 22. The size of the output area display area on the screen of the image display unit 22 is defined as the maximum output area for output. The output area and the output image area are graphically displayed in the output area display area. This makes it possible to select and confirm an appropriate output area and output image area for each device.
[0073]
c. Overlay information
{Circle around (1)} Specify whether to overlay “AP”, “PA”, “R”, “L”, comment, scale, etc., and specify where to overlay. Register in the condition file in advance.
(2) The output image is displayed in the output area display area of the screen of the image display unit 22, and the overlay information is graphically displayed there.
(3) An appropriate overlay can be selected and its position can be specified.
{Circle around (4)} It can be confirmed that there is no hidden portion hidden by the overlay. If the overlay causes inconvenience in diagnosis, it can be moved.
[0074]
d. Online information input / output from RIS
(1) Enter an order from a doctor. Convert the entered order to the format of this system and save it in the reservation file. The imaging part and the imaging method are converted by the corresponding imaging condition key.
(2) Convert the image header file to the RIS side format and output.
[0075]
e. Image list
Image files can be displayed as a list.
[0076]
E. FIG. Image confirmation procedure
a. System operation when checking images
(1) An image file is received from the medical image generation device 1 and stored in the storage unit 41.
(2) The image file stored in the storage medium of the storage unit 41 is reduced by the image confirmation processing unit 45 at a reduction ratio specified in advance.
(3) The reduced images are sequentially displayed on the screen of the image display unit 22.
(4) After the reception and display are completed, the digital image information is subjected to image processing by a method designated in advance by the shooting condition key, and is displayed again on the image display unit 22. The reduced image is used to determine the parameters of the image processing.
(5) The image which is sequentially displayed on the image display unit 22 and after the display is completed, is subjected to the gradation processing again to be displayed.
(6) When the operator views the received image displayed on the image display unit 22 and determines that the received image is a normal image, the operator inputs a key for confirming the end of reception from the character information input device, and the image confirmation ends.
(7) When it is desired to change the patient information, the image processing method, the output method, etc., new information can be input from the character information input device.
(8) When the image confirmation key is pressed, the image confirmation of the image is completed and the next image is automatically displayed.
(9) If there is a problem with the image, the image processing can be changed. As a suspension, detailed image processing changes can be made later.
(10) When the image confirmation key is input, the image confirmation ends, and the following processing is performed.
(1) The image file is stored in the storage unit 41 as a confirmed image file.
{Circle around (2)} The image for which image confirmation has been completed is registered in a queue for output to an external device.
(3) The next received image file is displayed, and the image can be confirmed.
(11) When the hold key is input, the image confirmation ends.
[0077]
F. output
(1) Output is performed asynchronously with reception and image confirmation.
(2) Queues are created and managed for each external device, and the queues operate independently of each other and do not affect each other. Therefore, the output is performed asynchronously for each device.
{Circle around (3)} The queue of the external device in which the image is registered is stored as a queue registration table in the storage unit 41, and is updated and managed for each registration and deletion in the queue.
{Circle around (4)} The images registered in the queue are output to the external device in the order of registration, and the images whose output has been completed are deleted from the queue.
(5) When executing the output, the image file stored in the storage unit 41 is specified from the number registered in the queue.
(6) An output image is formed under the conditions stored in the image file. The image header is converted into a format determined for each output device and transferred together with the image data.
[0078]
G. FIG. Output image formation
[0079]
a. The output image is formed by the output image forming unit 43 mainly by the following processing.
(1) Image data is read from the storage unit 41 to the image memory.
(2) Perform frequency processing.
(3) Equalization processing
(4) Perform gradation processing
(5) Rotate the image
(6) Perform mirror inversion
▲ 7 ▼ Perform scaling
(8) Perform overlay
[0080]
b. In (2) to (8), whether or not to execute can be designated by condition information for each output device.
[0081]
c. It is possible to specify that the image data that has been subjected to the processes specified in (2) to (8) be saved as a processed image data file. Eliminates reprocessing of the common processing portion of the output image to each output device.
[0082]
d. For example, if the scaling ratio of the output image to each output device is different, if the processed image is stored up to (6), if it is transferred to another device, the processed image is read up to (6), By performing processing and transferring only in (7) and (8), the time in (2) to (6) can be reduced.
[0083]
e. Execute (5) and (6) simultaneously with any of (2), (3) and (4). Memory access is reduced, and processing time can be reduced.
[0084]
H. Utility functions
[0085]
a. It has several functions as a utility for the user.
Utility functions are restricted by general user, manager, and manufacturer by password. In particular, changing information about an image requires a manager password for security.
[0086]
b. Image file operation
(1) An image file list is displayed, and information on stored images is displayed on the image display unit 22 in the order of reception.
{Circle around (2)} When a desired image is selected from the list, patient information, condition information, and an image are displayed in the same form as the image confirmation screen.
(3) Patient information, image processing method, output method, etc. can be changed.
{Circle over (4)} The image for which “hold” was designated at the time of shooting is released again by reconfirming the image here.
(5) The output order can be changed whether or not to output to each external device.
[0087]
c. Shooting record, irradiation record
(1) Statistical processing of photographing information and patient information is performed and provided to the user as photographing records and irradiation records.
{Circle over (2)} The number of radiographs for each radiographed part in the designated period, a list of radiographing conditions per day, etc. can be output.
[0088]
d. Customization
Screens and operability can be customized for each user.
[0089]
Next, a configuration in which the medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 warns when the received image is out of the proper range and suspends the output will be described.
[0090]
(1) Analysis of statistical properties of image data
[0091]
The histogram of the image data received by the main controller 21 of the medical image processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 2 is analyzed. Generally, the maximum and minimum values of image data, the maximum and minimum values of frequency, the variance, and the like can be obtained from the histogram. The maximum value of the frequency may be the maximum value where the frequency becomes 0 or 5% of the maximum frequency.
[0092]
Since the radiographic image is based on the anatomical characteristics of the human body, a characteristic is seen in the histogram depending on each examination region (chest, abdomen, breast, etc.) and the imaging direction (front, side, etc.). An appropriate range determined by this feature is set in advance for each inspection site and imaging direction.
[0093]
For example, in the case of an image (12 bits) of the inspection region A and the imaging direction A, the minimum value: 512 or more and the maximum value: 3584 or less are defined as a result of analyzing the unprocessed image with all image data. Images outside the range can be determined to be improper. That is, it can be determined that the dose is excessive when the value exceeds the maximum value and that the dose is too small when the value is less than the minimum value.
[0094]
In addition, in the result of analyzing the image-processed image in the region of interest determined by the anatomical region determining unit using the image (12 bits) of the examination region A and the imaging direction A, for example, the maximum frequency value: 2048 to 3071 , The maximum value: 3584 or less, it can be determined that the density of the image outside the range at the time of output of the region of interest is inappropriate for diagnosis.
[0095]
The anatomical region determining means will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram (a), (b), and (c) for explaining anatomical region determination.
[0096]
The main control device 21 of the medical image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 2 includes the above-described anatomical region determining means. As proposed by the present applicant in Japanese Patent No. 2864162, for example, FIG. From the entire data of the chest front image in which such a lung field is located substantially at the center of the image, a rectangular area including the lung field surrounded by a broken line in the figure is determined as an anatomical area as follows.
[0097]
(A) First, a vertical projection value (one-way cumulative value of image data) of a portion of the entire image data excluding the upper and lower portions of the image that has little effect on image processing is obtained. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, a projection value at a central portion excluding a region of about 1/3 from the upper and lower ends is obtained.
[0098]
(B) The point where the projection value (density) has the minimum value PC in the range of 1/3 of the central part (range of 1 / 3X to 2 / 3X in FIG. 3A) from the obtained vertical projection. Is the column XC of the median line.
[0099]
(C) In the right and left 1/3 columns of the entire image (the range of 0 to 1 / 3X and the range of 2 / 3X to X in FIG. 3A), from the center to the outside of the image data (FIG. (Left side and right side of (b)), and compares the projection value of each moving point with threshold values TR and TL described later. Then, the positions where the projection values first become equal to or less than the threshold values TR and TL are determined as the left end and the right end of the lung field, respectively.
[0100]
The threshold values TR and TL are obtained by the following equations based on the maximum values PRX and PLX (see FIG. 3B) and the minimum values PC of the projection values in the respective ranges.
TL = {(K1-1) × PLX + PC} / K1TR = {(K2-1) × PRX + PC} / K2
Here, K1 and K2 are constants, for example, K1 = K2 = 5.
[0101]
(D) Further, a projection value in the lateral direction of the right lung field is obtained between the midline XC and the right end (see FIG. 3C).
[0102]
(E) Further, the image data moves upward and downward from the center (1 / 2Y in FIG. 3A) of the image data, and the projection value of each moving point is obtained from the data in FIG. 3C. Then, above the central portion, the calculated projection value is compared with a threshold value TT described later, and the position where the projection value first becomes equal to or less than the threshold value TT is defined as the upper end of the right lung field. Further, below the central portion, the calculated projection value is compared with a threshold value TB described later, and a position where the projection value becomes equal to or less than the threshold value TB is defined as the lower end of the right lung field.
[0103]
The threshold values TT and TB are the maximum values PTX and PBX of the projection values obtained in the range of １ ／ Y to ＹY and ＹY to 4 / 5Y, and are above and below each of the maximum values. Based on the minimum values PTN and PBN of the projection values thus obtained, they are respectively obtained by the following equations.
TT = {(K3-1) × PTX + PTN} / K3TR = {(K4-1) × PBX + PBN} / K4
Here, K3 and K4 are constants, for example, K3 = 10 and K4 = 6.
[0104]
(F) Image data from the median line to the left end are processed in the same manner as in the above (D) and (E) to determine the upper and lower ends of the left lung field.
[0105]
(G) The upper edge of the right lung field and the upper edge of the left lung field are compared, and the upper edge located above them is determined as the upper edge of the entire lung field. Further, the lower end of the right lung field and the lower end of the left lung field are compared, and the lower end located below them is determined as the lower end of the entire lung field.
[0106]
As described above, the region of the lung field portion can be determined as a desired anatomical image region surrounded by the broken line in FIG. Note that the lung field part has a relatively larger radiation transmission amount than the surrounding part, so that the lung field area can be extracted from the subject area using the projection value.
[0107]
As described above, the unprocessed image is analyzed, the image is out of the set appropriate range, and it is determined that the imaging is inappropriate, or the image-processed image is determined as the region of interest determined by the anatomical region determining unit. When it is determined that the density is out of the set appropriate range and the density at the time of output of the region of interest is inappropriate, a warning message is displayed on the screen on the image display unit 22 in FIG. I have. By referring to this warning, the user can be encouraged to look more closely than usual.
[0108]
In the present embodiment, the medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIG. 2 has a condition file in which image processing and output method are set in advance, and the appropriate range is set for each condition file by using this condition file. Can be.
[0109]
(2) Information about density and contrast of image accompanying information
[0110]
The main controller 21 of the medical image processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 2 makes the following determination regarding the density and the contrast. First, information on the density and contrast of the received image accompanying information is referred to. Generally, since the density contrast determined automatically by image processing or determined by visual operation of the user is based on the anatomical characteristics of the human body, each of the examination sites (chest, abdomen, breast, etc.) ) And characteristics depending on the shooting direction (front, side, etc.). An appropriate range determined by this feature is set in advance for each inspection site and imaging direction.
[0111]
For example, in an image (12 bits) in the imaging direction A, which is an inspection part, the window center is 1182 ± 50 and the window width is 3000 ± 100.
By defining the window center: 1300 ± 50 and the window width: 2500 ± 100 in the image of the inspection part B and the imaging direction B (12 bits), images outside this range are inappropriately imaged (excessive dose, Dose is too small), and it can be determined that the image processing is excessively corrected or the image processing is inappropriate.
[0112]
As described above, when it is determined that the photographing is inappropriate and the image processing is excessively corrected or the image processing is inappropriate, a warning is displayed on the image display unit 22 in FIG. Messages are displayed on the screen. By referring to this warning, the user can be encouraged to look more closely than usual.
[0113]
In the present embodiment, the medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIG. 2 has a condition file in which image processing and output method are set in advance, and the appropriate range is set for each condition file by using this condition file. Can be.
[0114]
(3) Recognition of the imaging part, imaging direction, and subject
[0115]
The main controller 21 of the medical image processing apparatus 2 in FIG. 2 makes the following determination regarding the imaging region and the imaging direction. First, reference is made to the information on the imaging part and the imaging direction of the received image accompanying information. Then, the subject is recognized by the subject recognizing means by the subject recognizing means, and the photographing site and the photographing direction are determined.
[0116]
The photographing part / photographing direction determined by subject recognition is compared with the photographing part / photographing direction of the image accompanying information. For example, if the photographing part: chest and the photographing direction: frontal coincide, the photographing part is determined to be appropriate. If the chest and abdomen do not match as in the front and side, the warning is determined on the image display unit 22 in FIG.
[0117]
By referring to this warning, the user can be prompted to reconfirm that the image accompanying information and the image relate to the same inspection and to confirm again whether or not the imaging order and the image match.
[0118]
The object recognizing means will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing each step of subject recognition. 5 to 10 are diagrams for explaining subject recognition.
[0119]
The main control device 21 of the medical image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 2 includes the above-described subject recognition means, and the present applicant extracts a subject region from a radiation image and extracts the same as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-15321. The shape of the subject is recognized.
[0120]
First, an image is received from the image generation device 1 of FIG. 1 (S01), and then, a subject area is extracted from the image (S02). That is, as shown in FIG. 5A, the image is divided into a plurality of small areas. The average signal value of the pixel signal values included in each of the small areas is determined as the threshold Th1 for each of the small areas.
[0121]
Next, as shown in FIG. 5B, for each small area, a pixel having a signal value lower than the threshold value Th1 is detected as a subject area. The average signal value of the subject area obtained in each small area is obtained and set as a threshold Th2.
[0122]
Next, as shown in FIG. 5C, a pixel having a signal value lower than the threshold value Th2 is detected as a subject area in the entire image. Then, as shown in FIG. 5D, in order to remove the out-of-irradiation area from the detected subject area, a boundary line of the out-of-irradiation area is obtained, and the irradiation between the boundary line and the closer image end is performed. Remove as outdoor area.
[0123]
The boundary line of the field outside the irradiation field is obtained as follows. First, a pixel located at the boundary of the subject area is detected as a boundary point. Then, a straight line having a large number of boundary points in the same direction is detected as a boundary candidate line. A boundary candidate line is calculated by calculating an equation of a straight line from arbitrary two boundary points and detecting if the number of boundary points existing on the straight line is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold Th3. When the area between the boundary candidate line and the end of the image is almost a subject area, the boundary candidate line is removed as an out-of-field area boundary line, and the subject area up to the end of the image is removed as an out-of-field area. .
[0124]
The following methods (1) and (2) can be adopted as means for extracting the subject area, in addition to the above-described means. (1) After detecting the irradiation field area by the method described in JP-A-63-259538, JP-A-63-244029, JP-A-5-7579, etc. From the shape of the histogram of the pixel signal values, a signal value corresponding to a region directly irradiated with radiation is found, and a region corresponding to those signal values is excluded from the irradiation field, and the remaining irradiation field region is set as a subject region. The detection of the signal value corresponding to the direct irradiation area of the radiation is performed, for example, by means of discriminant analysis or the like, a high signal area indicating the direct irradiation area in the histogram, and a low signal area which transmits a subject and has a lower signal than that. It is possible to determine the threshold value of, and to regard a region with a signal higher than the threshold value as a direct irradiation region.
[0125]
(2) Further, in order to avoid the influence of the heel effect and unevenness caused by the radiation image forming means, the detection of the threshold value for excluding the direct irradiation area is performed by dividing the image into two parts vertically and two parts horizontally. It is also possible to create a pixel signal value histogram for each of a plurality of block areas, such as by dividing the area, and to perform the same by means such as discriminant analysis as described above.
[0126]
The subject area information indicating the subject area obtained by the above-described means (1) is given as an area display image having the same size as the thinned image obtained from the reduced image forming means 20, and pixels outside the subject area are set to '0'. The pixel value is set so as to have a pixel value of “1”, and the pixels located on the boundary of the irradiation field outside area (edge of the irradiation field) have a pixel value of “2”. When the object area is composed of a plurality of areas that are not connected to each other, only the largest area is extracted. For the calculation of the number of object regions and the classification of each region, for example, a labeling process or the like which is conventionally often used can be used.
[0127]
When the subject region is classified into a plurality of regions in this way, the number of pixels included in each region is counted, and only the region having the largest number of pixels is set as the subject region again, and the subject region information is updated.
[0128]
Next, the shape of the subject region obtained as described above is recognized as follows (see FIG. 6).
[0129]
First, an area boundary point is detected as follows (S03). Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, a plurality of different scanning lines for sequentially scanning from one end to the other end of the image are set in the area display image indicating the object area information at equal intervals in the horizontal direction.
[0130]
On each scanning line, the pixel value is examined while moving to the right one pixel at a time from the left end of the image, and the pixel at the position where the pixel value changes from '0' to '1' or from '2' to '1' is defined as the region boundary. Detected as a point (left). Then, on the same scanning line, the pixel value is examined while moving to the left one pixel at a time in order from the right end of the image, and the pixel value at the position where the pixel value changes from '0' to '1' or from '2' to '1' Pixels are also detected as region boundary points (right). If the pixel value at the end of the image is “1”, the pixel at the end of the image on the scanning line is set as a region boundary point.
[0131]
With respect to the area boundary points obtained by the area boundary point detection, the difference between the horizontal coordinate values with the adjacent area boundary points is calculated for each of the (left) and (right) groups.
[0132]
Next, based on the difference between the horizontal coordinate values, the local maximum point where the shape of the subject region is “convex” with respect to the horizontal coordinates for each of the groups (for the (left) group, the point where the horizontal coordinate is locally leftmost, (right ) Group, the horizontal coordinate is locally the rightmost point), the minimum point where the subject area shape is 'concave' ((left) group, the horizontal coordinate is the rightmost point locally, (right ) Group, the horizontal coordinate is locally the leftmost point).
[0133]
Further, the degree of unevenness in the vicinity of these extreme points (maximum point, minimum point) is examined. The position of the extreme point and the degree of unevenness are calculated as follows. The method described below can be used in the same manner for both the (left) group and the (right) group, so only one group will be described.
[0134]
The following processing is performed on the area boundary points other than the area boundary points at the uppermost and lowermost parts of the subject area in order from the upper part of the subject area.
[0135]
A difference value s1 between the horizontal coordinates of the area boundary point (area boundary points other than the area boundary points located at the uppermost and lowermost positions of the subject area) p0 and the adjacent area boundary point p1 located above the area boundary point is obtained. Similarly, a difference value s2 of the horizontal coordinate between the area boundary point p0 and the adjacent area boundary point p2 existing below the area boundary point p0 is obtained.
[0136]
Next, the sign of s1 × s2 is checked, and if a predetermined condition is satisfied, an extreme point is detected. When s1 × s2 <0, the region boundary point p0 is set as an extreme point. When s1 × s2 = 0 and only one of sj (j = 1, 2) is “0”, in the direction (up or down) where the difference value is “0”, p0 and its vicinity For other existing region boundary points, difference values of horizontal coordinates are sequentially calculated in a direction away from p0. When the difference value becomes a value other than “0” for the first time, the difference value is set to sj again.
[0137]
Then, s1 × s2 is calculated again. At this time, if s1 × s2 <0, the midpoint of the area boundary point when p0 and sj first take a value other than “0” is defined as the extreme point.
[0138]
Here, the unevenness degree will be described with reference to FIG. First, the difference value of the horizontal coordinate between the adjacent area boundary points is sequentially examined above the extreme point, and a point a at which the difference value has the opposite sign to the difference value near the extreme point or becomes '0' is determined. Ask. Similarly, the difference value of the horizontal coordinate between the adjacent area boundary points is sequentially examined below the extreme point, and the difference value has the opposite sign to the difference value in the vicinity near the extreme point or becomes “0”. Find point b. When a point having the opposite sign to the difference value near the extreme point is not found for such points a and b, points a and b respectively denote the uppermost and lowermost points of the vertical coordinates where the subject exists. .
[0139]
The difference between the average value of the horizontal coordinates of these points a and b and the horizontal coordinates of the pole is defined as the depth (see FIG. 7) and the difference between the vertical coordinates between points a and b is defined as the width (see FIG. 7). Is used as an index indicating the degree of unevenness. Note that the point a and the point b may be determined based on the second derivative of the horizontal coordinate instead of using the difference value as a reference. Here, also in the case where the second derivative is used as a reference, points a and b are points having the opposite sign or “0” to the second derivative near the pole.
[0140]
When examining the degree of the unevenness, it is desirable to take measures such as increasing the distance between the boundary points for calculating the difference values to some extent so that a minute change is detected and a global change is not mistaken. For example, only the region boundary points on the equal line obtained by equally dividing the length of the subject region in the vertical direction (the direction orthogonal to the scanning line at the time of detecting the region boundary point) by 10 to 30 are used, For example, an average horizontal coordinate of the area boundary point is obtained, and the difference value is obtained based on the average horizontal coordinate.
[0141]
Further, where the subject region and the irradiation field end are in contact with each other, the shape of the subject may be different from the original shape of the subject and may be convex (see a partially enlarged view of FIG. 7). Therefore, when the extreme point is the maximum point and the subject area and the irradiation field end are in contact with each other, it is considered that the extreme point has not been detected, and both the depth and the width are set to “0”.
[0142]
In the above case, the determination as to whether or not the subject region and the irradiation field end are in contact is performed as follows. That is, at a plurality of region boundary points near the pole and either above or below, the pixel value of the region display image indicating the irradiation field end within a predetermined distance (about 1 to 3 pixels) is “2”. If there is a pixel that satisfies, it is determined that the subject area and the irradiation field end are in contact. Also, the case where the subject area and the image edge are in contact is handled in the same manner.
[0143]
It is considered that, of the extreme points determined as described above, those having a large degree of unevenness are representative of the outer shape. Therefore, for each of the groups (left) or (right), only a predetermined number (preferably about 1 to 3) is extracted in ascending order of the absolute value of the depth, and the position of the pole, any of the irregularities, the depth, With the width information as one set, position change amount information is obtained (S04). As with the horizontal position change of the subject described above, the extreme point is also determined for the vertical position change, and each is set as position change amount information.
[0144]
Next, the distance between the boundary points on the same scanning line among the region boundary points is determined. The obtained distance is the vertical coordinate value of the scanning line and the area width information (S05).
[0145]
Next, based on the positional change amount information and the area width information obtained as described above, the outer shape of the subject is classified into a shape considered to be optimal from among a plurality of patterns prepared in advance (S06).
[0146]
That is, the external shape of the human body in radiation imaging has different characteristics depending on the part to be the subject. For example, in a head image as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, when position change amount information obtained from each of the groups (left) and (right) is examined from the upper end to the lower end of the image, In both cases, the shape changes to approach the left end and the right end of the image on the way, and then changes away from the image end. Therefore, the outer shape can be classified as “barrel type”. On the other hand, in the cervical images as shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D, it can be seen that, on the contrary, the image changes once so as to move away from the image end and approach the image end again. In such a case, the external shape can be classified as “hourglass type”.
[0147]
Further, in the abdomen images as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B and the lower limb images as shown in FIGS. 9C and 9D, there is not much change in the horizontal position of the region boundary points. Although the external shape is substantially rectangular, the region image can be classified into “square type” and “rectangular type” by using the area width information because the abdominal image is wide and the lower limb image is narrow.
[0148]
Further, in the knee joint image as shown in FIG. 10, since the joint portion is bent in the middle, it can be classified as “boomerang type”. In addition, classification such as "fan type" for shoulder joints, "branched type" for fingers, "one-convex type" for heels, and "triangular type" for clavicles can be considered.
[0149]
As described above, the external shape is classified into several patterns based on the position change amount information and the region width information, and the classified result is output as a finally obtained feature amount (S07). For example, the output result is stored in association with each element of the shape vector S representing the classification result. The shape vector S is represented by having only the element corresponding to the classification result having a value other than '0'. For example, element numbers corresponding to “barrel type”, “hourglass type”, “boomerang type”, “square type”, and “rectangular type” are '0', '1', '2', '3', and ' Set to 4 '. If the classification result is “barrel type”, S [0] = 1 is stored. If the classification result is “hourglass type”, S [1] = 1 is stored. Thus, the shape vector S is output as a feature value.
[0150]
In some cases, it is sometimes difficult to simply classify any type. Therefore, a feature amount corresponding to a pattern that can be a candidate may be weighted and output. In this case, in the shape vector S, a plurality of elements have values other than '0', and the sum of the values of each element is set to a fixed value (for example, '5'). Then, a value is assigned so that an element corresponding to a shape having a higher degree of certainty has a larger value.
[0151]
For example, when the condition of the depth is slightly less than the criteria in the "hourglass-shaped" determination criterion, for example, the total depth of the poles is only 18% of the average width in the left-right direction of the subject. Whether it is classified as "square (rectangular) type" or "hourglass type" is delicate. In such a case, values are assigned to both the element representing the “hourglass type” and the element representing the “square (rectangular) type” of the shape vector S.
[0152]
In this case, as an example of value allocation, when the total depth is 10% or less, an element S [3 (4)] = 5 representing a “square (rectangular) type”, and an element S [1 representing a “hourglass type” = 0], and the value of S [3 (4)] is decreased by “1” every time the sum of the depths increases by 2% with respect to the average width in the left-right direction of the subject, and the value of S [1] is changed to “1”. 'Increase by one.
[0153]
In addition to the examples of "hourglass type" and "square (rectangular) type", "barrel type" and "square (rectangular) type", "square type" and "rectangular type", "boomerang type" and "square ( The same discrimination classification criterion as shown here can be applied between the “rectangular) type” and the like.
[0154]
Further, how the subject area is in contact with the end of the image or the end of the irradiation field is also useful information for recognizing the subject. For example, when the subject is an image of the chest or abdomen, the human body is larger than the range in which an image can be obtained with a commonly used imaging device. The subject comes into contact with the object. On the other hand, when the subject is an image of a hand or a toe, the subject may be small and may only contact one of the upper, lower, left, and right ends of the image end or the irradiation field end. Further, in photographing a shoulder joint or the like, a subject often comes into contact with only two adjacent directions among upper, lower, left, and right image ends or irradiation field ends, and hardly makes contact with the remaining ends.
[0155]
As described above, it is possible to obtain information for specifying the imaging region of the subject from the degree of contact between the subject region, the image edge, and the irradiation field edge. Therefore, in order to obtain information on the degree of contact, the number of pixels in contact with the subject is counted for each of the upper, lower, left, and right sides of the image end or the irradiation field end, and the total number of pixels in contact with each side is obtained. The determination as to whether or not they are in contact is performed as follows. That is, the area boundary point is calculated for each pixel row in the horizontal and vertical directions from the area display image by the method described in the detection of the area boundary point, and is within a predetermined distance (about 1 to 3 pixels) from each area boundary point. If there is a pixel having a value of “2” indicating the irradiation field edge or an image edge, it is determined that the pixels are in contact with each other. For each of the (upper), (lower), (left), and (right) groups of the area boundary points, the sum of the area boundary points in contact with the irradiation field edge or the image edge is obtained, and the image edge or the irradiation field edge and the subject are , That is, as a feature amount based on the degree of contact.
[0156]
As described above, the external shape is classified into several patterns based on the position change amount information and the area width information, and the classified result is output as a finally obtained feature amount. This can be used as very useful information for specifying the imaging region and the imaging direction. That is, even in the case of radiography used for diagnosis, the imaging region to be imaged covers a wide range from the head to the limbs, there are also a plurality of imaging directions, and even if the doctor's attention area differs according to each, By correctly extracting the amount, it becomes possible to accurately recognize each imaging region and each imaging direction. In addition, a feature amount finally obtained is also output depending on the degree of contact. As described above, this feature amount can be used as very useful information for specifying the imaging region of the subject.
[0157]
By using (in combination with) two types of feature amounts, that is, a feature amount based on the outer shape described above and a feature amount based on the degree of contact between the outer shape and the end of the image or the irradiation field, imaging of a subject in a radiation image is performed. The part and the imaging direction can be more accurately recognized.
[0158]
In the above-described embodiment, the scanning is performed only in the horizontal direction of the image. However, in order to more accurately specify the shape, the scanning is also performed in the vertical direction, and after similarly detecting the area boundary point, It is desirable to obtain position change amount information and area width information and use them for shape specification. Further, not only horizontal and vertical scanning but also oblique scanning may be performed.
[0159]
In addition, in order to more accurately recognize the imaging region and the imaging direction of the subject, a feature amount based on the outer shape and a feature amount based on the degree of contact between the outer shape and the edge of the image or the irradiation field are different. It is desirable to use it in combination with another feature quantity obtained by the means. Other features that can be used for recognizing the part and body position of the subject include “size of subject area”, “density distribution”, “distribution of density change amount”, “symmetry of subject area shape”, “ "Symmetry of concentration distribution".
[0160]
(4) Shooting order and subject recognition
[0161]
The main controller 21 of the medical image processing apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 2 makes the following determination regarding the imaging order. First, the imaging order information of the received image information is received from the RIS / HIS 8 of the imaging order information management device in FIG.
[0162]
The fact that the received image information and the imaging order information are of the same inspection means that the image ID is received from the RIS / HIS 8 from a device that manages the imaging order using the inspection ID and the reception number of the image accompanying information as search keys when receiving the image. Alternatively, it is assured by receiving a radiographing order list in advance and retrieving the radiographing order list from the radiographing order list as a search key when receiving the radiographing order list.
[0163]
In the same manner as in FIG. 4 described above, the image is recognized as a subject, and the imaging part and the imaging direction are determined. The imaging part / imaging direction included in the imaging order is compared with the imaging part / imaging direction determined by the object recognition. For example, if the imaging part: chest and the imaging direction: front coincide, it is determined to be appropriate. If the imaging part is mismatched between the chest and abdomen and the imaging direction is different from the front and side, it is determined to be inappropriate, and a warning message is displayed on the screen on the image display unit 22 in FIG. By referring to this warning, the user can be prompted to reconfirm that the image accompanying information and the image relate to the same inspection and that the imaging order and the image match.
[0164]
Next, the first to fourth operations of the medical image processing apparatus 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described.
[0165]
<First operation>
[0166]
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11, a description will be given of a first operation of giving a warning and suspending the output of an image that is out of the proper range by the analysis of the received image.
[0167]
The medical image processing apparatus 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 receives the image data (S11), and determines the region of interest of the image-processed image by the anatomical region determining means as shown in FIG. 3 (S12). The histogram in the region of interest is analyzed (S13). It is determined whether or not the analysis result is within a predetermined appropriate range (S14).
[0168]
Then, it is determined that the density at the time of output of the region of interest is inappropriate for diagnosis for an image that is out of the appropriate range, and a warning message such as “This image has inappropriate density for diagnosis” is displayed in the image of FIG. In addition to being displayed on the display unit 22 (S15), when a certain time has elapsed after the display of the warning message, the output of the image to the external devices 3 to 7 is suspended (S16). Note that the output suspension may be performed by the user selecting suspension on the screen of the image display unit 22 in FIG.
[0169]
As described above, according to the first operation of FIG. 11, the photographing is failed by recognizing that the image is out of the appropriate range and warning the user based on the result of analyzing the statistical properties of the image data. It is possible to prevent an abnormal image such as an image or an image for which image processing has failed from being output to another device due to a user's oversight.
[0170]
In FIG. 11, the range in which the statistical properties of the image data are analyzed may be the entire image, and the image may be either the image before performing the image processing or the image after performing the image processing. May be.
[0171]
In addition, the appropriate range to be set is set for each examination site, and by specifying the appropriate range according to the type of examination, the anatomical features and features by the imaging method can be reflected, and a more accurate appropriate range is specified it can. Alternatively, an appropriate range may be set for each condition file, and simple setting / selection becomes possible.
[0172]
<Second operation>
[0173]
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, a description will be given of a second operation of warning an image in which the information regarding the density and contrast of the image accompanying information is out of the appropriate range and suspending the output.
[0174]
The medical image processing apparatus 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 receives image data (S21), identifies information relating to the density and contrast of the image accompanying information from the received image data (S22), and converts the identified information. It is determined whether or not the density and the contrast are within an appropriate range set in advance (S23).
[0175]
Then, it is determined that the image that is out of the appropriate range is improperly photographed (excessive dose, excessively small dose), and is overcorrected by the image processing, or the image processing is inappropriate, A warning message such as "This image is inappropriate in terms of density and contrast for diagnosis" is displayed on the image display unit 22 in FIG. 2 (S24). The output to the external devices 3 to 7 is suspended (S25). Note that the output suspension may be performed by the user selecting suspension on the screen of the image display unit 22 in FIG.
[0176]
As described above, according to the second operation of FIG. 12, by recognizing that the information related to the density and contrast of the image accompanying information is out of the appropriate range, and warning the user, the image for which the photographing has failed and the image processing It is possible to prevent an abnormal image such as an image that failed to be output to another device due to a user's oversight.
[0177]
The appropriate range to be set can be set for each inspection site, but may be set for each condition file.
[0178]
<Third operation>
[0179]
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 13, a description will be given of a third operation in which it is determined whether or not the subject is as specified in the image accompanying information, a warning is issued for an image determined to be not, and output is suspended.
[0180]
The medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 receives the image data (S31), and identifies information about the imaging region and imaging direction of the image accompanying information from the received image data (S32). On the other hand, the subject recognition of the image is performed by the subject recognition means as shown in FIGS. 4 to 10, and the photographing part and the photographing direction are determined (S33).
[0181]
Next, the information on the identified imaging region and imaging direction is compared with the result of image determination by subject recognition, and it is determined whether or not both match (S34). If it is determined that they do not match, a warning message such as "This image does not match the order" is displayed on the image display unit 22 of FIG. 2 (S35), and a certain time after the warning message is displayed , The output of the image to the external devices 3 to 7 is suspended (S36). Note that the output suspension may be performed by the user selecting suspension on the screen of the image display unit 22 in FIG.
[0182]
As described above, according to the third operation of FIG. 13, the information on the imaging region and the imaging direction of the image accompanying information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by the image processing. By alerting the user whether or not the image is not included, it is possible to prevent an image in which the image accompanying information does not match the actual image from being output to another device due to the user's oversight. The inconsistency between the image accompanying information and the actual image suggests that the patient / examination information is not that of the image or that the image was not taken according to the imaging order. According to the embodiment, such a problem can be prevented beforehand.
[0183]
In FIG. 13, the determination may be made with respect to one of the imaging region and the imaging direction of the image accompanying information.
[0184]
<Fourth operation>
[0185]
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 14, a fourth operation of determining whether or not the subject is as specified in the imaging order information, warning about an image determined not to be such, and suspending output will be described.
[0186]
While the medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 receives image data (S41), it receives imaging order information from the RIS / HIS 8 (S42). The image data and the imaging order information can be associated with each other by searching the imaging order information using the examination ID, the reception number, and the like in the received image accompanying information as a search key (S43). It should be noted that the imaging order information may be received in advance from the RIS / HIS 8, and a search may be performed using the inspection ID, the reception number, and the like of the image accompanying information when the image data is received.
[0187]
Next, the subject recognition of the image is performed by the subject recognition means as shown in FIG. 4 to FIG. 10, and the photographing part and the photographing direction are determined (S44).
[0188]
Next, the information on the identified imaging region and imaging direction is compared with the image determination result obtained by subject recognition, and it is determined whether or not both match (S45). If it is determined that they do not match, a warning message such as "This image does not match the order." Is displayed on the image display unit 22 of FIG. 2 (S46), and a certain time after the warning message is displayed , The output of the image to the external devices 3 to 7 is suspended (S47). Note that the output suspension may be performed by the user selecting suspension on the screen of the image display unit 22 in FIG.
[0189]
As described above, according to the fourth operation in FIG. 14, the photographing order information of the image information is compared with the result of subject recognition of the image by image processing, and the user is warned whether or not the subject is in the photographing order. Thus, it is possible to prevent an image in which the shooting order does not match the actual image from being output to another device due to a user's oversight. The inconsistency between the radiographing order and the actual image suggests that the patient / examination information is not of the image or that the radiography was not performed according to the radiographing order. According to the embodiment, such a problem can be prevented beforehand.
[0190]
In FIG. 14, the determination may be made with respect to one of the imaging region and the imaging direction of the image accompanying information.
[0191]
As described above, in FIGS. 11 to 14, when an image is abnormal, by suspending the output of the image, it is possible to determine whether the image is correct or not and change the process over time. Further, even when the user is not present, output is automatically suspended after a predetermined time, so that output to another device can be prevented.
[0192]
Each operation of the medical image processing apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment described above is controlled by the main controller 21 in FIG. 2 according to a program stored in the storage device, and necessary information processing and screen display such as an interface are executed. .
[0193]
As described above, the present invention has been described with the embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to these, and various modifications can be made within the technical idea of the present invention. For example, as a medical image generating device, in addition to a CR device configured to read a radiation image from a stimulable phosphor panel on which radiation image information of a patient is recorded, a radiation image capturing device using an X-ray flat panel detector, Medical image generation devices such as CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), DR (Digital Radiography), and US (Ultrasound: Ultrasound Diagnostic Device). Needless to say, each of these medical image generating apparatuses may be connected to the medical network system according to the present invention.
[0194]
Further, the anatomical region determining means and the subject recognizing means in the present invention are not limited to those described with reference to FIGS. 3, 4 to 10, and it goes without saying that other means may be used.
[0195]
【The invention's effect】
According to the medical image processing apparatus, the medical network system, and the program for the medical image processing apparatus of the present invention, an image outside the proper range or an image that does not match the order is output to an external device such as an image display device or an image storage device. Can be prevented.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a medical network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the medical image processing apparatus 2 of FIG.
FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are diagrams for explaining anatomical region determination means provided in a main control device 21 of the medical image processing apparatus in FIG. 2;
4 is a flowchart showing each step of subject recognition by subject recognition means provided in a main control device 21 of the medical image processing apparatus of FIG. 2;
5 (a) to 5 (d) are views showing a state of subject extraction in the subject recognition of FIG. 4;
FIGS. 6A and 6B are views showing the appearance of external shape recognition in the object recognition of FIG. 4;
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a state of an edge inspection in object recognition in FIG. 4;
8 (a) to 8 (d) are diagrams showing a state of shape specification in object recognition in FIG. 4;
9 (a) to 9 (d) are diagrams showing another manner of specifying a shape in the object recognition of FIG. 4;
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state of specifying still another shape in the object recognition of FIG. 4;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a first operation in the medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a second operation in the medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a third operation in the medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a fourth operation in the medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Medical image generation device
2. Medical image processing device
3. Image display device
5 ... Image storage device
10 Network
21 Main controller

Claims (29)

A medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Means for analyzing the statistical properties of the received image data;
Means for specifying an appropriate range of statistical properties in advance;
When the result of analyzing the statistical properties is out of the specified proper range, a means for warning that it is out of the proper range,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. 2. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the range in which the statistical property of the image data is analyzed is the entire image. Further comprising an anatomical region determining means for determining an anatomical region for the image,
2. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a range in which a statistical property of the image data is analyzed is a region of interest determined by the anatomical region determining unit. 4. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the appropriate range is set for each examination region. 4. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the appropriate range is set for each condition file. The image according to claim 1, wherein the image is an image on which the image processing has not been performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, a warning that imaging is abnormal is issued. 3. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1. 6. The image according to claim 1, wherein the image is an image on which the image processing for transmission is performed, and when the image is out of the proper range, a warning that the image processing is abnormal is issued. The medical image processing device according to claim 1. A medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Means for identifying information relating to the density and contrast of the received image accompanying information;
Means for previously specifying an appropriate range of the information on the density and the contrast,
When the value of the density and the contrast is out of the specified proper range, a means for warning that the value is out of the proper range,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. 9. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the appropriate range is set for each examination region. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the appropriate range is set for each condition file. A medical image processing device that receives medical image information from another device, performs image processing, and transmits the medical image information to another device,
Means for identifying information about the imaging region of the received image accompanying information;
Subject recognition means for recognizing an image of a subject and determining a photographed part;
Means for comparing the imaging part of the image accompanying information and the imaging part determined by the subject recognition,
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, means for warning that they do not match,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. A medical image processing device that receives medical image information from another device, performs image processing, and transmits the medical image information to another device,
Means for identifying information regarding the shooting direction of the received image accompanying information;
Subject recognition means for recognizing an image of a subject and determining a shooting direction;
Means for comparing the shooting direction of the image accompanying information with the shooting direction determined by the subject recognition,
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, means for warning that they do not match,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. A medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Means for receiving the imaging order information of the received image information from a device that manages the imaging order information;
Subject recognition means for recognizing an image of a subject and determining a photographed part;
Means for comparing the imaging part according to the imaging order information with the imaging part determined by the subject recognition,
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, means for warning that they do not match,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. A medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Means for receiving the imaging order information of the received image information from a device that manages the imaging order information;
Subject recognition means for recognizing an image of a subject and determining a shooting direction;
Means for comparing a shooting direction according to the shooting order information with a shooting direction determined by the subject recognition,
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, means for warning that they do not match,
Means for suspending transmission after a user operation or a fixed time has elapsed after the warning. A medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, a medical image generation apparatus configured to generate medical image information and transmit the generated image information to the medical image processing apparatus, and a medical image processing apparatus configured to perform the image processing on the image information. And a device for performing predetermined processing received from the device. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Analyzing the statistical properties of the received image data;
Designating an appropriate range of statistical properties in advance;
When the result of analyzing the statistical properties is out of the specified proper range, a step of warning that it is out of the proper range,
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program. 17. The program according to claim 16, wherein the range in which the statistical property of the image data is analyzed is the entire image. An anatomical region determining step of determining an anatomical region for the image is further performed, and a range in which a statistical property of the image data is analyzed is the region of interest determined in the anatomical region determining step. The program according to claim 16, characterized in that: 19. The program according to claim 16, wherein the appropriate range is set for each examination region. 19. The program according to claim 16, wherein the appropriate range is set for each condition file. 21. The image according to claim 16, wherein the image is an image on which the image processing has not been performed, and when the image is out of the appropriate range, a warning that photographing is abnormal is issued. The program described in. 21. The image processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the image is an image on which the image processing for the transmission is performed, and when the image processing is out of the appropriate range, a warning that the image processing is abnormal is issued. The program according to any one of the preceding claims. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Identifying information about the density and contrast of the received image accompanying information;
A step of previously specifying an appropriate range of the information regarding the density and the contrast,
When the value of the density and the contrast is out of the specified proper range, a step of warning that the value is out of the proper range,
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program. The program according to claim 23, wherein the appropriate range is set for each examination region. The program according to claim 23, wherein the appropriate range is set for each condition file. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the information to another apparatus,
Identifying information about the imaging region of the received image accompanying information;
A step of recognizing the subject in the image and determining a photographed part;
Comparing the imaging region of the image accompanying information with the imaging region determined by the subject recognition;
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, a step of warning that they do not match;
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the information to another apparatus,
Identifying information about the shooting direction of the received image accompanying information;
A step of recognizing an image of a subject and determining a shooting direction;
Comparing the shooting direction of the image accompanying information with the shooting direction determined by the subject recognition;
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, a step of warning that they do not match;
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Receiving the imaging order information of the received image information from a device that manages the imaging order information;
A step of recognizing the subject in the image and determining a photographed part;
Comparing an imaging part according to the imaging order information with an imaging part determined by the subject recognition;
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, a step of warning that they do not match;
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program. A program for a computer included in a medical image processing apparatus that receives medical image information from another apparatus, performs image processing, and transmits the image processing to another apparatus,
Receiving the imaging order information of the received image information from a device that manages the imaging order information;
A step of recognizing an image of a subject and determining a shooting direction;
Comparing the shooting direction according to the shooting order information with the shooting direction determined by the subject recognition;
As a result of the comparison, when they do not match, a step of warning that they do not match;
Suspending transmission after a user operation or after a lapse of a fixed time after the warning, and causing the computer to execute the program.

Images