JP2008259693A - X-ray imaging system and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an X-ray imaging system, telling the enlargement rate and the focal point diameter of an obtained X-ray image even when suitably photographing in enlargement with variable enlargement rate and focal point diameter using an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of photographing in enlargement with a plurality of different focal point diameters and a plurality of different enlargement rates. <P>SOLUTION: This X-ray imaging system includes: the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 capable of photographing in enlargement at a plurality of different enlargement rates; a control device 71 for associating the data of X-ray image photographed by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 with photographing condition information capable of specifying an enlargement rate in enlargement photographing; and a data server 82 storing the data of the X-ray image and the photographing condition information which are associated with each other by the control device 71 in association with each other. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging system and program, and more particularly, to an X-ray imaging system and program capable of enlarging imaging.

Conventionally, enlargement photography has been performed by the operator appropriately adjusting the relative position between the subject and the apparatus, and the apparatus has a configuration in which no enlargement ratio data remains on the apparatus side. In such an apparatus, if the operator does not record information that requires an enlargement ratio, it is impossible to know what enlargement ratio was taken after the fact and the size indicated by the X-ray image becomes unclear. .
On the other hand, Konica Minolta MG Co., Ltd.'s “Mermaid (TR)” photographic device can shoot by selecting the same magnification and magnified photography, but magnified photography can only be taken with a single magnification. This is an apparatus for mammography. For this reason, it is a system in which information on the enlargement ratio can be obtained only by the information that the enlarged photographing has been performed.

  However, as a result of our extensive studies, it has been found that an apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications is particularly useful for a photographing apparatus that requires more versatility. That is, in the case of a subject with a small size and a small thickness, it is preferable to perform photographing with a relatively small focus and a high magnification rate because a sharp image can be obtained. Also, in the case of a large subject with a large thickness, shooting with a relatively large focal point and a low magnification ratio has a high S / N even if the subject has a large amount of X-ray absorption. This is preferable because it can be photographed at one time and the phase contrast effect is stronger than the blur caused by magnified photographing. For this reason, in order to deal with various subjects, it is desirable that enlargement photography with different enlargement ratios can be performed.

  However, simply by leaving information indicating that the image has been magnified, if the magnification factor is changed according to the subject, it will not be possible to know what magnification factor has been taken, and the size indicated by the X-ray image (how much is the actual size) It has been found that there is a problem that makes it unclear.

  By the way, conventionally, magnified imaging has been performed with an X-ray tube having a fixed focal diameter. In addition, when photographing with an X-ray tube with a variable focal diameter, the operator has adjusted the focal diameter as appropriate, and the photographing has been performed, so that the apparatus configuration has no focal diameter data left on the apparatus side. . In such an apparatus, if the operator does not record the focal diameter, there is a problem that the focal diameter at which the X-ray image is captured becomes unclear after the fact that the focal diameter has been captured.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes that the synchrotron radiation is used to change the focus size (focal diameter) according to the desired degree of edge enhancement. However, leaving information on the changed focal spot size is not described.

As a result of our intensive studies, simply leaving the information that the image was magnified. If the focal diameter is changed, the focal diameter becomes unknown when the doctor makes a diagnosis with an X-ray image after the fact. It has been found that there is a problem that it is difficult to discriminate how much an X-ray image includes the influence of blur depending on the image quality.
JP 2003-114202 A

  An object of the present invention is an X-ray image capturing apparatus capable of performing magnified imaging at a plurality of different magnifications with a plurality of different focal diameters, and obtaining an X-ray image obtained even if the magnification ratio and the focal diameter are changed as appropriate. It is an object of the present invention to provide an X-ray imaging system and program that can be understood at what magnification ratio and focal diameter.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention according to claim 1 is an X-ray imaging system.
An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of magnifying imaging at a plurality of different magnifications;
Corresponding means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio in the enlarged imaging;
And a data storage unit that stores the X-ray image data associated by the association unit and the imaging condition information that can specify the enlargement ratio in association with each other.

The invention described in claim 2 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 1,
Subject information input means for inputting subject information related to the subject;
Shooting condition information selection means for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio according to the subject information input by the subject information input means;
It is characterized by having.

The invention according to claim 3 is an X-ray imaging system,
An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of magnifying imaging at a plurality of different magnifications and outputting data of the photographed X-ray images and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification at the time of the magnification imaging;
Correspondence means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate;
And a data storage unit that stores the X-ray image data associated by the association unit and the imaging condition information that can specify the enlargement ratio in association with each other.

The invention described in claim 4 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 3,
Having subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject,
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input unit, and the data of the captured X-ray image and an enlargement ratio at the time of the enlarged imaging. And shooting condition information that can specify the image quality.

The invention described in claim 5 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 3,
Subject position detecting means for detecting the subject position;
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject position detected by the subject position detecting means, and also the data of the taken X-ray image and the magnification rate at the time of the enlarged imaging. And shooting condition information that can specify the image quality.

The invention described in claim 6 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 2 or 4,
The subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.

The invention according to claim 7 is the X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 2, 4 or 6,
The subject information includes age-related information related to the age of the subject.

The invention according to claim 8 is the X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The data storage means includes search means for obtaining the X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the enlargement ratio by searching.

The invention according to claim 9 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 8,
It has a measuring means for measuring the length related quantity of the subject of the X-ray image using the imaging condition information which can specify the magnification corresponding to the data of the X-ray image.

The invention described in claim 10 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein
The image processing apparatus includes display means for displaying the subject image of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification with respect to the actual size by using the imaging condition information that can specify the magnification corresponding to the data of the X-ray image. And

The invention according to claim 11 is the X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 7 to 10,
The associating means associates data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate with subject information of the X-ray image,
The data storage means stores the data of the X-ray image, the subject information, and the imaging condition information that can specify the enlargement ratio associated with each other by the correspondence means,
The retrieval unit is characterized in that the X-ray image data, imaging condition information corresponding to the magnification factor corresponding thereto, and the subject information are obtained from the data storage unit.

The invention according to claim 12
A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data photographed by an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications and photographing condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate in the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in association with each other;
Is a program characterized by causing a computer to realize the above.

The invention according to claim 13 is the program according to claim 12,
Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A shooting condition information selection function for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio according to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
Is further realized by a computer.

The invention according to claim 14
A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data output from an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate at the time of the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in association with each other;
Is a program characterized by causing a computer to realize the above.

The invention according to claim 15 is the program according to claim 14,
Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus to perform the magnified imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus, and imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio at the time of the magnified imaging;
Is further realized by a computer.

The invention described in claim 16 is the program according to claim 14,
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus so as to perform the enlarged imaging according to the object position detected by the object position detecting means for detecting the object position;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus, and imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio at the time of the magnified imaging;
Is further realized by a computer.

The invention according to claim 17 is the program according to claim 13 or claim 15, wherein
The subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.

The invention according to claim 18 is the program according to any one of claims 13, 15 or 17,
The subject information includes age-related information related to the age of the subject.

The invention according to claim 19 is the program according to any one of claims 12 to 18,
The computer further realizes a search function for obtaining the X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the magnification rate by searching from the data stored by the data storage function. Features.

The invention according to claim 20 is the program according to claim 19,
A measurement function for measuring a length-related amount of a subject of the X-ray image using the imaging condition information that can specify the magnification corresponding to the X-ray image data is further realized by a computer. .

The invention according to claim 21 is the program according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein
The computer further has a display control function for causing the display means to display the subject image of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification with respect to the actual size using the imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification corresponding to the data of the X-ray image. It is characterized by realizing.

The invention according to claim 22 is the program according to any one of claims 18 to 21,
The association function associates data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate with subject information of the X-ray image,
The data storage function stores the X-ray image data associated with the association function, the subject information, and imaging condition information that can specify the magnification ratio in association with each other,
The search function obtains the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information and the subject information that can specify the enlargement ratio corresponding to the X-ray image data from the data stored by the data storage function. It is characterized by.

The invention according to claim 23 is an X-ray imaging system,
An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of enlarging imaging with a plurality of different focal diameters;
Corresponding means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter in the enlarged imaging;
Data storage means for storing the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information associated by the correspondence means in association with each other is provided.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the X-ray imaging system of the twenty-third aspect,
Subject information input means for inputting subject information related to the subject;
It further comprises imaging condition information selection means for selecting imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in accordance with subject information input by the subject information input means.

The invention according to claim 25 is an X-ray imaging system,
An X-ray image capturing apparatus capable of enlarging imaging with a plurality of different focal diameters, and outputting captured X-ray image data and imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the magnified imaging;
Correspondence means for associating the data of the X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter;
Data storage means for storing the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information associated by the correspondence means in association with each other is provided.

The invention described in claim 26 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 25,
It has subject information input means for entering subject information related to the subject,
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input unit, and the X-ray image data and the focal diameter at the time of the enlarged imaging. And shooting condition information that can specify the image quality.

The invention described in claim 27 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 24 or claim 26,
The subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.

The invention described in claim 28 is the X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 24, 26, or 27,
The subject information includes age-related information related to the age of the subject.

The invention according to claim 29 is the X-ray imaging system according to any one of claims 23 to 28,
The X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the focal diameter corresponding to the X-ray image data can be obtained by searching from the data storage means.

The invention described in claim 30 is the X-ray imaging system according to claim 29,
It has a display means which can display the X-ray image and the focal diameter at the same time using the imaging condition information which can specify the focal diameter corresponding to the data of the X-ray image.

The invention according to claim 31 provides
A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data captured by an X-ray image capturing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters and photographing condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in association with each other;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus so as to perform enlarged imaging at a focal diameter determined by the imaging condition information;
Is a program characterized by causing a computer to realize the above.

The invention described in claim 32 is the program according to claim 31,
Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A shooting condition information selection function for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying the focal spot diameter in the enlarged shooting according to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
Is further realized by a computer.

The invention according to claim 33 is
A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data output from an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters and photographing condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in association with each other;
Is a program characterized by causing a computer to realize the above.

The invention according to claim 34 is the program according to claim 33,
Subject information input function for entering subject information related to the subject;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus to perform the magnified imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the enlarged imaging;
Is further realized by a computer.

The invention according to claim 35 is the program according to claim 32 or claim 34,
The subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.

The invention described in claim 36 is the program according to any one of claims 32, 34, or 35,
The subject information includes age-related information related to the age of the subject.

The invention according to claim 37 is the program according to any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein:
The computer further realizes a search function for obtaining the X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the focal diameter corresponding to the X-ray image data from the data stored by the data storage function. Features.

The invention according to claim 38 is the program according to claim 37,
Using the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter corresponding to the X-ray image data, further causing a computer to realize a display control function for simultaneously displaying the X-ray image and the focal diameter on a display unit. Features.

  The above-described shooting condition information that can specify the enlargement rate is not limited to information on the enlargement rate itself, but is information that can substantially specify the enlargement rate. The shooting condition information that can specify the enlargement rate is not limited to a single piece of information, and may be a combination of a plurality of pieces of information that can specify the enlargement rate. The single information that can substantially specify the enlargement ratio is, for example, information on the distance between the X-ray source and the subject when the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the X-ray image detection surface is constant. Information on the distance between the object table and the X-ray image detection surface when the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the object table is constant, and the distance between the object table of the apparatus and the X-ray image detection surface is constant In this case, information on the distance between the X-ray source and the X-ray image detection surface may be used, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Further, as a combination of a plurality of pieces of information that can substantially specify the enlargement ratio, for example, information on the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the X-ray image detection surface, and information on the distance between the X-ray source and the subject Or a combination of information on the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the object table and information on a distance between the object table and the X-ray image detection surface, Examples include, but are not limited to, a combination of distance information and information on the distance between the object table and the X-ray image detection surface.

  Similarly, the imaging condition information that can specify the focal diameter is not limited to information on the focal diameter itself, but is information that can substantially identify the focal diameter. The photographing condition information that can specify the focal diameter is not limited to a single piece of information, and may be a combination of a plurality of pieces of information that can specify the focal diameter. In addition, as single information that can substantially specify the enlargement ratio, for example, there are a plurality of selectable irradiation modes, and the selected irradiation in the case of an X-ray source having a specific focal diameter according to the irradiation mode. Information on the mode, selectable X-ray sources when there are a plurality of X-ray sources, and these X-ray sources have a constant focal diameter and different focal diameters, etc. However, it is not limited to these. The combination of a plurality of pieces of information that can substantially specify the focal diameter includes, for example, information on the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the X-ray image detection surface and information on the distance between the X-ray source and the subject. Or a combination of information on the distance between the X-ray source of the apparatus and the object table and information on a distance between the object table and the X-ray image detection surface, Examples include, but are not limited to, a combination of distance information and information on the distance between the object table and the X-ray image detection surface.

The subject information described above is information related to a subject to be X-ray enlarged. The subject information is information related to a subject to be X-ray enlarged and is preferably information useful for specifying an X-ray enlargement imaging condition. Examples of such subject information include age-related information that is information related to the age of the subject, imaging part information that is information related to the subject's imaging part, information related to the internal device of the subject, information related to the thickness of the subject, Information on the body weight of the subject, information on the body fat of the subject, information on the sex of the subject, and the like.
In addition, for example, infants and infants have characteristics that it is difficult to maintain a stationary state at the time of X-ray photography, bone formation is immature, and the influence of X-ray exposure is large compared to adults. Appropriate X-ray irradiation time, X-ray energy, and X-ray dose that can be irradiated are different, and the X-ray irradiation time and X-ray dose irradiated to the subject differ depending on the enlargement rate. Is different.

  The age related information is information related to the age of the subject. The age-related information is not limited to information on the age of the subject itself, but may be information on an age group such as an infant, an infant, a child, an adolescent, a middle age or an old age, or a combination of a plurality of information. For example, a combination of shooting date information and birth date information, or a combination of shooting year information and birth year information may be used.

  In addition, for example, thin parts such as hands and feet have high X-ray transmittance and low output but high sharpness enables high-magnification imaging with a small focal point, and thick parts such as the head and abdomen transmit X-rays. The ratio is low and sharpness is inferior to that of the small focus, but the X-ray transmittance varies depending on the imaging area of the subject, such as the appropriate use of a large focus with a large output. Therefore, the selectable enlargement ratio indirectly varies depending on the imaging region of the subject. In addition, depending on the device built in the subject, it may be necessary to move away from the X-ray source or affect the X-ray detector. Is different.

  The imaging part information is information related to the imaging part of the subject. The imaging part information is not limited to information that can specify the imaging part of the subject, but may be information that can specify the imaging part roughly, for example, the head, chest, abdomen, limbs, hands, and feet, For example, information that can specify an imaging region may be used in combination with imaging methods such as Granger method, Runstrom III method, Runstrom IV method, Hickey method, Arcelin method, and Low-Beer method, but is not limited thereto.

The subject length-related amount is calculated not only from the length of the specific portion of the subject calculated from the X-ray image, but also from the shape of the specific portion of the subject calculated from the X-ray image and the X-ray image. The actual size of the subject, such as the area of the specific part of the subject, various physical quantities per unit length of the specific part of the subject in the X-ray image, and various physical quantities per unit area of the specific part of the subject of the subject calculated from the X-ray image It is a related physical quantity.
Examples of such subject-related lengths include, but are not limited to, the following. Examples of the length of the specific part of the subject include the width and length of the specific part of the subject itself, the distance between the specific parts, and the like. Examples of the shape of the specific part of the subject include the radius of curvature of the boundary shape of the specific part of the subject and the peak wavelength of the frequency analysis result of the boundary shape of the specific part of the subject. Examples of the area of the specific portion of the subject include the area of the specific portion of the subject and the area between the specific portions of the subject. Examples of various physical quantities per unit length of a specific part of the subject include the amount of change in the X-ray intensity signal between the unit lengths of the specific part of the subject and the frequency of the X-ray intensity signal profile for the position of the specific part of the subject The peak frequency of the analysis result, the number of trabeculae within the unit distance of the bone part, and the like can be mentioned. Examples of various physical quantities per unit area of a specific part of the subject include the difference between the maximum and minimum values of the X-ray intensity signal within the unit area of the specific part of the subject, and the vertical and horizontal bones within the unit area of the cancellous bone part. Examples include the number of beams and the number of calcified areas in the unit area of the breast.

  According to the first and twelfth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to specify data of an X-ray image magnified by an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications, and an enlargement factor in the magnified photographing. Since the imaging condition information is stored in association with each other, the enlargement ratio at which this X-ray image was taken can be known.

  According to the second and thirteenth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to perform enlargement photographing at an appropriate enlargement ratio in accordance with information on the subject.

  According to the invention of claim 3 and claim 14, X-ray image data magnified by an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications and an imaging condition capable of specifying the magnification in the imaging Since the information is stored in association with each other, the enlargement ratio at which this X-ray image is taken can be known.

  According to the fourth and fifteenth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to magnify an image under appropriate conditions in accordance with subject information regarding the subject, and to output photographic condition information that can specify the magnification rate at that time.

  According to the fifth and sixteenth aspects of the present invention, it is possible to specify the enlargement ratio in the photographing even when the photographing is performed without fixing the subject position in advance, such as when photographing without fixing the subject on the subject table. Shooting condition information can be output.

  According to the invention of claim 6 and claim 17, it is possible to perform enlargement imaging under appropriate conditions according to the imaging region.

  According to the invention of claim 7 and claim 18, it is possible to magnify under appropriate conditions according to the age related information.

  According to the eighth and nineteenth aspects of the present invention, the corresponding X-ray image data and imaging condition information are obtained by the search. I can know.

  According to the ninth and twentieth aspects of the present invention, since the length-related amount of the subject is measured using the imaging condition information corresponding to the X-ray image, the X-ray images enlarged and photographed at a plurality of different magnifications Thus, the subject length-related amount can be obtained correctly.

  According to the tenth and twenty-first aspects of the present invention, the photographing condition information corresponding to the X-ray image is used to display the subject of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification. The obtained X-ray image can be displayed at an equal magnification with respect to the actual size. For this reason, for example, when a doctor or the like compares and diagnoses a plurality of images, the size and distribution can be easily compared.

  According to the invention of Claim 11 and Claim 22, it is stored in association with the enlargement ratio, the X-ray image, and the subject information when the enlarged image is taken with the X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing the enlargement photographing with a plurality of different enlargement ratios. Since it can be obtained by searching, it is possible to know the enlargement ratio at which the X-ray image obtained after the imaging was captured.

  According to the invention of claim 23 and claim 31, it is possible to specify data of an X-ray image magnified by an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters, and a focal diameter in this magnified photographing. Since the imaging condition information is stored in association with each other, the focal diameter at which this X-ray image was taken can be known.

  According to the twenty-fourth and thirty-second aspects of the present invention, enlargement photographing can be performed with an appropriate focal diameter according to information on the subject.

  According to the invention of claim 25 and claim 33, it is possible to specify the X-ray image data magnified by the X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing the magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters and the focal diameter in the magnified photographing. Since the imaging condition information is stored in association with each other, the focal diameter at which this X-ray image was taken can be known.

  According to the twenty-sixth and thirty-fourth aspects of the present invention, enlargement photographing is performed with an appropriate focal diameter in accordance with subject information relating to the subject, and photographing condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter at that time is output.

  According to the invention of claim 27 and claim 35, enlargement photography can be performed with an appropriate focal diameter according to the imaging region.

  According to the invention of claim 28 and claim 36, it is possible to magnify and photograph with an appropriate focal diameter according to the age-related information.

  According to the invention of claim 29 and claim 37, the data of the corresponding X-ray image and the imaging condition information are obtained by the search. Therefore, after the imaging, the X-ray image obtained by the search has the captured focal spot diameter. I can know.

  According to the invention of claim 30 and claim 38, the X-ray image and the focal diameter when the X-ray image is taken can be displayed simultaneously using the imaging condition information corresponding to the X-ray image. The observer of the image knows the focal diameter at which the observed X-ray image was taken.

The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
In addition, this column shows the form that the inventor recognizes as the best for carrying out the invention, and at a glance, the terms used in the scope of the invention and claims are defined or defined. There are also expressions such as these, but these are expressions only for identifying the form that the inventor recognizes as the best, and specifying or limiting the terms used in the scope of the invention and claims. Not what you want. Further, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples described in this section.

  An embodiment of an X-ray imaging system 100 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 1 shows a system configuration example of an X-ray imaging system 100 in the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, an X-ray imaging system 100 according to this embodiment includes an X-ray imaging apparatus 1 that captures an X-ray image of a subject H (see FIG. 2 and the like), the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the like. And a console 70, a HIS / RIS server 81, a data server 82, a viewer 83, an imager 84, and the like connected to the console 70 via a communication network 80 (hereinafter simply referred to as “network”).

  As a communication method in the network 80 of the X-ray imaging system, for example, DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard is used. For communication between devices connected to a LAN, DICOM MWM (Modality Worklist Management) or DICOM is used. MPPS (Modality Performed Procedure Step) or the like is used. Note that the communication method applicable to this embodiment is not limited to this.

[Configuration of X-ray imaging apparatus]
The X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to perform close-contact imaging in which the subject H is in close contact with the X-ray detector 13 as shown in FIG. 2A and the subject as shown in FIG. It is possible to carry out enlargement photography in which H is fixed to the subject table 15 and photographing is performed with a distance (air gap) between the subject H and the X-ray detector 13. In the present embodiment, as enlarged shooting, the sharpness of the enlarged shot image is improved by the phase contrast effect, and therefore, description will be made on the assumption that phase contrast shooting can be performed. The phase contrast imaging will be described later.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is provided with a support base 3 for a support base 2 fixed to a floor surface F with bolts or the like. In the present embodiment, the support base 3 can be moved up and down in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the support base 2 by driving of a drive device such as a drive motor (not shown).

  In addition, although this embodiment demonstrates the case where the support stand 2 is fixed to the floor surface F, besides this, for example, it is also possible to reverse the top and bottom, and to fix the support stand 2 to the ceiling which is not shown in figure. . Further, for example, the support base 2 is fixed to a pedestal (not shown) provided with wheels or the like and movable on the floor surface, or a rail or the like is provided on the ceiling, and the support base 2 is suspended from the rail or the like. And it is also possible to comprise so that the support stand 2 can move with respect to a floor surface or a ceiling. Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the support base 2 in a columnar shape and to support the support base 3 up and down along the column.

  A support base shaft 4 is provided on the upper side surface of the support base 3 so as to extend in a substantially horizontal direction. In the present embodiment, the support base shaft 4 is constituted by a cylindrical support outer tube 4 a and a support inner shaft 4 b inside thereof, and the support outer tube 4 a is a drive (not shown) disposed in the support base 3. By driving a driving device such as a motor, the outside of the support inner shaft 4b is rotated clockwise and counterclockwise as viewed from the front of the device. In the present embodiment, the support inner shaft 4b does not rotate.

  At the end of the support base 4 opposite to the support base 3 of the support outer cylinder 4a, the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 are respectively supported by the support base shaft via the rotation base 5 connected to the support outer cylinder 4a. 4 extend in a substantially vertical direction and are attached so as to extend in directions opposite to each other. As described above, the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 move the rotation base 5 in accordance with the rotation of the support outer cylinder 4a that can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise on the outside of the support inner shaft 4b. Via the support base shaft 4.

  The first arm 6 and the second arm 7 are configured such that their lengths can be expanded and contracted with the rotation base 5 as a base point. In the present embodiment, each is a telescopic type that slides a cylindrical piece, and the length thereof can be expanded and contracted by driving a driving device such as a driving motor (not shown).

  In the present embodiment, as will be described later, an X-ray tube 10 and an X-ray detector 13 are provided at the distal ends of the first arm 6 and the second arm 7, and the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 extend and contract. Thus, the distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 shown in FIG. 5 is variable. As will be described later, when the subject table 15 is provided between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13, the distance R <b> 1 between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 15, the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13. The distance R2 between the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 can also be changed.

  In the present invention, the distance between the X-ray tube 10 and other members accurately represents the distance between the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 and other members. The X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is not limited to the above configuration as long as the distances R, R1, and R2 can be accurately adjusted within an allowable error range.

  That is, for example, the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 are each configured as a rod-shaped structure that does not expand and contract with the rotation base 5 as a base point, and the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 are the rod-shaped first arm. The distances R, R1, and R2 can be adjusted by moving along the second arm 7 and the second arm 7. Further, the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 do not have to be configured to extend in exactly opposite directions with the rotation base 5 as a base point, and the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 are Any reference may be used as long as it can provide a reference for adjusting the position relative to each other and the support base shaft 4 and can rotate the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 around the support base shaft 4.

  A first support shaft 8 extends so as to be substantially parallel to the support base shaft 4 at the front end portion of the first arm 6 opposite to the rotation base portion 5. The X-ray irradiator 9 is attached so as to be rotatable around the central axis of the first support shaft 8. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the X-ray irradiator 9 rotates around the support base shaft 4 as the first arm 6 rotates, and independently from around the first support shaft 8 from the front of the apparatus. It can be turned clockwise and counterclockwise. The rotation of the X-ray irradiator 9 around the first support shaft 8 may be configured to be performed manually by the photographer, or may be configured to be performed by driving a driving device such as a driving motor. .

  The X-ray irradiator 9 includes an X-ray tube 10 as an X-ray source for irradiating X-rays, and an aperture 11 for adjusting an X-ray irradiation field at an X-ray emission port of the X-ray tube 10. Is provided to be freely opened and closed. The X-ray irradiation field can be set by adjusting the opening / closing amount of the diaphragm 11. The X-ray irradiator 9 is connected to a power supply unit (not shown) that supplies power to the X-ray tube 10.

  Examples of the X-ray tube 10 include a Coolidge X-ray tube widely used in medical sites and nondestructive inspection facilities, and a rotating anode X-ray tube. In the rotary anode X-ray tube, X-rays are generated when an electron beam emitted from the cathode collides with the anode. This is incoherent (incoherent) like natural light, and is not divergent X-rays but divergent light. If the electron beam continues to hit the place where the anode is fixed, the anode is damaged by the generation of heat. Therefore, in an X-ray tube that is usually used, the anode is rotated to prevent the anode from being shortened. An electron beam is made to collide with a surface of a certain size of the anode, and the generated X-rays are emitted toward the subject H from the plane of the certain size of the anode. The size of the plane viewed from the irradiation direction (subject direction) is called the actual focus (focus). The focal diameter (μm) can be measured by the method defined in (2.2) slit camera of 7.4.1 Focus test of JIS Z 4704-1994. Needless to say, the optional selection conditions in this measurement method can be measured with higher accuracy by selecting the conditions that give the highest accuracy in consideration of the measurement principle in accordance with the properties of the X-ray source.

  The X-ray tube 10 can set the focal diameter within a large focal diameter range of 300 to 2000 μm for close-contact imaging and within a small focal diameter range of 10 to 300 μm for phase contrast imaging. In addition, they can be switched by a control signal from a console 70 described later. The range of the small focal diameter is more preferably in the range of 50 to 150 μm. Further, it is more preferable that the maximum current value is provided depending on the size of the focal diameter.

  More specifically, the smaller the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is, the clearer the phase contrast image is obtained. However, since the maximum output current value is small, there is a problem that the imaging time becomes long. For this reason, the preferred focal spot size is determined by the region to be imaged. A relatively thin part such as a finger or a foot can reduce the original irradiation dose, so that the output may be relatively low, and it is preferable to select a small focus that emphasizes sharpness. Specifically, a range of 10 to 150 μm is preferable. Since the elbows and knees have a little thickness, they require a higher output than fingers and preferably have a slightly larger focal diameter. Specifically, a range of 50 to 200 μm is preferable. For thick parts such as the chest, abdomen, and lumbar vertebrae, high output is required, so that a large focal diameter is required. Specifically, the range of 100 to 300 μm is preferable. For thicker parts, in addition to increasing the irradiation dose, in order not to increase the exposure dose, increase the tube voltage (increase the X-ray energy), shorten the imaging distance (without increasing the exposure dose, It is also possible to cope with this by a method such as reducing the irradiation dose). In addition, there is a method of dealing with a thick part by close contact photographing.

  The average energy of X-rays is 13 KeV or more (especially 16 KeV or more), so that even if the subject is a living animal or human body, the absorbed exposure is reduced, and it is not necessary to irradiate for a long time such as 10 seconds or more. Furthermore, it is preferable because blurring of the subject H can be suppressed during the photographing time. Further, the peak wavelength of X-ray is preferably 60 KeV or less (particularly 32 KeV or less), so that refraction due to bone can be sufficiently detected, and the obtained image can be used effectively for diagnosis and the like, and more preferably 25 KeV or less. It is particularly preferred that

For example, when the above-mentioned Coolidge X-ray tube or rotating anode X-ray tube is used as the X-ray tube 10 (X-ray source), the target (anode) of the X-ray tube is W (tungsten) used in general imaging. ), Mo (molybdenum) and Rh (rhodium) used in mammography are preferably used.
When Mo (molybdenum) used for mammography is used as the target (anode) of the X-ray tube, X-rays having an average energy of 17 to 18 keV are generally irradiated when the tube voltage setting value is 32 kVp, When the set voltage is 39 kVp, X-rays with an average energy of 20 keV are irradiated. When W (tungsten) used for general imaging is used as the target, X-rays with an average energy of 22 keV are irradiated at a tube voltage setting value of 30 kVp, and at a tube voltage setting value of 50 kVp, X-rays with an average energy of 32 keV are usually irradiated.
Moreover, it is preferable that not only aluminum that is normally inserted but also a plurality of types of filters having different X-ray energy absorption such as molybdenum or rhodium can be inserted into the X-ray tube 10, and in particular, at least aluminum and at least molybdenum or rhodium can be inserted. It is preferable that one filter can be inserted.
For example, it is preferable that the average energy in magnified photographing can be selected from a plurality of different average energies.

  As described above, when W (tungsten) is used as the target of the X-ray tube, the tube voltage is set to 30 to 150 kVp, the current value is set to 1 to 300 mA, and the imaging time is set within the range of 1 millisecond to 10 seconds. It becomes possible. The upper limit value of the current value tends to be lower as the focal diameter is smaller. When the focal diameter is 100 μm, the upper limit value is about 40 to 50 mA.

  Further, the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is preferably 20 μm or more (particularly 30 μm or more) so that X-rays having a peak wavelength in the above range can be irradiated and a practical output intensity can be obtained. Considering that there is a restriction on the size of the imaging apparatus, the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is preferably 150 μm or less (particularly 100 μm or less) in order to obtain a clear image, but is not limited thereto. .

  For example, it is preferable that the focal diameter in enlarged photographing can be selected from a plurality of different focal diameters. As such a focal diameter, the focal diameter of a small focus of 10 μm to 150 μm (particularly 20 μm to 100 μm) and the small focus It is preferable that a focal point diameter of a medium focal point larger than the focal point diameter can be selected. Further, as the focal diameter of the intermediate focal spot, a focal diameter of 70 μm or more and 400 μm or less (particularly 100 μm or more and 300 μm or less) is preferable.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the focal diameter in the X-ray contact photographing can be selected from a plurality of different focal diameters. As such a focal diameter, it is preferable to be able to select a focal diameter in a range preferable for magnified photography and a large focal spot diameter larger than a focal diameter in a preferred range for magnified photography. Moreover, as a focal diameter of a large focal spot, a focal diameter of 20 μm or more and 3 mm or less (particularly 300 μm or more and 2 mm or less) is preferable.

  In addition to imaging of joint diseases represented by rheumatism in the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, mammography, most of which is soft tissue and requires detection of fine calcification, most of bone is cartilage. When performing pediatric imaging or the like, among the above X-ray energies, the sharpness is improved by the phase contrast effect, especially in the X-ray irradiation with low X-ray energy (set to a low tube voltage), and the diagnostic ability is improved. Therefore, when performing phase contrast imaging, the average energy of the irradiated X-rays is preferably 15 to 32 keV.

  More specifically, the lower the tube voltage (X-ray energy), the higher the contrast and the discriminating ability. However, there is a problem that the exposure dose increases. Therefore, a preferable tube voltage is determined depending on the part to be imaged. A relatively thin portion such as a finger or a foot can reduce the original irradiation dose, and therefore it is preferable that the tube voltage is relatively low. Specifically, a range of 20 to 50 kVp (18 to 32 keV) is preferable. Since the elbows and knees are somewhat thick, a high tube voltage is required compared to fingers. Specifically, a range of 30 to 60 kVp (22 to 35 keV) is preferable. High tube voltage is required for thick parts such as the chest, abdomen, and lumbar spine. Specifically, a range of 50 to 150 kVp (32 to 60 keV) is preferable.

  Further, when performing phase contrast imaging, if the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is set to 1 μm or more as described above, X-rays within the above average energy range can be irradiated and practical output intensity can be obtained. . In order to obtain a sufficient X-ray intensity, the focal diameter is preferably 50 μm or more.

  In the present embodiment, the X-ray tube 10 is used as the X-ray source. However, the X-ray source is not limited to the X-ray tube as long as the above conditions are satisfied. The microfocus X-ray source described in Kaihei 9-171788, JP-A-2000-173517, JP-A-2001-273860, and the like, for example, JP-A-5-217696, JP-A-2002-221500 Synchrotron radiation X-ray sources described in JP-A-47-024288, JP-A-64-6349, JP-A-63-304597, JP-A-63-304596, for example. Plasma X-ray sources described in JP-A-1-109646, JP-A-58-158842, etc., for example, laser X-rays described in Japanese Patent No. 3490770 Or the like may be used, but are not limited to these.

  The X-ray tube 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned Coolidge X-ray tube and rotary anode X-ray tube as long as these conditions are satisfied, and may be a microfocus X-ray source or the like.

  A second support shaft 12 extends from the distal end of the second arm 7 on the side opposite to the rotation base 5 so as to be substantially parallel to the support base shaft 4. The detector holding base 14 holding the X-ray detector 13 is attached to be rotatable around the central axis of the second support shaft 12. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the detector holding base 14 and the X-ray detector 13 rotate around the support base 4 as the second arm 7 rotates, and independently from the second support shaft. 12 can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise as viewed from the front of the apparatus. The rotation of the X-ray detector 13 around the second support shaft 12 may be configured to be performed manually by the photographer, or may be configured to be performed by driving a drive device such as a drive motor. .

  The X-ray detector 13 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray source 10 and transmitted through the subject H on the X-ray image detection surface. As the X-ray detector 13, either an analog detector system using a screen or a film or a digital detector system that detects X-ray dose as digital information may be used. Can be detected as digital information for each pixel, and it is not necessary to use a film or the like.

Examples of a digital detector system applicable as the X-ray detector 13 include a CR (Computed Radiography) and a two-dimensional image sensor that read information stored on a photostimulable phosphor plate or the like with a reader.
The detection pixel interval is a pixel pitch of an image to be detected. The detection pixel interval is preferably 10 μm or more. Further, from the viewpoint of X-ray quantum noise, it is preferably 30 μm or more (particularly 60 μm or more), and the X-ray with respect to the distance from the X-ray source to the subject H When the ratio of the distance from the source to the X-ray image detection surface is M, the detection pixel interval is preferably 100 × M (μm) or less (particularly 70 × M (μm) or less). The detection pixel interval is more preferably 200 μm or less (particularly 150 μm or less).
In the case of a two-dimensional image sensor, the detection pixel interval corresponds to the pixel pitch of the sensor, and in the case of a stimulable phosphor plate, the reading pixel of a reading device that reads an image accumulated in the stimulable phosphor plate. Corresponds to the pitch.

  Examples of the two-dimensional image sensor include an FPD (Flat Panel Detector) and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). A signal based on the X-ray irradiation dose is acquired for each of a number of pixels arranged two-dimensionally. FPD (Flat Panel Detector) is excellent as a two-dimensional image sensor and is preferable.

  Such an FPD may be a direct FPD having an array sensor that detects X-rays by directly converting them into electric charges, or a scintillator that converts X-rays into light and light converted by the scintillator. It may be an indirect FPD having an array sensor that detects by converting into electric charge. Indirect FPD scintillators include those having columnar crystal phosphors, those in which phosphors are packed in boxes formed in pixel units of an array sensor described in Japanese Patent No. 3661196, and the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The sensitivity increases as the scintillator thickness increases, and the spatial resolution increases as the scintillator thickness decreases. The spectral sensitivity varies depending on the type of scintillator. The phosphor forming the scintillator is preferably an alkali metal halide or alkaline earth metal halide such as CsI: Tl.

  In this embodiment, a detector using FPD is used as the X-ray detector 13, and the X-ray detector 13 is connected to a panel 13a, a detector control unit 13b, and the like by a bus as shown in FIG. Configured. The X-ray detector 13 is connected to the console 70 via the I / F 72, detects the X-ray dose emitted from the X-ray tube 10 and transmitted through the subject H, and the console 70 as data of the X-ray image. To output.

  The size of the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13 is appropriately selected. In FIG. 6, a cassette type detector is shown as the X-ray detector 13, but a so-called stationary type formed integrally with the detector holding base 14 can also be used.

  As will be described later, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is used in various ways. X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 are In some cases, the X-ray detector may be irradiated separately from the apparatus. In such a case, the X-ray detector 13 and the detector holding base 14 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 that are not used can be configured to be removable from the second support shaft 12, or rotated around the axis of the second arm 7. The detector holding base 14 can be configured with the X-ray detector 13 removed from the second arm 7, or configured to be movable from the second arm 7. For example, the X-ray detector 13 and the detector holding base 14 can be moved to a position where they do not hinder imaging, by being configured so that they can be folded.

  In the present embodiment, a phototimer (not shown) that detects the X-ray dose transmitted through the subject H is provided below the X-ray detector 13, that is, on the opposite side of the X-ray detector 13 (not shown). When the X-ray dose transmitted through the subject H reaches a predetermined dose, the phototimer emits X-rays from the X-ray tube 10 to the control device 71 of the console 70 that controls each part of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. A signal for stopping is transmitted. When the X-ray detector 13 is an FPD, the FPD itself may have a function of detecting a signal instead of the phototimer 24.

  In addition, the lower side of the X-ray detector 13, the inside of the detector holder 14, etc. are covered with lead or the like that shields X-rays to prevent exposure to the human body below the X-ray detector 13 due to X-ray irradiation. A configured X-ray shielding member (not shown) is provided.

  When performing close-contact imaging, for example, an X-ray detector 13 provided with a grid 13c for absorbing and removing X-ray scattering components on the top side of the panel 13a as shown in FIG. 6 may be used. Is possible. However, since the X-ray dose incident on the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13 decreases when the grid 13c is used, it is preferable not to use the grid 13c when it is not necessary to use the grid 13c, particularly in the case of phase contrast imaging. Usually, the grid 13c is not used. Therefore, the grid 13c can be configured to be detachable from the X-ray detector 13.

Further, for example, a modification as schematically shown in FIG. 7 may be used.
In the example shown in FIG. 7A, the detector holding base 14 is rotatable around the second support shaft 12 and has an insertion portion into which the X-ray detector 13 can be inserted inside the detector holding base 14. The grid 13 is provided on one surface of the insertion portion. At the time of close-contact imaging using a grid, the detector holding base 14 is rotated around the second support shaft 12 so that the grid 13 is arranged on the X-ray tube 10 side. The X-ray detector 13 is inserted into the insertion portion of the X-ray to perform X-ray imaging. As a result, it is possible to perform close-contact imaging in which scattered X-rays are absorbed and removed by the grid 13. On the other hand, in close-contact imaging and phase contrast imaging that do not use a grid, the detector holding base 14 is rotated around the second support shaft 12 so that the grid 13 is disposed on the opposite side of the X-ray tube 10. Then, the X-ray detector 13 is inserted into the insertion portion of the detector holder 14 and X-ray imaging is performed. As a result, X-ray imaging that efficiently utilizes the irradiated X-rays without X-rays being absorbed by the grid 13 is possible.
In the example shown in FIG. 7B, a grid 13c is formed on the detector holding base 14 in advance, and the X-ray detector 13 is placed on the X-ray tube 10 side of the grid 13c (upward in FIG. 7B). The detector holding base 14 is provided so that it can be inserted into any of the second insertion portions 14b on the opposite side of the X-ray tube 10 of the 14a and the grid 13c (downward in FIG. 7B). In phase contrast imaging or close-contact imaging without using the grid 13c, the X-ray detector 13 is inserted into the first insertion portion 14a to perform X-ray imaging. As a result, X-ray imaging that efficiently utilizes the irradiated X-rays without X-rays being absorbed by the grid 13 is possible. Further, in close-contact imaging using the grid 13c, the X-ray detector 13 is inserted into the second insertion portion 14b and X-ray imaging is performed. As a result, it is possible to perform close-contact imaging in which scattered X-rays are absorbed and removed by the grid 13.

  At the end of the support inner shaft 4b opposite to the support base 3, a flat object base 15 for fixing the position of the subject H is extended in the extending direction of the support inner shaft 4b. It is attached to 4b. The subject table 15 is made of a material having excellent X-ray permeability such as carbon, or is made hollow, for example, so as not to reduce the X-ray transmittance as much as possible. It is also possible to configure the subject table 15 with a honeycomb structure carbon plate or the like. In addition, for example, in order to fix the subject's hand that is the subject H so as not to move during photographing, the subject table 15 is formed of resin or the like, and the hand is placed on the surface portion of the subject table 15 on which the subject's hand is placed. It is also possible to form irregularities in the shape. The unevenness made of the resin or the like may be placed on a subject table such as a carbon plate.

  In the present embodiment, the subject table 15 can be detachably attached to the support inner shaft 4 b via a mounting jig (not shown), and the subject table 15 is supported via the support base shaft 4. The base 3 is moved up and down as the base 3 moves up and down.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the subject table 15 can be rotated around the central axis of the support inner shaft 4b independently of the support outer cylinder 4a, and can be supported within a range of a certain inclination angle. It can be tilted in any direction with respect to the shaft 4b. In this way, the subject table 15 is seated on, for example, the chair X while accurately photographing the subject H by moving the support base 3 up and down to adjust its height or tilting the support base 3 with respect to the support inner shaft 4b. The position is adjusted so that the examinee can take a posture in which it is difficult to get tired.

  Instead of making the subject table 15 attachable to and detachable from the support inner shaft 4b as in the present embodiment, the subject table 15 is centered on the contact with the support inner shaft 4b, for example, the support inner shaft 4b in FIG. The subject table 15 can be removed from the X-ray tube 10 by being configured such that the subject table 15 can be rotated in the left-right direction, or can be raised or lowered in the vertical direction, or the subject table 15 can be folded. It is also possible to configure so that the optical path of the X-ray toward the X-ray detector 13 can be moved to a position that does not interfere.

  Further, the subject table 15 is provided with a compression plate (not shown) that presses and fixes the subject H from above as needed, and a leg of the subject is placed under the subject table 15 or the like on the X-ray. A protector (not shown) or the like is appropriately provided so that the imaging position can be reached without being exposed to X-rays while preventing the detector 13 from being hit.

Further, in imaging by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the subject H (knee part) is magnified from the side while the subject is standing on the knee, or as shown in FIG. Furthermore, it is assumed that the subject H (neck) is enlarged and photographed while the subject is sitting on a chair or the like. As described above, when the subject H is not fixed to the subject table such as when the subject H is lifted from the subject table, the distance (R1) between the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 and the subject H is the subject. It cannot be specified by a method for specifying the position of the table.
For this reason, a rangefinder 25 as a subject position detecting means for detecting the position of the subject H is provided in the vicinity of the irradiation port of the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, and the subject H is fixed to the subject table. When the magnified image is taken in the absence, the position of the subject H may be detected by the rangefinder 25 to obtain the distance (R1) between the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 and the subject H. As such a range finder 25, for example, an existing one such as a laser type distance sensor that measures the distance to the subject H by irradiating the subject H with laser light and capturing the reflection is used. Can do.
In addition, such a distance meter 25 allows the X-ray tube 10 to focus within the X-ray irradiation range detected by the X-ray detector from the focus of the X-ray tube 10 in the direction perpendicular to the X-ray detector. Information of a length substantially corresponding to the distance to the position of the subject closest to the X-ray tube 10 can be obtained. Then, by subtracting the distance from the focal point of the X-ray source to the X-ray detector by the obtained distance, the X-ray detector detects in the direction perpendicular to the X-ray detector from the focal point of the X-ray source. Information of a length substantially corresponding to the distance from the position closest to the X-ray tube 10 to the X-ray detector within the X-ray irradiation range can be obtained.

  In the imaging by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, various support jigs for fixing the body so that the body of the subject who is the subject H does not move particularly during phase contrast imaging. Although used, these configurations will be described in the description of the operation of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the X-ray imaging system 100 described later.

In the present embodiment, the X-ray tube 10 and the diaphragm 11 constituting the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, the power supply unit 21 that supplies power to the apparatus, the lifting and lowering of the support base 3, the rotation of the support outer cylinder 4 a, the first Drives the expansion and contraction of the arm 6 and the second arm 7, the rotation of the X-ray irradiator 9 around the first support shaft 8, the rotation of the detector holder 14 and the X-ray detector 13 around the second support shaft 12. As shown in FIG. 1, each driving device 22, each encoder 23 that measures the moving distance and position of each member, a phototimer 24 that detects the X-ray amount transmitted through the subject H, a rangefinder 25, etc. And the console 70 via the I / F 72. These parts (X-ray tube 10, diaphragm 11, driving device 22, encoder 23, phototimer 24, rangefinder 25, etc.) constituting the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 are controlled based on control signals from the console 70. It has come to be.
The FPD that is the X-ray detector 13 is also connected to the console 70 via the I / F 72, and data of the X-ray image detected by the X-ray detector 13 is sent to the console 70. .

  Here, the principle of close contact imaging and phase contrast imaging scheduled in the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be briefly described.

  In close-contact imaging, as shown in FIG. 2A, the subject table 15 is removed, or the subject is moved to a position that does not obstruct the X-ray optical path from the X-ray tube 10 to the X-ray detector 13. Imaging is performed with H in close contact with the X-ray detector 13. In close-contact imaging, the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is normally set within the range of the large focal diameter of 300 to 2000 μm described above, and X-rays having a larger current value than that of phase contrast imaging are irradiated. X-ray imaging in a short time of about 10 milliseconds to several hundred milliseconds is performed.

  In close-contact imaging, as can be seen from FIG. 2A, the subject H is not enlarged, and an image of the same size as the subject H is detected by the X-ray detector 13.

  As described above, the close-contact imaging can be performed by irradiating the subject H with X-rays having a larger current value compared to the phase contrast imaging for a short time. An X-ray image with no image can be obtained.

  Further, in the soft tissue having a low density in the body of the subject, the difference in the refractive index of X-rays from the surrounding portion is small, so that the edge portion tends to be unclear. The edge portion becomes further unclear due to the large focal diameter of 10 and the scattering of X-rays in the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13, and it is difficult to capture the soft tissue clearly. In this case, a grid 13c can be provided on the top plate side of the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13 to absorb and remove scattered components of X-rays. However, the X-ray dose incident on the panel 13a is correspondingly increased. It is as having mentioned above about falling.

  On the other hand, in phase contrast imaging, as shown in FIG. 2B, the subject H is arranged between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 by providing a subject table 15 or the like. That is, in FIG. 5, the distance R2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13 is arranged to have a predetermined distance that is not 0 m.

  When the subject H is arranged in this way, as shown in FIG. 10A, the X-rays that have entered the subject H are refracted outward at a portion close to the edge of the subject H as opposed to a normal glass lens or the like. . Therefore, when the X-ray reaches the X-ray detector 13, the X-ray refracted at a portion close to the edge of the subject H overlaps with the X-ray that has passed through the edge portion of the subject H, and is shown in FIG. As described above, in the X-ray detector 13, X-rays that reach the edge portion of the subject H become dense, and the X-ray intensity of the portion becomes strong. On the other hand, in the X-ray portion transmitted through the inner portion far from the edge of the subject H, the X-ray becomes sparse and the X-ray intensity in that portion becomes weak. In this way, in phase contrast imaging, the detected X-ray image is an image in which the edge portion of the subject H, particularly the edge portion of the soft tissue of the subject's body existing at the edge portion of the subject H is emphasized.

  Further, in phase contrast imaging, not only the edge portion of the entire soft tissue of the subject H is emphasized as described above, but also the same edge enhancement is performed at the boundary portion where the refractive index is different from the surrounding portion inside the soft tissue. The effect of. For this reason, all the components such as bone, cartilage, and joint fluid existing in the joint portion of the human body have different refractive indexes with respect to X-rays. An image with a clear boundary can be obtained.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 2B and 4, the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 10 are X-rays that spread in a cone beam shape as the distance from the X-ray tube 10 increases. It has been. Therefore, in phase contrast imaging, an enlarged image of the subject H placed and fixed on the subject table 15 can be obtained.

As shown in FIG. 5, the enlargement ratio M with respect to the image (life size) in the case of the same magnification photographing of the enlarged image is the distance R1 between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 15 and the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13. When the distance R2 is
M = (R1 + R2) / R1 (1)
Given in. If the distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 is used, the equation (1) is
M = R / R1 (2)
It can also be expressed as

  The enlargement ratio M is determined by an appropriate size depending on a region to be imaged or a size to be imaged for the region. If an attempt is made to photograph the entire large part such as the chest and abdomen, close-contact photography at the same magnification is required. However, in the case of fingers and toes, even when the whole is photographed, it is possible to perform magnified photography with a magnification ratio of about 1.2 to 3 times, and it is easy to obtain a phase contrast image. In addition, in the case of the chest and abdomen as well as in the case of fingers and toes, when photographing a part of those parts, it is a part of the part by an enlarged spot photographing of about 2 to 5 times. A very clear image can be obtained.

  Note that X-rays are partially scattered by the subject H, and if the distance R2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13 is small, that is, if the subject H and the X-ray detector 13 are close to each other, the subject H is scattered. X-rays reach the X-ray detector 13 and reduce the contrast of the X-ray image. In order to solve this problem, a grid 13c may be provided on the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13, but in this embodiment, the distance R2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13 is a certain distance or more. Thus, that is, an air gap is provided so that scattered X-rays do not leak out of the X-ray detector 13 and reach the X-ray detector 13.

  In phase contrast imaging, when the distance R2 between the subject H and the X-ray detector 13 is large, the image enlargement ratio also increases and the edge enhancement effect also increases. In addition, the edge enhancement effect is different depending on the tube voltage applied to the X-ray tube 10. The higher the tube voltage applied to the X-ray tube 10, the smaller the edge enhancement effect becomes. The edge enhancement effect increases as the applied tube voltage decreases.

  Therefore, in phase contrast imaging, the tube voltage applied to the X-ray tube 10 is set lower than that in close contact imaging, and the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is set within the range of the small focal diameter of 10 to 300 μm described above. Is done. The upper limit of the X-ray irradiation field is the distance R1 from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject table 15, the distance R2 from the subject table 15 to the X-ray detector 13, that is, the enlargement factor M, and the X-ray detector 13. It is determined by the area of the panel 13a.

  However, in phase contrast imaging, X-rays that are weaker than those in close-contact imaging are used in this way, so that the imaging time for X-ray imaging is relatively long. Therefore, if the body of the subject who is the subject H moves during that time, the photographed X-ray image is easily blurred.

As described above, in the phase contrast image, the distance from the focus of the X-ray tube 10 to the subject table 15 (subject H) is R1 (m), and the distance from the subject table 15 (subject H) to the X-ray detector 13 is measured. When R2 (m) and the focal diameter are set to D (mm), it can be obtained by photographing so as to satisfy the conditions of 0.1 ≦ R1, 0.3 ≦ R2, and D ≦ 0.3. . In the present embodiment, as described above, the distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 is also variable. However, when the setting of the distance R is limited, such as in the imaging room. The distance R is fixed, and within the fixed distance R, the ratio of the distances R1 and R2 can be changed to capture images under optimum conditions. For example, when R = 3.0 (m) is determined, for this distance R, R1 = 1.0 (m) and R2 = 2.0 (m). Considering the size of a general photography room, the range is 0.1 ≦ R1 ≦ 2.0, 0.3 ≦ R2 ≦ 2.0, 0.8 ≦ R ≦ 3.0, and the enlargement ratio M is 1. .5 ≦ M ≦ 10 and the focal diameter D (mm) within the range of 0.005 ≦ D ≦ 0.2, and empirically and experimentally optimal while observing the relationship with the visibility of the enlarged image within this range. The distances R, R1, and R2, the enlargement ratio M, and the focal diameter D may be determined.
Further, when an image is taken without using the subject table 15, the distance R1 (m) from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H is that of the X-ray tube 10 in the direction perpendicular to the X-ray detector from the focal point of the X-ray source. It may be the distance from the focal point to the position closest to the X-ray detector of the subject within the X-ray irradiation range detected by the X-ray detector, or from the focal point of the X-ray source to the X-ray detector. It may be the distance from the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 in the vertical direction to the position closest to the X-ray tube 10 of the subject within the X-ray irradiation range detected by the X-ray image detection surface, Any other distance may be used as long as it indicates the distance from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H.
Further, when the image is taken without using the subject table 15, the distance R2 (m) from the subject H to the X-ray detector is the X-ray irradiation range detected by the X-ray image detection surface, which is the most X of the subject. The distance from the position close to the line image detection surface to the X-ray detector 13 may be used, or the position closest to the X-ray tube 10 of the subject within the X-ray irradiation range detected by the X-ray image detection surface To the X-ray detector 13 or any other distance as long as it indicates the distance from the subject H to the X-ray detector.

  By setting the focal point diameter D in such a range, the X-ray intensity is strong, imaging can be performed for a short time, and motion blur due to movement of the subject H can be reduced. More preferable distances satisfy the ranges of 0.5 ≦ R1 ≦ 1.2, 0.5 ≦ R2 ≦ 1.2, 1.0 ≦ R ≦ 2.5, and the enlargement ratio M is 3 ≦ M ≦ 8. The focal diameter D (mm) can be set to satisfy the range of 0.03 ≦ D ≦ 0.15.

[Console configuration]
As shown in FIG. 1, the console 70 according to the present embodiment inputs an instruction to the I / F 72 to which the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the X-ray detector 13 are connected and the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. A console connected to the network 80 by an operating device 16, LAN (Local Area Network) or the like, which includes an input unit 16a having a keyboard or the like and a display unit 16b having a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display or the like for displaying photographing conditions and the like. A network communication unit 73 for performing communication of various types of information between the external device 70 and the external device is provided. FIG. 4 shows a case where the console 70 is installed in the same room as the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. However, in addition to this, for example, the console 70 is provided in a separate room and the X-ray imaging apparatus is provided. 1 and the console 70 may be connected via a LAN (Local Area Network) or the like.

  The console 70 also includes a control device 71 that performs various settings for the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and controls its operation. The control device 71 includes a computer in which a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like (not shown) are connected by a bus. The console 70 may be a mobile terminal.

As described above, the control device 71 of the console 70 is connected to each part (the X-ray tube 10, the diaphragm 11, the drive device 22, the encoder 23, the phototimer 24, the measurement unit) that configures the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 via the I / F 72. A control signal is transmitted to the distance meter 25 or the like.
In addition, the control device 71 transmits a control signal for instructing the X-ray reading timing and the like to the FPD which is the X-ray detector 13.

  As will be described later, the control device 71 of the console 70 is set with an imaging method for performing imaging by close-contact imaging or phase contrast imaging via the input unit 16a of the operation device 16. The control device 71 controls the operation of each device and each member so as to make use of the characteristics of the close contact photographing and the phase contrast photographing as described above.

  As the input unit 16a of the operation device 16, for example, an X-ray irradiation request switch, a touch panel, a mouse, a keyboard, a joystick, or the like can be used. The input unit 16a functions as subject information input means for inputting subject information regarding the subject H. Furthermore, the input unit 16a functions as an input unit that inputs shooting condition information that can specify an enlargement ratio in enlarged shooting and shooting condition information that can specify a focal diameter in enlarged shooting. Furthermore, it functions as an input means for inputting imaging condition information capable of specifying the X-ray average energy, X-ray tube current, X-ray irradiation time, and the like.

  Here, the subject information input from the input unit 16a includes subject ID, name, age-related information related to age, which is a code uniquely determined for each subject H, information such as gender, pre-existing disease, height, and weight, Examples include imaging part information regarding the part of the subject H that has been imaged, but are not limited thereto.

  As shooting condition information, whether the shooting method is close-contact shooting or phase contrast shooting, shooting condition information that can specify an enlargement ratio in enlarged shooting, and shooting condition information that can specify a focal diameter in enlarged shooting In addition, imaging condition information that can specify the X-ray average energy (if the X-ray tube 10 is used as the X-ray source, the type of filter inserted into the X-ray tube, the tube voltage of the X-ray tube 10), tube current, X Examples include, but are not limited to, a beam irradiation time.

Here, the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in enlargement imaging (phase contrast imaging) is, for example, the distance R from the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 to the X-ray image detection surface in addition to the information on the enlargement ratio itself. And information on the distance R1 from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H or the subject table 15 and the distance R1 from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H or the subject table 15 and the X-ray image detection surface from the subject H or the subject table 15 This is information that can specify the enlargement rate, such as information on the distance R2.
Further, the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in the magnified imaging (phase contrast imaging) includes, for example, the type of the X-ray source (X-ray tube 10) and the imaging mode (small) in addition to the information on the focal diameter itself. This is information that can specify the focal spot diameter, such as information on whether focus shooting or large focus shooting. Here, the imaging condition information that can specify the X-ray average energy is information on a combination of the tube voltage of the X-ray tube and the type of filter inserted in the X-ray tube, but the imaging that can specify the X-ray average energy. The condition information is not limited to this.

The input means for inputting subject information and shooting condition information is not limited to the input unit 16 a of the console 70. For example, an input unit that inputs subject information and imaging condition information may be provided in the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the X-ray detector 13.
Further, the information input from the input unit 16a is not limited to the example illustrated here. For example, image processing conditions and image output conditions of an X-ray image obtained by imaging, and selection information of a cassette used for imaging. It may be possible to input order selection information and the like.
Further, other shooting condition information may be automatically determined by inputting subject information, a part of shooting condition information, or the like.

  The display unit 16b includes various displays such as a liquid crystal monitor and a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, and displays shooting conditions and the like.

  A memory such as a ROM of the control device 71 stores a control program for controlling each part of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and various processing programs. In the present embodiment, it is possible to specify an enlargement ratio particularly in enlargement imaging. The imaging condition information that can specify the specific imaging diameter, the imaging condition information that can specify the X-ray average energy, the correlation between the subject information such as the tube current and the X-ray irradiation time, and the X-ray image data are performed. A data association program for X-ray imaging and an X-ray imaging program for performing X-ray imaging are stored. The control device 71 reads out a control program and various processing programs from the memory based on an operator input from the input unit 16a of the operation device 16, and displays the control contents on the display unit 16b of the operation device 16 while displaying the control contents. The operation of each part of the line image photographing apparatus 1 is comprehensively controlled.

  In the present embodiment, the X-ray image data captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 is sent to the control device 71 via the I / F 72. It functions as an associating means for associating image data with imaging condition information such as an imaging method when the X-ray image is captured.

When the imaging method is phase contrast imaging (enlarged imaging), the imaging condition information that can specify the magnification rate in the phase contrast imaging (enlarged imaging) and the focus in the phase contrast imaging (enlarged imaging) Imaging condition information that can specify the diameter, imaging condition information that can specify the X-ray average energy, tube current, X-ray irradiation time, and the like are associated with X-ray image data.
It should be noted that imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio associated with X-ray image data, imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter, imaging condition information capable of specifying X-ray average energy, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time. For example, the information is input from the input unit 16a of the controller device 16b, but is not limited thereto. For example, when the subject H is not fixed to the subject table, R1 is calculated using the distance meter 25, and shooting is performed based on the calculated R1, thereby expanding the shooting conditions different from the shooting conditions initially input from the input unit 16a or the like. When imaging is performed with a ratio, focal diameter, X-ray average energy, tube current, X-ray irradiation time, etc., X-ray image data from the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and actual imaging conditions at the time of the imaging Are output to the console 70, and the control device 71 of the console 70 associates the data of the X-ray image output from the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 with the actual imaging conditions at the time of the imaging.

  Furthermore, the control device 71 functions as an association unit that associates X-ray image data, imaging condition information, and subject information.

  X-ray image data includes an imaging method, imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio in phase contrast imaging (enlarged imaging), imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter in phase contrast imaging (enlarged imaging), and X-rays. It is sent to and stored in the data server 82 in a state associated with subject information such as imaging condition information capable of specifying the average energy, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time.

  In addition, the control device 71 selects an imaging condition such as an enlargement ratio and a focal diameter, an X-ray average energy, a tube current, an X-ray irradiation time, etc., in accordance with subject information input from the input unit 16a or the like. Functions as condition selection means. That is, the control device 71 performs various imaging such as an appropriate magnification, focal diameter, X-ray average energy, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time according to the input imaging region and the age of the subject who provides the subject H. The condition is selected.

In addition, the control device 71 functions as a measurement unit that measures the length-related amount of the subject of the X-ray image using imaging condition information such as an imaging magnification.
That is, for example, the control device 71 measures the life size (actual size) of X-ray image data obtained by enlarging imaging based on imaging condition information associated with the X-ray image data. In addition, the actual area, length, etc. of the subject image shown in the X-ray image can be measured. Thereby, even in the case of an X-ray image obtained by enlarging imaging, the actual area, length, etc. of the lesioned part of the subject H, the length, width, etc. of the bone part can be obtained.

  Further, the control device 71 performs various types of image processing on the data of the X-ray image. A functional unit that performs image processing may be provided separately from the control device 71.

  In the present embodiment, the control device 71 of the console 70 that controls the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 controls the operation of each apparatus and each member so as to take advantage of the features of the close contact imaging and the phase contrast imaging as described above. It has become.

  Specifically, as described above, an imaging method for setting whether to perform imaging by close-contact imaging or phase contrast imaging via the input unit 16a of the operation device 16 is set.

  In this embodiment, when close-contact shooting is set as the shooting method, a setting screen for numerical values to be input is displayed on the display unit 16b of the operation device 16, and the photographer sets the input unit 16a. To set those values. The values set in the close-contact imaging include, for example, an imaging region of the subject's body as the subject H, a distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13, and the X-ray detector 13 is a cassette-type fitting type. When it is a detector, the kind etc. are mentioned.

  Also, the shooting direction is set. That is, the angle when the X-ray irradiation direction when the X-ray is irradiated from the X-ray tube 10 toward the X-ray detector 13 directly below the vertical direction is, for example, 0 degree is set by the photographer via the input unit 16a. Is set.

  When the distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 and the imaging direction are set, the control device 71 drives the driving devices 22 while checking the values of the various encoders 23 to set the positions of the members. adjust. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the control device 71 expands and contracts the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 to adjust the distance between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 to the set distance R. At the same time, the support outer cylinder 4a is rotated around the support base shaft 4 by an angle set as the shooting direction to adjust the shooting direction.

  Further, the control device 71 reads the area of the panel 13a from the memory according to the type of the X-ray detector 13 installed in advance or the X-ray detector 13 fitted therein, and the read area, the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 10 The X-ray irradiation field is calculated from the distance R to the line detector 13, the opening / closing amount of the diaphragm 11 of the X-ray tube 10 is determined so as to realize the irradiation field, and the opening / closing amount of the diaphragm 11 is determined. Adjust the opening / closing amount. The irradiation field is set so as not to spread beyond the upper limit value determined by the above, but can be set as narrow as necessary.

In the present embodiment, a constraint table that defines constraints between various items of the X-ray imaging conditions is created in advance and stored in the memory of the control device 71. For example, as shown in Table 1, a constraint table among the distance R between the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray image detection surface, the enlargement ratio, and the focal diameter is stored in the memory of the control device 71. . In Table 1, a selectable combination is marked with a circle, and a non-selectable combination is marked with a cross. As described above, the term “expansion (enlarged shooting)” refers to shooting in which the enlargement ratio is determined by the course, such as when the subject is not fixed to the subject table but is taken in a floating state (see FIGS. 8 and 9). It is a condition.

Further, for example, a constraint table in which tube voltages and filters are associated as shown in Table 2 is stored.

In addition, for example, a restriction table in which an age group, an imaging region, a tube voltage, and an enlargement rate are associated as shown in Table 3 is stored.

  For example, when it is recognized that the age group is an adult from the subject information and the photographing part is photographed by the hand, and the magnification ratio is set to 2.4 times (magnified photographing) as photographing condition information, from Table 1, R Is set to a photographing condition in which 2 m is 2 m, the focal diameter is 200 μm, R is 1 m, the focal diameter is 200 μm, R is 0.7 m, the focal diameter is 200 μm, R is 0.7 m, and the focal diameter is 70 μm. From Table 3, tube voltages of 100 kVp, 50 kVp, and 30 kVp are set to selectable shooting conditions. For example, when R is 0.7 m, the focal diameter is 70 μm, and the tube voltage is 30 kVp by the operator's operation input, aluminum and molybdenum can be selected as a filter from Table 2. Set to the condition. For example, molybdenum is selected as the filter.

  Note that the constraint table stored in the memory is not limited to the one shown here. For example, a constraint table that defines constraints on magnification, age group, imaging region, distance R, and irradiation dose (mAs value) is created in advance. When the control device 71 acquires the age group and the imaging region information from the subject information as described above, the control device 71 determines the imaging conditions in which the distance R and the irradiation dose can be selected from the imaging condition information. The distance R selected by the operator's operation input and the irradiation dose may be set.

  There may be no selectable condition depending on the combination of subject information, imaging region information, and imaging condition information. In this case, the control device 71 may display a warning on the display unit 16b of the operation device 16 or issue a warning by voice to call the photographer's attention and prompt the user to change the shooting condition.

  At the time of X-ray imaging, the control device 71 supplies power to the X-ray tube 10 from the power supply unit 21 to irradiate the subject H with X-rays. In addition, when the X-ray dose transmitted through the subject H reaches a predetermined dose and a signal is transmitted from the phototimer 24, the control device 71 stops the supply of power from the power supply unit 21 to the X-ray tube 10. X-ray irradiation is stopped. The X-ray irradiation conditions are appropriately set in consideration of factors other than the X-ray dose detected by the phototimer 24, that is, for example, the type of the X-ray detector 13. Therefore, precisely, the control device 71 stops the X-ray irradiation when a preset irradiation condition such as a signal transmitted from the phototimer 24 is satisfied.

  On the other hand, when the phase contrast imaging is set in the setting of the imaging method, the control device 71 presets the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 within a small focal diameter range of 10 to 300 μm as described above. Change to focal diameter. When the subject table 15 is not attached, the control device 71 alerts the photographer by displaying a warning on the display unit 16b of the operation device 16 or issuing a warning by voice. It has become.

  In this embodiment, when phase contrast imaging is set as an imaging method, a setting screen for numerical values to be input is displayed on the display unit 16b of the operation device 16, and the photographer inputs the input unit 16a. To set those values.

  As the values set in the phase contrast imaging, as in the case of the above-described close-contact imaging, the imaging direction, the imaging region of the subject's body as the subject H, and the X-ray detector 13 is a cassette-type fitting type detection. If it is a container, its type and the like can be mentioned.

  Further, as described above, since the magnification imaging can be performed in the phase contrast imaging, in this embodiment, when the imaging region is input, the control device 71 causes the display unit 16b of the operation device 16 to display an enlargement rate corresponding to the imaging region. The recommended value of M is displayed. That is, in the present embodiment, the imaging region, the recommended value of the magnification M, the distance R1 between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 15, the distance R2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13, the X-ray tube A table for determining the correlation with the focal diameter of 10 and the imaging conditions, that is, the tube voltage and the irradiation dose (mAs value) is created and stored in advance. Note that the recommended value of the enlargement ratio M is appropriately set depending on the imaging region. Further, an upper limit value of the enlargement factor M is set for each imaging region so that the image to be imaged does not protrude from the X-ray detector 13, and when the imaging region is input, the upper limit value of the enlargement factor M is also displayed. It has become so. Alternatively, the distances R1 and R2 that protrude from the image may not be set.

  When the recommended value of the enlargement factor M is approved and set by the photographer, the control device 71 refers to the table based on the distance R1 and distance R2 corresponding to the imaging region and the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10. The tube voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 10 and the irradiation dose to be irradiated are determined. Further, the control device 71 calculates the X-ray irradiation field from the area of the panel 13a of the X-ray detector 13 read from the memory and the relationship between the distance R1 and the distance R2, and realizes the irradiation field. The opening / closing amount of the diaphragm 11 of the X-ray tube 10 is adjusted. And while confirming the value of each encoder 23, each drive device 22 is driven, the 1st arm 6 or the 2nd arm 7 is expanded-contracted, distance is adjusted, and the support outer cylinder 4a is made into the imaging | photography direction around the support base axis | shaft 4. Rotate the set angle to adjust the shooting direction.

  Further, in this embodiment, regardless of the recommended value of the enlargement factor M, the photographer himself can determine the distance R1 between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 15 and the distance R2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13. Can also be entered. As described above, in the phase contrast imaging, the X-ray intensity emitted from the X-ray tube 10 is weaker than that in the case of close-contact imaging. If the distance R1 from the subject table 15 is shortened, it is possible to perform photographing in a shorter time. The above configuration is for making the distance R1 and the distance R2 variable according to the judgment of the photographer.

  The memory also has a table for the photographer to manually set the imaging conditions as described above. In the table, the distance R1, the distance R2 (or the magnification M), and the focal point of the X-ray tube 10 are prepared. Correlation with the diameter and imaging conditions (tube voltage, irradiation dose) is determined and created. In this table, in order to suppress blurring and geometrical unsharpness of the X-ray image to be taken, a maximum value of the enlargement factor M that can be set according to the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 is set. When the enlargement factor M calculated from the enlargement factor M or the distance R1 and the distance R2 in accordance with the above equation (1) increases and reaches the maximum value, the focal point diameter of the corresponding X-ray tube 10 is larger at a further enlargement factor M. Is set to be small.

  In the present embodiment, the upper limit of the imaging time is set in advance depending on the imaging region. For example, if the imaging region is the heart, the heart moves fast, so if the imaging time is long, the captured X-ray image will be blurred. Therefore, for example, the upper limit of the imaging time is set to 1/20 to 1/30 seconds if the imaging region is the heart and 0.3 to 0.5 seconds if the imaging region is the hand. When the X-ray irradiation time calculated from the imaging conditions, that is, the imaging time exceeds the upper limit, the control device 71 displays a warning on the display unit 16b of the operating device 16 or issues a warning by voice. It is designed to alert the photographer.

  Further, for example, when the subject is very fat, the X-ray transmittance is reduced and the X-ray dose incident on the detector is reduced. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the tube voltage to shorten the imaging time. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to input the body shape, weight, etc. of the subject via the input unit 16a of the operation device 16, and the control device 71 is able to input the body shape, weight, etc. of the subject created in advance. The tube voltage is raised according to a table that defines the correlation between the value and the rise value of the tube voltage.

  Further, if the thickness of the imaging region is thick, it is necessary to increase the tube voltage to shorten the imaging time, and it may be better to change the X-ray dose to be irradiated depending on the age of the subject. As described above, the imaging conditions can be adjusted more finely according to the thickness, age of the subject, and the like.

  It is arranged that it is not necessary to issue a warning or to arrange the grid 13c when the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10, the presence or absence of the subject table 15, the type or presence of the X-ray detector 13, etc. are not normal. In some cases, interlock control such as issuing a warning is appropriately performed. Needless to say, the reading gain of the X-ray detector 13 can be adjusted by the distance R and the distances R1 and R2.

[Other system configurations]
In the present embodiment, the console 70 is connected to various external devices via the network communication unit 73. As an external device connected to the console 70, as shown in FIG. 1, for example, there are a HIS / RIS server 81, a data server 82, a viewer 83, an imager 84, and the like. The network communication unit 73 outputs X-ray image data to these external devices according to a predetermined protocol such as DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine). A plurality of data servers 82, viewers 83, imagers 84, etc. may be connected on one network 80.

  The HIS / RIS server 81 is a server that manages an information system in a facility such as a hospital. HIS is an abbreviation for Hospital Information System. It is a hospital information system that manages and manages patient personal information and accounting for medical expenses. RIS is an abbreviation for Radiology Information System. It is a radiology information system that consistently reserves, accepts examinations, interprets and stores examination data.

  In the present embodiment, when the subject ID is input, the control device 71 of the console 70 has subject information corresponding to the subject ID (for example, the name, sex, age, height, weight, etc. of the subject who provides the subject H). Can be acquired from the HIS / RIS server 81.

The data server 82 is a data storage unit that stores data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 and sent via the console 70. In the present embodiment, as described above, the X-ray image data is associated with various imaging condition information, subject information, and the like in the control device 71 of the console 70, and the data server 82 X-ray image data is stored in a state in which these various imaging condition information and subject information are associated with each other.
Note that a data storage means for storing X-ray image data and the like may be provided in the console 70 without providing the data server 82 separately.

The viewer 83 includes a control unit, an input unit, a display unit, and the like (not shown), and is usually a computer used by a doctor or the like for diagnosis or interpretation. The control unit of the viewer 83 includes, for example, a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like (all not shown), and various control programs are stored in the ROM. In the present embodiment, a data search program for searching for X-ray image data, radiographing condition information, and the like from the subject ID and the like, a display program for displaying the searched X-ray image, and the like are stored in the ROM.
The viewer 83 functions as a display unit that displays an X-ray image based on X-ray image data output from the console 70. The viewer 83 can display the subject image of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification using the imaging condition information associated with the X-ray image data. That is, for example, for an X-ray image captured by phase contrast imaging, the size of the subject image is adjusted based on information such as the magnification at the time of imaging associated with the X-ray image data, and the life size ( Display at the same magnification).

  The viewer 83 is search means that can obtain X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the X-ray image data from the data server 82 as data storage means. For example, by inputting the subject ID from an input unit (not shown) (for example, a keyboard), the X image data of the subject corresponding to the subject ID and the shooting condition information thereof are acquired and displayed. Note that the search means is not limited to the viewer 83. For example, the operation device 16 of the console 70 functions as a search unit, and inputs the subject ID and the like from the input unit 16a, whereby the X-ray image data stored in the data server 82 and the imaging condition information corresponding thereto are stored. You may acquire and display on the display part 16b.

  The imager 84 records an X-ray image on an image recording medium such as a film based on the X-ray image data output from the console 70.

[First Modification of Configuration of X-ray Image Shooting Apparatus]
Next, the configuration of the first modification of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 will be described.

  In the first modification, as shown in FIG. 11, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is used in combination with the bed-type subject placement apparatus 30 to constitute a first imaging system 200. In this case, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is normally used by moving the object table 15 to a position where the subject table 15 is removed or does not obstruct imaging.

  As illustrated in FIG. 12, the subject placement device 30 includes a pedestal portion 31 and a subject pedestal portion 32 that is movable on the pedestal portion 31 in the arrow direction. It is also possible to configure so that the subject base part 32 can move in the vertical direction with respect to the base part 31.

  The subject table 32 is made of a generally used acrylic plate, a substance having excellent X-ray permeability, such as carbon, or the like, like the subject table 15 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or is hollow. It is also possible to configure the subject table 32 with a carbon plate having a honeycomb structure. In addition, the portion of the projecting portion A of the subject table 32 on which the imaging part is placed may be formed thin or a hole may be formed. Moreover, the position which should permeate | transmit the one part X-ray of an acrylic board may be cut out, and the position may be made into a carbon plate.

  The X-ray detector 13 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is disposed below the protruding portion A of the subject base 32 protruding from the pedestal 31, and the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 includes the protruding portion A. Is arranged on the opposite side of the X-ray detector 13, that is, above the protruding portion A in the case of FIG. It is also possible to arrange the X-ray tube 10 below the protruding portion A and arrange the X-ray detector 13 above the protruding portion A.

  The test subject places the imaging region as the subject H on the protruding portion A of the subject table 32. In this case, the subject himself / herself may sit or lie down on the subject table 32, or the imaging region may be placed on the protruding portion A of the subject table 32 by sitting on a chair.

  The subject H is photographed by the X-ray image photographing apparatus 1 and the control thereof is as described above. At that time, the control is performed with the distance R1 as the distance between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 32 and the distance R2 as the distance between the subject table 32 and the X-ray detector 13.

  The bed-type subject placement device 30 is, for example, a normal bed type having four legs instead of a configuration in which the subject table 32 is cantilevered as shown in FIG. It is also possible to do. In this case, the subject platform 32 is supported by four legs. Further, any other configuration is possible as long as the X-ray detector 13 and the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 can be inserted below the subject table 32.

[Second Modification of Configuration of X-ray Imaging Apparatus]
Next, the configuration of the second modification of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 will be described.

  In the second modification, as shown in FIG. 13, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is combined with an X-ray detector 50 different from the X-ray detector 13 provided in the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. Used to constitute the second imaging system 300 system. In this case, the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 may be attached or removed as long as they do not obstruct the imaging.

  In the imaging system 200 of the present embodiment, the X-ray irradiator 9 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is turned sideways if it is rotated around the first support shaft 8 extending from the tip of the first arm 6, X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 10 and transmitted through the subject H are irradiated to the other X-ray detector 50 and detected.

  Imaging of the subject H in this case is performed by the entire second imaging system 300, and the control is performed in the same manner as when imaging is performed by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 alone.

  Although FIG. 13 shows the case of close-contact imaging in which the subject H is imaged in close contact with the X-ray detector 50, a subject table is appropriately disposed between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 50. Thus, it can be configured to perform phase contrast imaging.

  In FIG. 13, another X-ray detector 50 is fixed to the support column and the position is fixed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and another X-ray detector 50 can be moved. It is also possible to do. Further, at that time, it is possible to configure the X-ray detector 50 according to various control methods such as moving the X-ray detector 50 in accordance with the movement of the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1.

[Action]
Next, the operation of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or the first and second imaging systems 200 and 300 according to the present embodiment and the X-ray imaging system 100 including the X-ray imaging system 100 will be described.

  First, a basic procedure of X-ray image capturing by the X-ray image capturing system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. X-ray imaging and subsequent processing are realized by the cooperation of the control device 71 of the console 70, the X-ray imaging program, and the data association program.

  When performing X-ray imaging, first, a subject ID for specifying the subject H is input from the input unit 16a of the console 70 (step S1). When the subject ID is input, the control device 71 receives subject information including age-related information, imaging part information, imaging method information, etc. of the subject H corresponding to the subject ID from the HIS / RIS server 81 based on the subject ID. Is acquired (step S2). The subject ID may be any subject ID that can substantially identify the subject in the hospital or facility. For example, the subject ID code, the national number of the subject, The name, the inspection ID related to the imaging request for the subject (the inspection ID is an imaging code, that is, an identification code for each inspection), and the like, are not limited thereto.

  When the subject information is acquired, the control device 71 selects an imaging method such as whether to perform a close-up imaging or a close-up imaging of the subject H based on the subject information (step S3). Further, the control device 71 sets subject information, a photographing part selected based on the subject information, a default value of the photographing condition based on the photographing method, and photographing conditions that can be selected based on the subject information, the photographing part, and the photographing method. Is specified based on a constraint table stored in a memory or the like. Further, a default shooting condition is specified by a method such as selecting a condition that has been selected the best in the past among selectable shooting conditions (step S4). The constraint table is, for example, the above-described constraint table. The specified selectable shooting conditions and default shooting conditions are displayed on a display screen that is easy for the operator to understand (step S5). When the operator inputs whether to approve the displayed default shooting condition or select another shooting condition, the control device 71 determines whether or not the shooting person's approval has been input (step S6). If NO is input (step S6; NO), processing for correcting the photographing condition is performed. Specifically, a shooting condition setting screen for selecting a selectable shooting condition is displayed on the display unit 16b, and when a specific shooting condition is selected, shooting conditions for narrowing down the required shooting conditions are selected. When the setting screen is displayed and selected, the shooting conditions are narrowed down by repeating the necessary number of times to display the shooting condition setting screen for narrowing the next required shooting conditions (step S7).

  When the correction of the shooting conditions is completed, the process returns to step S6 to determine whether or not the photographer's approval is input for the shooting conditions.

  When the approval of the shooting conditions is input (step S6; YES), the control device 71 sets the shooting conditions so as to perform shooting under the shooting conditions (step S8). Then, the control device 71 determines whether or not there is shooting for which shooting conditions are not set (step S9). If there is shooting for which shooting conditions are not set (step S9; YES), the control device 71 returns to step S3 to perform the shooting. Set the shooting conditions. If it is determined that the imaging conditions have been set for all scheduled imaging (step S9; NO), the control device 71 determines the focal diameter of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, the positions of the subject table 15, the X-ray detector 13, and the like. Are adjusted to match each set imaging condition, and each part of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is controlled so as to emit a predetermined dose of X-rays from the X-ray tube 10.

  Next, when X-ray imaging is performed, the captured X-ray image data is sent from the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 to the console 70, and the control device 71 of the console 70 transmits the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information. And subject information. The X-ray image data, imaging condition information, and subject information associated with each other are sent to the data server 82 via the network 80 and stored in a state associated with each other.

  In the present embodiment, various techniques can be used as X-ray imaging techniques by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the first and second imaging systems 200 and 300.

  For example, first, the entire subject H is photographed at close magnification by close-contact photography, the position determined to be the affected part is identified from the X-ray image, and switched to phase contrast photography, so that the affected part is accurately photographed, and A clear X-ray image in which the edge portion of the soft tissue is emphasized can be obtained. If the position of the affected part is already known, phase contrast imaging may be performed from the beginning.

  Further, the X-ray tube 10 is weak when the subject table 15 or the subject table 32 is in contact with the X-ray detector 13 or another X-ray detector 50, that is, when the distance R2 is set to 0 m. The object H is moved by irradiating a line, so that an X-ray image is obtained in a moving image. Then, at the stage where the position determined to be an affected part is specified, the X-ray tube and the detector are moved to appropriate positions without changing the positions of the subject table 15 and the subject table part 32 and switched to phase contrast imaging. Even in this way, it is possible to obtain a clear X-ray image in which the affected part is accurately photographed and the edge part of the soft tissue is emphasized.

  In addition, for example, it is possible to perform functional diagnosis of the subject's body by photographing the subject while holding the hand or opening the subject, or photographing the knee flexion and extension at various knee angles. .

  In addition, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the first and second imaging systems 200 and 300 of the present embodiment can perform so-called tomosynthesis imaging. Tomosynthesis imaging, as shown in FIG. 15, the subject H is photographed while translating the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 or another X-ray detector 50 in opposite directions above and below the subject H. This is a technique for photographing the subject H three-dimensionally.

  In this case, in the second imaging system 300, the operation is controlled so that the X-ray tube 10 and another X-ray detector 50 move while maintaining the positional relationship as shown in FIG. Further, in the case of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or the first imaging system 200, as can be seen from the structure of the support base shaft 4, the first arm 6, the second arm 7, etc. of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, the X-ray tube The first arm 6 and the second arm 7 can be expanded and contracted and their supporting base axes without rotating the 10 around the first support shaft 8 or the X-ray detector 13 around the second support shaft 12. It is possible to execute tomosynthesis imaging simply by adjusting the rotation of the four rotations, and tomosynthesis imaging can be realized very easily.

  Next, an example of X-ray imaging using the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 of the present embodiment and the first and second imaging systems 200 and 300 for each imaging region and imaging object will be shown.

  In the following embodiments, the description of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the first and second imaging systems 200 and 300 may be omitted, but the description may be omitted depending on the apparatus or system whose description is omitted. It goes without saying that the embodiment can be realized. In the following, the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 are arranged in the vertical direction of the subject H, and the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 and the subject H in the left-right direction. The case of arranging in the horizontal direction is called a horizontal direction. In vertical imaging, the X-ray tube 10 is disposed above the subject H and the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 are often disposed below the subject H. The X-ray detectors 13 and 50 can be arranged above the subject H to take images. Furthermore, it goes without saying that horizontal and vertical shooting can be performed even when only vertical shooting or horizontal shooting is described in the following embodiments.

  First, in hand and finger imaging, generally, as shown in FIG. 4, if the subject is seated on a chair X and the hand or finger is in close-contact imaging, the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is used. The image is placed on the X-ray detector 13 and placed on the subject table 15 for phase contrast imaging, and vertical imaging is performed.

  As described above, since the imaging time tends to be longer in phase contrast imaging than in close-contact imaging, the subject H is fixed so that the hand or finger does not move. The object structure 15 is formed of resin or the like, and the surface portion of the object table 15 is formed with irregularities in the shape of a hand, or the compression plate that presses and fixes the object H appropriately from above is described in the above configuration. However, in addition to this, a triangular magnet 60 is arranged between the thumb and the index finger as shown in FIG. 16, and an arm holding part 61 for holding the arm of the subject is provided as shown in FIG. It is also possible to do. In FIG. 17, 61a is an arm holding portion for the left arm, and 61b is an arm holding portion for the right arm.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 18, it is also possible to provide a removable band 62 that fixes the wrist, back of the subject, fingers, and the like of the subject. In this way, the movement of the hand or finger can be prevented by fixing the arm, wrist, back of the hand, finger, or the like. Furthermore, although illustration is omitted, the support jig for fitting and fixing a finger can be made of foamed polystyrene having a low X-ray absorption rate.

  Note that X-ray imaging of hands and fingers can be performed using the first imaging system 200. In this case, the same function can be achieved by applying the configuration of the subject table 15 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the configuration of the support jig installed thereon to the subject table 32 of the subject placement device 30 as described above. it can.

  Next, in the case of photographing the elbow, the photographing can be performed in the same manner as the photographing of the hand or finger. In photographing the elbow, as shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the subject bent or extended the elbow on the subject table 15, the subject table 32, or the X-ray detectors 13 and 50. Place in state. In this case also, when performing phase contrast imaging, the subject H moves by fixing the wrist, arm, etc. of the subject to the subject table 15 or the subject table 32 with a support jig such as a band 62. Can be prevented.

  Next, in shoulder imaging, lateral imaging can be performed using the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or the second imaging system 300. For example, when performing phase contrast imaging with the X-ray imaging apparatus 1, the first arm 6 and the second arm 7 are rotated approximately 90 ° around the support base axis 4 as shown in FIGS. 20 (A) and 20 (B). Then, the subject table 15 is also rotated by approximately 90 ° with respect to the support inner shaft 4b.

  Then, the subject is placed on the side of the subject table 15 facing the X-ray tube 10 by, for example, sitting on the chair, and the subject's shoulder, which is the subject H, is placed at an appropriate position for photographing. In this case, the subject can be prevented from moving by fixing the armpit or chest of the subject with a support jig such as a band or by attaching the support jig to the shoulder. In close-contact imaging, the subject is placed in close contact with the X-ray detector 13 or another X-ray detector 50.

  It is also possible to take a picture of the shoulder by taking a picture in the vertical direction. In this case, for example, support jigs 63 and 64 as shown in FIG. The support jigs 63 and 64 are arranged on the subject table 15 or the subject table unit 32 with a certain interval. Then, as shown in FIG. 21 (B), the subject's front chest is brought into contact with the inclined surface B of the support jig 63, and the subject's jaw is brought into contact with the top surface C of the support jig 63. In this case, the right arm is placed on the support jig 64. Then, X-ray imaging is performed with the right shoulder positioned above the gap portion D of the support jigs 63 and 64.

  When photographing the left shoulder, the support jig 64 is disposed on the left side of the support jig 63. In addition to the case where the subject is photographed in a prone state as described above, the back surface of the subject is brought into contact with the inclined surface B of the support jig 63 and the back surface of the subject is brought into contact with the top surface C of the support jig 63. By placing the arm on the support jig 64 in such a state, it is possible to take a picture in a supine state.

  Next, as in the case of shoulder imaging, the subject is placed on a chair or the like on the X-ray tube 10 side of the subject table 15 as shown in FIGS. In the seated state, the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 can be arranged in the horizontal direction to perform horizontal imaging. In addition, in the state where the subject is lying on the subject table 32 of the bed type subject placement device 30 of the first imaging system 200 shown in FIGS. It can be performed.

  In the imaging of the head and neck, not only when the subject faces the X-ray tube 10 or turns his back against the X-ray tube 10, but the subject lies sideways with respect to the X-ray tube 10. It is also possible to take a picture of the head and neck from the side by placing them facing each other. In the first imaging system 200 shown in FIG. 11, when imaging the head and neck from the side, the subject lies on the subject table 32 so as to face the right side or the left side in the figure. In such a case, measures are taken such that a subject is not overwhelmed, for example, a pillow-shaped support jig (not shown) is arranged between the head and the subject platform 32.

  The same applies to the imaging region other than the head and neck, and the imaging of the imaging target, but the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 are placed horizontally with respect to the floor as shown in FIG. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the subject H can be arranged so as to be photographed obliquely from above or obliquely below. The second imaging system 300 can be similarly arranged. Further, in the first imaging system 200, it is also possible to take an image from diagonally above or diagonally below with the subject lying on the subject table 32.

  Next, in imaging of the chest, abdomen, and lower back, the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 and the subject table 15 are placed on the chest and back with the subject standing or sitting on a chair or the like, as in normal X-ray imaging. Photographed in a state of contact. In addition, the subject is photographed in a state of lying on his / her face or lying down on the subject table 32 of the first photographing system 200.

  In addition, a support jig etc. are used suitably as needed. It is also possible to set a hanging rod or the like above the subject and take a picture with the subject held on the rod or the like.

  Next, in photographing the legs including the knees, ankles, toes, etc., as shown in FIG. 24, for example, as shown in FIG. The leg portion of the subject sitting on the chair X between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detectors 13 and 50 arranged in the direction is fixed to the support jig 65, and the support jig 65 is attached to the subject table 15. Shoot in a fixed position. In addition, the subject is photographed while the subject is lying on his / her back, lying down or lying down on the subject table 32 of the first imaging system 200.

  In this case, for example, as a support jig 65 for fixing the ankle, as shown in FIG. 25, a dog-shaped support jig 65 attached to a part under the subject's knee is cited. By fixing the ankle with such a support jig 65, it is possible to prevent the subject's ankle from moving. Further, if the support jig 65 is fixed to the subject table 15 or the X-ray detectors 13 and 50, the subject can easily take an image.

  As shown in FIG. 24, instead of fixing the support jig 65 to the subject table 15 facing substantially vertical, the support jig 65 may be fixed on the subject table 15 so as to face substantially horizontal. Alternatively, for example, a table or table (not shown) may be placed on the floor surface F and fixed thereon. At this time, the mounting position of the support jig 65 to the subject table 15 and the height of the table or table are adjusted so that the height and horizontal position of the support jig 65 can be adjusted to appropriate positions. Further, the support jig 65 may be configured to be directly fixed to the support base shaft 4 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. Furthermore, the angle with respect to the long piece part 65b of the short piece part 65a of the support jig 65 can be varied, and it can also be comprised so that an angle may be adjusted and used.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 26A, if the support jig 65 is further provided with a band 66, the leg portion of the subject can be securely fixed and the movement thereof can be prevented more reliably. Further, when shooting in the vertical direction with respect to the ankle, as shown in FIG. 26 (B), the support jig 65 is provided with a wing piece portion 67 that clamps the leg portion from both sides so as to be fixed. You may comprise.

  When photographing the subject's knee, the subject's legs can be fixed using the same support jig. Further, for example, when photographing the subject's knee on the subject platform 32 of the first photographing system 200, as shown in FIG. 27, the leg portion including the subject's knee is covered, and openings 68a are formed above and below the knee portion. The subject's legs may be fixed by the provided support jig 68.

  Further, the tip end portion of the projecting portion A of the subject platform 32 of the subject placement device 30 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 is bent as shown in FIG. 28, and a hole E is provided in the bent portion. Then, X-ray imaging is performed from above, below, diagonally above, or diagonally below with the subject seated on the subject table 32 so that the subject's knee is positioned above the hole E. If comprised in this way, a test subject can sit down easily and image | photograph in the state which stopped the motion of the knee and the leg part. At that time, fixing the subject's legs or the like with a support jig or the like is appropriately performed as necessary.

  Note that the subject platform 32 of the subject placement device 30 may be configured to be recessed in the shape of the subject's leg. When the leg is placed in the recessed portion, the leg is stabilized. It is also possible to configure the subject table portion 32 with a material having a normal cushioning property, and to configure the portion to be irradiated with X-rays with a window-like material having excellent X-ray permeability such as carbon.

  Next, in photographing a child or an infant, the first photographing system 200 is used, and the child or the infant is placed on the subject table 32 of the bed-type subject placement device 30 in a face-up or prone state, as described above. It is possible to take a picture in a state where it is lying down or seated and the imaging part or its vicinity is fixed with a support jig and does not move.

  For example, when the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or the second imaging system 300 is used, although not shown, the subject table 15 is configured as a nursery box, and an infant or the like is lying on its side and seated in it. It can also be configured to perform line imaging.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when shooting is performed in a state where the subject H is not fixed to the subject table, the distance meter 25 measures the distance from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H. , R1 is obtained.
Here, the procedure in the case of shooting using the distance meter 25 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In this case, first, as a premise, the shooting condition selected from the subject information and the like is selected by the control device 71 as shown in FIG. Thereafter, the position of the subject H (distance from the X-ray tube 10) is measured (ranging) by the distance meter 25 (step S11). In the control device 71, the position (distance from the X-ray tube 10) of the subject H that is measured (ranging) is substantially the same as the distance R1 from the X-ray tube 10 to the subject H under the previously selected imaging conditions. Is determined (step S12). It should be noted that to what extent errors are determined to be substantially the same may be determined in advance by default, or may be arbitrarily set by a photographer or the like.

  When the position of the subject H (distance from the X-ray tube 10) is different from R1 in the previously selected imaging condition (step S12; NO), the control device 71 notifies the display unit 16b and the like that both are different. Then, the photographer is prompted to select whether or not to give priority to the current subject position. And the control apparatus 71 judges whether the instruction | indication which gives priority to the present condition was input from the input part 16a (step S14), and when giving priority to the present condition (step S14; YES), measurement ( The shooting conditions are changed based on the subject position that has been measured (step S15). On the other hand, when the current status is not prioritized (step S14; NO), the control device 71 displays on the display unit 16b so as to change the position of the subject H (step S16), and informs the photographer of the position of the subject H. Encourage movement. When the position of the subject H moves, the process returns to step S11 again and the above process is repeated.

  When the position of the subject H (distance from the X-ray tube 10) is substantially the same as R1 in the previously selected imaging conditions (step S12; YES), and imaging is performed based on the measured (ranging) subject position. When the condition is changed (step S15), the control device 71 displays on the display unit 16b that X-ray irradiation is possible (step S17), and operates the X-ray irradiation button so as to operate the photographer. Prompt. The control device 71 determines whether or not the X-ray irradiation button is turned on (step S18), and displays on the display unit 16b that X-ray irradiation is possible until the X-ray irradiation button is turned on ( Step S17), prompting the photographer to input. On the other hand, when the X-ray irradiation button is turned on (step S18; YES), the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is controlled so as to emit X-rays from the X-ray tube 10. Thereby, X-rays are emitted from the X-ray tube 10 (step S19), and X-ray imaging is performed.

Next, when X-ray imaging is performed, predetermined image processing is performed on the captured X-ray image. Note that image processing of X-ray images obtained by phase contrast imaging is comprehensively shown in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-162705 and the like, so please refer to it in detail.
Then, X-ray image data obtained by imaging (X-ray image after image processing) and imaging condition information at the time of imaging are sent from the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 to the console 70, and the control device 71 of the console 70 , X-ray image data, imaging condition information and subject information are associated with each other. The X-ray image data, imaging condition information, and subject information associated with each other are sent to the data server 82 via the network 80 and stored in a state associated with each other.

When a doctor or the like performs diagnosis, interpretation, etc., the viewer 83 performs data search processing and X-ray image display processing. These processes are realized by the cooperation of the control of the viewer 83, the search program, and the display program. This will be specifically described below.
As shown in FIG. 30, when a doctor or the like performs diagnosis, interpretation, etc., first, a patient list is displayed on the display unit of the viewer 83 (step S21). When a doctor or the like selects a patient from the patient list, the selection of the patient is input to the viewer 83 (step S22).

  The viewer 83 searches the data server 82 based on the selected subject ID of the patient, and extracts an X-ray image and imaging condition information (step S23). When the X-ray image and the imaging condition information are retrieved, the viewer 83 displays the retrieved one or more X-ray images and a button for instructing the end on the display unit (step S24). Then, the viewer 83 determines whether or not an end instruction has been input (step S25). If an end instruction is input (step S25; YES), the process ends. If not (step S25; NO), the process proceeds to step S26. The viewer 83 determines whether or not a specific X-ray image has been selected from the displayed X-ray images (step S26), and when any X-ray image is selected (step S26; YES), Further, it is determined whether or not a selection for displaying imaging condition information corresponding to the X-ray image has been input (step S27). When selection for displaying the imaging condition information is input (step S27; YES), the selected X-ray image is appropriately changed to a desired size based on the imaging condition information, and the enlargement ratio, focal diameter, X It is displayed in a predetermined size together with imaging condition information such as the type of filter inserted into the tube, X-ray tube voltage, tube current, and X-ray irradiation time, and a display cancellation instruction button for imaging condition information is also displayed (step S28). On the other hand, when the selection for displaying the imaging condition information is not input (step S27; NO), the selected X-ray image is appropriately changed to a desired size based on the imaging condition information, and the X-ray image is displayed. The image is displayed in a predetermined size, and a shooting instruction information display instruction button is also displayed (step S29).

  Further, the viewer 83 determines whether or not there is a return instruction input (step S30). If there is a return instruction input (step S30; YES), the process returns to S24 and repeats the process. On the other hand, when there is no input of a return instruction (step S30; NO), the process returns to step S27.

  As described above, according to the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 and the X-ray image capturing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 that can perform magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications is determined by the photographing condition information. Since the obtained X-ray image data and the imaging condition information are stored in association with each other by taking an enlarged image at an enlargement rate, the obtained X-ray image is taken at what enlargement rate. You can see if it is. Thereby, when a doctor etc. make a diagnosis, the magnitude | size of a disease part etc. can be grasped | ascertained correctly and an exact diagnosis can be performed.

  Further, since it is possible to magnify and photograph under appropriate conditions in accordance with subject information related to the subject H such as a photographing part, it is possible to photograph with a suitable photographing method according to the subject H such as a photographing part.

  In addition, since the distance measuring device 25 for measuring the position of the subject H is provided, even when the subject position is not fixed in advance, such as when shooting without fixing the subject H to the subject table 15, Shooting condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in the shooting can be output.

  Further, the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 can be rotated around the support base axis 4, the distance R 1 between the X-ray tube 10 and the subject table 15, the distance R 2 between the subject table 15 and the X-ray detector 13, By making the distance R between the X-ray tube 10 and the X-ray detector 13 variable, the operating range of each member constituting the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is increased. Therefore, it is not necessary for the subject to take an unreasonable posture at the time of imaging, and X-ray imaging can be appropriately performed on a subject who stands up, sits down and lies down in a natural posture without overdoing it.

  In addition, since the focal diameter of the X-ray tube 10 can be set within a range of 300 to 2000 μm for close-contact imaging and within a range of 10 to 300 μm for phase contrast imaging, one X-ray is set. The image photographing apparatus 1 and the pair of photographing systems 200 and 300 can switch between close-contact photographing and phase contrast photographing as appropriate, and the apparatus and system are very convenient for both the photographer and the subject.

  Further, the first imaging system 200 is configured by the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and the subject placement apparatus 30 formed in a bed shape, so that the subject sits on the subject platform 32 of the subject placement apparatus 30. Since X-ray imaging can be performed in a lying state, the above-described effect is more effectively exhibited.

  Further, the X-ray detector that is irradiated from the X-ray tube 10 of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 and transmits the subject H is different from the X-ray detector 13 provided in the X-ray imaging apparatus 1. By configuring the first imaging system 200 to detect by irradiating 50, for example, in the configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 or in the configuration of the installation space in which the X-ray imaging apparatus 1 is installed, X-rays Even when the X-ray detector 13 provided in the image capturing apparatus 1 cannot detect X-rays transmitted through the subject H, the X-ray image capturing apparatus 1 can be irradiated by installing another X-ray detector 50 and irradiating it. As in the case of a single unit, it becomes possible to accurately receive and detect X-rays with another X-ray detector 50, and this first imaging system 200 is exactly the same as the above-described X-ray imaging apparatus 1. An effect can be obtained.

  In the present embodiment, the case where an FPD is used as the X-ray detector 13 has been described as an example, but the X-ray detector 13 is not limited to the FPD. For example, when a stimulable phosphor sheet is used as the X-ray detector 13, a reading device that reads X-ray image information from the stimulable phosphor sheet is connected to the console 70 via the I / F 72.

  In addition, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and can be modified as appropriate.

It is a block diagram which shows the control structure of the X-ray imaging system which concerns on this embodiment. (A) It is a figure which shows the example of normal X-ray imaging, ie, close_contact | adherence imaging, (B) It is a figure which shows the example of phase contrast imaging. It is a front view of the example of composition of the X-ray imaging device concerning this embodiment. It is a side view of the example of composition of the X-ray imaging device concerning this embodiment. It is a figure explaining the distance of an X-ray tube and a to-be-photographed object table, the distance of a to-be-photographed object table and an X-ray detector, and the distance of an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector. It is a figure which shows the structural example and grid of an X-ray detector. It is a schematic cross section which shows the grid, the 1st insertion part, and the 2nd insertion part which were provided in the detector holding stand. It is a figure explaining the state which image | photographs the to-be-photographed object which is not fixed to a to-be-photographed object base. It is a figure explaining the state which image | photographs the to-be-photographed object which is not fixed to a to-be-photographed object base. 2A and 2B are diagrams for explaining the principle of phase contrast imaging, in which FIG. 1A illustrates X-rays refracted at an edge portion of a subject, and FIG. 2B illustrates X-ray intensity that is strongly detected at the edge portion of the subject. It is a figure which shows the structure of the 1st X-ray imaging system which concerns on this embodiment. It is a perspective view explaining the composition of a subject placement device. It is a figure which shows the structure of the 2nd X-ray imaging system which concerns on this embodiment. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the X-ray imaging in this embodiment. It is a figure explaining the method of tomosynthesis imaging | photography. It is a figure which shows the magnet arrange | positioned at a to-be-photographed object base. It is a figure which shows the arm holding part arrange | positioned at a to-be-photographed object base. It is a figure which shows the band which fixes a test subject's wrist etc. FIG. (A) It is a figure which shows the elbow mounted in the bent state, (B) It is a figure which shows the elbow mounted in the extended state. It is a figure which shows the X-ray imaging apparatus with which an X-ray tube, an X-ray detector, etc. are arrange | positioned in the horizontal direction, (A) is a front view, (B) is a top view containing a to-be-photographed object. (A) It is a figure which shows the example of a set of support jig | tool used for imaging | photography of a shoulder, (B) It is a figure which shows the example which image | photographs a shoulder using a support jig | tool. It is a figure explaining the state which image | photographs a to-be-photographed object from diagonally upward. It is a figure explaining the state which image | photographs a to-be-photographed object from diagonally downward. It is a figure which shows the example in the case of image | photographing a test subject's leg part. It is a figure which shows the example of the support jig | tool which fixes an ankle etc. (A) It is a figure which shows the band used in combination with the support jig | tool of FIG. 28, (B) It is a figure which shows the wing | blade piece part provided in the support jig | tool of FIG. It is a figure which shows the support jig | tool which covered the test subject's leg part and was provided with the opening of the part of the knee. It is a figure which shows the to-be-photographed object base part of the to-be-photographed object mounting apparatus by which the front-end | tip part was bent and the hole was provided. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a flow of X-ray imaging when imaging is performed by measuring the position of a subject. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the process which searches data and displays on a viewer in this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 X-ray imaging device 3 Support base part 4 Support base axis 6 First arm 7 Second arm 8 First support axis 10 X-ray tube 12 Second support axis 13 X-ray detector 15 Subject stand 16 Operation apparatus 16a Input part 16b Display Unit 25 Distance meter 30 Subject placement device 50 Another X-ray detector 70 Console 71 Control device 72 I / F
73 Network communication unit 80 Network 81 HIS / RIS server 82 Data server 83 Viewer 100 X-ray imaging system 200 First imaging system 300 Second imaging system H Subject R1 Distance between X-ray tube and subject table R2 Subject table Distance between X-ray detector R Distance between X-ray tube and X-ray detector

Claims (38)

An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of magnifying imaging at a plurality of different magnifications;
Corresponding means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio in the enlarged imaging;
X-ray data, comprising: data storage means for associating and storing the X-ray image data associated with the correspondence means and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio Image shooting system. Subject information input means for inputting subject information related to the subject;
Shooting condition information selection means for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio according to the subject information input by the subject information input means;
The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, comprising: An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of magnifying imaging at a plurality of different magnifications and outputting data of the photographed X-ray images and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification at the time of the magnification imaging;
Correspondence means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate;
X-ray data, comprising: data storage means for associating and storing the X-ray image data associated with the correspondence means and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio Image shooting system. Having subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject,
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input unit, and the data of the captured X-ray image and an enlargement ratio at the time of the enlarged imaging. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 3, wherein imaging condition information capable of specifying the image is output. Subject position detecting means for detecting the subject position;
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject position detected by the subject position detecting means, and also the data of the taken X-ray image and the magnification rate at the time of the enlarged imaging. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 3, wherein imaging condition information capable of specifying the image is output.   5. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.   The X-ray imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the subject information includes age-related information related to an age of the subject.   2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: retrieval means for obtaining, from the data storage means, data of the X-ray image and imaging condition information corresponding to the enlargement ratio corresponding thereto. The X-ray imaging system according to any one of items 7 to 9.   The image processing apparatus includes a measuring unit that measures a length-related amount of a subject of the X-ray image using imaging condition information that can specify the magnification corresponding to the X-ray image data. Item 9. The X-ray imaging system according to Item 8.   The image processing apparatus includes display means for displaying the subject image of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification with respect to the actual size by using the imaging condition information that can specify the magnification corresponding to the data of the X-ray image. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 8 or 9. The associating means associates data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate with subject information of the X-ray image,
The data storage means stores the data of the X-ray image, the subject information, and the imaging condition information that can specify the enlargement ratio associated with each other by the correspondence means,
8. The retrieval unit according to claim 7, wherein the X-ray image data, imaging condition information that can specify the magnification rate corresponding to the X-ray image data, and the subject information are obtained from the data storage unit. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 10. A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data photographed by an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications and photographing condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate in the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in association with each other;
A program characterized by causing a computer to realize. Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A shooting condition information selection function for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio according to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
The program according to claim 12, further causing a computer to realize. A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data output from an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing at a plurality of different magnifications and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate at the time of the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the enlargement ratio in association with each other;
A program characterized by causing a computer to realize. Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus to perform the magnified imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus, and imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio at the time of the magnified imaging;
The program according to claim 14, further causing a computer to realize the above. A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus so as to perform the enlarged imaging according to the object position detected by the object position detecting means for detecting the object position;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus, and imaging condition information capable of specifying an enlargement ratio at the time of the magnified imaging;
The program according to claim 14, further causing a computer to realize the above.   16. The program according to claim 13, wherein the subject information includes imaging part information related to an imaging part of the subject.   The program according to claim 13, wherein the subject information includes age-related information related to an age of the subject.   The computer further realizes a search function for obtaining the X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the magnification rate by searching from the data stored by the data storage function. The program according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the program is characterized by the following.   A measurement function for measuring a length-related amount of a subject of the X-ray image using the imaging condition information that can specify the magnification corresponding to the X-ray image data is further realized by a computer. The program according to claim 19.   The computer further has a display control function for causing the display means to display the subject image of the X-ray image at a predetermined magnification with respect to the actual size using the imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification corresponding to the data of the X-ray image. The program according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the program is realized. The association function associates data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying the magnification rate with subject information of the X-ray image,
The data storage function stores the X-ray image data associated with the association function, the subject information, and imaging condition information that can specify the magnification ratio in association with each other,
The search function obtains the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information and the subject information that can specify the enlargement ratio corresponding to the X-ray image data from the data stored by the data storage function. The program according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that: An X-ray imaging apparatus capable of enlarging imaging with a plurality of different focal diameters;
Corresponding means for associating data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter in the enlarged imaging;
An X-ray imaging system comprising: a data storage unit that stores the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information associated by the association unit in association with each other. Subject information input means for inputting subject information related to the subject;
The photographing condition information selecting means for selecting photographing condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in accordance with the subject information input by the subject information input means. X-ray imaging system. An X-ray image capturing apparatus capable of enlarging imaging with a plurality of different focal diameters, and outputting captured X-ray image data and imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the magnified imaging;
Correspondence means for associating the data of the X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus with the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter;
An X-ray imaging system comprising: a data storage unit that stores the X-ray image data and the imaging condition information associated by the association unit in association with each other. It has subject information input means for entering subject information related to the subject,
The X-ray imaging apparatus performs the enlarged imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input unit, and the X-ray image data and the focal diameter at the time of the enlarged imaging. 26. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 25, wherein imaging condition information capable of specifying the image is output.   27. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 24 or claim 26, wherein the subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.   28. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 24, 26, or 27, wherein the subject information includes age-related information related to an age of the subject.   The search means according to any one of claims 23 to 28, further comprising search means for obtaining, from the data storage means, data of the X-ray image and imaging condition information corresponding to the focal diameter corresponding thereto. The X-ray imaging system as described in any one of Claims.   The display unit can display the X-ray image and the focal diameter at the same time using imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter corresponding to the data of the X-ray image. The X-ray imaging system according to 29. A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data captured by an X-ray image capturing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters and photographing condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in association with each other;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus so as to perform enlarged imaging at a focal diameter determined by the imaging condition information;
A program characterized by causing a computer to realize. Subject information input function for inputting subject information related to the subject;
A shooting condition information selection function for selecting shooting condition information capable of specifying a focal spot diameter in the enlarged shooting according to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
32. The program according to claim 31, further causing a computer to realize the above. A correspondence function for associating X-ray image data output from an X-ray image photographing apparatus capable of performing magnified photographing with a plurality of different focal diameters and photographing condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the magnified photographing;
A data storage function for storing the X-ray image data associated by the association function and the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter in association with each other;
A program characterized by causing a computer to realize. Subject information input function for entering subject information related to the subject;
A control function for controlling the X-ray imaging apparatus to perform the magnified imaging under a condition corresponding to the subject information input by the subject information input function;
An output function for outputting data of an X-ray image captured by the X-ray image capturing apparatus and imaging condition information capable of specifying a focal diameter at the time of the enlarged imaging;
34. The program according to claim 33, further causing a computer to realize the above.   35. The program according to claim 32 or claim 34, wherein the subject information includes imaging part information relating to an imaging part of the subject.   The program according to any one of claims 32, 34, and 35, wherein the subject information includes age-related information related to an age of the subject.   The computer further realizes a search function for obtaining the X-ray image data and imaging condition information corresponding to the focal diameter corresponding to the X-ray image data from the data stored by the data storage function. 37. The program according to any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the program is characterized in that   Using the imaging condition information capable of specifying the focal diameter corresponding to the X-ray image data, further causing a computer to realize a display control function for simultaneously displaying the X-ray image and the focal diameter on a display unit. 38. A program according to claim 37, characterized in that:

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