JP2009050531A - Radiation image capturing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To capture an image effective for the diagnosis by the kymography under a condition according to a tested region. <P>SOLUTION: In the radiation image capturing system 100, a control part 21 of a radiography console reads conditions for radiography according to the tested region specified in a tested region specifying screen 241 from a storage part 22, and sets the conditions for a radiography device 1. The radiography device 1 performs the kymography for the target region for test under the set condition for radiography. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a radiographic imaging system.

  In contrast to the conventional still image and diagnosis of radiation using a film / screen or photostimulable phosphor plate, a dynamic image of the region to be examined is taken using a semiconductor image sensor such as an FPD (flat panel detector), Attempts have been made to apply it to diagnosis. Specifically, by utilizing the responsiveness of reading / erasing of image data of the semiconductor image sensor, pulsed radiation is continuously irradiated from the radiation source in accordance with the reading / erasing timing of the semiconductor image sensor. Take multiple shots per second to capture the dynamics of the area to be examined. By sequentially displaying a series of a plurality of images acquired by imaging, a doctor can recognize a series of movements of a region to be examined.

Various techniques for displaying dynamic images in an easy-to-view manner have also been proposed. For example, in Patent Document 1, a dynamic image acquired continuously in time series is treated as a “spatio-temporal three-dimensional image” with a time direction as a depth, and a transverse image and sagittal image are created. A technique for displaying in an observable manner is described. Patent Document 2 describes a technique for creating a difference image between frames of a dynamic image and displaying the difference moving image.
JP 2004-305487 A JP 2004-31434 A

  By the way, in general, the average time required for one cycle of dynamics varies depending on the type of the region to be examined. Further, the number of cycles per unit time of the dynamics of the inspection target part and the size of the structure of the inspection target part differ depending on the subject. Therefore, the imaging conditions (frame rate, pixel size, imaging timing) for obtaining an effective image for diagnosis differ depending on the examination target region to be imaged, and it is not preferable to perform imaging under the same imaging conditions.

  However, conventionally, as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a technique has been proposed in which dynamic images obtained by dynamic imaging are subjected to image processing and displayed for easy diagnosis, but images effective for diagnosis in dynamic imaging are proposed. The setting of shooting conditions for obtaining the image was not taken into consideration.

  An object of the present invention is to make it possible to obtain an image effective for diagnosis by performing dynamic imaging under imaging conditions corresponding to a region to be inspected as an imaging target.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1
In a radiographic imaging system comprising imaging means for imaging the dynamics of a region to be examined in the human body and acquiring a plurality of image data indicating the dynamics of the region to be examined,
An operation means for designating the examination target part;
Control means for determining an imaging condition based on a region to be inspected designated by the operation means, and causing the imaging means to perform imaging under the determined imaging condition;
Is provided.

The invention according to claim 2 is the invention according to claim 1,
The imaging condition includes at least one of the number of images per unit time taken by the imaging unit, the pixel size of image data acquired by the imaging unit, and the imaging timing.

The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2,
The control means is a more precise imaging condition among the imaging conditions determined based on each of the specified inspection target parts when a plurality of inspection target parts are specified for one imaging by the operation means. To cause the photographing means to perform photographing.

The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The control means images the examination target part under the imaging conditions determined by the imaging means before imaging the dynamics of the examination target part, analyzes image data obtained by the imaging, and based on the analysis result Then, the determined photographing condition is corrected.

The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
Comprising a detecting means for detecting the state of the examination target part,
The control unit corrects the determined shooting condition according to the detection result of the detection unit, and causes the shooting unit to perform shooting under the corrected shooting condition.

The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to claim 5,
The dynamics of the site to be examined are periodic dynamics,
The detection means detects a cycle of the dynamics of the inspection target part together with the state of the inspection target part,
The control means changes the photographing timing for each cycle of the dynamic detected by the detecting means when photographing a plurality of cycles.

The invention according to claim 7 is the invention according to claim 6,
The dynamics of the site to be examined are dynamics of lung respiratory movement,
The detection means detects the respiratory motion cycle of the lung together with the state of the lung,
The control means changes the imaging timing for each cycle of the respiratory motion detected by the detection means when imaging a plurality of respiratory motion cycles.

The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The dynamics of the site to be examined are periodic dynamics,
The control means uses the at least two image data first acquired by the imaging means after the start of dynamic imaging of the examination target part by the imaging means, and uses the image area of the examination target part in a series of dynamic imaging When the calculated area change rate is not within a predetermined range, the determined shooting condition is corrected, and the shooting unit is caused to perform re-shooting under the corrected shooting condition.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to obtain an image effective for diagnosis by performing dynamic imaging under imaging conditions corresponding to a region to be inspected as an imaging target.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, at least one of the number of images per unit time captured by the imaging unit, the pixel size of the image data acquired by the imaging unit, and the imaging timing, according to the examination target part to be imaged. It is possible to determine shooting conditions including one.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, when a plurality of examination target parts are designated for one imaging, a dynamic image effective for diagnosis can be obtained for any examination target part.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, before imaging of dynamics, image data obtained by actually imaging a region to be examined under the determined imaging conditions is analyzed, and the imaging conditions are corrected according to the result. It becomes possible to perform imaging under more optimal imaging conditions according to the inspection target region and the individual state of the imaging means.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to perform imaging under more optimal imaging conditions according to the individual state of the examination target region that is the subject.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, when photographing dynamics having periodicity over a plurality of cycles, since the photographing timing is changed for each cycle, without increasing the number of images per unit time in the photographing means, The timing at which imaging is performed during one cycle of dynamics can be increased, and changes in the dynamics of the region to be inspected can be imaged more finely.

  According to the seventh aspect of the invention, when the respiratory motion of the lung is imaged over a plurality of cycles, the imaging timing is changed for each cycle, so that the lungs can be obtained without increasing the number of images per unit time in the imaging means. The timing at which imaging is performed during one cycle of respiratory motion can be increased, and changes in the lung due to respiratory motion can be captured more precisely.

  According to the invention described in claim 8, if the imaging condition needs to be corrected depending on the individual state of the examination target part that is the subject, the correction is automatically performed and re-imaging is performed, and the imaging condition needs to be corrected. If not, shooting can continue.

  The first and second embodiments according to the present invention will be described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

[First Embodiment]
(Configuration of radiation image capturing system 100)
First, the configuration will be described.
FIG. 1 shows an overall configuration of a radiographic image capturing system 100 according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, a radiographic imaging system 100 includes an imaging device 1 and an imaging console 2 connected by a communication cable or the like, and the imaging console 2 and the diagnostic console 3 are connected to a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication network N is connected and configured.

(Configuration of the photographing apparatus 1)
The imaging device 1 is imaging means for imaging the dynamics of a human body having a periodicity (cycle), such as changes in the form of lung expansion and contraction accompanying breathing, heart beats, and the like. The dynamic imaging is performed by continuously irradiating the examination target site with radiation and acquiring a plurality of images (that is, continuous imaging). A series of images obtained by this continuous shooting is called a dynamic image. Each of the plurality of images constituting the dynamic image is called a frame image.
As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging apparatus 1 includes a radiation source 11, a radiation irradiation control device 12, a radiation detection unit 13, a reading control device 14, a cycle detection sensor 15, a cycle detection device 16, and the like.

The radiation source 11 irradiates the subject M with radiation (X-rays) under the control of the radiation irradiation control device 12.
The radiation irradiation control device 12 is connected to the imaging console 2 and controls the radiation source 11 based on the radiation irradiation conditions input from the imaging console 2 to perform radiation imaging. The radiation irradiation conditions input from the imaging console 2 are, for example, pulse rate, pulse width, pulse interval, imaging start / end timing, X-ray tube current value, X-ray tube voltage value, filter type during continuous irradiation. Etc. The pulse rate is the number of times of radiation irradiation per unit time (here, per second) and coincides with a frame rate described later. The pulse width is a radiation irradiation time per one irradiation. The pulse interval is the time from the start of one radiation irradiation to the start of the next radiation irradiation in continuous imaging, and coincides with a frame interval described later.

The radiation detection unit 13 is configured by a semiconductor image sensor such as an FPD. The FPD has, for example, a glass substrate or the like, detects radiation that has been irradiated from the radiation source 11 and transmitted through at least the subject M at a predetermined position on the substrate according to its intensity, and detects the detected radiation as an electrical signal. A plurality of pixels to be converted and stored are arranged in a matrix. Each pixel includes a switching unit such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor).
The reading control device 14 is connected to the imaging console 2, controls the switching unit of each pixel of the radiation detection unit 13 based on the image reading conditions input from the imaging console 2, and accumulates in each pixel. Image data is acquired by switching the reading of the electric signal and reading the electric signal accumulated in the radiation detection unit 13. Then, the acquired image data is output to the imaging console 2. The image reading conditions are, for example, a frame rate, a frame interval, a pixel size, an image size (matrix size), and the like. The frame rate is the number of frame images acquired per unit time (here, per second), and matches the pulse rate. The frame interval is the time from the start of one frame image acquisition operation to the start of the next frame image acquisition operation in continuous shooting, and coincides with the pulse interval.
The pulse interval and frame interval are obtained from the pulse rate and frame rate.

  Here, the radiation irradiation control device 12 and the reading control device 14 are connected to each other, and exchange synchronization signals to synchronize the radiation irradiation operation and the image reading operation.

  The cycle detection sensor 15 detects the state of the inspection target part of the subject M and outputs detection information to the cycle detection device 16. As the cycle detection sensor 15, for example, when the site to be examined is lung (aspiration), a respiratory monitor belt, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera, an optical camera, a spirometer, or the like can be applied. In addition, when the examination target site is the heart (blood flow), an electrocardiograph or the like can be applied.

Based on the detection information input by the cycle detection sensor 15, the cycle detection device 16 counts the number of cycles of the dynamics of the site to be inspected (the number of cycles per unit time. For example, if the site to be inspected is lung (aspiration), breathing Number (times / second), heart (blood flow), heart rate in the case of heart (times / second)), and the current state of the region to be examined is detected in one cycle, and the detection result (Cycle information) is output to the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2.
For example, the cycle detection device 16 converts the lung state from inspiration to expiration by the cycle detection sensor 15 (respiration monitor belt, CCD camera, optical camera, spirometer, etc.) when the examination target site is lung (aspiration). The timing at which detection information indicating a point is input is set as a base point of one cycle, and the period up to the timing at which this state is detected next is recognized as one cycle.
In addition, when the examination target site is a heart (including blood flow), the cycle detection device 16 uses the timing at which the R wave is input by the cycle detection sensor 15 (electrocardiograph or the like) as a base point, and then the R wave The period up to the detected timing is recognized as one cycle.
The number of cycles recognized per second is detected as the number of cycles.

(Configuration of the shooting console 2)
The imaging console 2 outputs radiation irradiation conditions and image reading conditions to the imaging apparatus 1 to control radiation imaging and radiation image reading operations by the imaging apparatus 1, and also captures image data acquired by the imaging apparatus 1. This is a device that displays whether or not the image is suitable for confirmation of positioning and diagnosis.
As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging console 2 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, an operation unit 23, a display unit 24, a communication unit 25, and the like, and each unit is connected by a bus 26.

  The control unit 21 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The CPU of the control unit 21 reads out various processing programs such as a system program stored in the storage unit 22 and a photographing control processing program in response to an operation of the operation unit 23, expands them in the RAM, and expands them. The control means centrally controls the operation of each part of the imaging console 2 and the radiation irradiation operation and the reading operation of the imaging apparatus 1 according to the program. A timer (not shown) is connected to the control unit 21.

  The storage unit 22 is configured by a nonvolatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 22 stores various programs executed by the control unit 21 and data such as parameters necessary for execution of processing by the programs or processing results. For example, the storage unit 22 stores a shooting control processing program for executing shooting control processing described later. In addition, the storage unit 22 stores imaging conditions (radiation irradiation conditions and image reading conditions) corresponding to the examination target part in association with the part name of each examination target part that can be an imaging target. Various programs are stored in the form of readable program code, and the control unit 21 sequentially executes operations according to the program code.

  The operation unit 23 includes a keyboard having a cursor key, numeric input keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse. The control unit 23 controls an instruction signal input by key operation or mouse operation on the keyboard. To 21. In addition, the operation unit 23 may include a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 24. In this case, the operation unit 23 outputs an instruction signal input via the touch panel to the control unit 21.

  The display unit 24 is configured by a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), and displays an input instruction, data, or the like from the operation unit 23 in accordance with an instruction of a display signal input from the control unit 21. To do.

  The communication unit 25 includes a LAN adapter, a router, a TA (Terminal Adapter), and the like, and controls data transmission / reception with each device connected to the communication network N.

(Configuration of diagnostic console 3)
The diagnostic console 3 is a device for displaying image data transmitted from the imaging console and performing a diagnostic interpretation by a doctor.
As shown in FIG. 1, the diagnostic console 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an operation unit 33, a display unit 34, a communication unit 35, and the like, and each unit is connected by a bus 36.

  The control unit 31 includes a CPU, a RAM, and the like. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads out the system program and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 32 in accordance with the operation of the operation unit 33 and develops them in the RAM, and each part of the diagnostic console 3 according to the developed programs. Centralized control of the operation.

  The storage unit 32 is configured by a nonvolatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 32 stores various programs executed by the control unit 31 and data such as parameters necessary for execution of processing by the programs or processing results. These various programs are stored in the form of readable program codes, and the control unit 31 sequentially executes operations according to the program codes.

  The operation unit 33 includes a keyboard having cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse. The control unit 33 controls an instruction signal input by key operation or mouse operation on the keyboard. To 31. The operation unit 33 may include a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 34, and in this case, an instruction signal input via the touch panel is output to the control unit 31.

  The display unit 34 is configured by a monitor such as an LCD or a CRT, and displays an input instruction, data, or the like from the operation unit 33 in accordance with an instruction of a display signal input from the control unit 31.

  The communication unit 35 includes a LAN adapter, a router, a TA, and the like, and controls data transmission / reception with each device connected to the communication network N.

(Operation of Radiation Imaging System 100)
Next, the operation in the radiographic image capturing system 100 will be described.
FIG. 2 shows a flow of imaging control processing executed by the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2.

  First, the operation section 23 is operated by the imaging engineer, and patient information of the imaging target (subject M) is input, an examination target region is specified, and the like (step S1). FIG. 3 shows an example of the inspection target part designation screen 241. This screen is a screen for the imaging engineer to specify the part name of the examination target part to be imaged by the operation unit 23. That is, an operation unit is realized by the operation unit 23 and the examination target part designation screen 241. The examination target part designation screen 241 includes part buttons B1 to Bn on which a plurality of part names that can be designated as imaging targets are displayed (n is an integer). When any one of the part buttons B1 to Bn is pressed by the operation unit 23, the part displayed on the pressed part button is designated as the examination target part to be imaged. It is also possible to specify a plurality of parts as examination target parts to be imaged by pressing a plurality of part buttons.

When the inspection target part is specified, the imaging condition (default value) stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the part name of the specified inspection target part is determined as the imaging condition, and is read by the radiation irradiation control device 12 and reading. It is set in the control device 14 (step S2). The imaging conditions are specifically the radiation irradiation condition and the image reading condition, and the radiation irradiation condition stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the selected examination target region is set in the radiation irradiation control device 12. At the same time, the image reading conditions stored in association with the selected region to be inspected are set in the reading control device 14.
For example, when “lung (aspiration)”, “heart (blood flow)”, and “heart” are selected as the examination target parts, the imaging conditions are determined as follows.
In the case of lung (aspiration), frame rate / pulse rate (3 frames / second), pixel size (400 μm), image size (40 cm × 30 cm), matrix size (1024 × 768 Pixel), pulse width (5 msec), tube voltage ( 120 kV), tube current (50 mA), imaging timing (from the timing of the inspiration → expiration conversion point (imaging start timing) every frame interval time)
In the case of heart (blood flow), frame rate / pulse rate (15 frames / second), pixel size (400 μm), image size (40 cm × 30 cm), matrix size (1024 × 768 Pixel), pulse width (5 msec), tube voltage (120 kV), tube current (30 mA), imaging timing (every frame interval time from conversion point timing (imaging start timing) in diastole to systole)
In the case of heart, frame rate / pulse rate (60 frames / second), pixel size (400 μm), image size (20 cm × 15 cm), matrix size (512 × 384 Pixel), pulse width (4 msec), tube voltage (130 kV), Tube current (25 mA), imaging timing (every frame interval from the timing of the conversion point from the expansion phase to the systolic phase (imaging start timing))

Here, the relationship between the inspection target region and the imaging conditions (frame rate, pixel size) will be described.
The applicant conducted an experiment in which the same examination target part was photographed under a plurality of photographing conditions, and the diagnostic effectiveness of the photographed image for each photographing condition was visually evaluated.

FIG. 4 shows the visual evaluation results of the captured images at each frame rate when the lungs (aspiration) are imaged at a plurality of different frame rates with the region to be examined as an examination target. FIG. 5 shows a visual evaluation result of the captured image at each pixel size when the lung (arousal) is imaged at a plurality of different pixel sizes using the examination target region. FIG. 6 shows the visual evaluation results of the captured images at each frame rate when the heart (blood flow) is imaged at a plurality of different frame rates using the examination target site. FIG. 7 shows the visual evaluation result of the captured image at each pixel size when the heart (blood flow) is imaged at a plurality of different pixel sizes using the examination target site.
The evaluation was performed based on a four-level evaluation, where ◎: very good, ◯: good, △: normal, so-so (can be judged to be acceptable for diagnosis), and x: bad.

The radiation detector of PaxScan4030CB made by Varian medical systems was used for photography.
For imaging using the lungs (arousal) as a test pair, the chest diaphragm phantom (total lung surface area of about 60 cm ² , average breathing rate of about 18 times / min) was used to visually evaluate the visibility of the pseudo diaphragm.
For imaging using the heart (blood flow) as the site to be examined, a cardiac dynamic phantom (aortic inner diameter of about 30 mm + thickness of about 2 mm, arterial inner diameter of about 5 mm + thickness of about 1 mm, average number of pulses of about 70 times / min) is used. The visibility of the artificial artery was evaluated visually.
Other shooting conditions at this time were set as follows.
・ Lung (aspiration)
Tube voltage (120kV), tube current (50mA), pulse width (5mSec)
・ Heart (blood flow)
Tube voltage (120kV), tube current (30mA), pulse width (5mSec)
When evaluating the visibility based on the frame rate, the pixel sizes of the lung (aspiration) and the heart (blood flow) are set to 200 μm and 400 μm. When evaluating the visibility based on the pixel size, the lung (aspiration), the heart ( The frame rate was 7.5 frames / second and 15 frames / second.
The photographed images photographed under each photographing condition were evaluated by displaying them on a G21-S (17-inch monitor, resolution 1280 × 1024, pixel pitch 0.264 mm) manufactured by Nanao Co., Ltd.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the visibility evaluation result may be different between the case of lung (aspiration) and the case of heart (blood flow) even at the same frame rate. This is because the average number of respiratory motion cycles (the number of respiratory cycles) is about 0.3 times / second, the average number of heartbeat cycles (the number of heartbeat cycles) is 1.2 times / second, This is because one cycle of heartbeat movement is faster than the cycle. If the frame rate is increased, an image having a high diagnostic effectiveness can be obtained regardless of which part is to be examined. However, if the frame rate is increased, the amount of image data is increased and the subject M is increased. This increases the amount of radiation exposure, which is not preferable. From the above results, it is preferable that the frame rate is 3 frames / second or more in the case of lung (aspiration) and 10 frames / second or more in the case of heart (blood flow). However, even at a frame rate lower than these, the performance of these frame rates is substantially obtained by performing a process of shooting a plurality of cycles and shifting the shooting timing in each cycle as in the processes of steps S11 to S22 described later. I can do it.

  As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7, the visibility evaluation result may be different between the case of lung (aspiration) and the case of heart (blood flow) even with the same pixel size. This is due to the size of the structure of interest in the diagnosis. If the pixel size is reduced, it is possible to obtain a fine image with high diagnostic effectiveness in any case where the inspection target part is used. However, if the pixel size is small, it takes time for display processing and image processing. I can't say that. From the above results, it is preferable that the pixel size is 4 mm or less in the case of lung (aspiration), and 2 mm or less in the case of heart (blood flow).

In addition, although the said result was performed about the average of an adult's dynamics, dynamics change with an adult / child / infant. For example, a newborn's heart rate is more than double that of an adult. Therefore, the imaging conditions for each region to be examined may have different conditions for adults / children / infants. For example, in children, the image size, tube voltage, and tube current are made smaller than in adults. Furthermore, the image size, tube voltage, and tube current are made smaller for infants than for children.
Further, when a plurality of examination target parts are designated for one imaging, a more precise imaging condition is determined among the imaging conditions determined for each examination target part. More precise shooting conditions are shooting conditions that can obtain a finer dynamic image among a plurality of shooting conditions. Specifically, a higher frame rate, a finer pixel size, a higher number of pixels, etc. It is.

  Returning to FIG. 2, when the imaging condition is determined, an instruction to start detection of a dynamic cycle by operating the operation unit 23 is waited. When an instruction to start detection of a dynamic cycle is input by the operation unit 23 (step S <b> 3; YES), detection of the dynamic cycle of the examination target site by the cycle detection sensor 15 and the cycle detection device 16 as detection means is started, and the cycle number (cycle number per second) of the examination target site is acquired ( Step S4). The cycle detection sensor 15 and the cycle detection device 16 detect the dynamic cycle of the examination target site until imaging is completed (until the process proceeds to step S23), and any state (for example, lung ( Aspiration), exhalation → expiration conversion point, exhalation, exhalation → inspiration conversion point, inspiration, in the case of heart, dilation → contraction conversion point, systole, contraction → dilation conversion point, diastole) A detection result of whether or not there is is output to the control unit 21.

  When the cycle number is detected by the cycle detection device 16 (step S5; YES), a frame rate (pulse rate) corresponding to the detected cycle number is calculated and set in the radiation irradiation control device 12 and the reading control device 14. The current frame rate (pulse rate) is corrected to the calculated frame rate (pulse rate) (step S6), and the process proceeds to step S7. For example, based on the detected number of cycles, the frame rate (pulse rate) is calculated so that one cycle is shot with a predetermined number of frames (for example, 10 frames), and the calculated frame rate (pulse rate) is set. Will be corrected. For example, when the number of respiratory cycles detected by the cycle detection device 16 is 0.25 times / second, the frame rate is corrected to 2.5 frames / second.

  On the other hand, when there is a serious disease in respiratory motion and cardiac function, and there is a large variation in each cycle, and the cycle detection device 16 cannot detect the number of cycles normally (step S5; NO), the frame rate is left at the default value. The process proceeds to step S7. Thereby, even if the number of cycles cannot be detected, imaging can be performed under typical imaging conditions for each region to be inspected.

  In step S7, one frame (or several frames) is taken for image analysis. That is, radiation is emitted from the radiation source 11 via the radiation irradiation control device 12, and image data is acquired by the radiation detection unit 13 via the reading control device 14. Imaging may be performed when a radiation irradiation instruction is input from the operation unit 23 or may be automatically performed at a predetermined timing detected by the cycle detection device 16. .

Next, an image analysis / photographing condition correction process is executed (step S8). Here, in step S8, in order to shorten the processing time related to the analysis, it is preferable to perform image analysis after thinning the pixel size of the image data to a predetermined pixel size (for example, 1 to 4 mm).
FIG. 8 shows a flow of image analysis processing executed by the control unit 21 in step S8.

  First, in the acquired image data, a predetermined structure corresponding to the region to be inspected is detected, and its size is measured (step S101). Measurement of a predetermined structure in the acquired image data may be automatically performed by image recognition. For example, the acquired image data is displayed on the display unit 24, and the operation unit 23 from the displayed image is displayed. It may be performed based on designation by a pointing device such as a mouse.

Next, the measured size of the predetermined structure is compared with a predetermined threshold value, and it is determined whether or not it is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold value. When it is determined that the size of the predetermined structure is not equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold (step S102; NO), the process proceeds to step S104. If it is determined that the size of the predetermined structure is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold (step S102; YES), the pixel size is corrected (step S103), and the process proceeds to step S104.
For example, when the examination target site is the lung (aspiration) and the trachea diameter measured in the image data is 1.5 cm or less, the pixel size is corrected to ½ of the current setting. Infants / infants have smaller internal structures than adults, but it is difficult to see and diagnose if the structures attracting attention in diagnosis are small. Therefore, when the size of the predetermined structure to be noticed in the diagnosis is equal to or smaller than a predetermined threshold, the resolution is made finer by making the pixel size smaller than the default value, thereby facilitating diagnosis. Note that the threshold value used in step S102 is a value determined experimentally and empirically for each examination target region.

  Next, the image area of the examination target site in the acquired image data is recognized and its position is analyzed (step S104). A program for recognizing the image area of the examination target part from the image data is stored in advance in the storage unit 22, the program corresponding to the examination target part is read, and the image area of the examination target part is recognized by software processing. The

For example, when the examination target site is the lung (aspiration), the lung field image region (lung field region) in the image data is recognized. Since the lung field region has a large amount of transmission of radiation (X-rays), the signal value is higher than the surrounding region. Therefore, for example, the lung field region is recognized by the following processing.
First, a density histogram is created from the signal value of each pixel, and a threshold value is obtained by a discriminant analysis method or the like. Next, a region having a signal higher than the obtained threshold is extracted as a lung field region candidate. Next, edge detection is performed near the boundary of the candidate area, and a point where the edge is maximum in a small area near the boundary is extracted along the boundary. Then, the extracted edge point is approximated by a polynomial function, and the boundary line of the lung field region is acquired.

  Next, an average value of pixel signal values in a predetermined region of the examination target site in the acquired image data is calculated (step S105), and when the calculated average value is not within a predetermined range (step S106; NO), The process proceeds to step S108. When the calculated average value is within a predetermined range (step S106; YES), the value of the tube current or the pulse width is corrected (step S107), and the process proceeds to step S108. For example, when the examination target part is the lung (aspiration), the average value is calculated from the pixel signal value of the lung field region. When the calculated average value is less than or equal to the lower limit value of the predetermined range, there is a lot of noise and the value is not suitable for diagnosis. For example, the tube current is multiplied by (lower limit value / calculated average value). Increase to. Further, when it is equal to or higher than the upper limit value in the predetermined range, the tube current is reduced to {1 / (upper limit value / calculated average value)}, for example. Note that the upper limit value and the lower limit value (predetermined ranges) used in step S106 are determined experimentally and empirically.

  Next, when the inspection target part expands / moves by a predetermined ratio, it is determined whether or not the inspection target part fits in the display area of the image data. For example, when the region of the examination target part in the acquired image data is enlarged by a predetermined ratio (for example, 1.1 times), whether or not the entire image area of the enlarged examination target part fits in the display area of the image data When it does not fit, it is judged that it does not fit when it expands.

  If it is determined that the inspection target part is within the display area of the image data when the inspection target part is expanded / moved by a predetermined ratio (step S108; YES), the process proceeds to step S9 in FIG. If it is determined that there is not (step S108; NO), a message to that effect and a warning prompting re-shooting are displayed on the display unit 24 (step S109), and the process proceeds to step S9 in FIG. With this warning display, the imaging engineer can easily recognize whether the positioning is correct or not. Note that in step S109, not only a warning prompting re-imaging, but also a portion where the image area of the inspection target region may be missing is displayed in color, or the amount of protrusion of the inspection target region is predicted to perform radiation during re-imaging. It is preferable to display a message indicating how much the detector 13 should be moved in which direction.

  Returning to FIG. 2, after completion of the image analysis / imaging condition correction process, the cycle detection device 16 sets a predetermined timing of the current dynamic cycle (timing set as the dynamic imaging start timing. For example, lung (arousal) In the case of the heart, in the case of the heart, the timing of the conversion point of the expansion → the contraction in the case of the heart), the dynamic imaging is started, and the elapsed time from the start of the imaging by the timer The count of t is started (step S9).

Next, the number n of shooting cycles is initialized to 1 (step S10), and a shift time D of the shooting timing for each cycle from the set shooting timing is calculated (step S11), and the frames shot within one cycle are calculated. The count value α of the number of images is initialized to 0 (step S12).
Here, in dynamic imaging, it is preferable for diagnosis to capture as many states as possible during one dynamic cycle. However, there is a limit to the number of images that can be captured in one cycle, such as an imaging device that can only capture at a low frame rate. Therefore, when shooting a plurality of cycles (N cycles), image data equivalent to a high frame rate is obtained by shifting the shooting timing of each cycle by the shift time D according to the number of shooting cycles n.

The shift time D can be determined using, for example, (Expression 1) of (Example 1) or (Expression 2) of (Example 2) below. T is a frame interval.
(Example 1) When capturing N cycles and obtaining a dynamic image having a frame rate N times the set frame rate (Formula 1) D = (n−1) / N × T
(Example 2) As shown in the timing chart of FIG. 9, when the shooting timing is shifted so as to fill the frame interval by half (the second cycle is only half the frame interval with respect to the shooting timing of the first cycle) When shifting, the third cycle is shifted by 1/4 of the frame interval with respect to the shooting timing of the first cycle, and the fourth cycle is shifted by 3/4 of the frame interval with respect to the shooting timing of the first cycle). Note that the horizontal axis in FIG. 9 indicates the time axis from the start of imaging to the imaging timing in one dynamic cycle, and the vertical axis indicates the size of the region to be examined. In the same figure, the imaging timings of the first cycle to the fourth cycle are shown on the same time axis, t11 to t14 indicate the imaging timing of the first cycle, and t21 to t24 indicate the imaging timing of the second cycle. T31 to t34 indicate the shooting timing of the third cycle, and t41 to t44 indicate the shooting timing of the fourth cycle.
(Formula 2) D = X (n); X (1) = 0, X (2) = 1/2 × T, X (3) = 1/4 × T, X (4) = 3/4 × T

  Next, it is determined whether or not “t = α × T (T is a frame interval) + D” (shooting timing), and if it is determined that “t = α × T + D” is not satisfied (step S13; NO). The process proceeds to step S18. If it is determined that “t = α × T + D” is satisfied (step S13; YES), one frame image is captured by the imaging apparatus 1 (step S14). That is, the radiation source 11 emits radiation, and the radiation detection unit 13 acquires image data. The image data acquired by shooting is input to the shooting console 2 and stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the elapsed time t from the start of shooting at the time of shooting (step S15).

  Next, an image is displayed on the display unit 24 based on the acquired image data (step S16), and the count value α is incremented (step S17).

  In step S18, the current state of the examination target part is detected by the cycle detection device 16, and the elapsed time t from the start of imaging to the present is associated with the current state of the examination target part and stored in the RAM of the control unit 21. Is done. Then, based on the detection result detected from the cycle detector 16, it is determined whether or not it is a predetermined timing (imaging start timing) in the current dynamic cycle, and if it is determined that it is not the predetermined timing (step S19; NO), the process returns to step S13.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that it is the predetermined timing in the current dynamic cycle (step S19; YES), the elapsed time t from the start of imaging is reset to 0 (step S20). That is, when a predetermined timing in one dynamic cycle is detected, imaging for the next dynamic cycle is started, and an elapsed time t from the start of imaging for the next dynamic cycle is measured. Next, the number of imaging cycles n is incremented by 1 (step S21), and it is determined whether or not the number of imaging cycles n = N (whether or not N cycles of imaging have been completed), and not n = N (N cycles). If it is determined that the shooting has not been completed (step S22; NO), the process returns to step S11.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of imaging cycles n = N (N cycles of imaging have been completed) (step S22; YES), a series of image data acquired by imaging is rearranged in ascending order of elapsed time t. (Step S23) Each image data is stored in the storage unit 22 in association with a number indicating the image order after the rearrangement (Step S24), and displayed on the display unit 24 according to the number indicating the image order (Step S23). S25). The photographing engineer confirms the photographed image displayed on the display unit 24 and inputs the photographing OK / NG determination result through the operation unit 23.

  When “shooting OK” is input by the operation unit 23 (step S26; YES), an identification ID for identifying a series of shots, patient information, and an examination target are respectively added to a series of image data acquired by the shooting. Information such as the part, the information indicating the elapsed time t from the start of imaging, the number indicating the image order, the radiation irradiation condition, the image reading condition and the like are attached and transmitted to the diagnostic console 3 via the communication unit 25 (step S27). ). Then, this process ends. On the other hand, when “shooting NG” is input by the operation unit 23 (step S26; NO), a series of image data stored in the storage unit 22 is deleted (step S28), and this process ends.

  In the diagnostic console 3, when a series of image data continuously captured from the imaging console 2 is received by the communication unit 35, the control unit 31 stores the received image data in the storage unit 32.

In the diagnostic console 3, when an identification ID or the like is input by the operation unit 33 and image data (dynamic image) to be diagnosed is designated, a series of images of the dynamic image designated from the storage unit 32 by the control unit 31. Data is read out. Then, the control unit 31 reads a predetermined program for the read image data in accordance with the examination target region, and executes a dynamic analysis process. Here, the dynamic analysis process is a process of analyzing a change in luminance, a change in position, and a change in shape of a predetermined structure of the inspection target site in the image data, and the result is displayed on the display unit 34.
As an analysis of luminance change, for example, a luminance change amount is calculated by obtaining a difference value of signal values of each pixel between adjacent frame images in the image order, and a predetermined structure with a color corresponding to the luminance change amount is calculated. indicate.
In addition, as the analysis of the position change, for example, the position of the image area of a predetermined structure is recognized from each of a series of frame images, and the trajectory in the image order of the structure and the change rate of the moving speed are obtained and displayed. .
In addition, as an analysis of the shape change, for example, the position of a predetermined structure is recognized from each of a series of frame images, and the outline of the structure is displayed in color in the order of the image, thereby changing the outline / perimeter length / area. Is displayed so as to be visible to the doctor. In addition, you may display the variation | change_quantity of an area with a numerical value. Alternatively, the position of the image area of a predetermined two structure is recognized from each of a series of frame images, and the outline of the two structures is displayed in color in the order of the images, so that the change in the distance between the two structures can be determined by the doctor. Is displayed in a visible manner. You may obtain | require and display the distance between two structures by a numerical value. Moreover, you may display visually the change of the angle which two structures interweave.

  As described above, according to the radiographic image capturing system 100, the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2 reads out the imaging conditions corresponding to the examination target site designated on the examination target site designation screen 241 from the storage unit 22. The imaging apparatus 1 is set, and the imaging apparatus 1 performs dynamic imaging of the examination target region under the set imaging conditions. Therefore, it is possible to obtain an image effective for diagnosis by performing imaging under imaging conditions corresponding to the examination target region.

  In addition, when a plurality of examination target parts are designated for one imaging, a more precise imaging condition is determined out of the imaging conditions corresponding to each designated examination target part. Dynamic shooting is performed under conditions. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a dynamic image effective for diagnosis for any designated inspection target part.

  In addition, before the dynamic imaging, the image data obtained by actually imaging the examination target region under the determined imaging conditions is analyzed, and the imaging condition is corrected according to the result. It is possible to shoot under more optimal shooting conditions according to the individual state.

  Further, since the state of the inspection target part is detected by the cycle detection device 16 and the imaging condition is corrected based on the detection result, it is possible to perform imaging under a more optimal imaging condition according to the individual state of the inspection target part that is the subject. It becomes possible.

  In addition, when photographing dynamics having periodicity over a plurality of cycles, since the photographing timing is changed for each cycle, the timing at which photographing is performed in one dynamic cycle is increased without increasing the frame rate in the photographing apparatus 1. Therefore, it becomes possible to capture the change in the dynamics of the examination target region more finely.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
Since the configuration of the second embodiment is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 1 in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted, and the operation in the second embodiment will be described.

  10 to 12 show a flow of the imaging control process executed by the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2.

  First, the operation section 23 is operated by the imaging engineer, and patient information on the imaging target (subject M) is input, an examination target region is specified, and the like (step S31). For the designation of the examination target part, the examination target part designation screen 241 described with reference to FIG. 3 is used.

When the inspection target part is specified, the imaging condition (default value) stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the part name of the specified inspection target part is determined as the imaging condition, and is read by the radiation irradiation control device 12 and reading. It is set in the control device 14 (step S32). The imaging conditions are specifically the radiation irradiation condition and the image reading condition, and the radiation irradiation condition stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the selected examination target region is set in the radiation irradiation control device 12. At the same time, the image reading conditions stored in association with the selected region to be inspected are set in the reading control device 14. In the second embodiment, the case where the number of times of photographing M is included in the photographing conditions is taken as an example.
The imaging conditions (default values) for each examination target part stored in the storage unit 22 are obtained experimentally and empirically as described in the first embodiment. Adults / children / infants may have different conditions. For example, in children, the image size, tube voltage, and tube current are made smaller than in adults. Furthermore, the image size, tube voltage, and tube current are made smaller for infants than for children.
Further, when a plurality of examination target parts are designated for one imaging, a more precise imaging condition is determined among the imaging conditions determined for each examination target part. More precise shooting conditions are shooting conditions that can obtain a finer dynamic image among a plurality of shooting conditions. Specifically, a higher frame rate, a finer pixel size, a higher number of pixels, etc. It is.

  When the photographing condition is determined, an instruction to start detection of a dynamic cycle by operating the operation unit 23 is waited. When an instruction to start detection of a dynamic cycle is input from the operation unit 23 (step S33; YES), detection means The cycle detection sensor 15 and the cycle detection device 16 that are the detection of the dynamic cycle of the site to be examined are started, and the number of cycles of the dynamics of the site to be examined (the number of cycles per second) is acquired (step S34). In addition, the detection of the dynamic cycle of the examination target site by the cycle detection sensor 15 and the cycle detection device 16 is performed until imaging is completed, and in any state in the dynamic cycle (for example, in the case of lung (aspiration), inspiration → Exhalation conversion point, exhalation, exhalation → inspiration conversion point, inspiration (in the case of heart, in the case of dilation → contraction conversion point, systole, contraction → dilation conversion point, diastole) 21 is output.

  Predetermined timing of one cycle of dynamics currently set by the cycle detection device 16 (timing set as dynamic imaging start timing. For example, in the case of lung (exhalation), timing of exhalation → inspiration conversion point. , The timing of contraction → expansion conversion point is detected), dynamic imaging is started, and counting of elapsed time t from the start of imaging by the timer is started (step S35). Also, the count value α of the number of captured frame images is initialized to 0 (step S36).

  Next, it is determined whether or not “t = α × T (T is a frame interval)” (shooting timing). If it is determined that “t = α × T” (step S37; YES), shooting is performed. One frame image is taken in the apparatus 1 (step S38). That is, the radiation source 11 emits radiation, and the radiation detection unit 13 acquires image data. Image data acquired by shooting is input to the shooting console 2 and stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the elapsed time t from the start of shooting at the time of shooting (step S39).

  Next, the count value α is incremented (step S40), and it is determined whether α ≧ 2 (whether the shooting of two frames has been completed) and not α ≧ 2 (step S41). NO), the process returns to step S37.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that α ≧ 2 (step S41; YES), the area change rate of the image region of the examination target part in the image data of the two frame images taken is calculated (step S42). Specifically, first, the image region of the examination target part in each of the frame images is recognized. A program for recognizing the image area of the examination target part from the image data is stored in advance in the storage unit 22, the program corresponding to the examination target part is read, and the image area of the examination target part is recognized by software processing. The Next, the number of pixels in the recognized image area is counted, and the count value is calculated as an area. Then, the area change rate of the examination target part in the two calculated image data is calculated.

  When the area change rate of the image region of the inspection target region is calculated, the area change rate when the area of the image region of the inspection target region is minimum and maximum is predicted from the calculated area change rate (step S43). It is then determined whether or not the predicted area change rate is within a predetermined range.

  By the way, as described above, the dynamics to be imaged have periodicity, and the size of the lung field or heart, which is the region to be examined, is minimum → maximum → minimum in one cycle of lung respiratory motion or heartbeat motion. Or, it changes from maximum → minimum → maximum. Here, the area change rate when the area is minimum and maximum is within a predetermined range due to the structure of the human body (in the case of a lung, 1.3 to 1.5 times during deep breathing). Therefore, based on the area change rate of the inspection target region in the images of the first frame and the second frame, the image of the first frame and ½ times the number of imaging M (for example, 5 times if the number of imaging M is 10). Predict the area change rate with the image acquired by eye photography, and if the predicted area change rate is within a predetermined range, one cycle of dynamics is taken by shooting at the number of times M set at the set frame rate. it can.

  For example, when the examination target region is the lung (aspiration), the frame rate of the imaging condition is 5 frames / second, the number of imaging M is 10 times, and the predetermined timing of the imaging start is expiration → inspiration, Assuming that the area change rate of the lung field in the second frame image is 1.2 times, the area change rate between the image of the first frame where the lung field area is minimum and the image when the area is maximum. As shown in FIG. 13, it is predicted that “1.1 × 1.1 × 1.1 × 1.1 = about 1.46 times”. Here, since the average area change rate during deep breathing in the lung field is 1.3 to 1.5 times, it is determined that the area change rate is within a predetermined range in this imaging, and the frame rate is changed. There is no need. Therefore, shooting is continued in steps S45 to S49, and shooting for shifting to three frames is performed. Note that the time required for steps S42 to S44 is sufficiently shorter than the frame interval.

  On the other hand, if the predicted area change rate is smaller than the predetermined range, it is predicted that the shooting will be completed in the middle of one cycle of dynamics even if the number of shootings M is shot at the set frame rate. Therefore, the frame rate is set low, and the shooting conditions are corrected so that the frame interval becomes longer, so that one cycle of dynamics can be shot. Then, the image is taken again from the first frame.

  On the other hand, when the predicted area change rate is larger than the predetermined range, if the number M of times of shooting is taken at the set frame rate, the area change rate between frames is large, and the state of dynamic change during one cycle is closely observed during image diagnosis. Can not do. Therefore, the frame rate is set high, and the shooting conditions are corrected so that the frame interval is shortened. Then, the image is taken again from the first frame.

  When it is determined that the predicted area change rate is within the predetermined range (step S44; YES), the process proceeds to step S45. If it is determined that the predicted area change rate is not within the predetermined range (step S44; NO), the process proceeds to step S50.

  In step S45, it is determined whether or not “t = α × T (T is a frame interval)” (shooting timing), and if it is determined that “t = α × T” (step S45; YES). ) One frame image is taken by the photographing apparatus 1 (step S46). That is, the radiation source 11 emits radiation, and the radiation detection unit 13 acquires image data. Image data acquired by shooting is input to the shooting console 2 and stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the elapsed time t from the start of shooting at the time of shooting (step S47).

  Next, the count value α is incremented (step S48), and it is determined whether α ≧ M (number of shootings) (whether shooting of the number of shootings M has been completed) and not α ≧ M. Then (step S49; NO), the process returns to step S45. If it is determined that α ≧ M (number of times of photographing), that is, photographing of the number of times of photographing M has been completed (step S49; YES), the process proceeds to step S77.

  In step S50, it is determined whether or not the predicted area change rate is smaller than a predetermined range. If it is determined that the predicted area change rate is smaller (step S50; YES), the frame rate is corrected to be lower than the setting (step S51), and the process is performed. Proceeds to step S54. Here, in step S51, the frame rate is calculated based on the predicted area change rate, the predetermined range of the area change rate, the number M of times of photographing, and the like.

  It is determined whether or not the predicted area change rate is smaller than the predetermined range. If it is determined that the predicted area change rate is larger (step S50; NO), the frame rate is corrected to be higher than the setting (step S52). Here, in step S52, the frame rate is calculated based on the predicted area change rate, the predetermined range of the area change rate, the number M of times of photographing, and the like. Next, it is determined whether or not the corrected frame rate is a frame rate that can be imaged by the imaging apparatus 1. If it is determined that the frame rate is an imageable frame rate (step S53; YES), the process proceeds to step S54. Transition.

  In step S54, a predetermined timing of one cycle of kinetics currently set by the cycle detection device 16 (timing set as kinetic imaging start timing. For example, in the case of lung (stimulation), timing of exhalation → inspiration conversion point. In the case of the heart, when it is detected that the contraction → expansion conversion point timing), dynamic imaging is started, and counting of elapsed time t from the start of imaging by the timer is started (step S54). Also, the count value α of the number of captured frame images is initialized to 0 (step S55).

  Next, it is determined whether or not “t = α × T (T is a frame interval)” (shooting timing). If it is determined that “t = α × T” (step S56; YES), shooting is performed. One frame image is taken in the apparatus 1 (step S57). That is, the radiation source 11 emits radiation, and the radiation detection unit 13 acquires image data. Image data acquired by shooting is input to the shooting console 2 and stored in the storage unit 22 in association with an elapsed time t from the start of shooting at the time of shooting (step S58).

  Next, the count value α is incremented (step S59), it is determined whether α ≧ M (whether or not M times of photographing have been completed) and it is determined that α ≧ M is not satisfied (step S60). NO), the process returns to step S56. If α ≧ M, that is, if it is determined that M photographing has been completed (step S60; YES), the process proceeds to step S77.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S53 that the corrected frame rate is not a frame rate that can be taken by the photographing apparatus 1 (step S53; NO), the setting of the frame rate is returned to the default value (step S61). Thereafter, a process of capturing N cycles (for example, 2 cycles) at a default frame rate is performed.

  Predetermined timing of one cycle of kinetics currently set by the cycle detection device 16 (timing set as kinetic imaging start timing. For example, in the case of lung (stimulation), timing of a conversion point of inspiration → expiration. , The timing of the conversion point of expansion → contraction is detected), dynamic imaging is started, and counting of elapsed time t from the start of imaging by the timer is started (step S62).

  Next, the number n of shooting cycles is initialized to 1 (step S63), and a shift time D of the shooting timing for each cycle from the set shooting timing is calculated (step S64), and the frames shot within one cycle are calculated. The count value α of the number of images is initialized to 0 (step S65). The photographing timing shift time D is obtained by the same method as in (Example 1) described in step S11 of the first embodiment. Here, two-cycle shooting is performed and N = 2 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. As a result, it is possible to obtain image data for each frame interval equivalent to when the frame rate is doubled in two cycles of photographing.

  Next, it is determined whether or not “t = α × T (T is a frame interval) + D” (shooting timing), and if it is determined that “t = α × T + D” is not satisfied (step S66; NO). The process proceeds to step S71. When it is determined that “t = α × T + D” is satisfied (step S66; YES), one frame image is captured by the imaging device 1 (step S67). That is, the radiation source 11 emits radiation, and the radiation detection unit 13 acquires image data. The image data acquired by shooting is input to the shooting console 2 and stored in the storage unit 22 in association with the elapsed time t from the start of shooting at the time of shooting (step S68). After saving, the count value α is incremented (step S69).

  Next, the current state of the inspection target part is detected by the cycle detection device 16, and the elapsed time t from the start of imaging to the present and the current state of the inspection target part are associated with each other and stored in the RAM of the control unit 21 (Step S1). S70) Based on the detection result detected from the cycle detector 16, it is determined whether or not it is the predetermined timing (imaging start timing) in the current dynamic cycle. If it is determined that the current time is not the predetermined timing (step S71; NO), the process returns to step S66.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that it is the predetermined timing in the current dynamic cycle (step S71; YES), the elapsed time t from the start of imaging is reset to 0 (step S72). That is, when a predetermined timing in one dynamic cycle is detected, imaging for the next dynamic cycle is started, and an elapsed time t from the start of imaging for the next dynamic cycle is measured. Next, the number of shooting cycles n is incremented by 1 (step S73), and it is determined whether or not the number of shooting cycles n = N (whether or not shooting of N cycles has been completed), and not n = N (N cycles). If it is determined that the shooting has not been completed (step S74; NO), the process returns to step S64.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the number of imaging cycles n = N (N cycles of imaging have been completed) (step S74; YES), a series of image data acquired by imaging is rearranged in ascending order of elapsed time t. (Step S75) Each image data is stored in the storage unit 22 in association with a number indicating the image order after rearrangement (Step S76), and the process proceeds to Step S77.

  In step S77, a dynamic image is displayed on the display unit 24 based on a series of image data acquired by photographing. When two-cycle imaging is performed, the number is displayed on the display unit 24 in accordance with a number indicating the image order. The imaging engineer confirms the captured image displayed on the display unit 24 and inputs a determination result of shooting OK / NG by a predetermined operation of the operation unit 23.

  When “imaging OK” is input as a determination result by the operation unit 23 (step S78; YES), an identification ID for identifying a series of imaging or patient information is obtained for each of a series of image data acquired by imaging. , Information indicating an examination target part, information indicating an elapsed time t from the start of imaging, a number indicating an image order, radiation irradiation conditions, image reading conditions, and the like are attached and transmitted to the diagnostic console 3 via the communication unit 25. (Step S79). Then, this process ends. On the other hand, when “shooting NG” is input as a determination result by the operation unit 23 (step S78; NO), a series of image data stored in the storage unit 22 is deleted (step S80), and this process ends.

  Since the process in the diagnostic console 3 is the same as that described in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, when two frames are acquired by performing dynamic imaging twice in the imaging console 2, the inspection target parts in the images of the first frame and the second frame are acquired. The area change rate of the image region is calculated, and based on the calculated area change rate, the area change rate between the image in which the area of the examination target part is the minimum and the image in the maximum in one dynamic cycle is predicted. If the predicted area change rate falls within the predetermined range, the subsequent shooting is performed without correcting the shooting conditions. If the area change rate is not within the predetermined range, the frame rate is corrected based on the predicted area change rate, and shooting is performed. When the corrected frame rate exceeds the limit of the frame rate that can be photographed by the photographing apparatus 1, photographing is performed for a plurality of cycles, and photographing is performed by shifting the photographing timing from the photographing start in each cycle.

  Therefore, if it is necessary to correct the imaging conditions according to the individual state of the examination target part that is the subject, the correction is automatically performed and re-imaging is performed. If the imaging conditions are not required to be corrected, the imaging can be continued as it is. it can.

In addition, the description in each said embodiment is a suitable example of the radiographic imaging system 100 which concerns on this invention, and is not limited to this.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the imaging device 1 and the imaging console 2 are directly connected via a data communication cable or the like has been described, but a configuration in which the imaging device 1 and the imaging console 2 are connected via a communication network N may be employed. The imaging console 2 may be configured to display not only dynamic image data from the imaging device 1 but also still image data captured by a CR (Computed Radiography) device or the like.

  In addition, it has been described that patient information, designation of a region to be examined, radiation irradiation instruction, and imaging end instruction are input from the operation unit 23 of the imaging console 2, but an operation panel is connected to the radiation irradiation control device 12. It is also possible to input from this operation panel. In this case, the operation signal of the operation panel is output to the control unit 21 of the imaging console 2 via the radiation irradiation control device 12.

  In the above embodiment, when the shooting timing is changed between a plurality of cycles, the shooting interval time (frame interval) in each cycle is made uniform. However, the frame interval may be different in each cycle. Good. Even during one cycle, the frame interval may be changed depending on the elapsed time from the start of shooting. For example, when the lung (aspiration) is set as the examination target site, the aspiration rate by respiration can be accurately obtained by photographing at the timing when the lung field is maximum or minimum. It is important to shoot at a timing that coincides with the timing. Therefore, for example, when performing two-cycle imaging, imaging is performed at a predetermined frame interval in the first cycle, and imaging is performed with a narrow frame interval near the timing at which the lung field is maximum or minimum in the second cycle. It may be.

  In addition, the detailed configuration and detailed operation of each apparatus constituting the radiographic image capturing system 100 can be changed as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention.

It is a figure which shows the example of whole structure of the radiographic imaging system in embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the imaging | photography control processing performed by the control part of the imaging | photography console shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the test | inspection site | part designation | designated screen displayed on the display part of the imaging | photography console shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the visual evaluation result of the picked-up image in each frame rate at the time of image | photographing by the several different frame rate by making a lung (aspiration) into a test | inspection site | part. It is a figure which shows the visual evaluation result of the picked-up image in each pixel size at the time of imaging | photography with several different pixel size by making a lung (aspiration) into a test | inspection site | part. It is a figure which shows the visual evaluation result of the picked-up image in each frame rate at the time of image | photographing with a several different frame rate by making the heart (blood flow) into a test | inspection site | part. It is a figure which shows the visual evaluation result of the picked-up image in each pixel size at the time of image | photographing with several different pixel sizes by using the heart (blood flow) as a test object site | part. 3 is a flowchart showing image analysis / imaging condition correction processing executed by the control unit of the imaging console in step S8 of FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the imaging timing in each cycle in the case of performing imaging of a plurality of cycles. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a shooting control process executed by a control unit of the shooting console shown in FIG. 1 in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a shooting control process executed by a control unit of the shooting console shown in FIG. 1 in the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a shooting control process executed by a control unit of the shooting console shown in FIG. 1 in the second embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the change of the area of a lung field.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Radiographic imaging system 1 Imaging device 11 Radiation source 12 Radiation irradiation control device 13 Radiation detection part 14 Reading control device 15 Cycle detection sensor 2 Imaging console 21 Control part 22 Storage part 23 Operation part 24 Display part 25 Communication part 26 Bus 3 Diagnosis console 31 Control unit 32 Storage unit 33 Operation unit 34 Display unit 35 Communication unit 36 Bus

Claims (8)

In a radiographic imaging system comprising imaging means for imaging the dynamics of a region to be examined in the human body and acquiring a plurality of image data indicating the dynamics of the region to be examined,
An operation means for designating the examination target part;
Control means for determining an imaging condition based on a region to be inspected designated by the operation means, and causing the imaging means to perform imaging under the determined imaging condition;
A radiographic imaging system comprising:   The radiographic image capturing system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging condition includes at least one of the number of images captured per unit time by the imaging unit, a pixel size of image data acquired by the imaging unit, and an imaging timing.   The control means is a more precise imaging condition among imaging conditions determined based on each of the specified inspection target parts when a plurality of inspection target parts are specified for one imaging by the operation means. The radiographic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit is configured to perform imaging using a camera.   The control means images the examination target part under the imaging conditions determined by the imaging means before imaging the dynamics of the examination target part, analyzes image data obtained by the imaging, and based on the analysis result The radiographic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the determined imaging condition is corrected. Comprising a detecting means for detecting the state of the examination target part,
5. The control unit according to claim 1, wherein the control unit corrects the determined imaging condition according to a detection result of the detection unit, and causes the imaging unit to perform imaging under the corrected imaging condition. Radiation imaging system. The dynamics of the site to be examined are periodic dynamics,
The detection means detects a cycle of the dynamics of the inspection target part together with the state of the inspection target part,
The radiographic imaging system according to claim 5, wherein the imaging unit changes the imaging timing for each cycle of the dynamics detected by the detection unit when imaging a plurality of cycles. The dynamics of the site to be examined are dynamics of lung respiratory movement,
The detection means detects the respiratory motion cycle of the lung together with the state of the lung,
The radiographic imaging system according to claim 6, wherein the control unit changes imaging timing for each respiratory motion cycle detected by the detection unit when imaging a plurality of respiratory motion cycles. The dynamics of the site to be examined are periodic dynamics,
The control means uses the at least two image data first acquired by the imaging means after the start of dynamic imaging of the examination target part by the imaging means, and uses the image area of the examination target part in a series of dynamic imaging When the calculated area change rate is not within a predetermined range, the determined shooting condition is corrected, and the imaging unit performs re-shooting under the corrected shooting condition. Item 4. The radiographic image capturing system according to any one of Items 1 to 3.

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