JP2011067279A - Medical image processor and medical image processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To correctly indicate changes of a specific region in an image by interpolating an interpolated image between actual images based on movement analysis information. <P>SOLUTION: The medical image processor is provided with a generator which generates interpolation volume data interpolating several pieces of volume data and time information of the interpolation volume data based on the several pieces of volume data and the time information each piece of the volume data has and a display which visualizes the several pieces of volume data and the interpolation volume data and indicates them. The generator sets the time information of the interpolation volume data so that the interval between the time information of the interpolation volume data and the time information of the volume data just before the time information may be unequal to the interval between the time information of the interpolation volume data and the time information of the volume data just after the time information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical image processing apparatus and a medical image processing program.

  Various diagnostic imaging apparatuses such as an X-ray CT apparatus and an MRI apparatus generate a tomographic image of an examination site from volume data of a subject and perform diagnosis by displaying it on a monitor screen. For example, in the case of a circulatory system such as the heart and blood vessels and other organs with movement, the movement of tissues constituting them is observed with a tomographic image to diagnose the function of these organs and the like. With such diagnostic imaging equipment, high-resolution images can be obtained in a short period of time, and regions of interest (Region of Interest) such as organs and tumors are extracted from the acquired volume data. It is useful for diagnosis of lesions by visualizing or quantifying for easy viewing and measuring the area and volume.

  As a conventional example 1, the medical image processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 newly generates one image from a plurality of volume data in each phase, and displays a change in tissue appearing in each phase in one image. be able to. However, volume data that compensates for each phase is not generated. Here, the phase refers to one volume data among a plurality of volume data obtained by imaging the same object in a short time using the same method.

  As Conventional Example 2, the medical image processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2 obtains structural information (for example, the center line of a blood vessel) from the extraction region of each phase, and compares and detects an abnormal part of each phase. ing. Therefore, it is possible to perform region extraction with a small amount of calculation. However, volume data that compensates for each phase is generated, and the region extraction for each phase is not performed.

  As Conventional Example 3, in Non-Patent Document 1, a new image is interpolated at a middle position of a frame interval (for example, 1/60 second) of a moving image composed of a normal image different from a medical image by so-called morphing. is doing.

JP 2008-35895 A JP 2007-68658 A

http: // www. cvalley. co. jp / ae_plugin / re_visioneffects / twixtor. html

  However, since the techniques disclosed in Conventional Example 1 and Conventional Example 2 do not generate volume data that compensates for each phase, another method is considered to increase the accuracy of alignment in each phase. There is a need to. Further, in Conventional Example 3, the timing for newly interpolating an image is fixed at an intermediate position of a frame interval (for example, 1/60 second) of a moving image (for example, a television image), and this position is changed. Until is not suggested.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a medical image processing apparatus and a medical image processing program capable of accurately displaying a change in a specific area in an image by interpolating an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information. Is to provide.

  The present invention is a medical image processing apparatus for visualizing each of a plurality of volume data having time information, and interpolates the plurality of volume data based on the plurality of volume data and the time information of each volume data. An interpolating volume data and a generating unit for generating time information of the interpolating volume data; and a display unit for visualizing and displaying the plurality of volume data and the interpolating volume data. The interval between the time information and the time information of the volume data immediately before the time information is different from the interval between the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately after the time information. Medical image processing for setting time information of the interpolation volume data so that To provide a device.

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit generates the interpolated volume data according to the correspondence that is motion analysis information by acquiring a corresponding position on the plurality of volume data or a corresponding object. .

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit generates a characteristic time corresponding to the correspondence as time information of the interpolation volume data.

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit generates at least a part of the interpolation volume by nonlinear interpolation of the correspondence.

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit includes time information of interpolation volume data generated from one set among a plurality of volume data having two sets of time information, and the two sets of time information. Of the plurality of volume data, the time information of one volume data included in the other set is used.

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit includes time information of interpolation volume data generated from one set among a plurality of volume data having two sets of time information, and the two sets of time information. Of the plurality of volume data, the time information of the interpolation volume data generated from the other set is used.

  In the medical image processing apparatus, the generation unit generates time information of the interpolation volume data based on a time acquired from an external device used together with the medical image photographing device.

  The present invention is also a medical image processing program, comprising: a computer, interpolating volume data for interpolating the plurality of volume data based on a plurality of volume data and time information included in each of the plurality of volume data; Generating means for generating time information of the interpolated volume data; and functioning as display means for visualizing and displaying the plurality of volume data and the interpolated volume data, the generating means includes time information of the interpolated volume data, The interval between the time information of the volume data immediately before the time information is such that the interval between the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately after the time information is an unequal interval. Medical image program for setting time information of the interpolation volume data A.

  According to the medical image processing apparatus and the medical image processing program according to the present invention, it is possible to accurately display a change in a specific region in an image by interpolating an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information. Can do.

Block diagram showing the configuration of the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment The figure shown notionally for demonstrating operation | movement of the motion analysis information generation part 103 The figure for demonstrating operation | movement of the interpolation volume data production | generation part 105 notionally. The figure which shows typically the image which the image generation part 107 produces | generates Schematically shows a time t _k-1 and time t _k and the image by the image generating unit 107 at any time to produce between The figure which compared the model which shows the time-dependent change of the magnitude | size of ventricular volume, and the interpolation image _taux which the image generation part 107 produced The figure which shows the three-dimensional image set arranged in two sets of time series which the image generation part 107 produced | generated The figure which shows the sequence of the image which synchronized two sets of three-dimensional image sets shown in FIG. The figure which shows the sequence of the image at the time of complementing a several interpolation image to a real image at equal intervals The figure which shows the example which complemented the plural interpolation picture temporarily with respect to the actual picture, and displayed Operation processing flow of medical image processing apparatus 100

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  A medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. A medical image processing apparatus 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a volume data generation unit 101, a motion analysis information generation unit 103, an interpolation volume data generation unit 105, an image generation unit 107, and a display processing unit 109. The medical image processing apparatus 100 includes a display unit 111 that displays an image generated by the medical image processing apparatus 100, an operation unit 113 that is a user interface for operating each unit of the medical image processing apparatus 100, and Is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the medical image processing apparatus 100 is connected to a computed tomography apparatus. The computer tomography apparatus visualizes the tissue of a subject. The X-ray source 1 emits a pyramid-shaped X-ray beam bundle 2 having an edge beam indicated by a chain line in FIG. The X-ray beam bundle 2 passes through a subject, for example, a patient 3 and is irradiated to the X-ray detector 4. In the case of this embodiment, the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 are arranged opposite to each other on a ring-shaped gantry 5. The ring-like gantry 5 is supported by a holding device not shown in the drawing so as to be rotatable (see arrow a) with respect to a system axis 6 passing through the center point of the gantry.

  The patient 3 lies on the table 7 that transmits X-rays. The table 7 is supported by a support device (not shown) so as to be movable along the system axis 6 (see arrow b). Thus, the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 constitute a measurement system that is rotatable with respect to the system axis 6 and movable relative to the patient 3 along the system axis 6. X-rays are projected onto the patient 3 under various projection angles and various positions with respect to the system axis 6. An output signal of the X-ray detector 4 generated at that time is supplied to the volume data generation unit 101 and converted into volume data.

  In the case of a sequence scan, a scan for each layer of the patient 3 is performed. At that time, the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 are rotated around the patient 3 around the system axis 6, and the measurement system including the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 is a two-dimensional slice of the patient 3. Take a number of projections to scan. A tomographic image that displays the scanned tomogram is reconstructed from the measurement values acquired at that time. Between successive tomographic scans, the patient 3 is moved along the system axis 6 each time. This process is repeated until all faults of interest are captured.

  During spiral scanning, the measurement system including the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 rotates about the system axis 6 and the table 7 continuously moves in the direction of arrow b. That is, the measurement system including the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 4 moves on the spiral trajectory relatively continuously with respect to the patient 3 until the entire region of interest of the patient 3 is captured. In the case of the present embodiment, a large number of continuous tomographic signals in the diagnosis range of the patient 3 are supplied to the volume data generation unit 101 by the computed tomography apparatus shown in FIG.

  The volume data generation unit 101 generates a plurality of volume data having different imaging times from the tomographic signal supplied by the computed tomography apparatus, and motion analysis information generation unit together with time information indicating the time at which each volume data is generated. 103 and the image generation unit 107. The volume data generation unit 101 can hold a plurality of volume data with different shooting times in a memory (not shown).

Here, in the present embodiment, the volume data generation unit 101 generates time information t _n (n) _where the volume data is generated based on the time t when each volume data of the plurality of volume data is imaged by the computed tomography apparatus. = 1, 2,..., K−1, k, k + 1.

Hereinafter, for the sake of explanation, the volume data generation unit 101 is based on the volume data of the time information t _k−1 and the tomographic signal that is captured after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time t _k−1 and supplied to the volume data generation unit 101. and volume data of the generated time information t _k, taken from the time t _k after a predetermined time has elapsed, maintains the time information t _{k + 1} of the volume data generated on the basis of the fault signal supplied to the volume data generation unit 101 It shall be.
In the following, for explanation, the volume data of time information t _k, described omitted volume data t _k as appropriate.

Of the volume data output from the volume data generation unit 101, the motion analysis information generation unit 103 uses the volume data t _k-1 and its time information t _k-1 , and the volume data t _k and its time information t _k . Motion analysis information is generated (see FIG. 2) and output to the interpolation volume data generation unit 105.

Here, the motion analysis information refers to information on a correspondence relationship between corresponding positions or corresponding objects on a plurality of volume data, and information on a process in which the positions and objects move and change. In addition, each volume data pixel serves as an index indicating a position at an arbitrary time between time _k-1 and time _k .

FIG. 2 is a diagram conceptually illustrating the operation of the motion analysis information generation unit 103. As shown in FIG. 2, or motion analysis information generator 103, each pixel of the volume data t _k-1 including information of the three-dimensional image is how displaced to the has become a pixel in the volume data t _k Are generated as motion analysis information.

Interpolated volume data generation unit 105, based on the motion analysis information outputted from the motion analysis information generator 103 interpolates between the volume data t _k-1 and the volume data t _k, interpolated volume data t _aux and its time Information t _aux is generated and output to the image generation unit 107.

Here, the interpolated volume data is volume data at a particular time _{t aux} between time _{t k-1} and time _{t k.} That is, the interpolated volume data generation unit 105 generates the interpolated volume data t _aux at the time t _aux that is not actually captured by the computed tomography apparatus as if it was captured by the computed tomography apparatus, and the volume data generation unit 101. Is equivalent to generating volume data.

FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually illustrating the operation of the interpolation volume data generation unit 105. As shown in FIG. 3, the interpolation volume data generating unit 105 interpolates between the volume data t _k-1 and the volume data t _k including information of a three-dimensional image, the interpolation volume data t _aux and its time information t _aux .

In the present embodiment, the time information t _aux with interpolation volume data t _aux as shown in FIG. 3, not in the middle of the time information and the time information t _k-1 and time information t _k. In other words, the distance A between the time information t _k-1 of the volume data t _k-1 which is generated in the time information t _aux and immediately before the timing of the interpolation volume data, the time information t _aux and immediately after the timing of the interpolated volume data different spacing and distance B between the time information t _k of the generated volume data to, i.e., in the non-equal interval. The reason for this will be described later.

The image generation unit 107 includes volume data t _k−1 and t _k output from the volume data generation unit 101, time information t _k−1 and t _k , and interpolation volume data output from the interpolation volume data generation unit 105. t _aux and its time information t _aux are input. The image generation unit 107 generates an actual three-dimensional image from the respective volume data t _k−1 and t _k , while generating an interpolation three-dimensional image from the interpolation volume data t _aux and arranges them in time series.

The display processing unit 109 performs various processes for displaying the real images t _k−1 and t _k and the interpolated image t _aux that are time-series by the image generation unit 107 on the display of the display unit 111. For example, it is possible to generate a sequence of a three-dimensional image generated by the image generation unit 107 and perform processing (reproduction frame rate setting, etc.) for reproduction as a moving image on the display unit 111.

The display unit 111 displays the real images t _k−1 , t _k and the interpolated image t _aux that are time-series appropriately processed by the display processing unit 109. The display unit 111 displays time information of each image in addition to the real images t _k−1 and t _k and the interpolated image t _aux in time series. Further, as necessary, the display unit 111 can reproduce the sequence of the three-dimensional image generated by the image generation unit 107 as a moving image after the processing by the display processing unit 109.

The operation unit 113 includes various interfaces for processing the image displayed on the display unit 111. For example, the operation unit 113 sets interpolation parameters (such as time information t _aux ) for generating the interpolation image t _aux . The user can operate each unit of the medical image processing apparatus 100 with the operation unit 113 while looking at the display unit 111. Therefore, the user can interactively change the interpolation parameter. That is, therefore, in the medical image processing apparatus of the present embodiment, the image generation unit 107 can interactively correct the interpolation image t _aux based on an instruction from the operation unit 113.

  Here, as interpolation parameters, for example, (1) position interpolation algorithm (linear / cubic / spline), (2) voxel value interpolation algorithm (linear / cubic / spline), (3) 3D image generated by interpolation (4) 4D filter methods include smoothing, edge enhancement, maximum / minimum value projection, difference, cumulative addition, histogram matching, and combinations thereof.

A three-dimensional image generated by the image generation unit 107 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating each image generated by the image generation unit 107. As shown in FIG. 4, with the actual image _{t k-1} and the actual image _{t k,} the interpolated image _{t aux} is having a time information _{t aux,} is generated by the image generation unit 107. Hereinafter, for the sake of explanation, the actual three-dimensional images at times t _k−1 and t _k generated from the volume data t _k−1 and t _{k are referred} to as a real image t _k−1 and a real image t _k , respectively. generated from the interpolation volume data _{t aux,} the three-dimensional interpolation image at time _{t aux,} referred to as the interpolated image _{t aux.}

Here, as shown in FIG. 4, a distance C between the time information _{t k-1} of the generated time information _{t aux} and immediately before the timing of the interpolated image _{t aux} actual image _{t k-1,} the interpolation image _{t aux} time information t _aux between the distance D between the time information t _k of the actual image t _k generated in the timing immediately after that in the non-equal interval. In this embodiment, the volume data t _k-1, the interval between the volume data t _k generated at the next timing of the time information t _k-1 is the number yearly approximately 0.1 seconds. This is a moving image (for example, a television or the like) composed of a normal image different from the medical image (actual image t _k−1 , actual image t _k , and interpolation image t _aux ) generated by the image generation unit 107. This is because it is very large compared to the frame interval (for example, 1/60 seconds) of the video.

That is, in this embodiment, the actual image _{t k-1,} the distance between the actual image _{t k} (C + D) is, for example, a yearly, the actual image _{t k-1} and the actual image _{t k} This is because the interpolated image at the intermediate position is not sufficient for observing the secular change of the region of interest of the patient 3 which is the subject occurring between. Therefore, the distance C between the time information _{t k-1} of the generated time information _{t aux} and immediately before the timing of the interpolated image _{t aux} actual image _{t k-1,} the interpolation image _{t aux} time information _{t aux} and immediately the spacing D between the time information t _k of the actual image t _k generated in timing is a non-equal interval, the testing area of the patient 3 is a subject between the actual image t _k-1, and the actual image t _k different from the aging of the intermediate position (ROI), it is made possible to generate an interpolated image at different positions between an actual image t _k-1, and the actual image t _k. For the purpose of minimizing the amount of radiation required for imaging, the imaging time interval is dense at the time of highest interest, and sparse imaging is performed at other times. In addition, imaging may be performed at a timing designated by a separate device that acquires real-time information of the subject such as an electrocardiogram. As a result, the photographing intervals can be non-uniform. Other real-time information includes, for example, the timing of contrast medium injection.

As described above, in this embodiment, the distance C between the time information t _k-1 of the real image t _k-1 which is generated in the time information t _aux and immediately before the timing of the interpolated image t _aux, interpolated image t the spacing D between the time information t _k of the actual image t _k which is generated in the time information t _aux and immediately after the timing of the _aux is is a non-equidistant, not limited to this. If timing suitable for observing a change with time of a region of interest of the patient 3 is a subject that is generated between the actual image t _k-1 and the actual image t _k, the time information of the interpolation image t _aux t _aux and the distance C between the time information _{t k-1} of the real image _{t k-1} which is generated in the timing immediately before the interpolation image _{t aux} time information _{t aux} and the actual image _{t k} generated in timing immediately after the spacing D between the time information t _k of, may be set at equal intervals. Nachi Suwa, if a timing suitable for the observation of the time course of the testing area of the patient 3 is a subject that is generated between the actual image t _k-1 and the actual image t _k (region of interest) The image generation unit 107 may generate the interpolated image t _aux at an arbitrary time between the time information tk _-1 and the time information tk _-1 . In other words, in the present embodiment, the time t _aux of the volume data t _aux is appropriately set depending on, for example, the time at which a change in the examination site (region of interest) of the subject (patient 3) is expected to appear. can do. Thereby, in this Embodiment, the dose to X-ray can be reduced and the influence on the patient 3 who is a subject can be suppressed as much as possible.

(Interpolated image at any time)
FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example in which the image generation unit 107 generates the interpolated image t _aux at an arbitrary time between the time t _k−1 and the time t _k−1 . As shown in FIG. 5, the image generation unit 107, any time information 1 between the time 0.0sec generating the actual image _{t k-1,} time information 1.5sec and generating the real image _{t k.} An interpolation image t _{aux of 0} sec is generated. Therefore, the interpolation image at any time during the time that produced the actual image can be generated, the actual image t _k-1, and diagnosis the patient's range of 3 occurring between the actual image t _k A change with time can be observed.

(Comparison between interpolation image and model)
FIG. 6 is a diagram comparing a model showing temporal changes in the size of the ventricular volume and the interpolation image t _aux created by the image generation unit 107. As described above, since the image generation unit 107 can generate the interpolated image t _aux at any time as long as the time is between the time information tk _-1 and the time information tk _-1 , for example, FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the image generation unit 107 creates an interpolated image t _aux at a time indicating the maximum capacity of the model indicating the temporal change in the size of the ventricular volume, and the model indicating the temporal change in the size of the ventricular volume. The size of the ventricle appearing in the interpolated image t _aux can be compared.

Since the model showing the temporal change in the magnitude of the ventricular volume does not change linearly as shown in FIG. 6, the ventricular volume is the maximum at the intermediate position between the two real images t _k−1 and t _k. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the interpolated image t _aux is generated from the real images t _k−1 and t _k at the time having the characteristic that the ventricular volume is maximized on the model. As shown in FIG. 6, on the model, the time when the ventricular volume becomes maximum is t = 0.78 sec. Therefore, the image generation unit 107 sets the time information t _aux on the model, the time when the ventricular volume is maximized is t = 0.78 sec, and generates the interpolated image t _aux .

  As described above, the image generation unit 107 uses the time estimated for the feature of the examination site (region of interest) of the subject (patient 3) to be observed as the time information of the interpolation image. The feature of the examination region (region of interest) of the subject (patient 3) to be generated can be generated as an image and visualized by the display unit 111.

Although it is estimated from the model showing the temporal change in the size of the ventricular volume, the characteristics of the examination site (region of interest) of the subject to be observed (patient 3) appear, the subject to be observed ( The means for estimating the characteristics of the examination region (region of interest) of the patient 3) is not limited to the model. For example, it is possible to estimate that the time when an external factor in which a contrast medium or the like is injected into the patient 3 as the subject is the time when the feature appears on the image. Therefore, an interpolation image t _aux is created, and external factors of the examination region (region of interest) of the subject (patient 3) are determined from a series of image changes of the real images t _k−1 , t _k and the interpolation image t _aux. Can observe the change. Further, it can be determined not only by the time information _aux model but also by input from an external device. This can be obtained by performing real-time information on the subject such as an electrocardiogram simultaneously with the acquisition of the real image and referring to it. For example, the characteristic time of the waveform on the electrocardiogram, the timing when the contrast medium is injected, and the like can be considered.

(Synchronize different image sets)
In addition, the image generation unit 107 uses a plurality of volume data supplied by a computed tomography apparatus or a different computed tomography apparatus operating in different modes for the same examination site from the same subject as a plurality of time series. 3D image sets can be generated, and a sequence of accurately synchronized images can be generated from a plurality of 3D image sets. FIG. 7 shows a three-dimensional image set arranged in two time series generated by the image generation unit 107. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an image sequence obtained by synchronizing the two sets of three-dimensional image sets shown in FIG.

In the three-dimensional image set B shown in FIG. 7, the first real image t _k−1 having the first time information t _k−1 (= 0.2 sec) and the second time information t _k (= 1.7 sec). second actual image _{t k} with), and is generated from the first actual image _{t k-1} and the second real image _{t k,} the second interpolation image _{t aux2} with time information _{t aux2} are arranged in time series . In the three-dimensional image set A shown in FIG. 7, the third real image t _k−1 having the third time information t _k−1 (= 0.0 sec) and the fourth time information t _k (= 1). fourth actual image _{t k} with .5sec), and the third is generated from the actual image _{t k-1} and the fourth actual image _{t k,} the first interpolated image _{t aux1} with time information _{t aux1} is arranged in chronological Yes.

Then, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the image generation unit 107 _{converts the} time information t _aux2 having the second interpolation image t _aux2 of the three-dimensional image set B based on the time information held by each image to the three-dimensional image set A. In time synchronization, a new image sequence is generated.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the image generation unit 107 targets the same examination site from the same subject, and a plurality of volume data supplied by a computed tomography apparatus or a different computed tomography apparatus operating in different modes. Thus, a plurality of time-series three-dimensional image sets can be generated. The display processing unit 109 can generate a sequence of images that are accurately synchronized in time from a plurality of three-dimensional image sets.

  In the present embodiment, if the image generation unit 107 uses the three-dimensional image sequence shown in FIG. 8, it is possible to correct a shift between the same phases in the multiphase data of the observation target region (heart). . Further, in the present embodiment, the image generation unit 107 generates the “image acquisition time information of the examination acquired from the computed tomography apparatus” and the “display processing unit 109” by using the sequence of the three-dimensional image shown in FIG. Based on the “reproduced frame rate”, the moving image can be reproduced on the display unit 111 in an accurate real time.

Further, in this embodiment, the image generating section 107, matched to the actual image t _k of a specific acquisition time present on only one of the three-dimensional image set B shown in FIG. 7 (e.g., t k ₌ 1.7) Te, by creating a new interpolated image from the third actual image t _k-1 and the fourth actual image t _k of the other 3-dimensional image set a, to allow comparison between more accurate three-dimensional images.

FIG. 9 shows a sequence of images when the image generation unit 107 supplements a plurality of interpolated images with real images at equal intervals in time. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the image generation unit 107 uses a plurality of volume data t ₁ (= 0...) Supplied by the computed tomography apparatus with different imaging intervals for the same examination site from the same subject. 00 sec), t ₂ (= 0.17 sec), and t ₃ (= 0.30 sec), a plurality of real images t ₁ , t ₂ , t ₃ out of the real images t ₁ , t _{3 Thus} , it is possible to generate an interpolated image t _aux4 having time information t ₄ (= 0.10 sec) and an interpolated image t _aux5 having time information t5 (= 0.20 sec). For this reason, in the present embodiment, an interpolation image is generated at equal time intervals with respect to real images that are not equally spaced in time, so that the quality and capability of display and analysis of medical images displayed by the display unit 111 are improved. be able to.

FIG. 10 shows an example in which a plurality of interpolated images are temporarily supplemented with respect to the actual image and displayed on the display unit 111. As shown in FIG. 10, the image generation unit 107 temporarily generates an interpolated image _temp3 from a plurality of interpolated images _temp1 only when a 3D image sequence is displayed on the display unit 111. _Then, by discarding the interpolated images _temp3 from the plurality of interpolated images _temp1 after rendering for each frame, the memory usage can be reduced and the load on the medical image processing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment can be reduced. Can do.

  Next, an operation processing flow of the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is an operation processing flow of the medical image processing apparatus 100.

First, in step ST1, the volume data generation unit 101 generates a plurality of volume data with different imaging times and time information t _n of each volume data from the tomographic signals supplied by the computed tomography apparatus. And it changes to step ST2.

Next, in step ST2, the motion analysis information generator 103, of the volume data outputted from the volume data generation unit 101, a volume data _{t k-1} and time information _{t k-1,} and the volume data _{t k} and from the time information t _k, to generate the motion analysis information. And it changes to step ST3.

Next, in step ST3, the interpolated volume data generation unit 105, based on the motion analysis information outputted from the motion analysis information generator 103 interpolates between the volume data t _k-1 and the volume data t _k, interpolation Volume data t _aux and its time information t _aux are generated. And it changes to step ST4.

Next, in step ST4, the image generation unit 107 generates an actual three-dimensional image from each of the volume data t _k−1 and t _k , while generating an interpolated three-dimensional image from the interpolated volume data t _aux. Line up. And it changes to step ST5.

Next, in step ST _< b> 5, the display processing unit 109 displays various images for displaying the real images t _k−1 and t _k and the interpolated image t _aux that are time-series by the image generation unit 107 on the display of the display unit 111. Process. And it changes to step ST6.

Finally, in step ST6, the display unit 111 displays the real images t _k−1 and t _k and the interpolated image t _aux in time series that are appropriately processed by the display processing unit 109. Then, the operation process ends.

  As described above, according to the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately display a change in a specific region in an image by interpolating an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information. it can. Therefore, according to the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accurately observe the examination region (region of interest) of the patient 3 as the subject.

  For example, if the medical image processing apparatus 100 interpolates an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information, it is possible to satisfactorily observe a cardiac function failure or the like only by performing cine reproduction using a conventional rendering method. Further, if the medical image processing apparatus 100 interpolates interpolated images between real images based on the motion analysis information, it is possible to observe not only those with short time intervals such as cardiac multiphase data but also aging of lesions. It can also be applied to long time interval data.

  Furthermore, when the medical image processing apparatus 100 interpolates interpolated images between real images based on motion analysis information, it is possible to perform reproducible fully automated quantification in strain analysis, perfusion analysis, cardiac function analysis, and the like. Anyone can get accurate results at a lower price than before. Furthermore, when the medical image processing apparatus 100 interpolates interpolated images between real images based on motion analysis information, adjacent regions of interest (organs) are set by segmentation, and movements of a plurality of organs are determined by motion analysis information. Can be displayed on the display unit 111 as the same part is estimated and there is a possibility of adhesion between organs.

  Further, according to the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, if the interpolated image is interpolated between the actual images based on the motion analysis information, the noise of the display unit 111 can be reduced and the noise variation can be adjusted.

  For example, the noise can be reduced without losing the original detailed image information by specifying the corresponding pixels of the actual image and the interpolated image based on the motion analysis information generated by the medical image processing apparatus 100. Further, even if a phase with a large amount of X-ray irradiation and a phase with a small amount of X-ray irradiation are mixed in the CT multi-phase examination by the medical image processing apparatus 100, the pixel values of the previous and subsequent phases are used for the phase with a small amount of X-ray irradiation By doing so, a good interpolation image can be obtained.

  Furthermore, if the medical image processing apparatus 100 interpolates an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information, the X-ray irradiation amount is increased only in an important phase, and a real image is generated. By generating an interpolated image, it is possible to reduce the amount of X-ray exposure of the patient 3.

  In the medical image processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment, a large number of continuous tomographic signals in the diagnosis range of the patient 3 are supplied to the volume data generation unit 101 by the computed tomography apparatus shown in FIG. However, it is not limited to this. In addition to the computed tomography apparatus, the signal supplied to the volume data generation unit 101 generates a tomographic image of the examination site from the volume data of the subject, such as an MRI apparatus (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and displays it on the monitor screen. Also included are tomographic signals from devices that perform diagnosis.

In this embodiment, the time t _k of the volume data t _k is the time after a lapse from the volume data t _k-1 a predetermined time, the predetermined time is arbitrary time, for example, the subject It can be set as appropriate depending on the time when a change in the examination site (region of interest) of (patient 3) is predicted to occur.

In the present embodiment, the display processing unit 109 displays the real images t _k−1 and t _k and the interpolated image t _aux that are time-series in the image generation unit 107 on the display of the display unit 111. When performing various types of processing, the following processing may be set to be possible on the display unit 111. In other words, (1) Motion analysis, editing of mask / path, etc., and generation of interpolated images can be performed separately with respect to time / place / processing device. (2) Motion analysis information and editing status of mask / path (workspace) ) As a separate file and later combined to generate an interpolated image. (3) Interpolated (increased) image by combining image file containing motion analysis information and mask path rendering information later (4) Display the presence / absence of motion analysis information on a workstation having functions of generating an interpolation image and propagating geometry information, and immediately notify the user that the motion analysis has been completed. (5) Multiple motion analysis information can be managed (deleted / copied / moved) with different accuracy and algorithm.

In the present embodiment, the time information at which the volume data is generated is generated based on the time _t supplied by the computed tomography apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  Each functional block (see FIG. 1) used in the description of the present embodiment is typically realized as an LSI that is an integrated circuit. In particular, calculation processing for generating an actual image and an interpolation image can be performed by a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit). The GPU is an arithmetic processing unit designed specifically for image processing as compared with a general-purpose CPU (Central Processing Unit), and is mounted on a computer separately from a normal CPU.

  In the present embodiment, the example used for observing the heart is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it can be used for observation of changes in tumor tissue over time, observation of blood flow perfusion, and the like.

  The medical image processing apparatus and the medical image processing program according to the present invention have an effect of accurately displaying a change in a specific region in an image by interpolating an interpolated image between real images based on motion analysis information. And is useful as a medical image processing apparatus.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Medical image processing apparatus 101 Volume data generation part 103 Motion analysis information generation part 105 Interpolation volume data generation part 107 Image generation part 109 Display processing part 111 Display part 113 Operation part

Claims (8)

A medical image processing apparatus for visualizing each of a plurality of volume data having time information,
Interpolation volume data that interpolates the plurality of volume data based on the plurality of volume data and the time information that each volume data has, and a generation unit that generates time information of the interpolation volume data;
A display unit that visualizes and displays the plurality of volume data and the interpolated volume data;
The generator is
The interval between the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately before the time information is the interval between the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately after the time information. The medical image processing apparatus, wherein the time information of the interpolation volume data is set so as to have different unequal intervals. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The generator is
A medical image processing apparatus, wherein the interpolated volume data is generated by acquiring the corresponding position on the plurality of volume data or the corresponding object, and by the correspondence as motion analysis information. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
The generator is
A medical image processing apparatus, characterized in that a time having a characteristic appearing in the correspondence is generated as time information of the interpolation volume data. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 2,
The generator is
A medical image processing apparatus, wherein at least a part of the interpolation volume is generated by nonlinear interpolation of the correspondence. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The generator is
Time information of interpolation volume data generated from one set among a plurality of volume data having two sets of time information,
A medical image processing apparatus that uses time information of one volume data included in the other set of the plurality of volume data having the two sets of time information. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The generator is
Time information of interpolation volume data generated from one set among a plurality of volume data having two sets of time information,
A medical image processing apparatus which uses time information of interpolated volume data generated from the other of the plurality of volume data having the two sets of time information. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The medical image processing apparatus, wherein the generation unit generates time information of the interpolation volume data based on a time acquired from an external device used together with a medical image photographing device. A medical image processing program,
Computer
Interpolation volume data for interpolating the plurality of volume data and generation means for generating time information of the interpolation volume data based on a plurality of volume data and time information possessed by each of the plurality of volume data;
Function as a display means for visualizing and displaying the plurality of volume data and the interpolated volume data;
The generating means is configured such that the interval between the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately before the time information is the time information of the interpolated volume data and the time information of the volume data immediately after the time information. The medical image processing program is characterized in that the time information of the interpolated volume data is set so that the interval is different from the interval.

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