JP2012096055A - Medical image diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus, particularly an X-ray CT apparatus, which allows an operator to recognize temporal displacement of a region of interest in volume data on one screen.SOLUTION: The X-ray CT apparatus 10a2 has: an image reconstruction part 52 which generates 2D data on the basis of projection data; a volume data generator 53 which generates the volume data represented by a 3D real space on the basis of the 2D data; an image processing part 54 which generates and displays MPR data by processing MPR (multi-planar reconstruction) on the volume data; a line-segment setting part 58 which sets a specific line segment in the volume data; a line-segment/time-series data generating part 59 which extracts the data on the specific line segment from the volume data in a plurality of time phases, and generates line-segment/time-series data formed by arranging each of the extracted data on the specific line segment relative to a time axis; and a time-series graph generating part 60 which generates and displays a time-series graph in which the data on the specific line segment is converted into data on a straight line and arranged relative to the time axis for each of the plurality of time phases.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for generating and displaying three-dimensional (3D) data based on two-dimensional (2D: 2 dimensional) data for each slice related to a patient (subject), and in particular, motion of a heart or the like. The present invention relates to a medical image diagnostic apparatus that displays a temporal change amount in a certain organ.

  Medical diagnostic imaging technology has made rapid progress with the use of X-ray CT (computerized tomography) devices, ultrasonic diagnostic devices, and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) devices that have been put to practical use with the development of computer technology. It is indispensable. In particular, recent X-ray CT apparatuses and MRI apparatuses are capable of displaying 2D data as real-time image data as the biological information detection apparatus and arithmetic processing apparatus increase in speed and performance. Further, display of 3D data based on 2D data is relatively easy (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  For example, in an X-ray CT apparatus, an X-ray tube for irradiating X-rays and an X-ray detector for detecting the irradiated X-rays are arranged facing a patient, and further, an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are detected. X-ray projection data in a plurality of slice sections of the patient is collected by moving the patient relative to the instrument in the body axis direction (slice direction). Then, 3D data is generated based on 2D data generated by reconstruction based on X-ray projection data.

  In addition, the time required for generating 3D data is being further shortened by using a so-called helical scanning method in which X-ray projection data is collected while the patient is continuously moved in the body axis direction.

JP 2005-160503 A

  In a 3D processing device such as a workstation, a plurality of 3D data is read in time series, MPR (multi-planar reconstruction) MPR image display, 3D data display subjected to volume rendering processing, and 4D thereof are displayed. Although it was possible to perform display, it was difficult to easily grasp a temporal change of a part (target region) included in the 3D data.

  In addition, the conventional 4D display can roughly know the overall movement of the projected and displayed object. However, when it is desired to see in detail the movement of the region of interest included in the 3D data, the MPR process for the 3D data Volume rendering processing was used. According to the display by these processes, the data of the next time phase is displayed in front of the data displayed in the previous time phase, and the display of the image is updated as appropriate. Therefore, when observing the region of interest on the screen in chronological order, the operator stores the position of the region of interest with data displayed in a certain time phase, and based on the position of the region of interest based on the storage, There was no choice but to search for the position that seems to be the attention site on the data displayed in the time phase. In addition, the task of searching for a position that seems to be an attention site in a large amount of data in time series is heavy for the operator and causes individual differences.

  Furthermore, according to the conventional 4D display, when measuring the temporal change amount of the target region on the screen, the displacement amount is visually measured while viewing the searched target region on each data updated and displayed in time series. I had to estimate.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-described circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus that allows an operator to grasp a temporal displacement of a site of interest related to a specific portion on one screen. And

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention provides MPR data obtained by performing MPR processing on volume data represented in 3D real space, as described in claim 1, or An image processing unit that generates and displays 3D data obtained by performing volume rendering processing on the volume data, a line segment setting unit that sets a specific line segment in the volume data, and the volume data generation unit. In addition, each piece of data on the specific line segment is extracted from each volume data of multiple time phases, and line segment / time series data is generated by arranging the extracted data on the specific line segment with respect to the time axis. A line segment / time series data generation unit that converts each data on the specific line segment into data on a straight line for each plurality of time phases, and converts the data on the straight line for each time phase to a time axis Having a time-series graph generation unit for generating and displaying a time series graph aligned against.

  According to the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention, the operator can grasp the temporal displacement of the site of interest related to the specific portion on one screen.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention. The figure for demonstrating the production | generation method of cross-section and time series volume data. The figure which shows an example of 3D data based on cross-section and time series volume data. The figure which shows an example of MPR data based on cross-section and time series volume data. The figure for demonstrating extraction of the MPR cross section for the production | generation of MPR data. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of 1st Embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus which concerns on this invention. The block diagram which shows 2nd Embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus which concerns on this invention. The figure for demonstrating the production | generation method of a time series graph. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of 2nd Embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus which concerns on this invention.

  An embodiment of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.

  FIG. 1 shows a medical image diagnosis for generating three-dimensional (3D) data, which is image data, based on two-dimensional (2D: 2 dimensional) data, which is image data for each slice related to a patient (subject) M. The apparatus 10 is shown. For example, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 collects projection data while rotating an X-ray source that irradiates an X-ray beam and an X-ray detector having multi-row detection elements in the body axis direction around a rotation axis. An X-ray CT apparatus 10a that performs back projection processing considering the cone angle of the X-ray beam, generates 2D data for each slice, and generates 3D data based on the 2D data can be given.

  Hereinafter, a case where the X-ray CT apparatus 10a is employed as the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 will be described. However, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 is not limited to the X-ray CT apparatus 10a. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 that generates 3D data based on 2D data for each slice related to a patient may be, for example, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) apparatus.

  The X-ray CT apparatus 10a includes a gantry 11 for scanning the patient M with X-rays, and the patient M placed in the cavity C of the gantry 11 in the body axis direction (Z-axis direction). A table (bed top) 12 for carrying and an operation console 13 for controlling the operation of the gantry 11 and generating and outputting (displaying) a desired image based on data sent from the gantry 11 are provided. .

  The gantry 11 can operate in a tilt direction (not shown), and the gantry 11 includes a rotating portion 15 and a fixed portion. An X-ray tube 21, a collimator 22, an aperture control motor 23, an X-ray detector 24, and a data collection device 25 are provided on the rotating unit 15 of the gantry 11. The X-ray tube 21 and the collimator 22 and the X-ray detector 24 are provided at positions facing each other across the cavity C of the gantry 11, that is, across the patient M. The rotating unit 15 is configured to rotate around the cavity C while maintaining the positional relationship.

  In addition, a main controller 31, IFs (interfaces) 32 a and 32 b, an X-ray tube controller 33, a rotation motor 35, and a table motor 37 are provided in the fixed portion of the gantry 11.

  The driving of the X-ray tube 21 which is an X-ray generation source is controlled by an X-ray tube controller 33 and irradiates X-rays from a tube (not shown) of the X-ray tube 21 toward the X-ray detector.

  The collimator 22 is controlled by an aperture control motor driver, and has an aperture for limiting the X-ray irradiation range irradiated from the X-ray tube 21.

  The X-ray detector 24 has a plurality of detection elements (a plurality of configurations (number of columns, number of channels, etc.) in the body axis direction for detecting X-rays from the X-ray tube 21 that has passed through the collimator 22 and the cavity C. Different detection elements may be provided). In the slice direction of the X-ray detector 24, 64 or more rows of X-ray detection elements, for example, 256 rows are arranged in parallel.

  The data collection device 25 is a so-called DAS (data acquisition system), and extracts an electrical signal from the X-ray detector 24 as projection data (digital data). This projection data is obtained for each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 24 for each view based on the rotation angle (phase) between the X-ray generator 22 and the X-ray detector 24. For data of one X-ray detection element (one channel), projection data is acquired as binary data having a predetermined bit width.

  The main controller 31 analyzes various commands received from the operation console 13 via the IF 32a, and based on the analysis, the X-ray tube controller 33, the opening control motor 23, the rotation motor 35, the table motor 37, and the data collection device 25 are analyzed. Output various control signals.

  The X-ray tube controller 33 transmits a drive signal to the X-ray tube 21. The X-ray tube 21 generates X-rays according to the control signal.

  The opening control motor 23 receives a drive signal from the main controller 31 via the opening control motor driver. The opening control motor 23 adjusts the opening width of the collimator 22 according to the control signal.

  The rotary motor 35 receives a drive signal from the main controller 31 via the rotary motor driver. In response to the drive signal, the rotation motor 35 rotates the rotation unit 15 so as to rotate around the cavity C in a state where the rotation unit 15 maintains the positional relationship.

  The table motor 37 receives a drive signal from the main controller 31 via the table motor driver. The table motor 37 conveys the table 12 in the Z-axis direction by the drive signal.

  The data collected by the data collection device 25 is sent to the operation console 13 via the IF 32b.

  The operation console 13 is a so-called workstation configured based on a computer, and is capable of mutual communication with a network N such as a hospital basic LAN (local area network). The operation console 13 is mainly composed of basic hardware such as a CPU (central processing unit) 41, a memory 42, an HD (hard disc) 44, IFs 45a, 45b, and 45c, an input device 46, and a display device 47. . The CPU 41 is interconnected to each hardware component constituting the operation console 13 via a bus as a common signal transmission path. Note that the operation console 13 may include a recording medium drive 48.

  The CPU 41 executes a program stored in the memory 42 when a command is input by the operator operating the input device 46 or the like. Alternatively, the CPU 41 is read from a program stored in the HD 44, a program transferred from the network N, received by the IF 45c and installed in the HD 44, or read from a recording medium attached to the recording medium drive 48 and installed in the HD 44. The loaded program is loaded into the memory 42 and executed.

  The memory 42 combines elements such as a ROM (read only memory) and a RAM (random access memory), and stores an IPL (initial program loading), a BIOS (basic input / output system), and data. This is a storage device used for temporary storage of data.

  The HD 44 is configured by a nonvolatile semiconductor memory or the like. The HD 44 is a storage device that stores programs installed in the operation console 13 (including application programs as well as an OS (operating system) and the like) and data. In addition, the OS can be provided with a graphical user interface (GUI) that can use the graphics for displaying information to the user and perform basic operations by the input device 46.

  The IFs 45a, 45b, and 45c perform communication control according to each standard. The IFs 45a and 45b communicate with the gantry 11 and are connected to the IFs 32a and 32b of the gantry 11, respectively. Further, the IF 45c has a function capable of being connected to the network N through a telephone line, whereby the operation console 13 can be connected to the network N network from the IF 45c.

  Examples of the input device 46 include a keyboard and a mouse that can be operated by an operator, and an input signal according to the operation is sent to the CPU 41.

  An example of the display device 47 is a monitor. The image is displayed on the display device 47 by expanding the image data or the like in a memory such as a VRAM (video random access memory, not shown) that expands the image data to be displayed.

  The recording medium drive 48 is detachable from the recording medium, reads out data (including a program) recorded on the recording medium, outputs the data on the bus, and outputs data supplied through the bus. Write to a recording medium. Such a recording medium can be provided as so-called package software.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.

  When the CPU 41 of the operation console 13 shown in FIG. 1 executes the program, the operation console 13 functions as the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, for example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10a1. The X-ray CT apparatus 10a1 includes a projection data collection unit 51, an image reconstruction unit 52, a volume data generation unit 53 and an image processing unit 54, a cross-section setting unit 55, and a cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56. In addition, a change amount measurement unit 57 may be provided in the X-ray CT apparatus 10a1. In addition, although the case where each component which comprises X-ray CT apparatus 10a1 is constructed | assembled by software is demonstrated, it is not limited to that case, and all or one part of each component by hardware etc. is hardware. It may be a case where it is constructed automatically.

  The projection data collection unit 51 outputs CT data from the data collection device 25 via the IFs 32b and 45b by performing CT imaging in the CT mode for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment planning for the patient M placed on the table 12. A function of collecting projection data for each projection angle. The projection data collection unit 51 is connected to the X-ray tube through the main controller 31 so that the tube voltage and tube current values suitable for CT imaging, for example, 120 kV and 300 mA, are applied to the X-ray tube 21 as a high voltage application condition. The controller 33 is controlled. Further, the projection data collection unit 51 controls the aperture control motor 23 via the main controller 31 so as to adjust the aperture width of the collimator 22 by a control signal. Further, the projection data collection unit 51 controls the rotation motor 35 via the main controller 31 so as to drive the rotation unit 15 continuously in a predetermined direction at an appropriate speed, for example, 0.5 seconds / rotation. In addition, the projection data collection unit 51 controls the table motor 37 via the main controller 31 so that the table 12 is conveyed in the Z-axis direction at a predetermined speed by a drive signal.

  The image reconstruction unit 52 performs back projection processing in consideration of the cone angle of the X-ray beam based on the projection data collected by the projection data collection unit 51 to reconstruct each slice, thereby obtaining 2D data (slice data). ).

  The volume data generation unit 53 has a function of generating 3D data (volume data) represented in 3D real space by performing interpolation processing between 2D data generated by the image reconstruction unit 52. The volume data generation unit 53 generates volume data of a plurality of time phases according to the collection order of projection data.

  The image processing unit 54 performs MPR (multi-planar reconstruction) processing on the volume data generated by the volume data generation unit 53, and reconstructs MPR data (axial sectional data, sagittal sectional data, coronal sectional data, etc.). Thus, the display device 47 has a function of displaying. The image processing unit 54 generates 3D data by performing volume rendering processing on the volume data generated by the volume data generation unit 53 based on display conditions (display parameters) and causes the display device 47 to display the 3D data. It has a function. Further, the image processing unit 54 performs 4D display (MPR moving image display and 3D moving image display) as a spatial and temporal display on the display device 47 based on the volume data sequentially generated with the passage of time by the volume data generation unit 53. ) Can also be performed. Here, examples of volume rendering processing include shadowed volume rendering, shadowless volume rendering, maximum value projection volume rendering, minimum value projection volume rendering, average value projection volume rendering, and surface display rendering by specifying a threshold. Arbitrarily selected.

  The cross-section setting unit 55 has a function of setting a specific cross section as a specific portion in the volume data. Hereinafter, the specific cross section set in the volume data will be described as an XY cross section (coordinate in the Z-axis direction) as a specific orthogonal cross section, but is not limited to the XY cross section. Specifically, during the 4D display on the display device 47, the operator uses the input device 46 to designate a cross section for which a time series change in the volume data is to be viewed, so that the cross section setting unit 55 causes the XY in the volume data to be displayed. Set the cross section.

  The cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56 extracts 2D data on the XY cross-section set by the cross-section setting unit 55 from each volume data of a plurality of time phases generated by the volume data generation unit 53, respectively. In addition, it has a function of generating cross-section / time-series volume data in which 2D data on the XY cross-section are arranged with respect to the time axis. That is, the cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56 extracts 2D data of a plurality of time phases on the same cross section from each volume data of a plurality of time phases. The cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56 generates cross-section / time-series volume data by interpolating between 2D data of a plurality of time phases as necessary.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a method of generating cross-section / time-series volume data.

  In the upper part of FIG. 3, volume data of a plurality of time phases (time phases t0, t1, t2) are arranged. Further, in the lower part of FIG. 3, a cross-sectional view in which 2D data of the time phases t0, t1, t2 on the same XY cross section are arranged with respect to the time axis (T axis) from the volume data of the time phases t0, t1, t2. Time series volume data is shown.

  Also, the image processing unit 54 shown in FIG. 2 performs MPR processing on the cross-section / time-series volume data generated by the cross-section / time-series volume data generation section 56, reconstructs the MPR data, and displays the display device 47. It has a function to display. In addition, the image processing unit 54 generates 3D data by performing volume rendering processing on the cross-section / time-series volume data generated by the cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56 based on the display conditions, thereby generating a display device. 47 has a function of displaying. Further, the image processing unit 54 performs 4D display as a spatial and temporal display on the display device 47 based on the cross-section / time-series volume data sequentially generated with the passage of time by the cross-section / time-series volume data generation unit 56. Can also be performed.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of 3D data based on cross-sectional / time-series volume data.

  FIG. 4 shows 3D data having a temporal trajectory of the boundary of the target region in the depth direction. By displaying the 3D data or the 3D moving image, the operator can visually recognize the time-series change of the site of interest.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of MPR data based on the cross-section / time series volume data, and FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining extraction of the MPR cross-section for generating the MPR data.

  FIG. 6 shows MPR cross sections for MPR processing, for example, MPR cross sections C1, C2, and C3, on the cross section / time series volume data. FIG. 5 shows MPR data based on the MPR cross sections C1, C2, and C3. The MPR section for MPR processing of the section / time series volume data can be arbitrarily set by the operator.

  Further, the change amount measurement unit 57 shown in FIG. 2 has a function of measuring the change amount of the target region between the required time phases based on the MPR data generated by the image processing unit 54. The change amount measured by the change amount measurement unit 57 is displayed on the display device 47.

  Then, the flowchart which shows operation | movement of 1st Embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 which concerns on this invention. The operation will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Data collection is performed by performing CT imaging in CT mode for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment planning for the patient M placed on the table 12 using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, for example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10a1. Projection data for each projection angle output from the device 25 via the IFs 32b and 45b is collected (step S1). In step S1, the X-ray tube controller 33 is set so that the tube voltage and tube current values suitable for CT imaging, such as 120 kV and 300 mA, are applied as conditions for applying a high voltage to the X-ray tube 21 via the main controller 31. Control. Further, the opening control motor 23 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to adjust the opening width of the collimator 22 by a control signal. Further, the rotary motor 35 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to drive the rotating unit 15 continuously in a predetermined direction at an appropriate speed, for example, 0.5 seconds / rotation. In addition, the table motor 37 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to convey the table 12 in the Z-axis direction at a predetermined speed by a drive signal.

  Next, the projection data collected in step S1 is converted into a digital signal and recorded in a storage device such as the memory 42 or the HD 44 (step S2). Based on the projection data recorded in step S2, back projection processing is performed in consideration of the cone angle of the X-ray beam, and reconstruction is performed for each slice to generate 2D data (step S3).

  Volume data represented in 3D real space is generated by performing interpolation processing on the plurality of 2D data generated in step S3 (step S4). In step S4, volume data of a plurality of time phases is generated in accordance with the projection data collection order.

  Next, MPR processing is performed on the volume data generated in step S4, and the MPR data is reconstructed and displayed on the display device 47. Further, 3D data is generated and displayed on the display device 47 by performing volume rendering processing on the volume data generated in step S4 based on display conditions (step S5). In step S5, 4D display as a spatial and temporal display can also be performed on the display device 47 based on the volume data sequentially generated with the passage of time in step S4.

  Next, a specific cross section in the volume data is set (step S6). Specifically, during 4D display on the display device 47, the operator uses the input device 46 to set a specific cross section in the volume data by designating a cross section in which the time series change is desired in the volume data. For example, a desired orthogonal cross-section is specified by moving a specific orthogonal cross-section during MPR video display, a cross-sectional graphic is specified during 3D video display, or a desired 3D curve is specified during MPR video display. A specific section is set by designating a curved surface along the curve.

  Next, 2D data on the XY cross section set in step S6 is extracted from each volume data of a plurality of time phases generated in step S4, and the extracted 2D data are arranged on the time axis. Time-series volume data is generated (step S7).

  MPR processing is performed on the cross-section / time-series volume data generated in step S7, and the MPR data is reconstructed and displayed on the display device 47. Further, 3D data is generated and displayed on the display device 47 by performing volume rendering processing on the cross-section / time-series volume data generated in step S7 based on display conditions (step S8). In step S8, 4D display as a spatial and temporal display can be performed on the display device 47 based on the cross-sectional / time-series volume data sequentially generated with the passage of time in step S7. According to the display by step S8, the displacement of the attention site | part concerning the specific cross section set by step S6 can be visually recognized.

  Next, based on the MPR data extracted in step S8, by measuring the change amount of the attention site between the required time phases, the change amount of the attention site relating to the specific cross section can be obtained, and the attention related to the specific cross section can be obtained. The amount of change of the part is displayed on the display device 47 (step S9).

  According to the X-ray CT apparatus 10a1 of the present embodiment, MPR data and 3D data are generated and displayed based on cross-sectional / time-series volume data indicating temporal displacement of a specific cross-section set during 4D display. The operator can grasp the temporal displacement of the site of interest related to the specific cross section on one screen.

  Note that the X-ray CT apparatus 10a1 of the present embodiment is effective for observing a temporal change amount of continuous movement of the heart (myocardium or valve) of the patient M, for example.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.

  When the CPU 41 of the operation console 13 shown in FIG. 1 executes the program, the operation console 13 functions as the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, for example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10a2. The X-ray CT apparatus 10a2 includes a projection data collection unit 51, an image reconstruction unit 52, a volume data generation unit 53, an image processing unit 54, a line segment setting unit 58, a line segment / time series data generation unit 59, and a time series graph. A generation unit 60 is provided. In addition, a change amount measurement unit 61 may be provided in the X-ray CT apparatus 10a2. In addition, although the case where each component which comprises X-ray CT apparatus 10a2 is constructed | assembled by software is demonstrated, it is not limited to that case, and all or one part of each component by hardware etc. is hardware. It may be a case where it is constructed automatically. Further, in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10a2 shown in FIG. 8, the same members as those attached to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10a1 shown in FIG.

  The line segment setting unit 58 has a function of setting a specific line segment as a specific part from the volume data. Specifically, during 4D display on the display device 47, the operator designates and inputs a plurality of points in the volume data by using the input device 46, thereby comprising a straight line or a curve (spline curve) including a plurality of points. A specific line segment (pixel column) is set.

  The line segment / time series data generation unit 59 extracts data on the specific line segment set by the line segment setting unit 58 from each volume data of a plurality of time phases generated by the volume data generation unit 53, and extracts them. It has a function of generating line segment / time series data in which each data on the specified specific line segment is arranged with respect to the time axis.

  The time-series graph generation unit 60 converts the data on the specific line segment for each of the plurality of time phases generated by the line segment / time-series data generation unit 59 into data on a straight line for each of the plurality of time phases. A function of generating a time series graph in which data on the straight line is arranged with respect to the time axis and displaying the time series graph on the display device 47. The time series graph generation unit 60 generates a time series graph by interpolating data between time phases as necessary.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a time-series graph generation method.

  The first row from the top of FIG. 9 shows volume data of a plurality of time phases (time phases t0, t1, t2) generated by the volume data generation unit 53 in three dimensions (X axis-Y axis-Z axis). Yes. In the volume data of time phase T = t0, t1, t2, the specific line segment (from the end point “◯” to the end point “□” in the figure) set based on a plurality of points by the line segment setting unit 58 is shown. Yes. The specific line segment may be set by connecting the end points only by the end points with a spline curve or the like. Further, it may be set by connecting each point with a spline curve or the like by an end point and an intermediate point (“Δ” in the figure). The second row from the top in FIG. 9 shows the volume data of the time phases t0, t1, and t2 generated by the volume data generation unit 53 in a planar manner (Y axis-Z axis).

  The third row from the top in FIG. 9 shows data on a straight line for each of a plurality of time phases obtained by converting data on a specific line segment for each of a plurality of time phases generated by the line segment / time series data generation unit 59. . The fourth row from the top in FIG. 9 shows a time series graph in which data on a straight line for each of a plurality of time phases are arranged with respect to the time axis, and the data between the time phases is interpolated.

  Further, the change amount measuring unit 61 shown in FIG. 8 has a function of measuring the change amount of the attention site between the required time phases based on the data on the straight line for each of the plurality of time phases on the moving image display of the time series graph. Have. The change amount measured by the change amount measuring unit 61 is displayed on the display device 47.

  Next, the operation of the second embodiment of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  Data collection is performed by performing CT imaging in CT mode for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment planning for the patient M placed on the table 12 using the medical image diagnostic apparatus 10, for example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10a2. Projection data for each projection angle output from the device 25 via the IFs 32b and 45b is collected (step S11). In step S11, the X-ray tube controller 33 is set so that the tube voltage and tube current values suitable for CT imaging, for example, 120 kV and 300 mA, are applied as conditions for applying a high voltage to the X-ray tube 21 via the main controller 31. Control. Further, the opening control motor 23 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to adjust the opening width of the collimator 22 by a control signal. Further, the rotary motor 35 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to drive the rotating unit 15 continuously in a predetermined direction at an appropriate speed, for example, 0.5 seconds / rotation. In addition, the table motor 37 is controlled via the main controller 31 so as to convey the table 12 in the Z-axis direction at a predetermined speed by a drive signal.

  Next, the projection data collected in step S11 is converted into a digital signal and recorded in a storage device such as the memory 42 or the HD 44 (step S12). Based on the projection data recorded in step S12, back projection processing is performed in consideration of the cone angle of the X-ray beam, and reconstruction is performed for each slice to generate 2D data (step S13).

  Volume data represented in 3D real space is generated by performing interpolation processing on the plurality of 2D data generated in step S13 (step S14). In step S14, volume data of a plurality of time phases is generated in accordance with the projection data collection order.

  Next, MPR processing is performed on the volume data generated in step S14, and the MPR data is reconstructed and displayed on the display device 47. Further, 3D data is generated and displayed on the display device 47 by performing volume rendering processing on the volume data generated in step S14 based on display conditions (step S15). In step S15, 4D display as a spatial and temporal display can be performed on the display device 47 based on the volume data sequentially generated with the passage of time in step S14.

  Next, a specific line segment in the volume data is set (step S16). Specifically, the operator uses the input device 46 during 4D display on the display device 47 to designate and input a plurality of points in the volume data to set a specific line segment in the volume data.

  Next, the data on the specific line segment set in step S16 is extracted from the volume data of the plurality of time phases generated in step S14. Time series data is generated (step S17).

  Next, each piece of data on the specific line segment constituting the line segment / time series data generated in step S17 is converted into data on a straight line for each of a plurality of time phases (step S18). Next, a time series graph in which data on a straight line for each of a plurality of time phases are arranged with respect to the time axis is generated and displayed on the display device 47 (step S19). During the display in step S19, the operator can visually recognize the displacement of the site of interest related to the specific line segment set in step S16 by scrolling the time series graph with time.

  Next, on the video display of the time series graph, by measuring the amount of change of the target region between the required time phases based on the data on the straight line for each multiple time phase, the amount of change of the target region related to the specific line segment is obtained. The change amount of the attention site relating to the specific line segment can be obtained and displayed on the display device 47 (step S20).

  According to the X-ray CT apparatus 10a2 of the present embodiment, MPR data and 3D data are generated and displayed based on line segment / time series data indicating temporal displacement of a specific line segment set during 4D display. Thus, the operator can grasp the temporal displacement of the site of interest related to the specific line segment on one screen.

  Note that the X-ray CT apparatus 10a2 of the present embodiment is effective for observing a temporal change amount of continuous movement of the patient M's heart or the like, for example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Medical diagnostic imaging apparatus 10a, 10a1, 10a2 X-ray CT apparatus 11 Base 13 Operation console 46 Input device 47 Display apparatus 51 Projection data collection part 52 Image reconstruction part 53 Volume data generation part 54 Image processing part 55 Section setting part 56 Image Processing Unit 57 Change Measurement Unit 58 Line Segment Setting Unit 59 Line Segment / Time Series Data Generation Unit 60 Time Series Graph Generation Unit 61 Change Measurement Unit

Claims (5)

An image processing unit that generates and displays MPR data obtained by performing MPR processing on volume data represented in 3D real space, or 3D data obtained by performing volume rendering processing on the volume data;
A line segment setting unit for setting a specific line segment in the volume data;
Each data on the specific line segment is extracted from each volume data of a plurality of time phases generated by the volume data generation unit, and the extracted data on the specific line segment is arranged with respect to a time axis. A line segment / time series data generation unit for generating line segment / time series data;
A time series in which each data on the specific line segment is converted into data on a straight line for each plurality of time phases, and a time series graph in which the data on the straight line for each plurality of time phases are arranged with respect to the time axis is generated and displayed. A graph generator;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising:   The volume rendering process is one of shadow volume rendering, no shadow volume rendering, maximum projection volume rendering, minimum projection volume rendering, average projection volume rendering, and surface display rendering by specifying a threshold value. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.   The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a change amount measurement unit that measures a change amount of the region of interest based on the MPR data.   The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an input device that designates and inputs a plurality of points for setting the specific line segment on the volume data.   The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display processing unit that performs 4D display as a spatial and temporal display based on the volume data.