JP2013121448A - Medical image processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a medical image processing system for efficiently improving CT image quality, in a system for CT image quality improvement and/or for CT dose reduction, using a successive approximation method such as Total Variation method.SOLUTION: The system reduces CT image noise after CT reconstruction using the successive approximation method to improve CT image quality and/or reduce CT dose. The system includes a means for: reflecting the result of image processing by setting one or more successive approximation parameters of the reconstructed CT image, in the CT image in real time, and continuously when required; and efficiently obtaining a desired CT image quality by interactively changing the setting of the parameters, while comparing the CT image with an original image before processing or a difference image when required.

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical image processing system that makes it possible to obtain the effects of either high image quality of CT tomographic images, low dose during CT imaging, or both by image processing of CT images.

  The computed tomography apparatus using X-rays, which was invented in 1967 and put into practical use in 1971, is known as a CT apparatus, and can obtain clear tomographic images without overlapping, so that it is widely spread in the medical and industrial fields. doing. Later, helical imaging, multi-row detector mounting, high-speed imaging for 1 second or less, 3D display processing, 4D display processing, etc. were realized one after another. Instead of X-ray imaging, CT imaging has become the first choice for diagnostic imaging necessary for the diagnosis of many diseases.

  However, recent advances in CT systems have led to an increase in the X-ray exposure dose. In particular, the increase in the number of images taken in one rotation called volumetric imaging and the increase in the number of rows of helical imaging and multi-row detectors is an increase in the number of imaging. Increased X-ray exposure dose almost proportional to In addition, the appearance of multiple imaging using a contrast agent and continuous rotation imaging for obtaining a dynamic functional image also cause a large increase in X-ray exposure dose. More than 50,000 CT apparatuses are in operation around the world, and this X-ray exposure problem has been widely taken up. Some academic papers suggest that some of the cancers that develop are due to X-ray exposure with a CT device.

  Recently, taking into account the patient's body type and the part to be imaged, a function to reduce the X-ray exposure dose during imaging by optimizing the X-ray tube current or tube voltage during imaging will be added. Became. This includes a static method for determining the X-ray tube current or tube voltage at the time of imaging in advance by scout images or dedicated preparatory imaging, and instantaneous analysis of the acquired data at the time of imaging and feedback. And X-ray tube current or tube voltage is dynamically changed during imaging.

  In addition, the CT image reconstruction processing method is changed from the reverse projection method using a general filter to the image reconstruction method using the successive approximation method, so that even a low tube current is captured with a normal tube current. A system capable of obtaining a tomographic image equivalent to the CT apparatus is also realized, and is set as an option for some CT apparatuses. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a CT scanner that reconstructs a plane image using a successive approximation method. However, the image reconstruction method using the successive approximation method requires a large amount of arithmetic processing as compared with the reverse projection method using a general filter, and the arithmetic processing time becomes long, and the price of the CT apparatus is large. To rise.

  Although it is desirable to add a function to reduce the X-ray exposure dose in these latest CT devices, the majority of CT devices currently operating around the world cannot add such a function later. There are only a limited number of CT devices that can benefit. In addition, because this is a unique function of each CT device manufacturer, doctors and engineers involved in clinical imaging cannot fully understand such functions and features, and a tomographic image obtained by CT imaging with a desired image quality. You may not get.

  In addition to attempts to reduce the X-ray exposure dose by the CT apparatus main body, image processing by the successive approximation method is performed afterwards on CT tomographic images generated by the image reconstruction method by the back projection method using a general filter In order to reduce the noise component and improve the image quality, as a result, it is possible to reduce the X-ray tube current and tube voltage during CT imaging, and a method for reducing the X-ray exposure dose has been devised. Since any CT device has a function to adjust the X-ray tube current and tube voltage at the time of CT imaging, this method has already been sold and all CTs currently operating around the world. It can be applied to the device.

  Actually, the image processing by the successive approximation method is performed afterwards to improve the image quality by reducing the noise component. As a result, the X-ray tube current and tube voltage at the time of CT imaging can be reduced, and the X-ray exposure dose can be reduced. A retrofit system for reduction was commercialized and put into practical use in 2010. However, there is a big problem that the parameter change by the successive approximation method can only be performed statically. Since all of the data transferred from the CT imaging apparatus must be processed by a set of several parameter settings selected in advance, it is rare to obtain image processing results with sufficiently optimized parameter settings. It is.

JP-A-5-168620

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of an image of an in-hospital image processing system related to the present invention. Usually, in a hospital, the image data of a plurality of CT apparatuses are transferred to and stored in a CT image server 201 called a PACS server, which includes an image data storage apparatus and a database function. The CT image server selects necessary data in response to a search inquiry and a transfer request from the image browsing device, and transfers the entire image data to the image browsing device. In FIG. 1, image data captured by a plurality of CT imaging apparatuses 101, 102, and 103 is connected to the CT image server via a network line 111-113 that connects the CT imaging apparatus and the CT image server 201. 211. When browsing images with a plurality of image browsing devices 301-305 connected to the hospital network 401, the CT image server is connected from the image browsing device via a wired or wireless local network connection 411-415 connected to the hospital network. A search inquiry and an image data transfer request are applied to the selected image data, the necessary image data is selected, the entire image data is transferred to and stored in the storage devices 311 to 315 attached to the image browsing device, and read from the storage device each time. Browse images on an image browsing device.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an outline of an image of an in-hospital image processing system related to the present invention in which an image processing apparatus that can only statically change parameters by the successive approximation method is incorporated. A CT image processing apparatus 501 is installed between a plurality of CT imaging apparatuses and a CT image server in the in-hospital image processing system of FIG. 1, and all or a part of designated reconstructed image data generated by the CT imaging apparatus is used. On the other hand, after the image processing by the successive approximation method is performed afterwards to improve the image quality by reducing the noise component, the image is transferred to the CT image server via the data transfer path 551 from the CT image processing apparatus to the CT image server. Forwarding. When browsing images with an image browsing device, images with improved image quality with reduced noise components are browsed, so reduce the X-ray tube current and tube voltage during CT imaging in anticipation of the improved image quality. X-ray exposure dose can be reduced. However, this is a system that performs image processing by the successive approximation method afterwards using fixed parameters set in advance for each part of the body or each organ, and the image viewer can adjust the parameters as desired X-ray exposure dose can be reduced because it is impossible to obtain the image processing, but doctors and technicians who are involved in image diagnosis in the clinical field obtain a tomographic image by CT imaging having a desired image quality. I can't. Also, doctors and engineers are not provided with means for confirming the original image, and cannot confirm whether or not the image processing by the successive approximation method has been performed without excess or deficiency.

  Image processing by the successive approximation method has many image processing parameters, and setting these values to fixed values in advance sufficiently corresponds to the variety of body shapes of various subjects and various organs. Making it impossible. As a result, if image processing by the successive approximation method is applied too much with parameter settings, detailed morphological information as well as image noise components will be lost at the same time, so sufficient diagnosis can be performed even if the X-ray exposure dose can be reduced. Only tomographic images that are not obtained can be obtained. In addition, when image processing by the successive approximation method is weakly applied by parameter setting, sufficient noise removal is performed for tomographic images in which noise components are increased by imaging using a protocol for reducing the X-ray exposure dose. In this case, only tomographic images that cannot be sufficiently diagnosed can be obtained.

  In order to solve these problems, image viewers such as doctors and technicians can confirm the original image generated by the CT imaging apparatus, and at the same time confirm the image processing result, An environment must be provided that can individually determine whether or not is appropriate. In order to make this judgment efficiently, it is necessary for the image processing result to reflect the change in the parameter setting in real time and continuously in the CT tomographic image as necessary. It is required to obtain an image processing result of a desired CT tomographic image.

  As described above, with the recent progress of medical CT apparatuses, the X-ray exposure dose received by a subject in one CT imaging examination has become large. Although each CT device manufacturer is trying to reduce the X-ray exposure dose while improving the performance of the CT imaging device, it cannot be said that it is functioning sufficiently, and one of the benefits can be gained. The number of X-ray exposure doses has not been reduced in 50,000 scale CT apparatuses sold in the past and operating in the world. Recently, a system that can reduce the dose during CT imaging by reducing noise in CT tomographic images after CT reconstruction processing by image processing by the successive approximation method has been put into practical use. Since it is diverse and complicated, image processing by the successive approximation method is performed afterwards with fixed parameters, so that the image viewer cannot adjust the parameters each time to obtain desired image processing. As a result, the X-ray exposure dose can be reduced, but doctors and engineers involved in clinical diagnosis for image diagnosis cannot obtain a tomographic image by CT imaging having a desired image quality. Alternatively, when parameter setting is performed to always ensure image quality sufficient for image diagnosis, as a result, a sufficient reduction in X-ray exposure dose cannot be obtained. In order to solve this problem, the parameters of the successive approximation method of the CT tomographic image after reconstruction are not set all at once, but are viewed for each examination, for each body type, imaging region and organ of the subject. For each tomographic image, it is required to provide a medical image processing system that can optimize each parameter setting of processing and reflect it efficiently.

  The present invention relates to CT imaging tomographic images, and sets parameters for an optimal successive approximation method efficiently while confirming the tomographic images in real time, continuously or interactively as needed, in an image processing apparatus attached later. By means of CT tomographic image processing, it is possible to achieve the effect of either high-quality CT tomographic images, low doses during CT imaging, or both. The present invention realizes a medical image processing system that can be realized. However, the present invention can be applied to other than image data photographed by a CT imaging apparatus. For example, the present invention can also be applied to image data captured by a medical imaging apparatus such as a CT angio apparatus or an angiographic apparatus. For the purpose of improving the image, the present invention can also be applied to image data captured by a medical imaging apparatus such as an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, MRI apparatus, PET apparatus, SPECT apparatus, or MR angio apparatus.

  The present invention has been devised in order to solve the above-described problem. By reducing the noise of the CT tomographic image after the CT reconstruction processing using the successive approximation method, the image quality of the CT tomographic image is improved or the CT imaging is performed. In the system that enables either or both of the dose reduction of the image, the result of the image processing by the parameter setting of the successive approximation method of the CT image after reconstruction is reflected in the CT image data in real time and automatically. It is most useful by providing a means for efficiently changing the parameter setting in a desired manner or interactively to obtain the desired CT image quality, and having a dedicated image display function for various image comparisons. The parameters of the optimal successive approximation method can be optimized efficiently while confirming the results of possible successive approximation parameter settings in real time on a tomographic image as needed. It has become possible to construct a medical image processing system can be realized a final decision of the setting.

  The reconstructed image data generated by the CT imaging device is transferred to the CT image server and stored in the accompanying image data storage device. The CT image processing apparatus according to the present invention is installed in the vicinity of the CT image server, in a place connected to the hospital network from the CT image server, or in the vicinity of the CT imaging apparatus, and is required from the image data storage apparatus attached to the CT image server. A mechanism for receiving high-speed image data and performing image processing by a successive approximation method at high speed. In addition, when the CT image processing apparatus has its own image data storage device and receives image data transfer directly from the CT imaging apparatus or always from the CT image server and performs image processing by the successive approximation method, It is also possible to provide a mechanism for directly reading image data from a unique image data storage device without receiving image transfer from the image server.

  The CT image processing apparatus is provided with a parameter setting function unit, and in addition to sending the parameter set designated by the processing parameter setting control of the image browsing apparatus to the successive approximation processing engine, various types of tomographic images can be selected as necessary. View the image of the parameter set derived automatically from the CT value measurement result, the CT value measurement result of the tomographic image provisional processing result in the successive approximation processing engine, the CT value measurement result of the difference image, etc. It has a function of notifying the processing parameter setting control of the apparatus and sending it to the successive approximation processing engine.

  The CT image processing apparatus includes an image browsing device, a function for designating image data from the data selection list display screen, a function for designating a plurality of parameters for image processing by the successive approximation method from the setting control screen, A function for performing real-time processing in a CT image processing apparatus based on information, and an image browsing apparatus for a result of image processing of the CT image processing apparatus using a plurality of parameters of a specified successive approximation method for specified image data The screen is displayed on the screen, and the parameter setting is changed automatically or interactively, and the result of image processing by the successive approximation method is continuously confirmed in real time as necessary.

  The image display software has various comparison display functions for tomographic images. Also, for data after image processing by the successive approximation method, window / level designation based on CT values, various filter processing, slice position selection In addition, it has a function of issuing an instruction such as orthogonal two-dimensional section cutout processing and interactively displaying the resulting image on the image display screen after processing.

  In the CT image processing apparatus, an image processing engine for two-dimensional tomographic image processing can also be held as necessary after the image processing engine for performing successive approximation processing in real time. In the CT image processing apparatus, the sequential processing engine and the image processing engine for the subsequent two-dimensional tomographic image processing are closely connected, and in cooperation, the window / level based on the CT value for the result image after the successive approximation processing Designation, various filter processing, slice position selection, arbitrary two-dimensional section cutout processing, and the like, and the final result image is interactively displayed without delay.

  In the CT image processing apparatus, if necessary, in order to realize a low dose at the time of CT imaging, the imaging condition setting of the CT imaging apparatus determined to be most desirable based on the processing result image is set to each CT imaging apparatus. Has a function to notify.

  The present invention relates to a CT image processing apparatus having an engine that performs image processing by a successive approximation method at a sufficiently high speed, and interactively controls the image processing data and the image processing engine of the CT image processing apparatus in real time to perform image processing. While confirming the results, it was possible to effectively set multiple parameters for the optimal successive approximation process.

  Various tomographic image processing such as window / level designation based on CT values, various filter processing, slice position selection, and arbitrary two-dimensional section cut-out processing are interactive for data after image processing by the successive approximation method. By observing the processing result on the image display screen after processing, the state of the image processing by the successive approximation process is efficiently confirmed, and the image processing parameter setting by the optimum successive approximation method and its processing are performed. It was possible to obtain a result image.

  As a result, an image of an arbitrary CT imaging apparatus is processed using a CT image processing apparatus that stores data transferred from a plurality of CT imaging apparatuses, and as a result, after CT reconstruction processing in an optimal form By reducing noise in the CT image, it was possible to improve the image quality of the CT image or reduce the dose during CT imaging.

  Information about the optimal imaging conditions of the CT imaging device derived by interactive work on the CT image processing device can be notified to each CT imaging device at a remote location in the hospital as necessary. It was.

Block diagram explaining the outline of the hospital image processing system Block diagram for explaining the outline of an in-hospital image processing system incorporating an image processing apparatus that can only statically change parameters by the successive approximation method Block diagram illustrating an embodiment Block diagram illustrating another embodiment A block diagram for explaining still another embodiment Block diagram for explaining the basic configuration of a CT image processing apparatus for realizing an image processing system Block diagram for explaining another configuration of a CT image processing apparatus for realizing an image processing system Example of basic screen configuration of image browsing apparatus of CT image processing apparatus for realizing image processing system Another screen configuration example of the image browsing device of the CT image processing device for realizing the image processing system Example of basic screen configuration of image browsing apparatus of CT image processing apparatus for realizing image processing system Another screen configuration example of the image browsing device of the CT image processing device for realizing the image processing system Example of basic screen configuration of image browsing apparatus of CT image processing apparatus for realizing image processing system Another screen configuration example of the image browsing device of the CT image processing device for realizing the image processing system Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, and a screen configuration example when processing two data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, and a screen configuration example when processing three or more data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, and a screen configuration example when processing a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, and a screen configuration example when processing a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, and a screen configuration example when processing a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, which is an example of a screen configuration in which a processed image is enlarged to make it easier to check the screen. Another screen configuration example of an image browsing device of a CT image processing device that realizes an image processing system, which is an example of a screen configuration in which a processed image is enlarged to make it easier to check the screen. In another screen configuration example of the image browsing apparatus of the CT image processing apparatus that realizes the image processing system, the screen includes a sagittal tomographic image generated from the same data in addition to the body axis tomographic image before image processing, A state where coronal tomographic images are displayed simultaneously Another screen configuration example of an image browsing apparatus of a CT image processing apparatus that realizes an image processing system. The screen is generated from the same data in addition to a tomographic image of a body axis after image processing by a successive approximation method. , Sagittal tomographic image and coronal tomographic image are displayed simultaneously Another screen configuration example of the image browsing device of the CT image processing device that realizes the image processing system, the body axis tomographic image, the sagittal tomographic image before the image processing and after the image processing by the successive approximation processing on the screen The difference image between the image and the coronal tomographic image is displayed Another screen configuration example of an image browsing apparatus of a CT image processing apparatus that realizes an image processing system. A screen of a tomographic image of a body axis after performing a successive approximation process that reflects automatically calculated parameter set values on the screen In addition, a state in which a sagittal tomographic image and a coronal tomographic image generated from the same data are displayed simultaneously

  Hereinafter, a configuration for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of components described below are arbitrary, and can be changed according to the configuration of an apparatus or system to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. Further, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the form specifically described in the configuration described below.

  Hereinafter, a medical image processing system according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the outline of the image processing system of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining the basic configuration of a CT image processing apparatus for realizing the image processing system. Reference numeral 601 denotes a CT image processing apparatus that forms the core of a medical image processing system. Reference numeral 602 denotes a dedicated image data temporary storage device provided therein. Reference numeral 641 denotes a high-speed processing engine provided for the successive approximation processing of image data provided therein, and can perform processing in real time. Reference numeral 691 denotes a processing device control unit provided therein, which includes a data selection function unit 692, a parameter setting function unit 693, and a display function unit 699 for processing result images. Reference numeral 611 denotes a component of the CT image processing apparatus, which is an image browsing apparatus on which doctors and engineers work. Reference numeral 623 denotes a data selection list display screen, and 622 denotes an image processing parameter setting control unit. Reference numeral 621 denotes a screen for displaying an image and confirming a processing result. Reference numeral 401 denotes a hospital network, and reference numeral 251 denotes a dedicated image data transfer path for connecting a CT image server and a CT image processing apparatus placed in the vicinity thereof.

  CT tomographic image data imaged by a CT imaging device 101, which is one of a plurality of CT imaging devices installed and operated in a hospital, passes through a data transfer path 111 from the CT imaging device to the CT image server. Then, the image data is transferred to the CT image server 201 and stored in the accompanying image data storage device 211. At the same time, after the reservation is set, or in response to a request from the CT image processing apparatus, the CT tomographic image data is temporarily stored in the CT image processing apparatus 601 from the CT image server 201. It is transferred to the apparatus 602 via the dedicated image data transfer path 251 and stored.

  When CT image data to be subjected to image processing is selected from the data selection list display screen 623 of the image browsing device 611, the processing device control unit 691 sends data to the image data temporary storage device 602 by the data selection function unit 692. And the selected data is transferred to the successive approximation processing engine 641 via the data selection signal path 751 from the data selection function unit 692 in the CT image processing apparatus 601 to the image data temporary storage apparatus 602. Instruct.

  For the successive approximation process of the image browsing apparatus 611, the parameter setting control 622 is operated to set one or a plurality of parameters, and the parameter set is sent to the processing apparatus control unit 691 through the parameter setting instruction path 690. In step 693, the data is transmitted to the successive approximation processing engine 641 provided in the CT image processing apparatus 601 via the parameter setting signal path 761. The operator operates the parameter setting control 622 to select one or a plurality of parameters with reference to the parameter set automatically selected by the parameter setting function unit 693 and notified to the processing parameter setting control 622 of the image browsing apparatus 611. Set. Alternatively, the operator refers to the processing result image in the successive approximation processing engine 641 by the parameter set automatically selected by the parameter setting function unit 693 and transmitted via the parameter setting signal path 761, and performs parameter setting control. Operate 622 to set one or more parameters.

  Using the parameter set that is set by the parameter setting control 622 for the successive approximation processing of the image browsing device 611 and sent from the processing device control 691 in the CT image processing device to the sequential processing engine 641, the successive approximation processing engine Image processing is performed, and the result image is sent to the processing result image display function unit of the processing device control unit via the transfer path 651. The processing result image display function unit of the processing device control unit displays the processing result image on the post-processing image display screen 621.

  An operator such as a doctor or an engineer who operates the image browsing device 611 checks the displayed processing result image, and operates the processing parameter setting control 622 when the processing result of the successive approximation processing is not desired. Then, the parameter set is changed, this is sent again to the processing device control 691, and the processing result image processed by the sequential processing engine 641 is instantaneously received from the processing result image display function 699, and this is processed again. Confirmation is performed by displaying on the display screen 621, and this operation is repeated interactively within a short time and continuously as necessary until desired sequential approximation processing is achieved, and desired parameter setting is performed. And the processing result image is obtained.

  Even if it is considered that the processing result of the successive approximation process is desired from the beginning, in order to confirm whether or not the result is really the optimum result, the parameter setting control 622 is operated to set the parameter set. A slight change is made, this is sent again to the processing unit control 691, and the processing result image processed by the sequential processing engine 641 is instantaneously received from the processing result image display function 699, and this is again processed and displayed on the image display screen It is possible to confirm whether the image quality is further improved by displaying it on the screen 621 by repeatedly performing it interactively in a short time and continuously if necessary. Alternatively, the operator can select the parameter setting control by comparing with the processing result image in the successive approximation processing engine 641 by the parameter set automatically selected by the parameter setting function unit 693 and transmitted via the parameter setting signal path 761. By operating 622, the setting of one or more parameters and the processing result image are optimized.

  FIG. 12 shows a typical screen configuration of the image browsing apparatus 611 that is a component of the CT image processing apparatus 601. A patient to be subjected to image processing and examination data are selected on the data selection list display screen 623, and the CT body axis tomographic image 801 before the successive approximation processing, which is imaged by the CT imaging apparatus, is displayed in the image browsing apparatus after processing Is displayed on the screen 621 for use. By operating the processing parameter setting control 622 for image processing by the successive approximation method on the same screen, the CT body axis tomographic image 811 after performing the successive approximation process in which the image processing result is reflected in real time is obtained. It is displayed in the screen display area adjacent to the CT body axis tomographic image 801 before the successive approximation processing. Further, the CT body axis tomographic image 801 before the successive approximation process and the CT value difference image 821 of the CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation process is performed on the image are simultaneously displayed in the adjacent screen display areas. Thus, the strength and effect of image processing can be confirmed more intuitively. Furthermore, in the adjacent screen display area, the CT body axis tomographic image before the successive approximation process, various CT value measurement results for the CT body axis tomographic image after the successive approximation process, or the CT body axis before and after the successive approximation process By displaying various measurement results related to CT value changes in tomographic images, you can check the strength and effect of image processing more intuitively while checking the numbers of these measurement results and observing the changes in those numbers. I can do it. CT body axis tomographic image before successive approximation processing, or profile display showing CT value distribution for various CT value measurement results for CT body axis tomographic image after successive approximation processing, or CT before and after successive approximation processing By displaying the profile representing the distribution of CT value changes in the body axis tomographic image, etc., while confirming these profile curves and observing the changes in the profile curves, more intuitively the strength and effect of image processing Can be confirmed. Check the result of image processing, difference image, various measurement results, profile curve, etc., and if there is excess or deficiency in image processing, operate parameter setting control 622 for image processing by successive approximation again. Thus, the CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation processing is updated. Since this repetitive process is sufficiently fast, it can be performed interactively. Alternatively, when the image processing has a sufficiently high speed, this repeated processing can be performed continuously, not intermittently, by a slider in the processing parameter setting control 622 or a mouse control. The processing parameters are continuously changed, and the results are continuously reflected in the CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation processing is performed in real time, so that more interactive work can be performed.

  After confirming the strength and effect of image processing and finally determining the optimum parameter set and obtaining the optimum processing result image, the result is transferred from the CT image processing apparatus 601 to the CT imaging apparatus as necessary. 101 can be sent via the parameter setting information transfer path 431. With reference to this result, an operator who operates the CT imaging apparatus 101 changes the set values of the X-ray tube current and the X-ray tube voltage when performing CT imaging to minimize the exposure dose of the subject. It is possible to obtain the highest CT image within an allowable exposure dose. Alternatively, in the CT image processing apparatus 601, the recommended setting value of the X-ray tube current and the X-ray tube voltage when performing CT imaging is transferred from the CT image processing apparatus 601 to the CT imaging apparatus 101, and the parameter setting information transfer path 431. Can be sent via. In the present invention, when the CT tomographic image is simply improved in image quality and there is no need to change the set values of the X-ray tube current and X-ray tube voltage when performing CT imaging, the CT image processing apparatus The parameter setting information transfer path 431 and the transfer process to the CT apparatus are not necessary.

  FIG. 4 shows another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 3 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, the CT image processing apparatus 601 in FIG. 3 is installed in the vicinity of the CT image server 201. However, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the CT image processing apparatus 601 is connected to the CT image processing apparatus from the hospital network. This is an example of being connected to a general hospital network via a data transfer path 421 to the hospital. If the general hospital network is sufficiently fast, or if the number of examinations in the hospital facility is not so large, or if the number of slices for each examination is not large, sufficient operation is possible in this embodiment.

  FIG. 5 shows another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 3 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, the CT image processing apparatus 601 in FIG. 3 has been installed in the vicinity of the CT image server 201. However, the embodiment in FIG. 5 is an example in which the CT image processing apparatus 601 is connected in the vicinity of the CT imaging apparatus 101. This is an example installed in the photographing apparatus 101. When the CT imaging apparatus manufacturer adopts the present invention, such an operation mode is conceivable. Even in the case of being connected in the vicinity of the CT imaging apparatus or installed in the CT imaging apparatus, the image data captured by another CT imaging apparatus can be transferred and the image data can be transferred. It is possible to perform image processing.

  FIG. 7 shows another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 6 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, the processing result of the successive approximation processing engine 641 in the CT image processing apparatus 601 in FIG. 6 is transferred to the processing result image display function unit 699 as it is, and the post-processing image display screen on the image browsing apparatus 611 is displayed. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, a tomographic image processing engine 661 is provided after the successive approximation processing engine 641. Further, a tomographic image processing parameter setting function unit 694 for transmitting parameter settings to the tomographic image processing engine 661 and a tomographic image parameter setting transmission path 771 are provided. The successive approximation processing engine 641 and the image processing engine 661 for subsequent two-dimensional tomographic image processing are closely connected and operate in cooperation. Parameter setting is instructed by the processing parameter setting control 622 on the image browsing apparatus 611, window / level designation based on the CT value for the result image after the successive approximation process, various filter processes, slice position selection, arbitrary two-dimensional Cross-section processing or the like can be performed, and the final result image can be interactively displayed without delay. The operator can obtain a desired tomographic image by repeating the work of this embodiment until a desired tomographic image processing result is obtained. Further, it is possible to redo the successive approximation process again from the observation result of the desired tomographic image.

  FIG. 8 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are all displayed. However, in the screen configuration of FIG. First, a CT body axis tomographic image 801 before successive approximation processing is displayed, and the processing parameter setting control 622 for image processing by the successive approximation method is operated to reflect the result of the image processing in real time. The CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation process is displayed instead of the CT body axis tomographic image 801 before the successive approximation process.

  FIG. 9 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are all displayed. However, in the screen configuration of FIG. A CT body axis tomographic image 801 before the successive approximation process and a CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation process are displayed in parallel.

  FIG. 10 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are all displayed. CT value difference image 821 between the CT body axis tomographic image before the successive approximation process and the CT body axis tomographic image after the successive approximation process is performed on the image, and a parameter set set by the operator with reference thereto , The CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation processing is displayed in parallel.

  FIG. 11 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, the difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are all displayed. The CT body axis tomographic image 831 after performing the successive approximation process reflecting the automatically calculated parameter set value and the parameter set set by the operator with reference to it are sequentially performed. A CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the approximation processing is displayed in parallel.

  FIG. 13 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are displayed. However, in the screen configuration of FIG. Instead of the value difference image 821, the CT body axis tomographic image 831 after the successive approximation process reflecting the automatically calculated parameter set values for the CT body axis tomographic image is adopted and displayed. .

  FIG. 14 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, one piece of data obtained by CT imaging is processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, a difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are obtained. In the screen configuration of FIG. 14, two data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions are processed, and two images are displayed for the image before the successive approximation process and the image after the successive approximation process, respectively. ing. That is, the CT body axis tomographic image 802 before the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT body axis after the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus. A tomographic image 812 is further displayed.

  FIG. 15 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, one piece of data obtained by CT imaging is processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, a difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are obtained. In the screen configuration shown in FIG. 15, three or more pieces of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions are processed, and an image before the successive approximation process and an image after the successive approximation process are each displayed as 3 Two or more images are displayed. That is, the CT body axis tomographic images 802 and 803 before the successive approximation process, which are photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT after the successive approximation process, which are photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus. The body axis tomographic images 812 and 813 are further displayed.

  FIG. 16 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, one piece of data obtained by CT imaging is processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, a difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are obtained. In the screen configuration of FIG. 16, a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions are processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, and a difference image thereof are respectively displayed. Multiple images are displayed. That is, the CT body axis tomographic image 802 before the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT body axis after the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus. CT values of the tomographic image 812, the CT body axis tomographic image before the successive approximation process, which is imaged under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT body axis tomographic image after the successive approximation process is performed on the image A difference image 822 is further displayed.

  FIG. 17 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, one piece of data obtained by CT imaging is processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, a difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are obtained. In the screen configuration shown in FIG. 17, a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions are processed, and the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, and the CT body axis tomographic image are displayed. A plurality of images are respectively displayed for the CT body axis tomographic images after the successive approximation process reflecting the parameter set values automatically calculated. That is, the CT body axis tomographic image 802 before the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT body axis after the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus. CT body axis tomographic image obtained by performing successive approximation processing that reflects automatically calculated parameter set values for the tomographic image 812 and the CT body axis tomographic image imaged under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus 832 is further displayed.

  FIG. 18 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the description so far, in FIG. 12, one piece of data obtained by CT imaging is processed, and an image before successive approximation processing, an image after successive approximation processing, a difference image thereof, and various measurement results and profile curves are obtained. 18, the screen configuration of FIG. 18 processes a plurality of data obtained by CT imaging under different conditions, and images before successive approximation processing, images after successive approximation processing, various measurement results, and profile curves. For each, a plurality of images are displayed. That is, the CT body axis tomographic image 802 before the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus, and the CT body axis after the successive approximation process, which is photographed under other conditions in the CT imaging apparatus. Various CT value measurement results for the tomographic image 812 and the CT body axis tomographic image before the successive approximation process, and the CT body axis tomographic image after the successive approximation process, taken under other conditions by the CT imaging apparatus, or Various measurement results 852 regarding the CT value change of the CT axis tomographic image before and after the successive approximation process, and the CT body axis tomographic image before the successive approximation process, or the successive approximation process, which was imaged under other conditions by the CT imaging apparatus. A profile display showing the distribution of CT values for various CT value measurement results for the CT body axis tomographic image after the execution, or a distribution of CT value changes in the CT body axis tomographic image before and after successive approximation processing, etc. The profile display 862, and more are viewing.

  FIG. 19 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are displayed. In the embodiment of FIG. Only the image before the approximation processing, the image after the successive approximation processing, and the difference image thereof are displayed. However, one of the images is enlarged and displayed for easy confirmation. The image displayed in an enlarged manner is any of the three types, and can usually be displayed in an enlarged manner by double-clicking on the desired image.

  FIG. 20 shows a screen configuration of another embodiment. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are displayed. Only the image before the approximation processing, the image after the successive approximation processing, and the difference image thereof are displayed. However, one of the images is enlarged and displayed for easy confirmation, and on the enlarged image, various measurement results and profile curves are displayed. . The image displayed in an enlarged manner is any of the three types, and can usually be displayed in an enlarged manner by double-clicking on the desired image.

  21, FIG. 22, FIG. 23, and FIG. 24 show screen configurations of other embodiments. The same numbers as those in FIG. 12 have the same functions as those in FIG. In the above description, in FIG. 12, the image before the successive approximation process, the image after the successive approximation process, their difference images, and various measurement results and profile curves are displayed. The screen configurations of FIGS. 23 and 24 are examples in which three images, ie, a body axis tomographic image, a sagittal tomographic image, and a coronal tomographic image of CT image data called a basic three cross section are displayed. FIG. 21 shows a CT body axis tomographic image 801 before successive approximation processing, a CT sagittal tomographic image 901 before successive approximation processing generated from the same data, and a CT coronal tomography before successive approximation processing generated from the same data. In this example, an image 1001 is displayed at the same time. FIG. 22 shows a CT body axis tomographic image 811 after the successive approximation process, a CT sagittal tomographic image 911 after the successive approximation process generated from the same data, and a CT coronary tomogram after the successive approximation process generated from the same data. In this example, the image 1011 is displayed at the same time. FIG. 23 is an example in which the difference image between FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 is displayed. CT body axis tomographic image before successive approximation processing and CT body axis tomographic image after successive approximation processing is performed on the image. And a CT value difference image 921 between a CT sagittal tomographic image before successive approximation processing and a CT sagittal tomographic image after successive approximation processing on the image, and successive approximation processing A CT value difference image 1021 between the previous CT coronal tomographic image and the CT coronal tomographic image after successive approximation processing is performed on the image is simultaneously displayed. FIG. 24 shows an automatic calculation for the CT body axis tomographic image 831 after the successive approximation process reflecting the automatically calculated parameter set values and the CT sagittal tomographic image generated from the same data. The value of the parameter set calculated automatically is reflected to the CT sagittal tomographic image 931 after the successive approximation processing reflecting the value of the parameter set and the CT coronal tomographic image generated from the same data. In this example, the CT coronal tomographic image 1031 after the successive approximation process is performed is displayed. The four screen configurations from FIG. 21 to FIG. 4 can be switched to check the status of the images of the basic three cross sections. One of the images can be enlarged and displayed.

  In other words, the medical image processing system described above is the following system. That is, by reducing the noise of the CT tomographic image after the CT reconstruction processing using a successive approximation method typified by the Total Variation method or the like, it is possible to improve the image quality of the CT tomographic image or reduce the dose during CT imaging. In a system that enables both of them, the result of image processing by setting one or a plurality of parameters in the successive approximation method of the CT tomographic image after reconstruction is continuously reflected in the CT tomographic image in real time as necessary. The medical image processing system includes means for efficiently obtaining the image quality of a desired CT tomographic image by interactively changing the parameter setting while comparing with the original image before processing as necessary.

  Moreover, by reducing the noise of CT tomographic images after CT reconstruction processing using a successive approximation method typified by the Total Variation method or the like, it is possible to increase the image quality of CT tomographic images or reduce the dose during CT imaging. In a system that enables both of them, the result of image processing by setting one or a plurality of parameters in the successive approximation method of the CT tomographic image after reconstruction is continuously reflected in the CT tomographic image in real time as necessary. , A medical image processing system having means for efficiently obtaining desired CT tomographic image quality by changing parameter settings interactively, and an original image of the reconstructed CT tomographic image and a single approximation method Alternatively, the image of the result of image processing with multiple parameter settings is displayed on the screen at the same time as a reference image for reference, and one or more of the successive approximation methods The adjustment of the parameter settings more efficiently, a medical image processing system comprising means for performing optimally.

  Moreover, by reducing the noise of CT tomographic images after CT reconstruction processing using a successive approximation method typified by the Total Variation method or the like, it is possible to increase the image quality of CT tomographic images or reduce the dose during CT imaging. In a system that enables both of them, the result of image processing by setting one or a plurality of parameters in the successive approximation method of the CT tomographic image after reconstruction is continuously reflected in the CT tomographic image in real time as necessary. , A medical image processing system having means for efficiently obtaining desired CT tomographic image quality by changing parameter settings interactively, and an original image of the reconstructed CT tomographic image and a single approximation method Alternatively, the average value and standard deviation of the CT values in the entire image of the result of image processing by setting a plurality of parameters or the region of interest having the same position and size, Adjusting the parameter setting or parameters of the successive approximation method more efficiently and optimally while simultaneously displaying on the screen a profile curve representing the measurement processing results such as wave number analysis or the distribution of CT values, etc. A medical image processing system comprising means for performing in a form.

  Moreover, by reducing the noise of CT tomographic images after CT reconstruction processing using a successive approximation method typified by the Total Variation method or the like, it is possible to increase the image quality of CT tomographic images or reduce the dose during CT imaging. In a system that enables both of them, the result of image processing by setting one or a plurality of parameters in the successive approximation method of the CT tomographic image after reconstruction is continuously reflected in the CT tomographic image in real time as necessary. In the medical image processing system that efficiently changes the parameter settings interactively to obtain the desired CT tomographic image quality, the CT calculation results that are considered to be the most useful parameter settings automatically calculated each time Reflect it in the image, or display it adjacent to the main display area where the image viewer is interactively changing the parameter settings and viewing it. Inter-image, or a medical imaging system includes means capable of performing the final decision of efficiently optimum parameter settings while compared between the three images including the original image before processing.

  Further, the system performs image processing simultaneously on the result images of a plurality of CT imaging examinations with different imaging conditions or time, and displays the results side by side on the display screen of the same image browsing apparatus for comparison. This is a medical image processing system that efficiently obtains the image quality of a desired CT tomographic image by interactively changing parameter settings.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment or Example. Inventions modified within the scope not departing from the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention are also included in the present invention. For example, in each of the above embodiments and examples, the image browsing apparatus can include a plurality of displays, and a plurality of images or profile curves can be simultaneously displayed on different displays. Moreover, each above-mentioned embodiment and an Example can be suitably combined in the range which is not contrary to this invention.

101-103 CT imaging device 111-113 Data transfer path 201 from CT imaging device to CT image server or CT image processing device CT image server 211 Image data storage device 251 associated with CT image server CT image processing from CT image server Dedicated image data transfer path 301-305 Image browsing apparatus 311-315 Data storage apparatus 401 of image browsing apparatus Hospital network 411-415 Image data transfer path 421 from hospital network to image browsing apparatus CT from hospital network Data transfer path 431-433 to image processing apparatus Transfer path 501 for parameter setting information from CT image processing apparatus to CT apparatus CT image processing apparatus 551 of type installed between CT imaging apparatus and CT image server CT image processing apparatus CT image Data transfer path 601 to image server CT image processing apparatus 602 capable of dynamic parameter setting and image confirmation Image data temporary storage apparatus 611 associated with CT image processing apparatus Image browsing apparatus 621 associated with CT image processing apparatus CT Displayed image display screen 622 in the image browsing apparatus associated with the image processing apparatus Processing parameter setting control 623 in the image browsing apparatus associated with the CT image processing apparatus Data selection in the image browsing apparatus associated with the CT image processing apparatus List display screen 631 Data transfer path 641 from the image data temporary storage device to the successive approximation processing engine 651 Successive approximation processing engine 651 Transfer path 661 of the image data that is the processing result from the successive approximation processing engine After the successive approximation process Engine 671 for tomographic image processing of image data Process image data transfer path 690 from Jin Parameter setting instruction path 691 Control unit 692 in the CT image processing apparatus Data selection function unit 693 in the CT image processing apparatus Successive approximation process parameter setting function unit 694 CT in the CT image processing apparatus Tomographic image processing parameter setting function unit 699 in the image processing apparatus 650. Data in the CT image processing apparatus 751 of the final processing result image by the successive approximation processing engine or the tomographic image processing engine of the image data after the successive approximation processing Data selection signal path 761 from the selection function unit to the image data temporary storage device Parameter setting signal path 771 to the successive approximation processing engine Parameter setting signal path 801 to the tomographic image processing engine of the image data after the successive approximation processing CT CT body axis tomographic image 802 to 803 before successive approximation processing, which was imaged by the apparatus, and imaged by CT body axis tomographic image 811 before the successive approximation process, which was photographed under other conditions by the CT imaging device, CT body axis tomographic image 812-813 after the successive approximation process is taken under other conditions CT body axis tomographic image 821 after the successive approximation process is taken sequentially by the CT imaging apparatus CT value difference image 822 of CT body axis tomographic image before approximation processing and CT body axis tomographic image after successive approximation processing is performed on the image. Sequential approximation processing imaged under other conditions by CT imaging device CT value difference image 831 between the previous CT body axis tomographic image and the CT body axis tomographic image after successive approximation processing is performed on the image, with respect to the CT body axis tomographic image, Automatically calculated parameters The CT body axis tomographic image 832 after the successive approximation process reflecting the data set value is performed. The CT body axis tomographic image captured under other conditions by the CT imaging apparatus is used to automatically calculate the parameter set value. CT body axis tomographic image 851 after the reflected successive approximation processing is performed. Various types of CT body axis tomographic images before the successive approximation processing and CT body axis tomographic images after the successive approximation processing are captured by the CT imaging apparatus. CT value measurement results of the above, or various measurement results related to CT value changes of CT body axis tomographic images before and after the successive approximation process 852, CT body axis tomographic images before the successive approximation process, which were imaged under other conditions, Various CT value measurement results for the CT body axis tomographic image after the successive approximation processing, or various measurement results 861 regarding the CT value change of the CT body axis tomographic image before and after the successive approximation processing. Profile display showing CT value distributions for various CT value measurement results for CT body axis tomographic images taken in step 1 before successive approximation processing, or CT body axis tomographic images after successive approximation processing, or sequentially Profile display 862 showing CT value change distribution of CT body axis tomographic image before and after approximation processing, etc. CT body axis tomographic image before successive approximation processing, or successive approximation processing taken with other conditions by CT imaging apparatus Profile display showing CT value distributions and the like for various CT value measurement results for CT body axis tomographic images after CT display, or profile display 901 CT showing distribution of CT value changes in CT body axis tomographic images before and after successive approximation processing CT sagittal tomographic image 911 photographed by the photographing apparatus before the successive approximation process, and photographed by the CT photographing apparatus after the successive approximation process. 21 CT value difference image 931 of CT sagittal tomographic image before successive approximation processing photographed by 21 CT imaging device and CT sagittal tomographic image after successive approximation processing on that image, photographed by CT imaging device CT sagittal tomographic image 1001 obtained by performing a successive approximation process reflecting the automatically calculated parameter set values on the CT sagittal tomographic image 1001 before the successive approximation process, which is taken by the CT imaging apparatus CT coronal tomographic image 1011 CT coronal tomographic image 1021 obtained by the CT imaging apparatus before the successive approximation processing, and the CT coronary tomographic image 1021 taken by the CT imaging apparatus after the successive approximation processing, and the image sequentially. The CT value difference image 1031 with the CT coronary tomographic image after the approximation processing is performed. CT coronal tomographic image of the after which the successive approximation process

Claims (10)

  A medical image processing apparatus that performs image processing on image data after reconstruction processing using a successive approximation method, the image processing apparatus having an image browsing apparatus and at least one image processing engine, and selected by the image browsing apparatus A function of transferring image data to the image processing engine and a function of continuously sending images processed by the image processing engine to the image browsing device are realized. The image processing engine A medical image processing apparatus that performs image processing by a successive approximation method that reflects parameter settings set or changed by a browsing apparatus.   The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image processing engine that performs tomographic image processing that reflects display conditions set or changed by the image browsing apparatus. The medical image processing apparatus further includes a parameter setting function unit, a tomographic image processing parameter setting function unit, and a processing result image display function unit,
The image browsing apparatus has a function of displaying a list for selecting the image data on a screen, a function of setting or changing image processing parameters by a successive approximation method, and transmitting the parameters to the parameter setting function unit, and the processing result image A function of acquiring a tomographic image after image processing by the successive approximation method from a display function unit and displaying it on a screen, and a function of setting or changing display conditions of the tomographic image and transmitting it to the tomographic image processing parameter setting function unit And a function of acquiring a tomographic image after the tomographic image processing reflecting the display condition from the processing result image display function unit and displaying it on a screen. .   The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data captured by the imaging apparatus is directly received from the imaging apparatus.   The medical image processing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image data is directly received from an image server that stores image data captured by the imaging device, or the image data is received via a dedicated or shared line. apparatus.   The image browsing device displays at least one of an original image before image processing by the successive approximation method, a result image after image processing by the successive approximation method, and a difference image between the original image and the result image, The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image browsing apparatus displays the original image and the difference image simultaneously. The original image is a CT tomographic image;
The image browsing device represents an average value and standard deviation of CT values for the original image or the result image, a measurement processing result for the original image or the result image, or a distribution of CT values for the original image or the result image. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 6, further displaying a profile curve and simultaneously displaying the original image, the result image, and the profile curve.   The image browsing device further displays an image after image processing by a successive approximation method that reflects automatically calculated parameter settings, and simultaneously displays the image and the result image, or the image, the result image, and The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the original image is displayed simultaneously. The result image includes a plurality of images with different shooting conditions or shooting times,
The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image browsing apparatus displays the plurality of images simultaneously.

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