JP2013236744A - Medical image diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus with an interface for suitably providing an operator with effective information in an intelligible manner when arranging obtained internal information of a subject and carrying out image reconstruction.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic apparatus includes a scanner device 2 which obtains internal information of a subject M and an image processing device 3 which sets an optimum phase required for generating the best medical image based on the information obtained by the scanner device 2. The image processing device 3 includes: an image processing part 3k which sets the phase and generates the medical image; and a display control part 3l which makes a display part 3g display information contributing to the setting of the phase corresponding to the setting of the phase in the image processing part 3k.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a medical image diagnostic apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, medical image diagnostic apparatuses that collect information inside a subject and generate a medical image by imaging the inside of the subject based on the collected information have been used. Examples of the medical image diagnostic apparatus include an X-ray CT apparatus (computed tomography) and a magnetic resonance diagnostic apparatus (MRI). The generated medical image is used as an important material for performing a medical act such as a diagnosis of a disease, a plan such as treatment or surgery.

  As an examination using an X-ray CT apparatus, for example, an examination of a fast-moving part such as the heart can be mentioned. In this case, for example, an electrocardiogram synchronization scan is performed. An ECG-synchronized scan collects an ECG synchronization signal (trigger signal or R-wave signal) or ECG waveform signal (ECG signal) in parallel with the scan, and synchronizes with the heartbeat phase using the ECG waveform signal after data collection. Get the image.

  In this case, improvement of the temporal resolution of the image is one of important issues. As an image reconstruction method suitable for improving the time resolution, for example, a method called segment reconstruction can be cited.

  The segment reconstruction is a method of collecting and reconstructing projection data required for reconstruction by dividing it into a predetermined number of heartbeats. First, projection data having the same cross section and the same phase are extracted from projection data for a predetermined number of heartbeats. Then, after combining the plurality of extracted projection data into projection data in a range of 180 degrees + α, for example, half reconstruction is performed. In the segment reconstruction, if the heart rate to be used is N, the time resolution can be approximately (180 degrees + α) / N by comparing the case of reconstructing an image from projection data in a 360-degree range.

JP 2003-233600 A

  However, in the conventional segment reconstruction including the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the same phase is used for all of a plurality of heartbeats to be used. In such a method, when there is a difference in the heart rate of heartbeats to be used or a difference in shape, there is a case where the image quality of a medical image obtained by reconstruction is adversely affected.

  Therefore, this can be dealt with by adopting a method using the optimum phase of each heartbeat or a method considering the shape. It is also possible to cope with the image reconstruction by appropriately changing the ratio of the heartbeat used. When using a plurality of heartbeats, for example, if any abnormality is recognized in advance, such as an arrhythmia, it is possible to exclude the heartbeat without using it for reconstruction.

  However, no matter which method is used to prevent adverse effects on image quality, it is easy for the operator who uses the medical image obtained by image reconstruction to understand the phase when performing image reconstruction. Intuitive understanding is required.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to organize internal information of the obtained subject and appropriately provide information useful for the operator to perform image reconstruction. An object of the present invention is to provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus provided with an interface for providing an easy-to-understand description.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, in the medical image diagnostic apparatus, an optimum necessary for generating the best medical image based on the scanner apparatus that acquires the internal information of the subject and the information acquired by the scanner apparatus. An image processing device for setting a phase, the image processing device for setting a phase and generating a medical image, and corresponding to the setting of the phase in the image processing unit, information contributing to the setting of the phase A display control unit to be displayed on the display unit.

It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the medical image diagnostic apparatus in embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the image processing apparatus in embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the image process part in embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the image reconstruction of the medical image in embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of a screen of the display image in embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the example of a screen of the display image in embodiment.

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

  As described above, various apparatuses (modalities) can be considered as the medical image diagnostic apparatus. In the embodiment of the present invention, an X-ray CT apparatus will be described below as an example. In addition, the X-ray CT system has an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector that rotate around the subject on the top plate as a unit, and a rotation / rotation (ROTATE / ROTATE) type and a number of detection elements. There are various types such as a fixed / rotated (STATIONARY / ROTATE) type in which only the X-ray tube rotates around the subject. Any type of embodiment of the present invention can be applied, but as shown in FIG. 1, in describing the embodiment of the present invention, rotation / rotation (ROTATE / rotation) is used. (ROTATE) type.

  Moreover, the following two forms are mentioned as a mechanism for converting incident X-rays into electric charges. The first is an indirect conversion format in which X-rays are converted into light by a phosphor such as a scintillator and the light is further converted into electric charge by a photoelectric conversion element such as a photodiode. The second is a direct conversion method using the generation of electron-hole pairs in a semiconductor by X-rays and their movement to an electrode, that is, a photoconductive phenomenon, but medical image diagnosis in the embodiment of the present invention. There is no problem with any type of apparatus (X-ray CT apparatus).

  Furthermore, as the X-ray CT apparatus, even a conventional single-tube X-ray CT apparatus, a so-called multi-tube bulb in which a plurality of pairs of an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are mounted on a rotating ring. It may be a type of X-ray CT apparatus. Hereinafter, a single tube X-ray CT apparatus will be described as an example.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus (X-ray CT apparatus) 1 according to an embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 is roughly composed of two apparatuses, a scanner apparatus 2 and an image processing apparatus 3. The scanner device 2 is usually installed in an examination room, and generates X-ray transmission data related to the subject M. On the other hand, the image processing apparatus 3 is usually installed in a control room adjacent to the examination room, and generates projection data based on the obtained transmission data to generate and display a reconstructed image.

  The scanner device 2 includes an X-ray tube (X-ray source) 2a, an aperture 2b, an X-ray detector 2c, a DAS (Data Acquisition System) 2d, a gantry 2e, a high voltage power source 2f, and an aperture drive device 2g. And a gantry driving device 2h, a top plate 2i, a top plate driving device 2j, a controller 2k, and an electrocardiograph unit E.

  The X-ray tube 2a generates X-rays by causing an electron beam to collide with a metal target according to the tube voltage supplied from the high-voltage power source 2f, and irradiates the X-ray detector 2c. Fan beam X-rays and cone beam X-rays are formed by the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 2a.

  The diaphragm 2b adjusts the irradiation range in the slice direction of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 2a by the diaphragm driving device 2g. Thereby, the X-ray irradiation range in the slice direction can be changed to an arbitrary direction.

  The X-ray detector 2c detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 2a and transmitted through the subject M. The X-ray detector 2c may be, for example, a one-dimensional array type detector having a plurality of detection elements in the channel direction and a single detection element in the column (slice) direction. Alternatively, it may be a two-dimensional array type detector having a matrix, that is, a plurality of detection elements in the channel direction and a plurality of detection elements in the column direction.

  The DAS 2d amplifies the transmission data signal detected by each X-ray detection element constituting the X-ray detector 2c and converts it into a digital signal. Output data from the DAS 2d is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 3 via the controller 2k of the scanner apparatus 2.

  The gantry 2e irradiates the subject M with X-rays and detects the transmitted X-rays. Therefore, a tunnel-shaped opening 2l is provided in the center of the gantry 2e in order to allow the subject M (top plate 2i) to enter and leave. The gantry 2e holds the X-ray tube 2a, the diaphragm 2b, the X-ray detector 2c, and the DAS 2d as a unit therein. Here, the X-ray tube 21 and the X-ray detector 23 are arranged at positions facing each other in the gantry 2e. Further, the gantry 2e performs imaging by rotating the X-ray tube 21, the diaphragm 22, the X-ray detector 23, and the DAS 24 around the subject M at the center of rotation.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the direction parallel to the rotation axis of the gantry 2e is defined as the Z-axis direction, and the planes orthogonal to the Z-axis direction are defined as the x-axis direction and the y-axis direction. In particular, a direction orthogonal to the installation surface of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is defined as a y-axis direction.

  Under the control of the controller 2k, the high voltage power source 2f supplies the X-ray tube 2a with power necessary for X-ray irradiation from the X-ray tube 2a.

  The aperture driving device 2g includes a mechanism for adjusting the irradiation range of the aperture 2b in the X-ray slice direction. The aperture driving device 2g adjusts the irradiation range under the control of the controller 2k.

  Under the control of the controller 32, the gantry driving device 2h moves around the subject M on the top 2i in the opening 2l of the gantry 2e while maintaining the positional relationship of the devices held by the gantry 2e. The gantry 2e is rotated so as to rotate.

  The bed N includes a top board 2i and a top board driving device 2j that moves the top board 2i in at least the y-axis direction or the z-axis direction. When acquiring the internal information of the subject M using the X-ray CT apparatus 1, that is, when photographing, the subject M is in direct contact with the top 2i. When the subject M is in direct contact with the top board 2i, a posture other than lying down may be taken.

  Under the control of the controller 2k, the top board driving device 2j is provided below the top board 2i, and ascends and descends the top board 2i on which the subject M is placed along the y-axis direction with the progress of imaging on the gantry 2e. And a required amount is moved in the z-axis direction.

  Although the internal configuration of the controller 2k is not shown in FIG. 1, it includes at least a CPU and a memory. The controller 2k itself is controlled by the image processing device 3 as will be described later. The controller 2k controls the X-ray detector 2c, DAS 2d, high voltage power source 2f, aperture drive device 2g, gantry drive device 2h, top plate drive device 2j, electrocardiograph unit E, and the like. By performing these controls, a scan of the subject M is executed, and the obtained information is sent to the image processing apparatus 3.

  The electrocardiograph unit E includes an electrocardiograph electrode, an amplifier, and an A / D (analog to digital) conversion circuit (not shown). As shown in FIG. 1, the electrocardiograph unit E is attached to the subject M existing on the top 2 i and is detected by the electrocardiograph electrodes. (Electrical signal) is acquired. The electric signal is amplified by an amplifier, and noise is removed from the amplified signal to convert it into a digital signal. The digital signal (heart rate information) acquired by the electrocardiograph unit E is transmitted to the image processing device 3 via the controller 2k.

  As described above, the image processing device 3 generates projection data based on transmission data obtained by scanning the subject M, and generates a reconstructed image desired by the operator together with the heart rate information. Display.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the image processing apparatus 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the image processing apparatus 3, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 3a, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 3b, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 3c, and an input / output interface 3d are connected via a bus 3e. An input unit 3f, a display unit 3g, a communication control unit 3h, a storage unit 3i, a removable disk 3j, an image processing unit 3k, and a display control unit 3l are connected to the input / output interface 3d.

  The CPU 3a reads out and executes a boot program for starting the image processing apparatus 3 from the ROM 3b based on an input signal from the input unit 3f, and reads out various operating systems stored in the storage unit 3i. The CPU 3a controls various devices based on input signals from other external devices not shown in FIG. 3 via the input unit 3f and the input / output interface 3d.

  In particular, in the embodiment of the present invention, the CPU 3 a controls the controller 2 k of the scanner device 2. The CPU 3a collects raw data for each view by executing scanning of the subject M while acquiring the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject M. Accordingly, the CPU 3a (image processing apparatus 3) causes the scanner apparatus 2 to execute electrocardiographic synchronous imaging on the subject M.

  Further, the CPU 3a reads out the program and data stored in the RAM 3c, the storage unit 3i and the like and loads them into the RAM 3c. Based on the program command read out from the RAM 3c, the CPU 3a performs processing for image reconstruction and data calculation. This is a processing device that realizes a series of processes such as processing.

  The input unit 3f includes an input device such as a keyboard and a dial for an operator (for example, a doctor or a laboratory technician) of the image processing apparatus 3 to input various operations, and receives an input signal based on the operation of the operator. It is created and transmitted to the CPU 3a via the bus 3e.

  The display unit 3g is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 3g receives an output signal from the CPU 3a via the bus 3e, and displays, for example, conditions necessary for image reconstruction, medical images generated as a result of the image reconstruction, processing results of the CPU 3a, and the like. indicate.

  The communication control unit 3h is a unit such as a LAN card or a modem, and is a unit that enables the image processing apparatus 3 to be connected to a communication network such as the Internet or a LAN. Data transmitted / received to / from the communication network via the communication control unit 3h is transmitted / received to / from the CPU 3a via the input / output interface 3d and the bus 3e as an input signal or an output signal.

  Here, although not shown in FIG. 2, the communication network connects the image processing device 3 to other modalities, information terminals, and the like, and enables, for example, exchange of medical images between them. In addition, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can be used for medical treatment such as a hospital information management system (HIS), a radiological information management system (RIS), and a medical image management system (PACS). You may be made to connect to all or some of the various management systems built in the organization.

  Examples of the communication network include a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and the Internet. The communication standard used in this communication network may be any standard such as DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine).

  The storage unit 3i is composed of a semiconductor or a magnetic disk, and stores programs and data executed by the CPU 3a. Further, the data transmitted from the controller 2k of the scanner device 2 is stored in association with the heartbeat information of the subject M transmitted from the controller 2k.

  The removable disk 3j is an optical disk or a flexible disk, and signals read / written by the disk drive are transmitted / received to / from the CPU 3a via the input / output interface 3d and the bus 3e.

  The image processing unit 3k performs image reconstruction based on internal information (transmission data) of the subject M acquired by the scanner device 2. In the embodiment of the present invention, the case where the image processing unit 3k is provided as one component (hardware) of the image processing apparatus 3 will be described as an example. However, an image processing unit having the same function as the image processing unit 3k in the CPU 3a of the image processing apparatus 3 by executing, for example, an image processing program stored in the storage unit 3i or the removable disk 3j. It may be implemented.

  The display control unit 3l cooperates with the image processing unit 3k to input information by the operator in order to display an appropriate phase and the like for the heartbeat in an easy-to-understand manner for the operator when setting the conditions for image reconstruction. Control is performed so that the input signal via the unit 3f is appropriately processed and displayed on the display unit 3g.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the image processing unit 3k according to the embodiment. The image processing unit 3 k includes a reception unit 41, a projection data generation unit 42, a heartbeat setting unit 44, a phase search image generation unit 43, a phase setting unit 45, a segment reconstruction unit 46, and a transmission unit 47. Composed.

  The projection data generation unit 42 generates projection data by performing correction processing such as logarithmic conversion processing and sensitivity correction on the raw data input from the DAS 2 d of the scanner device 2. The generated projection data is stored in, for example, the storage unit 3i or a storage device that stores only the projection data. Further, the projection data generation unit 42 may perform a scattered radiation removal process on the projection data.

  The phase search image generation unit 43 generates a phase search image for assisting selection of a heartbeat used in segment reconstruction and an optimum phase for actual use in the heartbeat. For example, a phase search image such as cross-sectional image data or three-dimensional image data is generated for each heartbeat phase. Here, the basis of the generation of the phase search image is a projection data set corresponding to a plurality of views necessary for reconstruction processing centered on a desired phase input from the projection data generation unit 42 or the storage unit 3i. It is.

  The generated phase search image is appropriately displayed on the display unit 3g via the display control unit 3l. The phase search image may be displayed as a moving image, for example, so that the operator can easily select an appropriate heart rate and phase.

  Among the heartbeats that can be grasped as a plurality of heartbeats, for example, the first heartbeat, the second heartbeat,..., The nth heartbeat, first, the heartbeat setting unit 44 is used as a heartbeat that is used for segment reconstruction. A reference heart rate (hereinafter referred to as “reference heart rate” as appropriate) is set. In setting the reference heart rate, in addition to the setting by the operator, for example, a heart rate without a wrinkle can be automatically set in the heart rate setting unit 44 from a plurality of heart rates.

  Of the heartbeats used in segment reconstruction, heartbeats other than the heartbeat that becomes the reference heartbeat (non-reference heartbeat) can be set, for example, by the operator. Among the heartbeats having a predetermined number of beats used in reconstruction, a heartbeat other than the heartbeat serving as the reference heartbeat can be automatically set as a non-reference heartbeat. Depending on the other settings, a predetermined number of beats can be set as the non-reference heart rate based on the reference heart rate.

  The phase setting unit 45 sets a phase that seems to be optimal based on the phase search image. However, regarding the setting of the optimum phase in the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to set the optimum phase for each heartbeat or to set the same phase for all heartbeats. The flow of setting the segment phase will be described later while also showing a screen example of the display unit 3g that the operator sees.

  The segment reconstruction unit 46 sets projection data (including opposing data) of a plurality of views included in the segment of the reference heartbeat phase set by the phase setting unit 45 and the phase set for each heartbeat of the non-reference heartbeat. Segment reconstruction is performed based on projection data (including opposing data) of a plurality of views included in the segment. By this segment reconstruction, segment reconstruction image data is generated, and this segment reconstruction image is displayed on the display unit 3g.

  Next, the flow of generating a segment reconstructed image in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 will be described using a flowchart. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of image reconstruction of medical images in the embodiment.

  The X-ray CT apparatus 1 controls the controller 2k of the scanner apparatus 2, scans the same cross section of the heart of the subject M that has entered the opening 2l of the gantry 2e, and collects raw data for each view (ST1). ). At the same time, the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject M at the time of scanning is acquired from the electrocardiograph unit E attached to the subject M (ST2). Here, scanning and acquisition of electrocardiographic waveform data are described in order, but since these processes are performed in parallel, either may be performed first.

  The collected raw data and electrocardiographic waveform data are both transmitted to the image processing device 3 via the controller 2k. Note that the setting of imaging conditions and the like necessary for scanning the subject M is performed in advance by the operator filling, for example, condition setting items displayed on the display unit 3g.

  Next, the image processing unit 3k (projection data generation unit 42) of the image processing device 3 generates projection data by performing correction processing such as logarithmic conversion processing on the raw data collected in this way. (ST3). For example, the generated projection data may be temporarily stored in the storage unit 3i.

  Based on the projection data generated by the projection data generation unit 42, the phase search image generation unit 43 generates a phase search image that can be used when the operator sets an optimum phase for each heartbeat (ST4). ).

  Still further, an optimum phase may be set automatically to some extent using the phase search image. As the method, for example, a plurality of phase search images are combined based on a certain rule, and difference processing is performed using the pixel values. When the difference processing is performed, a high signal is recognized at a place where the movement is large, while a low signal is recognized at a place where the movement is small. Therefore, by performing such processing, the smaller the difference is, the less the movement of the target heart is, so it is possible to more easily grasp the optimum phase for image reconstruction.

  Further, the heartbeat setting unit 44 sets a reference heartbeat and a non-reference heartbeat that are required for performing segment reconstruction (ST5).

  In addition, regarding the screen on the display unit 3g controlled by the display control unit 31, for example, when determining a heartbeat, a phase search image generated in advance and, for example, a scroll bar can be associated with each other. By setting in this way, it is possible to easily move the scroll bar to change the image and select a heartbeat from the image.

  Also, at the stage of setting the reference heart rate, it is determined whether to exclude a heart rate that cannot be used when performing segment reconstruction processing, or how many heartbeats are used to perform segment reconstruction processing. You can also.

  Next, the phase necessary for segment reconstruction is set (ST6). In order to select the optimum phase, the contents of the selection process must be displayed in an easy-to-understand manner for the operator who performs the setting. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present invention, a display control unit 3l is provided in the image processing apparatus 3, and the display unit 3g displays a screen that matches each scene as the segment reconstruction progresses. By controlling the contents to be displayed, information effective for image reconstruction is provided to the operator in an easily understandable manner.

  Accordingly, the processing content in the image processing unit 3k is appropriately transmitted to the display control unit 3l, and an appropriate screen is appropriately displayed on the display unit 3g via the display control unit 3l as the processing in the image processing unit 3k progresses. Will be displayed.

  5 and 6 are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of one screen of the display image in the embodiment. In FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, a condition setting unit A used for selecting a phase and a waveform display unit B showing an electrocardiographic waveform are provided in the display unit 3 g shown in a frame shape. Yes. Note that, in the screen example of the display unit 3g shown in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, only items necessary for phase selection are displayed. Accordingly, various items displayed as the display unit 3g of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 are simply omitted, and the display is not not performed. Also, the layout such as the arrangement of display areas and display items is not limited to the screen example of FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, and can be arbitrarily set.

  Here, only the screen example that the operator sees when selecting the phase is shown. However, if necessary, for example, the display control unit also displays a screen displayed when selecting a heartbeat used for segment reconstruction. 3l is generated and displayed on the display unit 3g.

  In the condition setting section A, tabs are generated and displayed corresponding to each set heart rate. In the screen example shown in FIG. 5, two heartbeats (hereinafter referred to as “first heartbeat” and “second heartbeat” as appropriate) are displayed as “1-beat” and “2-beat”, respectively. Two tabs are shown. Note that FIG. 5 shows a tab for setting conditions relating to the first heart beat, and FIG. 6 shows the second heart beat in terms of how the tabs are displayed. However, in the condition setting part A of the display part 3g shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, there is no difference in the items displayed depending on the tabs, so here, the following description will be basically made with reference to FIG.

  Here, it is assumed that there is no difference in the items displayed on each tab. Of course, for example, the items displayed on the tab related to the non-reference heart rate after the reference heart rate is set are displayed. It is possible to change the contents of an item.

  As the items shown on the tab of the condition setting section A, in the embodiment of the present invention, two items of “reconstruction phase selection” and “use ratio” are displayed. Furthermore, three selection criteria, “optimum phase”, “optimum phase of each heartbeat”, and “shape reference phase” are shown as to how to select the optimum phase as “reconstruction phase selection”. . Further, behind each selection criterion, the position of the phase to be selected can be expressed in time (msec) here. However, with respect to this display method, for example, it is possible to display 1 beat as 100%, and display the position to be selected as the optimum phase as “OO%”.

  In each selection criterion, a so-called radio button is displayed, and a desired criterion is selected by selecting this radio button. In FIG. 5, it can be seen that “optimal phase of each heartbeat” is selected.

  Here, the “optimum phase” is selected when the most suitable phase is selected in performing segment reconstruction. Naturally, the optimum phase is selected in any selection criterion, but when this “optimal phase” is selected, it is the same in all heartbeats (in this case, both the first heartbeat and the second heartbeat). The phase will be selected.

  On the other hand, when “optimal phase of each heartbeat” is selected, it is possible to select an optimal phase for each heartbeat. Here, this reference is selected, and in the first heartbeat shown in FIG. 5, the phase at the position of “800 msec” is selected as the optimum phase. In the second heartbeat shown in FIG. 6, the phase at the position “820 msec” is selected as the optimum phase.

  The “shape reference phase” is a reference for the operator to actually view the phase search image generated by the phase search image generation unit 43 and select an optimal phase. In other words, the optimal phase based on the movement of the heart shape. Is a way to determine. This is because if the shapes at a plurality of phases used for reconstruction are different from each other, the reconstructed image is adversely affected. Therefore, when this criterion is selected, for example, a window for displaying the generated phase search image is opened, and the image data for selecting the optimum phase can be viewed on the display unit 3g.

  The item “use ratio” indicates a ratio used when segment reconstruction is performed in a certain heartbeat, and this item can also be set arbitrarily. Since there is no portion that is not used here, the usage rate is displayed as “100%”.

  In the waveform display section B, an electrocardiographic waveform based on the electrocardiographic waveform data transmitted from the electrocardiograph unit E is displayed. Further, a bar perpendicular to the electrocardiogram waveform is shown, which indicates the position of the phase selected as the optimum phase on the electrocardiogram waveform. In this way, the position of the optimum phase is not only indicated by a numerical value as a condition, but is displayed on the electrocardiogram waveform of the actual subject M, so that the position selected for the operator can be determined by any position on the electrocardiogram waveform. It is possible to instantly grasp whether this is true.

  In this case, the bar shown on the waveform corresponding to the heartbeat opened as a tab (the first heartbeat in FIG. 5 and the second heartbeat in FIG. 6) is displayed as a solid line, and is a closed tab. The bar indicating the optimum phase in the heartbeat indicated by is indicated by a broken line. That is, when displaying the optimum phase on the electrocardiogram waveform, by changing the display method, the operator can immediately set the optimum phase for heartbeats other than the heartbeat actually displayed on the display unit 3g. I can grasp it. A method of selecting the optimum phase by appropriately moving the bar on the electrocardiogram waveform is also conceivable.

  The flow of segment reconstructed image generation will be described again with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. As described above, the phase search image generation unit 43 generates a phase search image (ST4), the heartbeat is set (ST5), and the phase setting unit 45 selects an optimum phase for performing segment reconstruction (ST6). ). The selection of the optimum phase is performed by selecting and inputting items displayed on the screen example shown in FIG. 5 or FIG.

  Further, it is determined whether or not the optimum phase has been set for all the heartbeats necessary for segment reconstruction (ST7). If the optimum phase has been set for all the heartbeats (YES in ST7). ), The segment reconstruction is performed by the segment reconstruction unit 46 (ST8). Specifically, the segment reconstruction unit 46 performs segment reconstruction based on the projection data of the plurality of views included in the reference heartbeat segment and the projection data of the plurality of views included in the optimum phase set for each heartbeat. Perform configuration and generate segment reconstructed image data. The segment reconstructed image data generated in this way is displayed on the display unit 3g or stored in the storage unit 3i (ST9).

  As described above, it is possible to provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus including an interface for organizing the obtained internal information of the subject and providing information useful for the operator in an easily understandable manner when performing image reconstruction. In particular, when an optimum phase is set, the screen according to the setting procedure is displayed to help the operator understand and to obtain a better reconstructed image.

  Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described, this embodiment is presented as an example and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, when setting an optimum phase, it is possible to compare reconstructed images related to a plurality of phases by generating and displaying a reconstructed image based on a plurality of phases in which the operator is interested. Therefore, the optimum phase can be set more efficiently and without failure. This embodiment and its modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

1 Medical diagnostic imaging equipment (X-ray CT equipment)
2 scanner device 3 image processing device 3k image processing unit 3l display control unit 41 reception unit 42 projection data generation unit 43 phase search image generation unit 44 heart rate setting unit 45 phase setting unit 46 segment reconstruction unit 47 transmission unit

Claims (5)

A scanner device that acquires internal information of a subject, and an image processing device that sets an optimal phase necessary to generate the best medical image based on the information acquired by the scanner device;
The image processing apparatus includes:
An image processing unit for setting the phase and generating the medical image;
In response to the setting of the phase in the image processing unit, a display control unit that displays information contributing to the setting of the phase on a display unit;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising:   The image processing unit is configured to reconstruct the medical image based on at least phase setting information set for each set heartbeat or a change in the shape of the heart that is the basis of the reconstructed medical image. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a medical image is generated.   The said image processing part is equipped with the condition setting item which can change arbitrarily the use rate of the said heart rate set in the reconstruction of the said medical image, The Claim 1 or Claim 2 characterized by the above-mentioned. The medical image diagnostic apparatus described.   The display control unit includes an area for inputting a condition for setting the phase and an area for displaying an electrocardiographic waveform of the subject on the same display screen, and corresponding to the input of the condition, The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein information on the condition is displayed on an electrocardiogram waveform. 5. The medical image according to claim 4, wherein when one of the input condition and the information related to the condition displayed on the electrocardiographic waveform is changed, the other display is changed in accordance with the change. Diagnostic device.

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