JP2015058053A - Mammography apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To determine whether a taken image corresponds to the right breast or the left breast.SOLUTION: A mammography apparatus in an embodiment includes: an image data generation part irradiated by an x-ray radiation part, and generating image data, based on x ray detected by an x-ray detection part; a breast compression part compressing the breast of a subject; an operation control part of controlling operation of the breast compression part; a first operation instruction part provided so as to correspond to the left side of an arm part which has the x-ray radiation part, the x-ray detection part, and the breast compression part, and indicating operation control of the breast compression part to the operation control part; a second operation instruction part provided so as to correspond to the right side of the arm part and indicating operation control of the breast compression part to the operation control part; and a determination part determining whether image data generated by the image data generation part corresponds to the right breast or the left breast of the subject, based on that whether the operation instruction part used for indicating operation control of the breast compression part is the first operation instruction part or the second operation instruction part.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a mammography apparatus.

  In mammography screening for breast cancer screening, two types of X-rays from the head-to-tail (Cranio-caudal: CC) direction and the medial-lateral-oblique (MLO) direction are usually performed for each of the left and right breasts. Done. This is a device for minimizing a so-called blind area that does not appear in the image because of positioning.

  In such a mammography examination, for example, a technique such as Patent Document 1 has been devised in order to determine whether an image generated by photographing corresponds to the left or right breast.

JP 2007-195801 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to determine which of the left and right breasts the image obtained by X-ray imaging corresponds to.

  In order to solve the above problems, the mammography apparatus of the embodiment generates an image data based on the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray irradiation unit and detected by the X-ray detection unit facing the X-ray irradiation unit. A data generation unit, a breast compression unit that is positioned between the X-ray irradiation unit and the X-ray detection unit and compresses the breast of the subject; an operation control unit that controls the operation of the breast compression unit; A first operation is provided corresponding to the left side of the arm unit having the X-ray irradiation unit, the X-ray detection unit, and the breast compression unit, and instructs the operation control unit to control the operation of the breast compression unit. An instruction unit, a second operation instruction unit provided to correspond to the right side of the arm unit, and instructing the operation control unit to perform operation control of the breast compression unit; and an operation control instruction of the breast compression unit The operation instruction unit used for the first is the first A determination unit that determines whether the image data generated by the image data generation unit corresponds to the left or right breast of the subject based on whether the operation instruction unit or the second operation instruction unit And comprising.

The block diagram of the mammography apparatus in an embodiment. 1 is a schematic diagram 1 of a mammography apparatus according to an embodiment. Schematic 2 of the mammography apparatus in embodiment. The flowchart in embodiment. The positional relationship figure of the apparatus in the imaging | photography from CC direction, an operator, and a subject. The conceptual diagram of the determination by the 1st determination part in embodiment. The conceptual diagram of CC direction and MLO direction with respect to a test subject's breast. The conceptual diagram of the determination by the 2nd determination part in embodiment. Schematic of the image data of CC direction produced | generated in embodiment. Schematic of the mammography apparatus in a modification. The conceptual diagram of the determination by the determination part in a modification.

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

  First, the configuration of the mammography apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to any one of FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a mammography apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. 2 and 3 are schematic views of the mammography apparatus 1 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the mammography apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes an imaging unit 10, a console 20, and a high voltage generator 30.

  The imaging unit 10 includes a base unit 11, an arm unit 12, a first operation instruction unit 13, and a second operation instruction unit 14. The arm unit 12 includes an X-ray irradiation unit 15, an X-ray detection unit 16, and a breast compression unit 17. The photographing unit 10 includes an operation control unit 18.

  The base unit 11 supports the arm unit 12 so as to be vertically movable in the vertical vertical direction. Moreover, the base part 11 supports the arm part 12 so that rotation around the horizontal axis a as shown in FIG. 2 is possible.

  The arm unit 12 holds the X-ray irradiation unit 15 and the X-ray detection unit 16 so as to face each other. The arm unit 12 holds the breast compression unit 17 so as to be movable back and forth with respect to the X-ray detection unit 16. In the present embodiment, the breast compression unit 17 has, for example, a plate shape, and is located between the X-ray irradiation unit 15 and the X-ray detection unit 16. The arm unit 12 moves up and down in accordance with an instruction from the operation control unit 18. The arm unit 12 rotates around the horizontal axis a in accordance with an instruction from the operation control unit 18. In the present embodiment, the side opposite to the base unit 11 with the arm unit 12 as the center is defined as the front of the imaging unit 10, and the direction corresponding to the left side from the front toward the arm unit 12 corresponds to the left and right sides. The direction is defined as right. In general, imaging is performed with the subject positioned in front.

  The X-ray irradiation unit 15 emits X-rays based on a voltage applied from the high voltage generation unit 31 of the high voltage generation device 30 and an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32 of the high voltage generation device 30.

  The X-ray detection unit 16 detects X-rays corresponding to the X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiation unit 15 in accordance with an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32 of the high voltage generator 30. In addition, the X-ray detection unit 16 generates a reception signal based on the detected X-ray, and transmits the generated reception signal to the image data generation unit 25 of the console 20.

  The breast compression unit 17 moves back and forth with respect to the X-ray detection unit 16 in accordance with an instruction from the operation control unit 18. By this advance / retreat, either the left or right breast of the subject is sandwiched between the X-ray detection unit 16 and the breast compression unit 17 and compressed.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit 14 each have, for example, four types of foot switches. The operation contents using the foot switches of the first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit 14 correspond to the following instruction contents performed on the operation control unit 18. For example, an operation using the foot switches 13a and 14a corresponds to an instruction to raise the arm unit 12 vertically upward. For example, an operation using the foot switches 13b and 14b corresponds to an instruction to lower the arm unit 12 vertically downward. For example, an operation using the foot switches 13 c and 14 c corresponds to an instruction to move the breast compression unit 17 away from the X-ray detection unit 16. For example, an operation using the foot switches 13 d and 14 d corresponds to an instruction to bring the breast compression unit 17 closer to the X-ray detection unit 16. When the operator operates the first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit 14, an instruction corresponding to the operation content is transmitted to the operation control unit 18. The first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit 14 are preferably installed so as not to be confused with each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, it is preferably connected to the base portion 11 and the like with a relatively short cable, and is provided substantially fixed at the left and right positions of the base portion 11 and the arm portion 12.

  In addition to the above configuration, the photographing unit 11 includes a third operation instruction unit 19 as shown in FIG. The third operation instruction unit 19 is provided, for example, one on each of the left and right sides of the arm unit 12 and includes a clockwise switch (not shown) and a counterclockwise switch (not shown). The instruction operation using the clockwise switch and the counterclockwise switch of the third operation instruction unit 19 corresponds to the following instruction contents performed on the operation control unit 18. For example, an operation using a clockwise switch corresponds to an instruction to rotate the arm unit 12 clockwise as viewed from the front of the photographing unit 10. For example, an operation using a counterclockwise switch corresponds to an instruction to rotate the arm unit 12 counterclockwise when viewed from the front of the photographing unit 10. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3A, the breast compression unit 17 is positioned above the X-ray detection unit 16 and rotates clockwise or counterclockwise as viewed from the front of the imaging unit 10. However, a state in which the X-ray irradiation unit 12 and the X-ray detection unit 16 are arranged to face each other in a substantially vertical direction is defined as a reference state. Further, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3B, the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 in the state of rotating counterclockwise when viewed from the front of the photographing unit 10 is positive, and FIG. ), The rotation angle of the arm unit 12 in a state of rotating clockwise when viewed from the front of the photographing unit 10 is defined as negative. In addition, in this embodiment, in order to explain a case where photographing is performed from two directions of the CC direction and the MLO direction, for example, the case where the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 is within a range of 90 degrees in each of positive and negative is mainly assumed To do. When the operator operates the third operation instruction unit 19, an instruction corresponding to the operation content is transmitted to the operation control unit 18.

  The motion control unit 18 controls the vertical movement of the arm unit 12 and the forward / backward movement of the breast compression unit 17 in accordance with instructions transmitted from the first motion control unit 13 and the second motion control unit 14. The operation control unit 18 controls the rotation of the arm unit 12 according to an instruction transmitted from the third operation control unit 19. The operation control unit 18 transmits the vertical movement of the arm unit 12, the advancement / retraction of the breast compression unit 17, and the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 to the determination unit 27 of the console 20 described later.

  The console 20 includes a display unit 21, an input unit 22, and an image processing unit 23. The image processing unit 23 includes a control unit 24, an image data generation unit 25, a storage unit 26, a determination unit 27, and an association unit 28.

  The display unit 21 displays image data stored in the storage unit 26 or a predetermined operation screen in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 24.

  In this embodiment, the input unit 22 is a pointing device such as a mouse, and transmits input content from the operator to the control unit 24. The input unit 22 is not limited to a mouse, and may be a keyboard, a touch panel, a trackball, or the like.

  The control unit 24 causes the display unit 21 to display the image data stored in the storage unit 26 and a predetermined operation screen. The control unit 24 transmits imaging conditions based on the input content transmitted from the input unit 22 to the X-ray control unit 32 of the high voltage generator 30. The imaging conditions here indicate, for example, the intensity of the X-ray to be irradiated, the irradiation range, and the irradiation timing.

  The image data generation unit 25 generates image data based on the reception signal received from the X-ray detection unit 16. The image data generation unit 25 transfers the generated image data to the storage unit 26.

  The storage unit 26 stores the image data transferred from the image data generation unit 25. Further, the storage unit 26 stores the determination result so as to correspond to the image data in accordance with an instruction from the association unit 28 described later.

  The determination unit 27 includes a first determination unit 27a, a second determination unit 27b, and a selection unit 27c. The first determination unit 27 a determines the left and right of the photographed subject's breast based on the control content of the operation control unit 18 based on the instruction of the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14. The second determination unit 27 b determines the left and right of the photographed subject's breast based on the control content of the operation control unit 18 based on the instruction of the third operation instruction unit 19. The selection unit 27c selects either the first determination unit 27a or the second determination unit 27b based on the rotation angle of the arm unit 12. The determination unit 27 transmits the determination result of the first determination unit 27 a or the second determination unit 27 b selected by the selection unit 28 to the association unit 28. Details of the determination unit 27 will be described later.

  The associating unit 28 associates the determination result transmitted from the determining unit 27 with the image data generated by the image data generating unit 25 and stored in the storage unit 26 in shooting related to the determination, and stored in the storage unit 26. Let Details of the association unit 28 will be described later.

  The high voltage generator 30 includes a high voltage generator 31 and an X-ray controller 32. The high voltage generation unit 31 applies a voltage to the X-ray irradiation unit 15 in accordance with an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32. The X-ray control unit 32 instructs the X-ray irradiation unit 15 and the high voltage generation unit 31 to irradiate X-rays according to the instruction based on the imaging conditions transmitted from the control unit 24, and the X-ray detection unit 16 emits X-rays. Instruct detection.

  Next, the operation of the mammography apparatus 1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of photographing in the present embodiment. As described above, since imaging is generally performed once for each of the left and right breasts of the subject from the CC direction and the MLO direction, in this embodiment, the CC direction for the left breast is used. The following four cases are assumed: imaging from the right breast, imaging from the CC direction for the right breast, imaging from the MLO direction for the left breast, and imaging from the MLO direction for the right breast. The flow of steps in each case will be described with reference to FIG. 4. In imaging from the CC direction for the left breast, steps S1, S2, S3, S4a, S5a, S6a, S7a, S8, S9, S10, S11. Proceed in order. In imaging from the CC direction for the right breast, steps S1, S2, S3, S4a, S5a, S6a, S7b, S8, S9, S10, and S11 proceed in this order. In imaging from the MLO direction for the left breast, steps S1, S2, S3, S4b, S5b, S6b, S7c, S8, S9, S10, and S11 proceed in this order. In the imaging from the MLO direction for the right breast, steps S1, S2, S3, S4b, S5c, S6b, S7c, S8, S9, S10, and S11 proceed in this order. Hereinafter, the flow of shooting will be described in detail.

  In step S1, inspection is started. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the arm portion 12 is in the reference state at this time.

  In step S2, if necessary, the operator operates a clockwise switch or counterclockwise switch (not shown) of the third operation instruction unit to set the rotation angle of the arm unit 12. The operation control unit 18 controls the rotation of the arm unit 12 according to an instruction transmitted from the third operation control unit 19. The operation control unit 18 transmits the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 to the determination unit 27.

  In step S <b> 3, the selection unit 27 c of the determination unit 27 selects either the first determination unit 27 a or the second determination unit 27 b based on the rotation angle of the arm unit 12. Specifically, when the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 transmitted from the operation control unit 18 is 0 (reference state), the first determination unit 27a is selected, and the flow proceeds to step S4a. On the other hand, when the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 transmitted from the operation control unit 18 is not 0, the second determination unit 27a is selected, and the flow proceeds to step S4b. It should be noted that this selection distinguishes whether this photographing is from the CC direction or from the MLO direction.

  First, a case where the process reaches step S8 via step S4a, that is, a case where this photographing is from the CC direction will be described. In step S4a, the operator operates the foot switches 13a, 14a, 13b, and 14b of the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14 to adjust the height of the arm unit 12. The operation control unit 18 controls the vertical movement of the arm unit 12 in accordance with an instruction from the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14. Note that the flow proceeds to step S5a.

  In step S <b> 5 a, the operator first positions either the left or right breast of the subject between the breast compression unit 17 and the X-ray detection unit 16. Then, the operator operates the foot switches 13c, 14c, 13d, and 14d of the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14, and compresses the subject's breast by the breast compression unit 17. Note that the flow proceeds to step S6a.

  In step S6a, the first determination unit 27a of the determination unit 27 determines whether or not the operation instruction unit used for compressing the breast of the subject is the first operation instruction unit 13.

  FIG. 5 is a general positional relationship diagram of the mammography apparatus 1, the operator O, and the subject S in photographing from the CC direction. FIG. 5A shows the positional relationship between the mammography apparatus 1, the operator O, and the subject S when photographing the right breast of the subject S, and FIG. 5B shows the left breast of the subject S. 3 shows the positional relationship among the mammography apparatus 1, the operator O, and the subject S when performing the above imaging. More specifically, when photographing the right breast of the subject S, the operator O is located on the left side of the arm unit 12 and performs a breast compression operation. On the other hand, when photographing the left breast of the subject S, the operator O is located on the right side of the arm unit 12 and performs a breast compression operation. The positional relationship among the mammography apparatus 1, the operator O, and the subject S is not specified as a standard imaging method in guidelines or the like, but there is a difference in breast positioning for imaging for each operator. Because it must not go out, it is recommended at mammography screening workshops organized by the Central Committee for Mammography Screening Accuracy Control.

  As matched with the above, when the control content of the operation of the breast compression unit 17 transmitted from the operation control unit 18 is not based on the operation using the first operation instruction unit 13, that is, the right side of the arm unit 12 If the operation is based on an operation from the motion control unit located at, the flow proceeds to step S7a, and the first determination unit 27a determines that the image data generated in this imaging is that of the left breast. . Conversely, when the control content of the operation of the breast compression unit 17 transmitted from the operation control unit 18 is based on an operation using the first operation instruction unit 13, that is, an operation located on the left side of the arm unit 12. If it is based on an operation from the control unit, the flow proceeds to step S7b, and the first determination unit 27a determines that the image data generated in this imaging is that of the right breast. One of the above determination results is transmitted to the associating unit 28, and the flow proceeds to step S8.

  FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of determination by the first determination unit 27a. As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the correspondence between the type of operation instruction unit and the left / right determination of the breast is determined in advance. A table as shown in FIG. 6 may be displayed on the display unit 21 as a predetermined operation screen, and the correspondence relationship may be changed according to the intention of the operator.

  Next, a case where the process reaches step S8 via step S4b, that is, a case where this photographing is from the MLO direction will be described. In step S4b, the second determination unit 27b of the determination unit 27 determines whether the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 is positive.

  FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram of the CC direction and the MLO direction with respect to the breast of the subject S. In FIG. 7, the thick line D is the X-ray irradiation direction when the right breast of the subject S is imaged in the CC direction. A thick line E is an X-ray irradiation direction when the right breast of the subject S is photographed in the MLO direction. The double line F is the X-ray irradiation direction when imaging in the CC direction is performed on the left breast of the subject S. The thick line G is the X-ray irradiation direction when imaging in the MLO direction is performed on the left breast of the subject S. That is, when MLO imaging is performed on the right breast of the subject S, the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 needs to be positive as shown in FIG. Conversely, when MLO imaging is performed on the left breast of the subject S, the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 needs to be negative as shown in FIG.

  The second determination unit 27b performs this determination based on the control content of the operation of the arm unit 12 transmitted from the operation control unit 18 so as to be consistent with the above. As a result of the determination, when the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 is not positive, that is, when it is negative, the flow proceeds to S5b, and the second determination unit 27b determines that the image data generated in this imaging is the left breast. Judge that there is. On the other hand, when the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 is positive, the flow proceeds to S5c, and the second determination unit 27b determines that the image data generated in this imaging is the right breast. One of the above determination results is transmitted to the associating unit 28, and the flow proceeds to step S6b.

  In step S6b, the operator operates the foot switches 13a, 14a, 13b, and 14b of the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14 to adjust the height of the arm unit 12. The operation control unit 18 controls the vertical movement of the arm unit 12 in accordance with an instruction from the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14. Note that the flow proceeds to step S7c.

  FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of determination by the second determination unit 27b. As shown in FIG. 8, in this embodiment, the correspondence between the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 and the left / right determination of the breast is determined in advance. A table as shown in FIG. 8 may be displayed on the display unit 21 as a predetermined operation screen, and the correspondence relationship may be changed according to the intention of the operator.

  In step S <b> 7 c, the operator first positions either the left or right breast of the subject between the breast compression unit 17 and the X-ray detection unit 16. Then, the operator operates the foot switches 13c, 14c, 13d, and 14d of the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14, and compresses the breast of the subject by the breast compression unit 17. Note that the flow proceeds to step S8.

  Hereinafter, the flow from Step S8 to Step S11 that is common in the case of going through any of Steps S4a and 4b will be described. In step S <b> 8, the operator inputs shooting conditions via the input unit 22. At this time, for example, an operation screen for inputting photographing conditions is displayed on the display unit 21 by the control unit 24. The input unit 22 transmits the photographing conditions input by the operator to the control unit 24. The control unit 24 transmits this imaging condition to the X-ray control unit 32.

  In step S <b> 9, the X-ray control unit 32 instructs the X-ray irradiation unit 15, the X-ray detection unit 16, and the high voltage generation unit 31 according to an instruction based on the imaging conditions transmitted from the control unit 24. The high voltage generation unit 31 applies a voltage to the X-ray irradiation unit 15 in accordance with an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32. The X-ray irradiation unit 15 emits X-rays based on a voltage applied from the high voltage generation unit 31 of the high voltage generation device 30 and an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32 of the high voltage generation device 30. The X-ray detection unit 16 detects X-rays corresponding to the X-ray irradiation by the X-ray irradiation unit 15 in accordance with an instruction from the X-ray control unit 32 of the high voltage generator 30. In addition, the X-ray detection unit 16 generates a reception signal based on the detected X-ray, and transmits the generated reception signal to the image data generation unit 25 of the console 20. The image data generation unit 25 generates image data based on the reception signal received from the X-ray detection unit 16. The image data generation unit 25 transfers the generated image data to the storage unit 16. The storage unit 26 stores the image data transferred from the image data generation unit 25.

  When the generated image data is stored in the storage unit 26 in step S10, the associating unit 28 displays the determination result transmitted from the determination unit 27 in any of steps S7a, S7b, S5b, and S5c in step S9. Are stored in the storage unit 26 in association with the image data generated in step. When the association of the determination results is completed, the flow proceeds to step S11, and the inspection ends. As described above, actual imaging is generally performed once for each of the left and right breasts of the subject from the CC direction and the MLO direction, and thus steps S1 to S11 are repeated. It will be. When all the shootings are completed, each image data that has been associated is displayed on the display unit 21 and is referred to by the operator.

  FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of image data corresponding to the CC direction in which the association is completed in the association unit 28 in step S10. In FIG. 9, image data 101a located on the left side of the drawing is image data relating to the left breast of the subject. The image data 101b located on the right side of the page is image data relating to the subject's right breast. As shown in FIG. 8, images 102a and 102b indicating left and right breasts are drawn in the image data 101a and 101b that have been associated, and a marker 103a that indicates left and right is located at a position that does not overlap the images 102a and 102b. , 103b. In this embodiment, the markers 103a and 103b are characters indicating left and right as shown in FIG. 8, for example. However, if the operator can distinguish between left and right breasts, they are different symbols and numbers. Also good.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the breast to be imaged is based on the rotation angle of the arm unit 12 or the type of the operation instruction unit used for the operation instruction for compressing the breast of the subject. It is possible to determine which one corresponds to left or right. In addition, when determining whether the breast to be imaged corresponds to the left or right based on the type of operation instruction unit used by the operator, the positional relationship between the operator, the subject, and the device recommended as a practice Therefore, the photographing operation can be performed in a more natural flow. Furthermore, since the determination result is associated with the captured image data, when referring to the image data, it is possible to easily grasp whether the breast image in the image data corresponds to the left or right breast.

  In the present embodiment, the case has been described in which it is determined whether the imaged breast is left or right based on the type of the operation instruction unit used by the operator to compress the breast of the subject. In addition to this, based on the position of the operator or the subject detected by the position sensor, it may be determined whether the imaged breast is left or right.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the mammography apparatus 1 when a position sensor is provided. The position sensor is provided, for example, around the X-ray detection unit 16. In the present modification, the mammography apparatus 1 includes a first sensor 41 that detects the position of the operator on the left side of the X-ray detection unit 16, and an X-ray detection unit. The second sensor 42 for detecting the position of the operator on the right side of the 16, the third sensor 43 for detecting the position of the subject on the left end of the front of the X-ray detection unit 16, and the right sensor of the front of the X-ray detection unit 16 A case is assumed in which a fourth sensor 44 that detects the position of the examiner is provided. These position sensors react in a non-contact manner when an operator or a subject approaches, for example, an infrared sensor or a laser sensor. Referring to FIG. 5, the first sensor 41 reacts to the operator O when the operator O is located on the left side of the arm unit 12. When the operator O is located to the right of the arm unit 12, the second sensor 42 reacts to the operator O. When the subject S is photographing the right breast, the third sensor 43 reacts to the subject S because the subject S is located on the left side of the arm portion 12. When the subject S is photographing the left breast, the fourth sensor 44 reacts to the subject S because the subject S is located on the right side of the arm portion 12. The reaction results from the respective position sensors are transmitted to, for example, the determination unit 27, and the determination unit 27 performs determination based on the transmitted reaction results.

  As an example, imaging is performed based on the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 and the operation instruction unit used by the operator to compress the breast of the subject. A case where it is determined whether the breast is left or right will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a correspondence relationship between the type of the operation instruction unit used by the operator, the position sensor that has reacted, and the left / right determination of the breast. As shown in FIG. 11, for example, when the operation instruction unit used to compress the breast of the subject is the first operation instruction unit 13 and the reacted position sensor is the first sensor 41, the operator uses the operation instruction unit. Since the determination result based only on the fact that the position sensor that reacted based on the determination result based only on the first operation instruction unit 13 being the first operation instruction unit 13 matches the determination result based on only the first sensor 41 being photographed The breast is determined to be right.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11, for example, when the operation instruction unit used to compress the breast of the subject is the second operation instruction unit 14 and the reacted position sensor is the first sensor 41, the operator Since the determination result based only on the fact that the position sensor that has reacted with the determination result based only on the fact that the operation instruction unit used by the second operation instruction unit 14 is the first sensor 41 does not match, the operation used by the operator It is necessary to prioritize either the type of the instruction unit or the position sensor response. In this modification, priority is given to the response of the position sensor, for example. That is, in the above case, based on the fact that the position sensor that has reacted is the first sensor 41, it is determined that the breast that has been imaged is right. The correspondence relationship as shown in FIG. 11 may be displayed on the display unit 21 as a predetermined operation screen, similar to the correspondence relationship as shown in FIGS. You may be able to change it according to.

  As shown in FIG. 11, when both the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 react, or when both the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42 do not react, the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 41 Since there is a possibility of malfunction or failure of the sensor 42, based on whether the operation instruction unit used by the operator is the first operation instruction unit 13 or the second operation instruction unit 14, Is determined.

  Based on the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the third sensor 43 and the fourth sensor 44 and the operation instruction unit used by the operator to compress the breast of the subject, The same applies to the case of determining whether the position is left or right. In this case, the first sensor 41 is replaced with the third sensor 43 and the second sensor 42 is replaced with the fourth sensor 44.

  To compress the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42, the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the third sensor 43 and the fourth sensor 44, and the breast of the subject. In the case where it is determined whether the breast that has been imaged is left or right based on the operation instruction unit used by the operator, the combination of correspondences and the priority order of each criterion are complicated. For example, the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the third sensor 43 and the fourth sensor 44, the position of the operator detected by the reaction of the first sensor 41 and the second sensor 42, and the operation instruction unit used by the operator This priority can be solved by predetermining the priority order such that priority is given in the order of the types.

  As described above, by combining the determination based on the reaction of the position sensor with the determination based on the type of the operation control unit, it can serve as a double check and a triple check, and the error in the determination result can be further reduced. it can.

  In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which the left and right of the breast to be imaged are determined based on the type of the operation instruction unit used by the operator. For example, in one image capturing, the first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit The left and right of the breast to be imaged may be determined based on the comparison of the number of times the operation instruction unit 14 is used. In this case, when the first operation instruction unit 13 is used 10 times and the second operation instruction unit 14 is used twice in one shooting, the first operation instruction unit 13 is used more frequently. Therefore, it is determined that the imaged breast is right. Thus, for example, in one imaging of the subject's right breast, the first operation instruction unit 13 is used for the rough operation of the breast compression unit 17, and the second operation instruction unit for subsequent fine adjustment. Even when 14 is used, an accurate determination result can be provided.

  In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which the left and right of the breast to be imaged are determined based on the type of the operation instruction unit used by the operator. For example, in one image capturing, the first operation instruction unit 13 and the second operation instruction unit The left and right of the imaged breast may be determined based on a comparison of the total usage time of the operation instruction unit 14. In this case, for example, when the total use time of the first operation instruction unit 13 in one shooting is 10 seconds and the total use time of the second operation instruction unit 14 is 2 seconds, the first operation instruction unit 13 Since the total usage time is larger, the photographed breast is determined to be right. Thus, for example, in one imaging of the subject's right breast, the first operation instruction unit 13 is used for the rough operation of the breast compression unit 17, and the second operation instruction unit for subsequent fine adjustment. Even when 14 is used, an accurate determination result can be provided.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the left and right of the breast to be imaged is determined based on the type of the operation instruction unit used by the operator has been described. For example, the last operation instruction unit used in one imaging operation is You may determine the right and left of the breast image | photographed based on whether it is the 1st operation | movement instruction | indication part 13 or the 2nd operation | movement instruction | indication part 14. FIG. For example, when the operation instruction unit used last in one imaging is the first operation instruction unit 13, it is determined that the imaged breast is on the right. Thus, for example, when photographing the right breast after photographing the left breast, the second operation instruction unit 14 is used to release the compression of the left breast, and then the first operation instruction unit is used to compress the right breast. Even when 13 is used, an accurate determination result can be provided.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, these embodiment is shown as an example and is not intending limiting the range of invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Mammography apparatus 10 ... Imaging | photography part 11 ... Base part 12 ... Arm part 13 ... 1st operation instruction part 14 ... 2nd operation instruction part 15 ... X-ray irradiation Unit 16 X-ray detection unit 17 breast compression unit 18 operation control unit 19 third operation instruction unit 20 console 21 display unit 22 input unit 23 ... Image processing unit 24 ... Control unit 25 ... Image data generation unit 26 ... Storage unit 27 ... Determination unit 27a ... First determination unit 27b ... Second determination unit 27c .... Selection part 28 ... Association part 30 ... High voltage generator 31 ... High voltage generator 32 ... X-ray control part 41 ... First sensor 42 ... Second sensor 43 ... third sensor 44 ... fourth sensors 101a, 101b ... image data 102a, 102b ... image 10 a, 103b ··· marker

Claims (10)

An image data generation unit that generates image data based on the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray irradiation unit and detected by the X-ray detection unit facing the X-ray irradiation unit;
A breast compression unit that is positioned between the X-ray irradiation unit and the X-ray detection unit and compresses the breast of the subject;
An operation control unit for controlling the operation of the breast compression unit;
A first operation is provided corresponding to the left side of the arm unit having the X-ray irradiation unit, the X-ray detection unit, and the breast compression unit, and instructs the operation control unit to control the operation of the breast compression unit. An indicator,
A second operation instruction unit provided to correspond to the right side of the arm unit and instructing the operation control unit to perform operation control of the breast compression unit;
The image generated by the image data generation unit based on whether the operation instruction unit used for the operation control instruction of the breast compression unit is the first operation instruction unit or the second operation instruction unit A determination unit for determining whether the data corresponds to the left or right breast of the subject;
A mammography apparatus comprising:   The mammography apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an association unit that associates the determination result by the determination unit with the image data.   The mammography apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a display unit that displays the image data associated with the determination result.   The mammography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first operation instruction unit and the second operation instruction unit include a foot switch.   The determination unit is either the first operation instruction unit or the second operation instruction unit, which is used as an operation instruction for compressing the breast of the subject in one imaging. The mammography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination is based on whether or not. A first sensor provided to correspond to the left side of the arm part and reacting to an operator located on the left side of the arm part;
A second sensor provided so as to correspond to the right side of the arm part and reacting to an operator located on the right side of the arm part;
With
The determination unit responds to the operator whether the operation instruction unit used to instruct the operation control of the breast compression unit is the first operation instruction unit or the second operation instruction unit. The image data generated by the image data generation unit corresponds to the left or right breast of the subject based on at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor. The mammography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determination is made.   2. The determination unit according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit makes a determination based on at least one of a use count and a total use time of the operation instruction unit used for an operation control instruction of the breast compression unit in one imaging. Mammography device.   The mammography according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines based on whether the operation instruction unit used last is one of the first operation instruction unit and the second operation instruction unit in one shooting. apparatus. An image data generation unit that generates image data based on the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray irradiation unit and detected by the X-ray detection unit facing the X-ray irradiation unit;
An operation control unit for controlling rotation of an arm unit having the X-ray irradiation unit and the X-ray detection unit;
A determination unit that determines whether the image data generated by the image data generation unit corresponds to the left or right breast of the subject, based on the rotation angle of the arm unit;
A mammography apparatus comprising:   The mammography apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising an association unit that associates the determination result by the determination unit with the image data.

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