JP2016174792A - X-ray fluoroscopic equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus provided with a foot switch capable of reliably avoiding a switch stepping error without directing the line of sight toward the foot.SOLUTION: An X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus 1 includes a foot switch 29 to which a detection sensor 43 is provided. The detection sensor 43 detects whether or not an operator's foot is in contact with a switch for each switch provided to the foot switch 29. Since the information detected by the detection sensor 43 is displayed on an image display monitor in a visible state such as by a character and video, the operator can visually confirm the information to specify the switch 39 that the foot is in contact with. Therefore, the operator can grasp the information on the switch 39 that is currently selected quickly and accurately.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus for acquiring an X-ray image of a subject, and more particularly, to an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus including a foot switch that is operated by a surgeon to switch an on / off operation. .

  In a medical site or the like, an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus is used as an apparatus for performing X-ray fluoroscopy or X-ray imaging on a subject. X-ray fluoroscopy is to continuously irradiate a subject with X-rays having a relatively low dose and intermittently acquire X-ray images, and is used to search for a lesion site or the like. X-ray imaging is used to irradiate a subject with X-rays having a relatively high dose for a short time to obtain a clearer X-ray image. Therefore, an operation of switching between fluoroscopy and X-ray imaging is frequently performed during the surgical procedure.

  A configuration is known in which an input is performed using a foot switch when an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus is used. In a surgical procedure performed at a medical site, an operator often operates a medical instrument such as a catheter or a scalpel with both hands. Therefore, the operator performs on / off operations of X-ray fluoroscopy and X-ray imaging by stepping on a foot switch installed near the foot. By using a foot switch, X-ray fluoroscopy and X-ray imaging can be switched on and off at an appropriate timing even in situations where manual input operations are difficult, such as when operating a medical instrument with both hands. it can.

  The foot switch is used not only to perform on / off operations of X-ray fluoroscopy and X-ray imaging but also to operate on / off of the vertical movement of the top plate on which the subject is placed. Therefore, the foot switch generally includes a plurality of switches arranged in parallel. An operation corresponding to the depressed switch is executed by selecting and depressing any of the plurality of switches.

  When a foot switch is operated with a foot switch, the surgeon's line of sight is generally on a subject placed on the top, a hand operating a medical instrument such as a catheter, or a monitor on which an X-ray image is displayed. Watched. Therefore, an attempt is made to distinguish a plurality of switches without directing the line of sight to the foot switch under the foot. That is, a configuration in which a partition is provided between a plurality of switches, a configuration in which the shape of the switch is different for each switch, and the like have been proposed.

  In recent years, a configuration has been proposed in which an obstacle formed of an elastic body is provided on any one of a plurality of switches (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the conventional configuration described in Patent Document 1, as an example, an obstacle is provided above the X-ray imaging switch, so that an X-ray fluoroscopic switch and an X-ray imaging switch are provided based on the presence or absence of the obstacle. I hope to distinguish it from. In addition, since the strength of the stepping force to operate the switch is increased by installing an obstacle, it is expected to prevent the accidental execution of X-ray imaging with a strong dose.

JP 2008-36278 A

However, the conventional example having such a configuration has the following problems.
That is, in a conventional fluoroscopic imaging apparatus including a foot switch, it is difficult to accurately distinguish a plurality of switches without directing the line of sight toward the foot switch. For this reason, there is a concern that the subject is subjected to unnecessary X-ray irradiation or the time required for the surgical procedure is increased as a result of performing an operation different from the assumption by mistakenly pressing the switch.

  Therefore, in order to surely avoid an erroneous stepping of the switch in the conventional foot switch, it is necessary for the operator to frequently remove the line of sight from the monitor, the subject, etc. and direct the line of sight to the foot switch. In this case, there is a concern that the surgeon cannot concentrate his / her line of sight on a monitor or the like, and that the efficiency of X-ray imaging or X-ray fluoroscopy is reduced, or that the burden on the operator is increased by frequently moving the line of sight. .

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus including a foot switch that can reliably avoid stepping on a switch without turning the line of sight toward the foot. Objective.

In order to achieve such an object, the present invention has the following configuration.
That is, an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to the present invention includes an X-ray tube that irradiates a specimen with X-rays, an X-ray detection unit that detects X-rays transmitted through the subject and outputs an X-ray detection signal; A foot switch including a control switch for controlling on / off of X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube by an operator operating with a foot, and the operator is in contact with the control switch, or the control switch Switch operation detecting means for detecting that the switch is displaced to the extent that it is not turned on, and switch operation display means for displaying the result detected by the switch operation detecting means.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the switch operation detecting means is displaced so that the operator is in contact with the control switch or the control switch is not turned on. Is detected. The result detected by the switch operation detection means is displayed by the switch operation display means. By visually recognizing the switch operation display means, the surgeon can visually grasp that the surgeon is in contact with the control switch or that the control switch is displaced to an extent that the control switch is not turned on.

  Since vision is a sensitive sensation, the surgeon can quickly and accurately grasp the result detected by the switch operation detection means. That is, it is possible to quickly and accurately grasp information that the operator is in contact with the control switch or is displaced to such an extent that the control switch is not turned on. Accordingly, it is possible to reliably avoid an operation different from the operation assumption due to an erroneous stepping of the control switch, and thus it is possible to prevent unnecessary exposure of the subject. In addition, prolonged time required for the surgical procedure can be suitably avoided.

  In the above-described invention, an image generation unit that generates an X-ray image based on the X-ray detection signal output from the X-ray detection unit, and an image display unit that displays the X-ray image generated by the image generation unit. The switch operation display means is preferably provided in the image display means.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the switch operation display means is provided in the image display means. Since the image display means displays an X-ray image, the operator frequently turns his / her line of sight to the image display means in order to confirm the X-ray image during the progress of the surgical procedure. When having such a configuration, the operator can confirm the result detected by the switch operation detecting means with the line of sight directed toward the image display means. Therefore, since it is not necessary to move the line of sight from the image display means in order to avoid mistakenly stepping on the control switch, the burden on the operator can be further reduced.

  Further, in the above-described invention, the switch operation includes: device information detection means for detecting position information of the X-ray tube and information on the X-ray irradiation direction as device information; and device information display means for displaying the device information. The display means is preferably provided in the device information display means.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the switch operation display means is provided in the apparatus information display means for displaying apparatus information. During the progress of the surgical procedure, the surgeon frequently turns his gaze toward the device information display means in order to confirm the position information of the X-ray tube and the information of the X-ray irradiation direction. In such a configuration, the surgeon can confirm the result detected by the switch operation detecting means with the line of sight directed toward the apparatus information display means. Therefore, since it is not necessary to move the line of sight from the apparatus information display means in order to reliably avoid an erroneous stepping of the control switch, the burden on the operator can be further reduced.

  In the above-described invention, it is preferable that an input unit for inputting X-ray irradiation conditions of the X-ray tube is provided, and the switch operation display unit is provided in the input unit.

  [Operation and Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the switch operation display means is provided in the input section. During the progress of the surgical procedure, the operator frequently turns his / her line of sight to the input unit in order to input the X-ray irradiation conditions of the X-ray tube. When having such a configuration, the surgeon can confirm the result detected by the switch operation detecting means with the line of sight directed toward the input unit. Therefore, since it is not necessary to move the line of sight from the input unit in order to reliably avoid a mistake in stepping on the control switch, the burden on the operator can be further reduced.

  In the above-described invention, the control switch performs a first stage operation for preparing X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube and a second stage operation for executing X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube. The switch operation detecting means is in a state where the operator is in contact with the control switch and in a state where the operator is operating the first stage with respect to the control switch. It is preferable to detect and distinguish the state where the surgeon is performing the second stage operation on the control switch.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the control switch is a two-stage switch. The switch operation detecting means includes a state in which the operator is in contact with the control switch, a state in which the operator is performing a first-stage operation on the control switch, and a state in which the operator is operating with respect to the control switch. It is detected separately from the state where the second stage operation is performed.

  The operator can quickly and surely grasp which control switch is operated to what level by visually recognizing information displayed on the switch operation display means. Therefore, since the current state of X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube can be promptly confirmed as to whether it is an unprepared state, a ready state, or an execution state, it is caused by an error in grasping the stage where the control switch is operated. Misoperations can be avoided more reliably. As a result, unnecessary exposure of the subject and prolonged time required for the surgical procedure can be more suitably avoided.

  In the above-described invention, the switch operation detecting means is preferably a distance meter that measures the distance between the operator's foot and the control switch.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the switch operation detecting means is a distance meter for measuring the distance between the operator's foot and the control switch. Based on the distance between the control switch and the foot, the switch operation detecting means detects that the operator is in contact with the control switch or that the control switch is displaced to the extent that the control switch is not turned on. In such a configuration, the switch operation detecting means can quickly detect that the operator is in contact with the control switch when the operator brings the foot close to the control switch to operate the control switch. Therefore, the surgeon can quickly grasp the result detected by the switch operation detecting means, and can advance the surgical procedure more quickly and accurately.

  In the above-described invention, it is preferable that the switch operation detecting means is a pressure sensor that measures a pressing force with respect to the control switch.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus according to the present invention, the switch operation detecting means is a pressure sensor for measuring the pressing force to the control switch. In such a configuration, the switch operation detecting means reliably detects that the operator is in contact with the control switch or is displaced to the extent that the control switch is not turned on, based on the pressure applied to the control switch. it can. Accordingly, the operator can surely grasp the result detected by the switch operation detecting means, so that the surgical procedure can be advanced more quickly and accurately.

  In the above-described invention, it is preferable that the foot switch includes a plurality of the control switches, and the switch operation display means displays which control switch is touched or displaced.

  [Operation / Effect] According to the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus of the present invention, the foot switch includes a plurality of control switches, and the switch operation display means determines which control switch is in contact with or displaced. indicate. The operator can quickly and surely know which control switch is in contact or displaced by visually recognizing the information displayed by the switch operation display means. Accordingly, it is possible to surely avoid a malfunction caused by operating a control switch different from the assumption, so that unnecessary exposure of the subject can be prevented. In addition, prolonged time required for the surgical procedure can be suitably avoided.

  According to the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to the present invention, the switch operation detecting means detects that the operator is in contact with the control switch or is displaced to the extent that the control switch is not turned on. The result detected by the switch operation detection means is displayed by the switch operation display means. By visually recognizing the switch operation display means, the surgeon can visually grasp that the surgeon is in contact with the control switch or that the control switch is displaced to an extent that the control switch is not turned on.

  Since vision is a sensitive sensation, the surgeon can quickly and accurately grasp the result detected by the switch operation detection means. That is, it is possible to quickly and accurately grasp information that the operator is in contact with the control switch or is displaced to such an extent that the control switch is not turned on. Accordingly, it is possible to reliably avoid an operation different from the operation assumption due to an erroneous stepping of the control switch, and thus it is possible to prevent unnecessary exposure of the subject. In addition, prolonged time required for the surgical procedure can be suitably avoided.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration of an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 3 is an overhead view illustrating a schematic configuration of a foot switch according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the state which operates the foot switch which concerns on Example 1. FIG. (A) is a figure which shows the state which does not bring a foot close and does not operate a switch, (b) is a figure which shows the state which has contacted the foot with the switch in order to operate a switch, (c) is a switch It is a figure which shows the state which has made the leg | limb adjoin to a switch in order to operate. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a main part of an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the aspect which displays the information of the selected switch. (A) is a figure which shows the information displayed on an image display monitor in Example 1, (b) is a figure which shows the information displayed on an image display monitor in Example 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the state which operates the foot switch which concerns on Example 2. FIG. (A) is a figure which shows the state which has made the foot contact the switch in order to operate a switch, (b) is a figure which has made the switch half-pressed, (c) is a state by which the switch is fully pushed FIG. It is a figure which shows the state which operates the structure which concerns on a modification. (A) is a figure which shows the aspect which displays information on an operation panel in a modification, (b) is an overhead view which shows the foot switch which concerns on a modification.

  Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to the embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating the configuration of the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to the embodiment.

<Description of overall configuration>
The X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a top 3 on which a subject M that takes a horizontal posture is placed, a support 4 that is installed on the floor and supports the top 3, and the subject M. Are provided with an X-ray tube 5 that emits X-rays and an X-ray detector 7 that detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 5. The top plate 3 is configured to be movable in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction. The X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 are arranged to face each other with the top plate 3 interposed therebetween. The X-ray detector 7 has a detection surface for detecting X-rays, and X-ray detection elements are two-dimensionally arranged on the detection surface. The X-ray detector converts the detected X-ray into an electric signal, and outputs the converted electric signal as an X-ray detection signal.

  The X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 are respectively provided at one end and the other end of the C-type arm 9. The C-type arm 9 is held by an arm holding member 11 and is configured to slide along an arc path of the C-type arm 9 indicated by reference sign RA. The arm holding member 11 is disposed on the side surface portion of the support column 13 and can rotate around the horizontal axis RB parallel to the x direction (the longitudinal direction of the top 3 and the body axis direction of the subject M). Configured as follows. The C-type arm 9 held by the arm holding member 11 rotates around the axis in the x direction according to the arm holding member 11.

  The support column 13 is supported by a support base 15 disposed on the floor surface, and is configured to be horizontally movable in the y direction (the short direction of the top plate 3). The arm holding member 11 and the C-type arm 9 supported by the column 13 move in the y direction according to the horizontal movement of the column 13. The collimator 17 is provided in the X-ray tube 5 and limits the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 5 to a cone shape or the like that is a pyramid.

  The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus 1 further includes an X-ray irradiation control unit 19, a top plate moving mechanism 20, an image generation unit 21, an operation panel 23, a display device 25, a main control unit 27, and a foot switch 29. It has. The X-ray irradiation control unit 19 is connected to the X-ray tube 5 and configured to output a high voltage to the X-ray tube 5. Based on the high voltage output given by the X-ray irradiation control unit 19, the X-ray dose irradiated by the X-ray tube 5 and the timing of X-ray irradiation are controlled. The top plate moving mechanism 20 is connected to the top plate 3 and moves the top plate 3 in the horizontal direction (x direction and y direction) and in the vertical direction (z direction). The image generation unit 21 is provided in the subsequent stage of the X-ray detector 7 and generates an X-ray image of the subject M based on the X-ray detection signal output from the X-ray detector 7.

  The operation panel 23 is used to input the contents of various instructions given by the surgeon, and examples thereof include a keyboard input type, mouse input type, or touch input type panel. The surgeon operates the input unit 23 to control the movement of the top 3, the X-ray irradiation conditions such as the tube voltage and tube current of the X-ray tube 5, and the slide movement and rotation movement of the C-type arm 9. Enter the information. It is preferable that the operation panel 23 is disposed at a position such as a side portion of the top board 3 that is close to the operator when performing medical treatment on the subject M. Moreover, it is preferable that the position where the operation panel is provided is a position that is high enough to allow the operator to manually operate the medical action. The operation panel 23 corresponds to the input unit in the present invention.

  The display device 25 includes an image display monitor 31 and a device information display monitor 33. The image display monitor 31 displays various X-ray images generated by the image generation unit 21. The apparatus information display monitor 33 displays apparatus information that is physical information of each unit such as the top plate 3, the X-ray tube 5, and the X-ray detector 7 that constitute the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus 1.

  Specific examples of the device information include information regarding the three-dimensional coordinate position of each unit, information regarding the slide position of the C-arm 9 in the RA direction, and information regarding the rotation angle of the C-arm 9 in the RB direction. The number of image display monitors 31 and device information display monitors 33 may be changed as appropriate. The display device 25 is preferably provided at a relatively high position so that the surgeon can easily confirm various information when performing a medical practice, and more preferably at a position about the height of the surgeon's line of sight. preferable.

  The slide movement amount of the C-type arm 9 and the rotational movement amount and horizontal movement amount of the arm holding member 11 are respectively detected by a plurality of sensors attached to the C-type arm 9 and the arm holding member 11. Since the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 are provided on the C-type arm 9, the spatial positions of the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 change with the opposing arrangement maintained as the C-type arm 9 and the arm holding member 11 move. . Further, the X-ray irradiation direction of the X-ray tube 5 changes as the C-arm 9 and the arm holding member 11 move. That is, based on each detection signal of the sensor, the position information of the imaging system composed of the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray detector 7 and the X-ray irradiation direction of the X-ray tube 5 are detected as device information. Each of the sensors corresponds to a device information detection unit in the present invention.

  The main control unit 27 is configured by a central processing unit (CPU) or the like, and based on the contents of instructions input to the operation panel 23, the X-ray irradiation control unit 19, the top board moving mechanism 20, and the image generation unit. 21, the image display monitor 31 and the device information display monitor 33 are collectively controlled. The main control unit 27 receives information detected by a detection sensor, which will be described later, and transmits the information to the image display monitor 31.

  The foot switch 29 is placed on the floor surface below the top plate 3, and is connected to a power source and a CPU constituting the main control unit 27 via a cable 35. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the main control unit 27 is built in the support unit 4, and the cable 35 is connected to the support unit 4 in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the foot switch 29 includes a body portion 37, a switch 39 operated by a surgeon with a foot, and a bottom plate 41. The switch 39 is composed of three pedal switches, a fluoroscopic switch 39a, a photographing switch 39b, and a top board moving switch 39c. In the first embodiment, the number of switches 39 is three, but the number of switches 39 may be changed as appropriate.

  The fluoroscopic switch 39a controls on / off of X-ray fluoroscopy. That is, when the fluoroscopic switch 39 a is stepped on with a foot, a control signal is transmitted from the main control unit 27 to the X-ray irradiation control unit 19. The X-ray irradiation control unit 19 starts X-ray fluoroscopy in which a relatively low dose of X-rays is intermittently emitted from the X-ray tube 5 based on the control signal. The imaging switch 39b controls on / off of X-ray imaging. That is, by stepping on the imaging switch 39b with the foot, the X-ray irradiation control unit 19 starts X-ray imaging for irradiating a relatively high dose of X-rays from the X-ray tube 5.

  The top board movement switch 39c controls on / off of the vertical movement of the top board 3. That is, when the top board moving switch 39 is stepped on with a foot, a control signal is transmitted from the main control unit 27 to the top board moving mechanism 20, and the top board moving mechanism 20 changes the height of the top board 3. By the operation of the top board moving switch 39c, the operator can perform a medical action on the top board 3 at a relatively low position (boarding position) for the subject M to get on and off the top board 3 and the subject M in the supine position. Move up and down between relatively high positions (medical positions).

  Each switch 39 includes a detection sensor 43. The detection sensor 43 detects that the switch 39 has received contact, and transmits a signal for specifying the switch 39 that has received contact to the main control unit 27. In the first embodiment, the detection sensor 43 uses an ultrasonic distance meter (ultrasonic sensor) that measures a distance from an obstacle using ultrasonic waves. However, if the detection sensor 43 is configured to detect contact, the method of the detection sensor 43 is publicly known. These methods may be used as appropriate. Other examples of the method of the detection sensor 43 include a pressure sensor and a photo sensor. In addition, the detection sensors 43 provided in each of the switches 39a to 39c are distinguished as detection sensors 43a to 43c, respectively. The switch 39 corresponds to a control switch in the present invention. The detection sensor 43 corresponds to the switch operation detection means in the present invention.

  The operation of the foot switch 29 will be described by taking as an example a case where the fluoroscopic switch 39a is depressed. In a state where the fluoroscopic switch 39a is not used, the ultrasonic wave S is oscillated upward from the detection sensor 43a as shown in FIG. When the operator touches the fluoroscopic switch 39a to operate the fluoroscopic switch 39a, the upper portion of the detection sensor 43a is shielded by the operator's foot F as shown in FIG.

  In this case, the fluoroscopic switch 39a is displaced in the z direction to such an extent that it is not turned on. When the detection sensor 43a is shielded by the foot F, the ultrasonic wave S is reflected quickly by the operator's foot F. The detection sensor 43a measures the distance between the foot F and the detection sensor 43a based on the time during which the ultrasonic wave S is reflected, and detects that the foot F is in contact with the fluoroscopic switch 39a.

  As shown in FIG. 5, each of the detection sensors 43 a to 43 c is connected to the main control unit 27, and the main control unit 27 is connected to the image display monitor 31. When the detection sensor 43a detects the contact of the foot F, a signal indicating that the operator's foot has contacted the fluoroscopic switch 39a is transmitted from the detection sensor 43a to the image display monitor 31 via the main control unit 27.

  Based on the received signal, the image display monitor 31 displays information Q for identifying the switch in contact with the surgeon, as shown in FIG. The information Q is displayed as information that can be grasped visually, such as character information and video information. By visually recognizing the information Q, the surgeon can confirm that the switch 39 currently in contact is the fluoroscopic switch 39a. Since the information Q is information that can be grasped visually, the operator can quickly and reliably grasp that the operator is touching the fluoroscopic switch 39a. The image display monitor 31 corresponds to switch operation display means in the present invention.

  The surgeon confirms that his / her foot is currently in contact with the fluoroscopic switch 39a and steps on the fluoroscopic switch 39a toward the bottom plate 41. When the fluoroscopic switch 39a is depressed, the X-ray fluoroscopy is switched on, and a relatively low dose of X-rays is intermittently emitted from the X-ray tube 5. The image generation unit 21 intermittently generates an X-ray image (X-ray fluoroscopic image) by X-ray fluoroscopy based on the X-ray detection signal output from the X-ray detector 7. The X-ray fluoroscopic image is displayed on the image display monitor 31.

  When a clearer image is required than an X-ray fluoroscopic image, the operator moves the position of the foot from the fluoroscopic switch 39a to the imaging switch 39b and performs contact with the imaging switch 39b in order to perform X-ray imaging. . In this case, the detection sensor 43b detects that the operator's foot is in contact with the imaging switch 39b. Information Q indicating which switch 39 is touched or displaced is transmitted from the detection sensor 43 b to the image display monitor 31 via the main control unit 27. The image display monitor 31 displays the transmitted information Q. The content of the information Q in this case is information indicating that the switch 39 in contact (or displacement) is the photographing switch 39b.

  The surgeon visually recognizes the information Q displayed on the image display monitor 31, and confirms that the foot is in contact with the photographing switch 39b. Thereafter, the X-ray imaging is turned on by depressing the imaging switch 39b to irradiate the X-ray tube 5 with a relatively high dose of X-rays. The image generation unit 21 generates an X-ray image (X-ray image) by X-ray imaging based on the X-ray detection signal. The operator switches between X-ray fluoroscopy and X-ray radiography at an appropriate and accurate timing while appropriately checking the switch in contact with the foot by visually recognizing the information Q, and switches between the X-ray fluoroscopy image and the X-ray radiograph image. Refer to the procedure.

  When starting the surgical procedure, after placing the subject M on the top board 3 at the boarding / exiting position, the operator operates the top board moving switch 39c with his / her foot to move the top board 3 vertically from the boarding / exiting position to the medical care position. Move. In this case, the detection sensor 43c detects the contact of the foot F by bringing the operator's foot F into contact with the top board movement switch 39c. Then, the detection sensor 43c transmits information Q indicating that the switch 39 selected by the operator is the top board movement switch 39c to the main control unit 27. The main control unit 27 transmits information Q to the image display monitor 31 to display it.

  By visually recognizing the information Q, the surgeon can quickly confirm that the switch 39 with which the operator is in contact is the top board movement switch 39c. For example, the operator mistakes the top board movement switch 39c and depresses the X-ray imaging switch 39b. Can be avoided. Therefore, unnecessary exposure due to an erroneous stepping on the switch 39 can be prevented. When the surgical procedure is completed, the operator operates the top board moving switch 39c with his / her foot, vertically moves the top board 3 from the medical care position to the boarding / alighting position, and lowers the subject M from the top board 3. Also at this time, the detection sensor 43c detects that the operator contacts the top board movement switch 39c and displays the information Q, so that the operator can operate the top board movement switch 39c with certainty.

  Note that the configuration using an ultrasonic or optical distance meter as the detection sensor 43 as in the first embodiment is capable of quickly displaying the information Q based on the distance between the operator's foot and the detection sensor 43. preferable. That is, as shown in FIG. 4C, when the foot F is close to the fluoroscopic switch 39a, the distance between the detection sensor 43a and the foot F is short. The detection sensor 43a can detect that the operator steps on the fluoroscopic switch 39a based on the fact that the distance from the foot F is approaching. Then, the detection sensor 43a causes the image display monitor 31 to display information Q indicating that the contact switch 39 is the fluoroscopic switch 39a via the main control unit 27 (FIG. 6A).

  In such a configuration, even if the foot F is not in contact with the switch 39, the detection sensor 43a detects the position of the foot F above the foot switch 29 while the foot F is close to the fluoroscopic switch 39a. Information on the content of selecting the fluoroscopic switch 39a can be transmitted. Accordingly, the surgeon can more quickly grasp through vision that the switch 39 he / she selects is the fluoroscopic switch 39a.

<Effects of Configuration of Example 1>
In a conventional foot switch, a surgeon distinguishes a switch on which a foot is placed by providing a configuration in which a partition is provided between a plurality of switches and a configuration in which the shape of the switch is different for each switch. In other words, in the conventional configuration, the surgeon grasps the information of the switch that is in contact only through the sense of touch. However, since tactile sensation is a relatively dull sensation among human senses, it is difficult to accurately distinguish a switch in contact with a foot with a conventional foot switch. Therefore, in order to confirm which switch is currently selected, the operator needs to visually remove the line of sight from the monitor or the subject and visually check the foot switch placed under the foot. As a result, the burden on the operator increases and the time required for the progress of the surgical procedure becomes longer.

  On the other hand, the fluoroscopic imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a foot switch 29 provided with a detection sensor 43. The detection sensor 43 is provided in each of the switches, and detects that the operator's foot and the switch 39 are in contact with each other, or that the switch 39 is displaced so as not to be turned on. When the detection sensor 43 detects, it is specified which of the switches 39 provided on the foot switch 29 is the switch 39 selected by the operator.

  Since the detection result of the detection sensor 43 is displayed in a state where the characters and images are visible, the surgeon can visually confirm the information Q specifying the switch 39 with which the foot is in contact. Since vision is a sensitive sensation, the surgeon can quickly and accurately grasp information Q that identifies the currently selected switch 39.

  Information detected by the detection sensor 43 is displayed on an image display monitor 31 having a configuration different from that of the foot switch 29. When a medical practice is performed on the subject M, the operator's line of sight is mainly directed to the image display monitor 31 in order to confirm the X-ray image P of the subject M. The image display monitor 31 is provided at a relatively high position in the operator's line of sight, and the information Q is displayed on the image display monitor 31 together with the X-ray image P as shown in FIG. Therefore, the surgeon can grasp the contact with the fluoroscopic switch 39a without moving the line of sight from the image display monitor 31. Therefore, the surgeon can confirm the information Q of the switch to be selected more reliably without impairing the concentration on the technique.

  Further, since the various sensors constituting the detection sensor 43 are all small, they can be incorporated in the foot switch 29. Therefore, even when the detection sensor 43 is mounted, problems such as an increase in the size of the foot switch 29 and an increase in cost can be avoided. Further, by incorporating the detection sensor 43, the positional relationship between each of the switches 39 and each of the detection sensors 43 does not change. Therefore, even when the foot switch 29 is moved, the detection sensor 43 reliably detects the switch 39 in contact with the operator and displays the accurate information Q. Therefore, even when the operator moves the foot switch 29 by a cause such as kicking the foot switch 29 by mistake, the operator can visually check the displayed information Q to determine the switch 39 that is in contact. Accurate information can be confirmed.

  Next, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The overall configuration of the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. However, in the first embodiment, the detection sensor 43 is configured to determine whether or not the operator's foot is in contact with the switch 39. On the other hand, the detection sensor 43 according to the second embodiment is in a state where the switch 39 is not in contact (non-contact state), a state where the operator's foot is in contact with the switch 39 and the switch 39 is slightly displaced (contact state). ) And the state where the switch 39 is depressed.

  In a general X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus, a two-stage switch is used as a switch configuration for controlling X-ray irradiation. That is, taking the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a as an example, in the state where the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a is stepped down to the first stage (half-pressed state, FIG. 7B), the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a passes through the main control unit 27. Then, an X-ray fluoroscopy preparation signal is transmitted to the X-ray irradiation control unit 19. The X-ray irradiation control unit 19 controls the X-ray tube 5 to be in a preparation state for X-ray irradiation, such as rotating the target of the X-ray tube 5 according to the X-ray fluoroscopic preparation signal.

  Then, in a state where the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a is stepped down to the second level (fully pressed state, FIG. 7C), an X-ray fluoroscopic execution signal is transmitted from the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a to the X-ray irradiation control unit 19. The X-ray irradiation control unit 19 irradiates the X-ray tube 5 with a relatively low dose of X-rays according to the X-ray fluoroscopic execution signal. In Example 1, it is a structure which distinguishes a non-contact state (FIG. 4 (a)) and a contact state (FIG. 4 (b), FIG. 7 (a)), On the other hand, in Example 2, a non-contact state, a contact state, The half-pressed state and the fully-pressed state are distinguished from each other.

  The operation of the foot switch 29 according to the second embodiment will be described taking as an example the case where the fluoroscopic switch 39a is depressed. In the second embodiment, a pressure sensor that detects a force applied to each of the switches 39 is used as the detection sensor 43.

  In the non-contact state shown in FIG. 4A, no force is applied to the fluoroscopic switch 39a. The detection sensor 43a transmits a signal indicating that the fluoroscopic switch 39a is in a non-contact state to the main controller 27 based on the fact that no pressure is applied. On the other hand, in the contact state shown in FIG. 7A, a relatively small force is applied to the fluoroscopic switch 39a. In the half-pressed state shown in FIG. 7B, a larger force is applied to the fluoroscopic switch 39a than in the contact state, and in the fully-pressed state shown in FIG. 7C, a larger force than the half-pressed state is applied to the fluoroscopic switch 39a. .

  The detection sensor 43a can determine whether the fluoroscopic switch 39a is in a non-contact state, a contact state, a half-pressed state, or a full-pressed state by detecting the magnitude of the force applied to the fluoroscopic switch 39a. . The detection sensor 43a transmits a signal indicating which state the fluoroscopic switch 39a is in to the main control unit 27 as needed.

  Similarly to the detection sensor 43a, a signal indicating the state of the photographing switch 39b is transmitted from the detection sensor 43b to the main control unit 27 as needed, and a signal indicating the state of the top panel movement switch 39c is transmitted from the detection sensor 43c to the main control unit 27. Sent from time to time. Based on the transmitted information, the main control unit 27 determines to which level the switch 39 has been depressed, and transmits information Q indicating the determined content to the image display monitor 31. As shown in FIG. 6B, the image display monitor 31 displays the information Q in a visible state such as characters and videos.

  While viewing the X-ray image P, the surgeon refers to the information Q and appropriately switches each operation such as X-ray fluoroscopy, X-ray imaging, and top plate movement to advance the surgical procedure. For example, when the information Q shown in FIG. 6B is displayed, the surgeon visually recognizes the image display monitor 31, and the surgeon has pushed the imaging switch 39b to the first step with his / her foot. You can quickly know that the preparation is complete. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the operator can reliably avoid erroneous selection of the switch 39 and erroneous recognition of the step of pressing the switch 39 without moving the line of sight to the foot switch 29 under the foot.

  In addition, as a structure of the detection sensor 43 which concerns on Example 2, a photo sensor, a microswitch, etc. other than a pressure sensor are mentioned. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C, as the operator steps on the fluoroscopic switch 39a, the fluoroscopic switch 39a moves in the vertical z direction. Therefore, by using a sensor that detects the distance H by which the switch 39 moves in the z direction, the detection sensor 43 can distinguish between a non-contact state, a contact state, a half-pressed state, and a fully-pressed state.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be modified as follows.

  (1) In each of the embodiments described above, the information Q for specifying the switch 39 operated by the operator is displayed on the image display monitor 31, but the target for displaying the information Q is not limited to the image display monitor 31. That is, unlike the foot switch 29 provided under the feet, the information Q may be displayed in an arbitrary configuration provided at a relatively high position above the operator's waist in the operator's field of view. A more preferable configuration for displaying the information Q includes the device information display monitor 33, the display device 25, or the operation panel 23. Further, the configuration for displaying the information Q is not limited to characters and video.

  That is, as an example, as shown in FIG. 8A, a configuration may be adopted in which information L is displayed by providing lamps L corresponding to the respective switches 39 on the operation panel 23 and appropriately lighting the respective lamps L. In FIG. 8A, since the lamp L corresponding to the top board movement switch 39c is lit, the operator directs his / her line of sight to the operation panel 23, so that the top board movement switch 39c is currently stepped on. Can be grasped. Moreover, the structure which displays the information Q with the character etc. on the panel S provided in the operation panel 23 may be sufficient.

  As with the image display monitor 31, the device information display monitor 33, the display device 25, and the operation panel 23 are all configured so that the operator frequently turns his / her line of sight when a surgical procedure is advanced. That is, in order to confirm the three-dimensional coordinates of the X-ray tube 5 and the direction of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 5 to the X-ray detector 7, the operator frequently looks at the device information display monitor 33 and the display device 25. Turn. Also, when inputting various settings such as X-ray irradiation conditions or when inputting instructions for performing various operations such as movement of the C-arm 9, the operator frequently turns his gaze toward the operation panel 23.

  Therefore, by displaying the information Q in such a state that the information Q is visible, the operator can grasp that the operator is currently in contact with the fluoroscopic switch 39a without moving the line of sight. In addition, the device information display monitor 33, the display device 25, and the operation panel 23 are all provided at a relatively high position in the field of view of the operator, separately from the foot switch 29. Therefore, the operator need not move the line of sight to the foot switch 29 under the foot when confirming the selected switch. Therefore, the surgeon can confirm information on the switch 39 that is currently depressed more reliably without impairing the concentration on the technique. As a result, the burden on the operator can be reduced and the time required for the surgical procedure can be shortened.

  (2) In each embodiment described above, the configuration of the switch 39 provided in the foot switch 27 is not limited to the pedal type switch. That is, each of the switches 39 may adopt another method such as a push button type. Further, as shown in FIG. 8B, a structure in which pedal type switches 39a to 39c and push button type switches 39d to 39f are provided in parallel may be employed. In this case, the surgeon steps on the pedal switch 39a or the push button switch 39d with his / her foot to start X-ray fluoroscopy.

  Similarly to the switches 39a to 39c, a detection sensor 43 is disposed in each of the switches 39d to 39f. That is, when the surgeon makes contact with any of the switches 39d to 39f with his / her foot, information specifying the switch touched by the surgeon is transmitted to the image display monitor 31 via the main control unit 27. Then, the image display monitor 31 displays information for specifying the switch that the operator has touched among the switches 39d to 39f.

  (3) In each of the above-described embodiments, the operations controlled by the switch 39 are X-ray fluoroscopy, X-ray imaging, and vertical movement of the top 3. However, the operation controlled by the switch 39 is limited to the above. I can't. Another example of the operation controlled by the switch 39 is an operation for controlling on / off of a mechanism for fixing the position of the top 3. That is, when the switch 39 for controlling the locking of the top plate 3 is stepped on with a foot, the mechanism for fixing the top plate 3 is released, and the top plate 3 can be moved. Further, the foot switch 29 is not necessarily provided with a switch for controlling the X-ray tube 5 like the X-ray fluoroscopic switch 39a. That is, the structure provided only with the switch for controlling the operation | movement of the top plate 3 like the top plate movement switch 39c may be sufficient.

  (4) In each of the above-described embodiments, the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus 1 including the C-type arm 9 has been described as an example. However, the configuration according to the present invention can be applied to a configuration that does not include the C-type arm. In this case, a sensor that detects the three-dimensional position coordinates of the X-ray tube 5 and the X-ray irradiation direction of the X-ray tube 5 as device information can be provided at an appropriate position. The detected device information is transmitted to the main control unit 27 and displayed on the device information display monitor 33.

  (5) In the above-described second embodiment, each switch 39 is described as an example of a configuration in which each of the switches 39 is a two-stage switch. However, each of the switches 39 may be a multi-stage switch having three or more stages. . In this case, each of the detection sensors 43 detects the state in which the switch 39 is stepped on at each stage, and transmits the detected information to the image display monitor 31.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus 5 ... X-ray tube 21 ... Image generation part 23 ... Operation panel (input part)
25 ... Display device 27 ... Main control unit 29 ... Foot switch 31 ... Image display monitor (switch operation display means)
33 ... Device information display monitor 39 ... Switch (control switch)
43 ... Detection sensor (switch operation detection means)

Claims (8)

An X-ray tube that irradiates the subject with X-rays;
An X-ray detector that detects X-rays transmitted through the subject and outputs an X-ray detection signal;
A foot switch comprising a control switch for controlling on / off of X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube by an operator operating with a foot;
Switch operation detecting means for detecting that the operator is in contact with the control switch, or that the operator is displaced to such an extent that the control switch is not turned on;
An X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus comprising: a switch operation display unit that displays a result detected by the switch operation detection unit. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to claim 1,
An image generation unit that generates an X-ray image based on the X-ray detection signal output by the X-ray detection unit;
Image display means for displaying an X-ray image generated by the image generation unit,
The switch operation display means is an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus provided in the image display means. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to claim 1 or 2,
Apparatus information detecting means for detecting position information of the X-ray tube and information of the X-ray irradiation direction as apparatus information;
Device information display means for displaying the device information,
The switch operation display means is an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus provided in the apparatus information display means. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
An input unit for inputting X-ray irradiation conditions of the X-ray tube;
The switch operation display means is an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus provided in the input unit. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to claim 1,
The control switch is a two-stage switch for performing a first stage operation for preparing X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube and a second stage operation for executing X-ray irradiation by the X-ray tube,
The switch operation detecting means includes a state in which the operator is in contact with the control switch, a state in which the operator is performing the first stage operation on the control switch, and the operator. X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus that distinguishes and detects the state in which the second-stage operation is performed on the control switch. In the X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus, wherein the switch operation detecting means is a distance meter that measures a distance between the operator's foot and the control switch. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The X-ray fluoroscopic imaging apparatus, wherein the switch operation detecting means is a pressure sensor that measures a pressing force to the control switch. The X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The foot switch includes a plurality of the control switches,
The switch operation display means is an X-ray fluoroscopic apparatus that displays which control switch is touched or displaced.

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