JP2017086160A - X-ray computer tomography apparatus and rack apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an X-ray computer tomography apparatus capable of performing a digestive tract X-ray contrast inspection easily.SOLUTION: An X-ray tube 15 generates an X-ray. An X-ray detector 17 detects an X-ray. A rack body 11 includes an opening 11a forming an imaging space, and accommodates the X-ray tube 15 and the X-ray detector 17. A support pillar 13 supports the rack body 11 so that it rotates around a horizontal axis R2 horizontally orthogonal to a central axis R1 of the opening 11a. A top plate support 31 supports a top plate 19 disposed in the opening 11a at one end part and the other end part with respect to the central axis R1 direction of the rack body 11.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an X-ray computed tomography apparatus and a gantry.

  In the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination, it is necessary to change the position of the patient into which the contrast medium is injected in order to attach the contrast medium to the digestive tract of the patient. X-ray computed tomography is widely used in X-ray contrast examinations, but X-ray computed tomography is basically performed with the patient fixed. For this reason, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus is not suitable for the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination.

Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2015-6329 Japanese Patent Publication No. 08-4586 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 01-314549

  An object of the embodiment is to provide an X-ray computed tomography apparatus and a gantry that can easily perform a digestive tract X-ray contrast examination.

  The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the present embodiment is an X-ray computed tomography apparatus including a gantry device that performs X-ray CT imaging of a subject and a console that processes data from the gantry device. An apparatus includes an X-ray tube that generates X-rays, an X-ray detector that detects X-rays, and a gantry body that has an opening that forms an imaging space and accommodates the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector. A gantry support frame that supports the gantry main body so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis that is horizontally orthogonal to the central axis of the opening, and a top plate disposed in the opening at one end with respect to the central axis direction of the gantry main body. And a top plate supporter supported at the other end.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an appearance of the gantry device of FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body of FIG. FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the gantry body and the column of FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of the gantry body and the column of FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the top plate of FIG. 1 as viewed from the front side. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the top plate of FIG. 1 viewed from the back side. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the top plate and the support arm in a state where the support arm is fitted in the groove of the top plate of FIG. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another top plate according to the present embodiment, which is different from FIG. 6, as viewed from the front side. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the top plate and the support arm in a state where the support arm is fitted into the groove of the top plate of FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating the tilting operation of the gantry body and the top plate according to the present embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 1. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body of FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 2. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body of FIG. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an operation example of the top plate support of FIG.

  Hereinafter, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus and a gantry according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment includes a gantry device 10 and a console 50. For example, the gantry device 10 is installed in a CT examination room, and the console 50 is installed in a control room adjacent to the CT examination room. The gantry device 10 and the console 50 are connected to each other in a wired or wireless manner so that they can communicate with each other. The gantry device 10 is a scanning device having a configuration for performing X-ray computed tomography (hereinafter referred to as X-ray CT imaging) of the subject S. The console 50 is a computer that controls the gantry device 10.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of the gantry device 10. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the gantry device 10 includes a gantry body 11 and a column 13. The gantry body 11 is a substantially cylindrical structure in which an opening forming a shooting space (field of view) is formed. As shown in FIG. 1, the gantry body 11 accommodates an X-ray tube 15 and an X-ray detector 17 that are arranged to face each other with the opening 11 a interposed therebetween. An FOV (field of view) is set in the opening 11a. A top plate 19 is inserted into the opening 11 a of the gantry body 11. A subject such as a patient is placed on the top 19. The top plate 10 is a plate-like structure having flexibility. The top plate 19 is preferably made of a material having a relatively high X-ray transmittance, such as urethane foam or carbon. The top 19 and the subject are positioned so that the imaging part of the subject placed on the top 19 is included in the FOV.

  Here, the axis R1 is defined as the central axis of the opening 11a, and the axis R2 is defined as a horizontal axis orthogonal to the axis R1. The axis R3 is defined as an axis orthogonal to the axes R1 and R2. The intersection of the axis R1, the axis R2, and the axis R3 is defined as an isocenter. The Y-axis direction is defined as a vertical direction, the X-axis direction is defined as a direction parallel to the axis R2, and the Z-axis direction is defined as a direction that is horizontally orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. The XYZ coordinate system is an orthogonal coordinate system.

  More specifically, the gantry body 11 includes a main frame (not shown) formed of a metal such as aluminum, and a rotation frame (see FIG. 5) that is rotatably supported by the main frame around a central axis R1 via a bearing or the like. (Not shown). An annular electrode (not shown) is provided at a contact portion of the main frame with the rotating frame. A conductive slider (not shown) is attached to the contact portion of the main frame so as to be in sliding contact with the annular electrode. The rotating frame is a metal frame formed in an annular shape from a metal such as aluminum. An X-ray tube 15 and an X-ray detector 17 are attached to the rotating frame. For example, the X-ray tube 15 and the X-ray detector 17 may be fitted into a recess formed in the rotating frame, or may be fastened by a fastener such as a screw.

  The gantry body 11 receives power from the rotation drive device 21 and rotates the rotating frame around the central axis R1 at a constant angular velocity. The X-ray tube 15 and the X-ray detector 17 rotate around the central axis R1 integrally with the rotating frame. The rotation drive device 21 generates power for rotating the rotating frame in accordance with control from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotation drive device 21 generates power by driving at a rotation speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotary drive device 21 is realized by a motor such as a direct drive motor or a servo motor, for example. The rotation drive device 21 is accommodated in the gantry body 11, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the support column 13 is erected on the floor surface and supports the gantry body 11 while being separated from the floor surface. The column 13 is a base having a columnar shape such as a columnar shape or a prismatic shape. The support column 13 is formed of an arbitrary substance such as plastic or metal. The column 13 supports the gantry body 11 so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis R2 parallel to the floor surface. The column 13 and the gantry body 11 are preferably connected via a bearing or the like so that the gantry body 11 can rotate about the horizontal axis R2. Here, the rotation angle of the gantry body 11 around the horizontal axis R2 by the support column 13 is referred to as a tilt angle. That is, the tilt angle is defined as the angle of the axis R3 with respect to the Y axis. The rotation movable range around the horizontal axis R2 of the gantry body 11 may be set to any angle range. For example, the rotationally movable range may be designed to be less than ± 180 degrees around a tilt angle of 0 degree, or may be designed to be ± 180 degrees or more.

  The support columns 13 are typically attached to both sides of the gantry body 11. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, one strut 13 may be attached to only one side of both sides of the gantry body 11. Moreover, although the support | pillar 13 had a columnar shape, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the column 13 may have any shape such as a U shape as long as it can support at least one side of the gantry body.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the gantry device 10 includes a driving device (hereinafter referred to as a column driving device) 23 for rotating the gantry body 11 around the horizontal axis R <b> 2. The column driving device 23 generates power for rotating the gantry body 11 around the horizontal axis R <b> 2 in accordance with the control from the gantry control circuit 25. Specifically, the column drive device 23 generates power by being driven at a rotational speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The column 13 receives power from the column driving device 23 and rotates the gantry body 11 about the horizontal axis R2. The column drive device 23 is realized by a motor such as a servo motor, for example. The column driving device 23 is accommodated in the gantry body 11, for example.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray tube 15 receives an application of a high voltage from the high voltage generator 27 and generates X-rays. The high voltage generator 27 is attached to a rotating frame accommodated in the gantry body 11, for example. The high voltage generator 27 generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 15 from the power supplied from the power supply device (not shown) of the gantry body 11 via the annular electrode according to the control by the gantry control circuit 25. The high voltage generator 27 and the X-ray tube 15 are connected via a high voltage cable (not shown). The high voltage generated by the high voltage generator 27 is applied to the X-ray tube 15 via a high voltage cable.

  The X-ray detector 17 detects X-rays generated from the X-ray tube 15 and transmitted through the subject. The X-ray detector 17 carries a plurality of X-ray detection elements (not shown) arranged on a two-dimensional curved surface. Each X-ray detection element detects the X-ray from the X-ray tube 15 and converts it into an electric signal having a peak value corresponding to the intensity of the detected X-ray. Each X-ray detection element has, for example, a scintillator and a photoelectric converter. The scintillator receives X-rays and generates fluorescence. The photoelectric converter converts the generated fluorescence into a charge pulse. The charge pulse has a peak value corresponding to the intensity of the X-ray. Specifically, a device such as a photomultiplier tube or a photodiode (Photo Diode) that converts fluorescence into an electrical signal is used as the photoelectric converter. The X-ray detector 17 according to the present embodiment is not limited to an indirect detection type detector that converts X-rays into fluorescence and then converts them into electrical signals, and converts X-rays directly into electrical signals. It may be a direct detection type detector.

  The data collection circuit 29 collects digital data indicating the intensity of X-rays attenuated by the subject for each view. The data acquisition circuit 29 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor integrated circuit in which an integration circuit provided for each of a plurality of X-ray detection elements and an A / D converter are mounted in parallel. The data collection circuit 29 is connected to the X-ray detector 17 in the gantry body 11. The integration circuit integrates the electric signal from the X-ray detection element over a predetermined view period, and generates an integration signal having a peak value corresponding to the intensity of the X-ray over the view period. The A / D converter performs A / D conversion on the generated integration signal, and generates digital data having a data value corresponding to the peak value of the integration signal. The converted digital data is called raw data. The raw data is a set of digital values of X-ray intensity identified by the channel number, column number, and view number of the source X-ray detection element. The raw data is supplied to the console 50 via, for example, a non-contact data transmission device (not shown) accommodated in the gantry body 11. The data collection circuit 27 may be mounted with other circuit elements such as a preamplifier and an IV converter.

  The gantry body 11 is necessary for CT imaging as well as the X-ray tube 15, X-ray detector 17, rotating frame 21, main frame, power supply device, high voltage generator 27, and data acquisition circuit 29. Various other devices may be accommodated. For example, a cooling device for cooling the X-ray tube may be attached to the rotating frame 21. A fan for air conditioning may be attached to the gantry body 11.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the gantry device 10 includes a top plate support 31 that supports the top plate 19 disposed in the opening 11 a at one end and the other end in the direction of the central axis R <b> 1 of the gantry body 11. . The top plate support 31 is attached to the gantry body 11 so as to project toward the opening 11a. Details of the top support 31 will be described later.

  The gantry control circuit 25 controls the high voltage generator 27, the rotation driving device 21, and the column driving device 23 in accordance with control from the system control circuit 61 of the console 50. The gantry control circuit 25 includes, as hardware resources, a processing device (processor) such as a CPU or MPU and a storage device (memory) such as a ROM or RAM. The gantry control circuit 25 may be realized by an ASIC, FPGA, CPLD, SPLD, or the like. The processing device realizes the above function by reading and realizing a program stored in the storage device. Instead of storing the program in the storage device, the program may be directly incorporated in the circuit of the processing device. In this case, the processing device realizes the above function by reading and executing a program incorporated in the circuit.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the console 50 includes an image reconstruction device 51, an image processing device 53, a display circuit 55, an input circuit 57, a main storage circuit 59, and a system control circuit 61 connected via a bus. Have. Data communication between the image reconstruction device 51, the image processing device 53, the display circuit 55, the input circuit 57, the main memory circuit 59, and the system control circuit 61 is performed via a bus.

  The image reconstruction device 51 reconstructs an image related to the subject S based on the raw data from the gantry 10. Specifically, the image reconstruction device 51 includes a data storage circuit 511, a preprocessing unit 513, and a reconstruction calculation unit 515. The data storage circuit 511 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or an integrated circuit storage device that stores raw data transmitted from the gantry device 10. The preprocessing unit 513 performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion and metal artifact reduction processing on the raw data. The reconstruction calculation unit 515 generates a CT image representing a spatial distribution of X-ray attenuation based on the raw data after the preprocessing. Image reconstruction algorithms include analytical image reconstruction methods such as FBP (filtered back projection) and CBP (convolution back projection), ML-EM (maximum likelihood expectation maximization), and OS-EM (ordered subset). An existing image reconstruction algorithm such as a statistical image reconstruction method such as an expectation maximization method may be used.

  The image reconstruction device 51 includes, as hardware resources, a processing device (processor) such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and a storage device (memory) such as a ROM or RAM. The image reconstruction device 51 may be realized by an ASIC, FPGA, CPLD, or SPLD. The processing device realizes the function of the preprocessing unit 513 and the function of the reconstruction calculation unit 515 by reading and executing a program stored in the storage device. Instead of storing the program in the storage device, the program may be directly incorporated in the circuit of the processing device. In this case, the processing apparatus implements the function of the reconstruction calculation unit 515 by reading and executing a program incorporated in the circuit. In addition, a dedicated hardware circuit that realizes the function of the preprocessing unit 513 and a dedicated hardware circuit that realizes the function of the reconstruction calculation unit 515 may be mounted on the image reconstruction device.

  The image processing device 53 performs various image processing on the CT image reconstructed by the image reconstruction device 51. For example, when the CT image is volume data, the image processing device 53 performs volume rendering, surface volume rendering, image value projection processing, MPR (Multi-Planer Reconstruction) processing, CPR (Curved MPR) processing, etc. on the CT image. A three-dimensional image process is performed to generate a two-dimensional display image. The image processing device 53 includes, as hardware resources, a processing device (processor) such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU and a storage device (memory) such as a ROM or RAM. Further, the image processing device 53 may be realized by an ASIC, FPGA, CPLD, or SPLD.

  The display circuit 55 displays various data such as a CT image and a display image. Specifically, the display circuit 55 includes a display interface circuit and a display device. The display interface circuit converts data representing a display target into a video signal. The display signal is supplied to the display device. The display device displays a video signal representing a display target. As the display circuit 55, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, or any other display known in the art can be used as appropriate.

  The input circuit 57 inputs various commands from the user. Specifically, the input circuit 57 includes an input device and an input interface circuit. The input device accepts various commands from the user. As an input device, a keyboard, a mouse, various switches, and the like can be used. The input interface circuit supplies an output signal from the input device to the system control circuit 61 via the bus. The input device 57 may be provided in the console 50 or may be provided in the gantry device 10.

  The main storage circuit 59 is a storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, or an integrated circuit storage device that stores various information. Further, the main storage circuit 59 may be a drive unit that reads / writes various information from / to a portable storage medium such as a CD-ROM drive, a DVD drive, or a flash memory. For example, the main memory circuit 59 stores a control program related to the X-ray CT imaging according to the present embodiment.

  The system control circuit 61 includes, as hardware resources, a processing device (processor) such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) and a storage device (such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory)). Memory). The system control circuit 61 may be realized by an ASIC, FPGA, CPLD, or SPLD. The system control circuit 61 functions as the center of the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment. Specifically, the system control circuit 61 reads out a control program stored in the main storage circuit 59 and develops it on the memory, and controls each part of the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the developed control program.

  The image reconstruction device 51, the image processing device 53, and the system control circuit 61 may be integrated into a single circuit in the console 50, or may be distributed over a plurality of circuits. The image reconstruction device 51, the image processing device 53, and the system control circuit 61 may be integrated on a single substrate in the console 50, or may be distributed on a plurality of substrates.

  Details of the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment will be described below.

  FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body 11. As shown in FIG. 3, an insulating film 111 is provided on the inner peripheral surface facing the opening 11 a of the gantry body 11. The insulating film 111 clearly indicates the position through which the X-rays exposed from the X-ray tube 15 accommodated in the gantry body 11 pass. As the insulating film 111, for example, mylar having mechanical strength and heat resistance is preferably used.

  A top plate support 31 that protrudes toward the opening 11 a is attached to the gantry body 11. The top plate support 31 supports the top plate 19 so as to be detachable. In order to support the top plate 19 from below, the top plate support 31 is provided on one side of the portion facing the opening 11a of the gantry body 11 with the horizontal axis R2 interposed therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 3, the top plate support 31 is specifically realized by a support arm 31-1 provided at the front part of the gantry body 11 and a support arm 3-2 provided at the rear part. Here, the front part is one end part of the gantry body 11 with the X-ray path PX interposed therebetween, and the rear part is the other end part of the gantry body 11 with the X-ray path PX interposed therebetween. Each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 is a support structure formed of a material having rigidity such as metal. Each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 is provided at a position that does not overlap the X-ray path PX in order to avoid attenuation of X-rays by the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2. . Each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 may have any shape as long as it does not overlap the X-ray path PX. For example, each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 may have a columnar shape or a plate shape.
One end of each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 is attached to the gantry body 11 so as to project toward the opening 11a. The other end portions of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 support the top plate 11 in a detachable manner. Each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 is preferably provided on both sides of the axis R3 with respect to the horizontal axis R2 direction in order to support the top plate 11 horizontally. In other words, the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 are provided at four locations below the horizontal axis R2 on the inner peripheral surface of the gantry body 11. If it is possible to support the top plate 11 horizontally, the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 may be provided on one side with the axis R3 interposed in the horizontal axis R2 direction. You may provide in a center part regarding R2 direction. In the following description, it is assumed that each of the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2 has a columnar shape and is disposed on both sides of the axis R3 in the horizontal axis R2 direction.

  As described above, the top plate support 31 supports the top plate 19 at both the front and rear portions sandwiching the X-ray path PX. In the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment, the gantry body 11 and the heaven board 19 can be integrally rotated around the horizontal axis R2 by attaching the top board support 31 to the gantry body 11.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the gantry body 11 and the column 13. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of the gantry body 11 and the support column 13. 4 and 5, the exterior of the gantry body 11 is not shown. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the gantry body 11 (not shown in FIGS. 4 and 5) supports the rotary frame 41 having an annular shape and the rotary frame 41 so as to be rotatable around the central axis R <b> 1. Main frame 43.

  The support column 13 and the main frame 43 are fixed via a gantry arm 45. The gantry arm 45 is a metal plate formed of a metal such as aluminum. The column 13 and the gantry arm 45 are fastened by a fastener such as a screw, for example, and the main frame 43 and the gantry arm 45 are fastened by a fastener such as a screw, for example. The gantry arm 45 is connected to the rotating frame 41 via a bearing 47. The gantry arm 45 supports the rotary frame 41 and the main frame 43 through a bearing 47 so as to be rotatable about the horizontal axis R2.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the gantry arm 45 extends to the front of the rotating frame 41 and the rear of the main frame 43. An installation frame 49 is provided on each of the extending portion 45F extending forward of the rotating frame 41 and the extending portion 45R extending rearward of the main frame 43 in the gantry arm 45. The installation frame 49 extends toward the center of the rotary frame 41 in the X-axis direction. The installation frame 49 is a metal plate formed of a metal such as aluminum. Support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are installed on the installation frame 49. The support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are fixed to the installation frame 49 so as to be exposed from the exterior of the gantry body 11 (not shown) and to face the opening 11a.

  FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the top 19 viewed from the front side. A patient is placed on the surface of the top plate 19. The support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are in contact with the back surface of the top plate 19. A handle 191 is provided on the top plate 19. The handle 191 may be provided at any position as long as the handle 191 is provided at a position where the patient placed on the top board 19 can grip. For example, the handle 191 is preferably provided at both ends of the surface of the top plate 19 with respect to the minor axis direction of the top plate 19. When the top plate 19 rotates around the horizontal axis R <b> 2 integrally with the gantry body 11, the patient can grasp the handle 191, thereby reducing the positional deviation of the patient from the top plate 191.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a patient fixing belt 193 may be provided on the top plate 19 in order to further reduce the positional deviation of the patient from the top plate 191. The belt 193 may be attached in any manner as long as the patient placed on the top board 19 can be fixed. For example, the belt 193 may be provided on the top plate 19 so as to cross the top plate 19 in the minor axis direction. By adjusting the installation position of the belt 193, it is possible to fix an arbitrary part corresponding to the installation position, such as a patient's abdomen, head, or leg.

  As shown in FIG. 6, a footrest 195 is provided on the top plate 19. The footrest 195 is provided on the top plate 19 so as to be slidable in the long axis direction of the top plate 19. For example, the footrest 195 slides with respect to the major axis direction of the top board 19 by receiving power from a driving device (not shown). The foot of the patient is placed on the footrest 195. The patient can be aligned by adjusting the position of the footrest 195 with respect to the major axis direction of the top plate 19.

  The top plate 19 may be provided with a patient fixture other than the handle 191, the belt 193, and the footrest 195. Examples of the other patient fixing tool include a shoulder rest that is in contact with the shoulder of the patient and a head fixing band that fixes the patient's head.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the top 19 viewed from the back side. As shown in FIG. 7, a groove 197 is formed on the back surface of the top plate 19 along the long axis of the top plate 19. Support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are formed in the groove 197 so as to be fitted therein. When the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are fitted into the grooves 197, the top plate 19 is installed on the support arms 31-1 and 31-2.

  FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the top plate 19 and the support arms 31 and 31-2 in a state where the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are fitted in the grooves 197 of the top plate 19 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the top plate 19 can be fixed to the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 by fitting the tips of the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 into the grooves 197. As described above, since the groove 197 is provided along the long axis, any position of the entire top plate 19 can be fixed to the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 according to the imaging region. Further, since the groove 197 is provided along the long axis, the top plate 19 can be slid in the central axis R1 direction by pushing or pulling the top plate 19 in the central axis R1 direction. That is, the groove 197 guides the slide about the central axis R1 of the top plate 19. A trochanter 311 may be provided at the tip of the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 (contact portion with the top plate 19). Thereby, friction with the top plate 19 and the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 can be reduced.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another top plate 19 as viewed from the front side. In FIG. 9, illustration of the handle, the belt, and the footrest is omitted. As shown in FIG. 9, a groove 197 may be formed not only on the back surface of the top plate 19 but also on the front surface along the major axis of the top plate 19. By providing the grooves 197 on the front and back surfaces, the top plate 19 can be more firmly fixed to the support arms 31-1 and 31-2. For example, the groove 197 on the front surface and the groove 197 on the back surface are provided at the same position in the minor axis direction.

  FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the top plate 19 and the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 in a state where the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are fitted in the grooves 197 of the top plate 19 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, when the groove 197 is formed on both the front surface and the back surface of the top plate 19, the support arms 31-1 and 3-2 are bent portions 313 that fit into the groove 197 on the surface. It is good to form in C shape which has the bending part 315 which fits into the groove | channel 197 of a back surface. By sandwiching the top plate 19 from both the front surface and the back surface by the bent portion 313 and the bent portion 315, the top plate 19 can be more firmly fixed to the support arms 31-1, 31-2. Since the user sandwiches the top plate 19 between the bent portion 313 and the bent portion 315, the support arms 31-1, 31-2 are wide enough to increase the distance between the bent portion 313 and the bent portion 315. Should be flexible. Further, a trochanter 311 may be provided at the distal end portion (contact portion with the top plate 19) of the bent portion 313 and the bent portion 315. Thereby, friction with the top plate 19 and the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 can be reduced.

  In the above example, the front surface groove 197 and the back surface groove 197 are provided at the same position in the minor axis direction. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. That is, the groove 197 on the front surface and the groove 197 on the back surface may be provided at different positions in the minor axis direction. In this case, the bent portions 313 and the bent portions 315 of the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 are preferably formed into shapes that fit into the groove 197 on the front surface and the groove 197 on the back surface, respectively.

  Next, an operation example of the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to this embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating the tilting operation of the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 according to the present embodiment. In the following specific example of tilting operation, digestive tract CT imaging will be described as a specific example. However, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the present embodiment can target any part other than the digestive tract.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the top plate 19 inserted through the opening 11 a of the gantry body 11 is supported at both ends by the front side support arm 31-1 and the rear side support arm 31-2. A patient P into which a contrast medium for the digestive tract has been injected is placed on the top plate 19. As a contrast agent for imaging the digestive tract, for example, a barium contrast agent is known. In order to depict a digestive tract region in a CT image, it is necessary to attach a contrast agent for imaging the digestive tract to the inner wall of the digestive tract. For this reason, the posture change of the patient P into which the contrast medium has been injected is performed before the scan.

  As shown in FIG. 11, typically, the tilt angle is typically set to 0 degree. For example, when it is desired to tilt the gantry body 11 forward, the user inputs a forward tilt instruction via the input circuit 57. When the forward tilt instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 to tilt the gantry body 11 forward, and the column driving device 23 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the forward direction to rotate the gantry. The main body 11 is tilted forward. For example, while the user is pressing the forward tilt instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so as to tilt the gantry body 11 forward at a predetermined angular velocity. In the present embodiment, since the top plate 19 is attached to the gantry body 11 by the top plate support 31, the top plate 19 can also be tilted forward together with the tilt of the gantry body 11 forward. When the user releases the forward tilt instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so as to stop tilting.

  Further, when the user wants to tilt the gantry body 11 backward, the user inputs a backward tilt instruction via the input circuit 57. When the backward tilt instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 to tilt the gantry body 11 backward, and the column driving device 23 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the reverse direction to rotate the gantry. The main body 11 is tilted backward. For example, while the user is pressing the backward tilt instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so as to tilt the gantry body 11 backward at a predetermined angular velocity. In the present embodiment, since the top plate 19 is attached to the gantry body 11 by the top plate support 31, the top plate 19 can also be tilted backward together with the tilt of the gantry body 11 to the rear. When the user releases the backward tilt instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so as to stop the tilting.

  When the user operates the forward tilt instruction button and the rear tilt instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 can tilt the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 integrally forward and backward. As a result, the posture of the patient P can be changed and the contrast medium can be attached to the inner wall of the digestive tract of the patient P. The forward tilt instruction button and the rear tilt instruction button may be provided in the input circuit 57 provided in the gantry device 10 or may be provided in the input circuit 57 provided in the console 50. When the tilt instruction is given via the input circuit 57 provided in the gantry device 10, the user does not need to go to the control room every time the tilt instruction is given, and the user's labor can be reduced. When the tilt instruction is given via the input circuit 57 provided in the console 50, the safety of the user can be ensured.

  Thereafter, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the rotation drive device 21, the high voltage generator 27, and the data collection circuit 29 in response to the input of the imaging start instruction by the user via the input circuit 25, and targets the digestive tract of the patient P. X-ray CT imaging. Thereby, a digestive tract X-ray contrast examination can be performed with an X-ray computed tomography apparatus. In the present embodiment, since the top plate 19 is attached to the gantry body 11, the patient P does not need to leave the top plate 19 during the period from the posture change to the end of X-ray CT imaging. Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination can be performed by the X-ray computed tomography apparatus without burden on the patient P.

  Regarding X-ray CT imaging, the gantry control circuit 25 includes static CT imaging that collects CT image data of one time phase and dynamic CT imaging that collects time-series CT image data composed of a plurality of time phases. Both are feasible. Static CT imaging and dynamic CT imaging can be arbitrarily selected by the user via the input circuit 57 or the like. The acquired CT image is displayed by the display circuit 55. In the present embodiment, the top plate 19 is supported at both ends by the support arm 31-1 on the front side and the support arm 31-2 on the rear side. Therefore, compared with cantilever support of the top plate such as a floor-mounted bed device, the patient can reduce the bending of the top plate 19, and the imaging region in the CT image caused by the bending of the top plate 19 can be reduced. Region displacement and artifacts can be reduced.

  The tilt angle of the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 during X-ray CT imaging can be arbitrarily set. For example, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 according to the operation of the forward tilt instruction button and the rear tilt instruction button by the user before scanning, and the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 are set to the tilt angle desired by the user. Then, the rotational drive device 21, the high voltage generator 27, and the data acquisition circuit 29 are controlled to perform X-ray CT imaging. In this embodiment, since the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 can be tilted integrally, compared with the case where only the gantry body 11 or the top plate 19 is tilted, the FOV of the imaging region of the patient P with respect to before and after tilting. The positional deviation with respect to can be reduced.

  Further, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the rotation driving device 21, the column driving device 23, the high voltage generator 27, and the data collecting circuit 29 to tilt the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 integrally forward or backward. However, it is also possible to perform dynamic CT imaging. By performing dynamic CT imaging while tilting the gantry main body 11 and the top plate 19 integrally forward or backward, the dynamics of the contrast agent in the patient P body accompanying the tilt can be depicted as a time-series CT image.

  As described above, the top plate 19 is detachably attached to the top plate support 31. Therefore, the operation as the standing CT and the operation as the normal supine CT can be switched only by detaching the top board 19. That is, when performing standing CT, the user removes the top 19 from the top support 31 and inputs an instruction to switch to standing CT via the input circuit 57. When the switching instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so that the central axis R1 of the opening 11a is oriented vertically, and rotates the gantry body 11 around the horizontal axis R2. As a result, standing CT can be performed. When switching from the standing CT to the lying CT, the user inputs a switching instruction to the lying CT via the input circuit 57. When the switching instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the column driving device 23 so that the central axis R1 of the opening 11a faces the horizontal direction, and rotates the gantry body 11 around the horizontal axis R2. Thereafter, the user attaches the top plate 19 to the top plate support 31. As a result, the supine CT can be performed.

(Application 1)
In the above embodiment, the top plate 19 is manually slid along the central axis R1. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. The gantry body 11 according to the application example 1 is equipped with a slide mechanism for sliding the top plate 19. Hereinafter, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 1 will be described. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions as those of the present embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 1. As shown in FIG. 12, the gantry body 11 according to the application example 1 further includes a slide mechanism 33 and a slide drive device 35. The slide mechanism 33 is a mechanism for sliding the top plate 19 with respect to the central axis R1. The slide mechanism 33 may be realized by any mechanism such as a ball screw, a slide rail, or a cylinder. In order to specifically describe the following, the slide mechanism 33 is realized by a ball screw. The slide drive device 35 generates power for driving the slide mechanism 33. The slide drive device 35 generates power by driving at a rotational speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The slide drive device 35 is realized by a motor such as a servo motor, for example.

  FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body 11 according to the application example 1. As shown in FIG. 13, a support arm 31-1 is attached to the front side of the gantry body 11, and a support arm 31-2 is attached to the rear side. The top plate 19 is supported at both ends by the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2.

  A slide mechanism (ball screw) 33 is attached to the support arm 31-2 on the rear side. Specifically, the screw shaft 331 is a columnar body in which a screw thread is formed. The screw shaft 331 extends rearward from the support arm 31-2 and is provided so that the axis is parallel to the axis R1. One end of the screw shaft 331 is directly connected to a slide drive device 35 (not shown) or indirectly through a power transmission mechanism such as a pulley or a shaft. A slider 333 is provided on the screw shaft 331. The slider 333 is a structure having a through hole in which a screw groove that is screwed into the screw thread of the screw shaft 331 is formed. The slider 333 is screwed into the screw shaft 331. The screw shaft 331 and the slider 333 are formed with a flow path for circulating a plurality of hard spheres for reducing friction between the screw shaft 331 and the slider 333.

  The slider 333 is detachably attached to the back surface of the top plate 19 supported by the support arm 31-1 and the support arm 31-2. A rear portion of the top plate 19 is attached to the slider 333. By attaching the slider 333 to the rear portion of the top plate 19, the bending of the rear portion of the top plate 19 can be structurally limited. The top plate 19 may be placed on the slider 333, or the top plate 19 and the slider 333 may be fastened with a fastener such as a screw or an adhesive tape in order to fix the top plate 19 more firmly. Alternatively, the top plate 19 and the slider 333 may be fitted by a convex portion and a concave portion formed on the top plate 19 and the slider 333, respectively.

  The slider 333, the support arm 31-1, and the support arm 31-2 are arranged such that the long axis of the top plate 19 supported by the slider 333, the support arm 31-1, and the support arm 31-2 is parallel to the central axis R1. Forms such as position, size, and shape may be designed.

  The front support arm 31-1 may be provided with a screw shaft 335 so as to extend forward. The screw shaft 335 is provided to structurally limit the deflection of the front portion of the top plate 19.

  The slide mechanism 33 may be provided only on one side of the two support arms 31-1 and 31-2 that sandwich the axis R3 with respect to the horizontal axis R2, or on both sides. The support arms 31-1 and 31-2 may be provided.

  When the user wants to slide the top plate 19 forward, the user inputs a forward slide instruction via the input circuit 57. When a forward slide instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 to slide the gantry body 11 forward, and the slide drive device 33 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the forward direction to move the slider. The top plate 19 is slid forward together with 333. For example, while the user is pressing the forward slide instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 so as to slide the top plate 19 forward at a predetermined speed. When the user releases the forward slide instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 to stop the slide.

  When the user wants to slide the top plate 19 backward, the user inputs a rear slide instruction via the input circuit 57. When a backward slide instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 to slide the gantry body 11 backward, and the slide drive device 33 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the reverse direction to move the slider. The top plate 19 is slid backward together with 333. For example, while the user is pressing the rear slide instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 so as to slide the top plate 19 backward at a predetermined speed. When the user releases the rear slide instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 33 to stop the slide.

  As described above, by mounting the slide mechanism 31 and the slide drive device 33 on the gantry body 11, the top plate 19 is electrically driven in the direction of the central axis R <b> 1 in a state where the top plate 19 is supported by the top plate support 31. Can slide into. According to the application example 1, the top plate 19 can be slid electrically. Therefore, alignment with respect to the central axis R1 of the imaging region of the patient placed on the top plate 19 can be easily performed. The front slide instruction button and the rear slide instruction button may be provided in the input circuit 57 provided in the gantry device 10 or may be provided in the input circuit 57 provided in the console 50. When a slide instruction is given via the input circuit 57 provided in the gantry device 10, it is not necessary for the user to go to the control room every time the slide instruction is given, and the user's labor can be reduced. When a slide instruction is given via the input circuit 57 provided on the console 50, the safety of the user can be ensured.

  In the application example 1, the helical scan can be executed by combining the slide of the top 19 and the X-ray CT imaging. For example, when the user inputs a helical scan photographing start instruction via the input circuit 25, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the slide drive device 35 to rotate and drive the top plate 19 in the direction of the central axis R1. The apparatus 21, the high voltage generator 27, and the data acquisition circuit 29 are controlled to perform dynamic CT imaging. Thereby, helical scanning can also be realized in an X-ray computed tomography apparatus equipped with a top plate support 31 that supports the top plate 19 at both the front and rear portions. Based on the raw data collected by the data collection circuit 29 in the helical scan, the image reconstruction device 51 can reconstruct a CT image related to the whole body of the patient, for example. In this embodiment, a helical scan may be used in the non-contrast examination, or a helical scan may be used in the contrast examination.

(Application example 2)
In the above embodiment, the support arms 31-1 and 31-2 themselves do not have a moving mechanism. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. It is assumed that the support arms according to the application example 2 can be individually expanded and contracted. Hereinafter, an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 2 will be described. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions as those of the present embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be given only when necessary.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to Application Example 2. As shown in FIG. 14, the gantry body 11 according to the application example 2 includes a top plate support 37 and a slide drive device 39. The top plate support tool 37 supports the top plate 19 disposed in the opening 11 a at the front portion and the rear portion of the gantry body 11, similarly to the top plate support tool 31. The top plate support 37 includes a support arm 37-1 provided at the front part and a support arm 37-2 provided at the rear part. The support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2 are columnar structures extending toward the inside of the opening 11a. The support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2 are equipped with an expansion / contraction mechanism such as a cylinder for individually extending / contracting. The support arm drive device 39 generates power for driving the support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2. The support arm drive device 39 generates power by driving at a rotational speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The support arm drive device 39 is realized by a motor such as a servo motor, for example.

  FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of the gantry body 11 according to the application example 2. As shown in FIG. 15, a support arm 37-1 is attached to the front side of the gantry body 11, and a support arm 37-2 is attached to the rear side. The top plate 19 is supported at both ends by the support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2. The support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2 are provided at positions that do not overlap the X-ray path PX. The support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2 are provided on an installation frame 49 (not shown in FIG. 15) of the gantry body 11 as shown in FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2 are configured to be individually extendable and contractible. Receiving power from a support arm drive device 39 (not shown), it individually expands and contracts. By the expansion and contraction of the support arm 37-1 and the support arm 37-2, the patient's imaging region can be aligned in the direction of the axis R3.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an operation example of the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 according to the application example 2. In FIG. 16, it is assumed that the tilt angle of the gantry body 11 is set to a reference angle of 0 degrees. As shown in FIG. 16, the -X direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 and the + X direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 extend to bring the top plate 19 closer to the central axis R1. That is, it can be raised. For example, when the user wants to raise the top plate 19, the user inputs an elevation instruction via the input circuit 57. When the ascending instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 to ascend the top plate 19, and the support arm driving device 39 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the forward direction to -X. The direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 and the + X direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 are extended. For example, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 so as to extend the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 at a predetermined speed while the user is pressing the ascending instruction button. As the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 extend, the top plate 19 rises in the Y-axis direction. The extension timings of the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 may be the same or different. When the user releases the ascending instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 so as to stop the extension.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the top plate 19 is separated from the central axis R1 by the contraction of the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 on the -X direction side and the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 on the + X direction side. That is, it can be lowered. For example, when it is desired to lower the top plate 19 in the Y-axis direction, the user inputs a lowering instruction via the input circuit 57. When the lowering instruction is input, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 to lower the top plate 19, and the supporting arm drive device 39 rotates the motor rotation shaft in the reverse direction to −X. The direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 and the + X direction side support arms 37-1 and 37-2 are contracted. For example, while the user is pressing down the lowering instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 so that the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 contract at a predetermined speed. As the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 contract, the top plate 19 descends in the Y-axis direction. The timing of contraction of the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 may be the same or different. When the user releases the lowering instruction button, the gantry control circuit 25 controls the support arm driving device 39 so as to stop the contraction.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 16, the gantry control circuit 25 compares one of the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 on the -X direction side and the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 on the + X direction side with the other. Thus, by extending for a long time, the top plate 19 can be tilted in the −X direction or the + X direction. Alternatively, the gantry control circuit 25 tilts the top 19 forward or backward by extending one of the front support arm 37-1 and the rear support arm 37-2 longer than the other. be able to. Thereby, it becomes possible to freely set the posture of the top board 19 and the patient, and as a result, the degree of freedom of the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination can be increased.

  With the above configuration, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the application example 2 is equipped with the support arms 37-1 and 37-2 and the support arm driving device 39, and therefore the top plate 19 with respect to the central axis R1. Can approach or leave. Therefore, according to the application example 2, the patient can be accurately positioned even in the X-ray computed tomography apparatus equipped with the top support 31 that supports the top 19 in both the front part and the rear part. .

(Summary)
As described above, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the present embodiment includes the gantry device 10 that performs X-ray CT imaging of a subject and the console 50 that processes raw data from the gantry device 10. The gantry device 10 includes an X-ray tube 15, an X-ray detector 17, a gantry body 11, a column 13, and a top plate support tool 31. The X-ray tube 15 generates X-rays. The X-ray detector 17 detects X-rays. The gantry body 11 has an opening 11 a that forms an imaging space, and accommodates the X-ray tube 15 and the X-ray detector 17. The column 13 supports the gantry body 11 so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis R2 that is orthogonal to the central axis R1 of the opening 11a. The top plate support 31 supports the top plate 19 disposed in the opening 11 a at one end and the other end in the direction of the central axis R <b> 1 of the gantry body 11.

  With the above configuration, the X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to the present embodiment can integrally rotate the gantry body 11 and the top plate 19 around the horizontal axis R <b> 2 while preventing the top plate 19 from being bent. . Therefore, during the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination, it is possible to perform from posture change to X-ray CT imaging while the patient is placed on the top board 19.

  Thus, the digestive tract X-ray contrast examination can be easily performed.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope 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 10 ... Mount apparatus, 11 ... Mount main body, 13 ... Support | pillar, 15 ... X-ray tube, 17 ... X-ray detector, 19 ... Top plate, 21 ... Rotation drive device, 23 ... Support drive apparatus, 25 ... Mount control circuit, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 27 ... High voltage generator, 29 ... Data acquisition circuit, 31 ... Top plate support tool, 31-1, 31-2 ... Support arm, 50 ... Console, 51 ... Image reconstruction device, 53 ... Image processing device, 55 ... Display circuit 57... Input circuit 59 59 Main memory circuit 61 System control circuit 511 Data storage circuit 513 Pre-processing unit 515 Reconfiguration arithmetic unit

Claims (12)

An X-ray computed tomography apparatus comprising a gantry device for X-ray CT imaging of a subject and a console for processing data from the gantry device,
The gantry device is
An X-ray tube that generates X-rays;
An X-ray detector for detecting X-rays;
A gantry body that has an opening that forms an imaging space and accommodates the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector;
A gantry support frame that supports the gantry body so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis that is horizontally orthogonal to the central axis of the opening;
A top plate support that supports the top plate disposed in the opening at one end and the other end with respect to the central axis direction of the gantry body;
X-ray computed tomography apparatus.   The top plate support tool is provided at the one end and protrudes toward the opening and supports the top plate, and is provided at the other end and protrudes toward the opening. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second support arm that supports the top plate.   The said top-plate support tool is provided in at least one of the said 1st support arm and the said 2nd support arm, and has a slide mechanism which supports the said top-plate so that a slide is possible regarding the said center axis direction. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus described.   The slide mechanism includes: a screw shaft having an axis disposed along the central axis direction; and a slider provided on the screw shaft so as to be slidable with respect to the central axis direction and to which the top plate is attached. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to 3.   The top plate support is provided at the tip of the first support arm, and is provided at the first trochanter that smoothly slides the top plate in the central axis direction, and at the tip of the second support arm. The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a second trochanter that smoothly slides the top plate in the central axis direction. A driving device for generating power for individually extending and contracting the first support arm and the second support arm;
A control circuit for controlling the driving device to tilt or move the top plate,
The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 2. A drive unit for generating power for rotating the gantry support frame around a horizontal axis;
A control circuit for controlling the driving device to rotate the gantry body and the top plate supported by the top plate support tool integrally around the horizontal axis;
The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1.   The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the top plate support is detachably provided on the gantry body.   The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the top plate has a belt for fixing a subject to the top plate.   The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the top plate has a gripping tool gripped by a subject.   The X-ray computed tomography apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the top plate has a footrest that is slidable in a major axis direction of the top plate. An X-ray tube that generates X-rays;
An X-ray detector for detecting X-rays;
A gantry body that has an opening that forms an imaging space and accommodates the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector;
A gantry support frame that supports the gantry body so as to be rotatable about a horizontal axis that is horizontally orthogonal to the central axis of the opening;
A top plate support for supporting the top plate disposed in the opening at one end and the other end with respect to the central axis direction of the gantry body;
A gantry device comprising: