JP2019115680A - Color map generation method, medical image processing apparatus, medical image processing system, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To improve the efficiency of a user that reads a display of a temporal change of FFR results.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment comprises: a storage unit 12 for storing data concerning multiple FFR distribution maps constituting a time series associated with the coronary artery and data concerning multiple geometry images corresponding to the time series; a color map transformation unit 14 for transforming the multiple FFR distribution maps into multiple corresponding color maps; and a display unit 20 for displaying the multiple color maps and multiple superimposed images obtained by superimposing the multiple color maps and the multiple geometry images having a corresponding time phase. The medical image diagnostic apparatus is characterized in that the display unit 20 restricts the color maps to be displayed among the multiple color maps on the basis of the multiple FFR distribution maps or the multiple geometry images.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments of the present invention relate to a color map generation method, a medical image processing apparatus, a medical image processing system, and a program.

  In recent years, analysis technology of FFR (Functional Flow Reserve: myocardial partial blood flow reserve) using a CT (Computed Tomography: computerized tomography) device has been developed. This technique is a technique of creating a coronary artery shape model from CT volume data on a coronary artery collected by a CT apparatus and simulating blood flow to calculate a pressure value in the coronary artery. Information useful for the treatment of vascular stenosis such as FFR can be obtained noninvasively based on the pressure value in the coronary artery. At present, FFR analysis technology can be applied to temporal change of FFR results in consideration of coronary heart beats.

  However, since the heart is moving at short time intervals, the display on the time change of the FFR result of the coronary artery changes the FFR value rapidly. Therefore, it is possible to miss the FFR value to be really noticed and the position thereof.

  It is an object of the present invention to provide a medical diagnostic imaging apparatus in which the interpretation efficiency of the user is improved in displaying the time change of the FFR result.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a storage unit that stores data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps constituting a time series related to a coronary artery and data of a plurality of morphological images corresponding to the time series, and the plurality of FFRs. A plurality of superimposed images in which a color map conversion unit for converting a distribution map into a plurality of corresponding color maps, a plurality of the color maps, and a plurality of morphological images corresponding respectively to the plurality of color maps A display unit configured to display the plurality of color maps based on the plurality of FFR distribution maps or the plurality of morphological images.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the specific period display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the thinning display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure in the local display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of display of a superimposed image in which a morphological image and a color map are superimposed on a myocardial perfusion image. FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of display of a superimposed image in which a morphological image and a color map are superimposed on a polar map. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure in the blood vessel display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a three-dimensional graph in the blood vessel display mode. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the FFR value limited mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus according to a modification of the present embodiment.

  Hereinafter, the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same function and configuration are given the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be made only when necessary.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a communication interface unit 11, a storage unit 12, a LUT creation unit 13 (correspondence table creation unit 13), a color map conversion unit 14, and a control unit 15. It has an input unit 16, a blood vessel region extraction unit 17, a display range setting unit 18, an image selection unit 19, and a display unit 20.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes a computed tomography (CT) apparatus, a medical image processing apparatus, and a PACS (computed tomography) apparatus via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a public electronic communication circuit. It is connected to an external device such as an archiving and communication system (medical imaging information system). The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 has a communication interface unit 11 for connecting to an external apparatus via a network. The communication interface unit 11 includes, for example, a connector unit (not shown) for connecting to an external device or the like by a wired cable or the like, and a wireless signal receiving unit (not shown) for receiving a wireless signal from the external device Have. The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 transmits and receives data via an external device and the communication interface unit 11 under the control of the control unit 15 described later.

  The storage unit 12 is a semiconductor storage device such as a flash SSD (Solid State Disk) that is a semiconductor storage element, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or the like. The storage unit 12 stores data of a plurality of types of images transmitted from an external device under the control of the control unit 15. A plurality of images are a plurality of morphological images (hereinafter, simply referred to as a plurality of morphological images), a plurality of FFR (functional flow reserve: myocardial partial blood flow reserve) distribution diagrams (hereinafter, simply a plurality of FFR distributions and And a plurality of myocardial perfusion images and the like regarding the myocardium from which the subject's coronary arteries supply blood. Each of the plurality of medical images of these types constitutes a time series regarding the coronary artery of the subject. The myocardial perfusion image may be an image generated not only by the CT apparatus but also by another modality, such as an MRI apparatus. The above-mentioned image handled by the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 is 3D image data unless otherwise noted. Morphological images include 3D coronary artery models. The time series relating to the subject's coronary arteries includes at least a plurality of phases in one cycle of the subject's heartbeat. Further, the plurality of time phases relating to the morphological image include at least the plurality of time phases relating to the FFR distribution map. In addition, the range of the subject including the coronary artery in the morphological image includes at least the range of the subject including the coronary artery in the FFR distribution map.

  The storage unit 12 stores data of a LUT (Look Up Table) created by the LUT creation unit 13 described later. The LUT is a table in which a plurality of pieces of color information correspond to a plurality of FFR values. The color information is, for example, the type of color, the shade of the color, and the filling effect of the color. The storage unit 12 may store, in advance, LUT data in which a plurality of pieces of color information are associated with a plurality of FFR values. At this time, in the LUT stored in advance in the storage unit 12, the minimum value of the FFR value is 0, and the maximum value is 1.

  In addition, the storage unit stores data on detailed conditions of a display mode described later input by the user via the input unit 16. Note that the storage unit 12 may hold the data of the above-described plurality of types of medical images received and stored through the communication interface unit 11 as it is, or the user operation of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 ends. It may be deleted at the opportunity.

  The LUT creation unit 13 creates a LUT based on the master table and target data of LUT creation. The master table is, for example, a table in which 10 pieces of color information correspond to 10 FFR values divided equally into 10 from the minimum value to the maximum value. The number of equally-divided divisions, the assignment order of color information, the number of color information, and the like can be appropriately changed in accordance with the user's instruction via the input unit 16. First, the LUT creation unit 13 specifies the minimum value and the maximum value of the FFR value from the data of the target of LUT creation. The target of LUT creation is 1) data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps, 2) data of a range set respectively from a plurality of color maps or a plurality of morphological images by a display range setting unit 18 described later, 3) It is data of a plurality of color maps or the like extracted from a plurality of color maps by the image selection unit 19. Then, between the minimum value and the maximum value of the FFR value is equally divided according to the division number of the value in the master table. Then, the LUT creation unit 13 adds the plurality of color information defined in the master table to the minimum value of the FFR value, the maximum value of the FFR value, and the plurality of FFR values obtained by equally dividing between them. Create a LUT.

  The color map conversion unit 14 converts the graph related to the FFR value into a color graph to which color information is added based on the LUT based on the LUT.

  The control unit 15 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a memory circuit, and the like. The control unit 15 receives the information input from the input unit 16 and temporarily stores the input information in the memory circuit. The control unit 15 controls each unit of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 based on the input information.

  The input unit 16 functions as an interface for receiving instruction information from the user with respect to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1. As the input unit 16, input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a touch panel, and a button can be appropriately used.

  Specifically, the input unit 16 receives an input of the display mode of the FFR result of the coronary artery by the user. The FFR results of the coronary artery show the time change of the FFR with respect to the vascular region of the coronary artery in one cycle of heartbeat. The display mode of the FFR result of the coronary artery includes a specific period display mode, a thinning display mode, a local display mode, a blood vessel display mode, an FFR value limited mode, and the like. These display modes are provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 for the purpose of improving the interpretation efficiency of the FFR results of the coronary artery by the user. Also, the input unit 16 receives an input by the user of the detailed condition in each mode. A description of each mode and its detailed conditions will be described later.

The input unit 16 also receives from the user an input of a display target of a plurality of color maps by the display unit 20.
For example, the input unit 16 receives an input of the above-described range of the display target by a user operation on the morphological image or the FFR distribution map. For example, the user can input the range to be displayed as described above by designating the range where the user wants to see the time change of the FFR value by mouse operation on the morphological image or the FFR distribution map. At this time, the user may specify a target range for each image, or specify a target range with a representative image among a plurality of morphological images or a plurality of FFR distribution maps, and the range specified with the representative image is , And may be applied to other images.

  Further, an electrocardiogram (or an electrocardiogram waveform model) corresponding to a plurality of morphological images is displayed on the display unit 20, and the user's operation on the displayed electrocardiogram waveform designates the above-mentioned FFR distribution map of the display target It may be done.

  In addition, the input unit 16 receives an input for setting a range (hereinafter referred to as a color display range) to be displayed on the display unit 20 in color from the plurality of color maps by the display range setting unit 18 described later. For example, when the display range setting unit 18 sets the color display range based on the FFR value, the user inputs at least one of the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the FFR value to be displayed to obtain the FFR value. Range can be set. For example, by setting the FFR value to 0.8 or less, the user can set a color display range that can be estimated to be severe with respect to vascular stenosis.

  Furthermore, the input unit 16 receives a user instruction to display or hide the myocardial perfusion image and polar map on the display unit 20 described later. Further, the input unit 16 receives a switching operation of each display mode described above, and a switching operation of setting and cancellation of each display mode.

  The blood vessel region extraction unit 17 extracts a blood vessel region from the morphological image based on the luminance value. Then, the blood vessel region extraction unit 17 specifies the blood vessel narrowing position, the blood vessel branch position, the position of the blood vessel having a predetermined width or more, and the position of the blood vessel having a predetermined width or less from the extracted blood vessel region. The vascular stenosis position can be identified, for example, according to the amount of change in the inner diameter value of the extracted vascular region. This is because the inner diameter value of the blood vessel does not greatly fluctuate in the range other than the branch position and the end of the blood vessel in the coronary artery, so the range where the change amount of the inner diameter value is large is likely to be the stenosis range. . The blood vessel bifurcation position can specify a core line from the extracted blood vessel area, for example, and can specify it according to the branch position of a core line. The position of a blood vessel having a predetermined width or more or a predetermined width or less can be identified based on, for example, incidental information, imaging conditions, and the like.

  The display range setting unit 18 sets a display target from each of a plurality of color maps based on the FFR value (in the FFR value limited mode described later). In addition, the display range setting unit 18 is based on at least one of the blood vessel narrowing position, the blood vessel bifurcation position, and the blood vessel position having a predetermined width or more extracted from the plurality of morphological images by the blood vessel region extraction unit 17. The display target is set from the plurality of color maps (in the local display mode described later). The method of setting the display range by the display range setting unit 18 will be described later.

  The image selection unit 19 extracts a color map to be displayed from a plurality of color maps based on the heartbeat phase (a specific period display mode described later). The method of selecting an image by the image selection unit 19 will be described later.

  The display unit 20 displays a plurality of superimposed images in which a plurality of color maps, a plurality of color maps, and a plurality of morphological images corresponding to respective time phases are superimposed. The color map to be displayed is a color map extracted by the image selection unit 19 in the specific period mode and the thinning mode to be described later. Further, in the local display mode and the FFR value limited mode described later, the color map to be displayed is all of a plurality of color maps. However, in each of the plurality of color maps, only the color display area is displayed in color. Therefore, the display unit 20 displays a superimposed image in which display targets of a plurality of color maps are limited in each mode.

  In addition, the display unit 20 displays a soft button or the like for receiving from the user a switching operation of a display mode and a switching operation of a LUT used to create a color map.

Next, the specific period display mode provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.
(Specific period display mode)
The specific period display mode is a mode for displaying the time change of the superimposed image in the specific period of one cycle of the heartbeat of the subject.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the specific period display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. First, data of a plurality of morphological images related to the coronary artery of the subject and data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps are received from the external device via the communication interface unit 11 (step S11). The first LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the received plurality of FFR distribution maps (step S12).

  The color map conversion unit 14 converts a plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding first color maps based on the first LUT (step S13).

  Next, a specific period is set (step S14). The specific period is, for example, a dilation period of the heart, a contraction period of the heart, and a period designated by the user (hereinafter referred to as a user designated period). The user designation period can be set, for example, by the user designating the display start phase and the display end phase on the time-varying moving image of the morphological image. The expansion period and contraction period of the heart can be specified based on, for example, information corresponding to the time phase of the electrocardiogram waveform attached to each morphological image.

  Next, the image selection unit 19 selects a plurality of first color maps corresponding to a plurality of time phases constituting a specific period from the plurality of first color maps converted in step S13 (step S15).

  Next, the LUT creation unit 13 creates a second LUT based on FFR values included in a plurality of first color maps corresponding to a plurality of time phases constituting a specific period (step S16).

  Then, the color map conversion unit 14 converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into the corresponding plurality of second color maps based on the second LUT (step S17).

  The display unit 20 displays a plurality of superimposed images in which a plurality of color maps corresponding to a plurality of time phases constituting a specific period and a plurality of morphological images respectively corresponding to a plurality of color maps are superimposed (step S18) . At this time, the plurality of color maps corresponding to the plurality of time phases constituting the specific period correspond to one of the plurality of first color maps and the plurality of second color maps. For example, when the color map used for the superimposed image being displayed is the first color map, when the user instructs switching of the color map in step S19, the display unit 20 uses the color to be used for the superimposed image. Switch the map from the first color map to the second color map.

  Then, each time the user issues an instruction to switch the color map, the process of step S18 is repeatedly executed by each unit (step S19).

Next, the thinning-out display mode provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.
(Thinning mode)
The thinning-out display mode is a mode for displaying time changes of a plurality of superimposed images remaining after thinning-out processing on a plurality of superimposed images corresponding to a plurality of time phases constituting one cycle of a heartbeat of a subject.

  FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure in the thinning display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. First, data of a plurality of morphological images related to the coronary artery of the subject and data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps are received from the external device via the communication interface unit 11 (step S21). The first LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the received plurality of FFR distribution maps (step S22).

  The color map conversion unit 14 converts a plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding first color maps based on the first LUT (step S23).

  Then, the thinning rate is set in accordance with the user's instruction via the input unit 16 (step S24). Next, the image selection unit 19 selects a plurality of first color maps from the plurality of first color maps in accordance with the thinning-out rate set in step S24 (step S25). The third LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the FFR value included in the first color map selected in step S25 (step S26).

  Then, the color map conversion unit 14 converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into the corresponding plurality of third color maps based on the third LUT (step S27).

  A plurality of color maps in which the display unit 20 selects a plurality of color maps from the plurality of color maps according to the thinning rate set in step S24 and a plurality of morphological images respectively corresponding to the plurality of selected color maps. The superimposed image is displayed (step S28). At this time, the plurality of color maps correspond to one of the plurality of first color maps and the plurality of third color maps. For example, when the color map used for the superimposed image being displayed is the first color map, when the user instructs switching of the color map in step S29, the display unit 20 uses the color to be used for the superimposed image. Switch the map from the first color map to the third color map.

  Then, each time the user issues an instruction to switch the color map, the process of step S28 is repeatedly executed by each unit (step S29).

Next, the local display mode included in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.
(Local display mode)
The local display mode is a mode for displaying a temporal change of a superimposed image in a specific range in a coronary artery of a subject.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure in the local display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. First, data of a plurality of morphological images related to the coronary artery of the subject and data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps are received from the external device via the communication interface unit 11 (step S31). The first LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the received plurality of FFR distribution maps (step S32).

  The color map conversion unit 14 converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into the corresponding plurality of color maps based on the first LUT (step S33).

  Next, the type of color display range is accepted through the input unit 16. Specifically, the user selects at least one display range from the following four types of display ranges. The four types of display range include, for example, a range designated by the user (hereinafter referred to as a user-specified range), a range including a stenosis region of a blood vessel (hereinafter referred to as a stenosis range), and a branch position of the blood vessel Range (hereinafter referred to as a branch range), and a range in which the inner diameter of a blood vessel is equal to or greater than a specific width (hereinafter referred to as a specific blood vessel range).

  When “user-specified range” is selected as the color display range (step S34), the range specified by the user on the morphological image or the FFR distribution map is set as the color display range by display range setting unit 18 (Step S35).

  When the “stenosis range” is selected as the color display range (step S36), the blood vessel region extraction unit 17 extracts the blood vessel region from the morphological image. Then, the blood vessel narrowing position is specified from the extracted blood vessel region (step S37). Then, the color display range is set by the display range setting unit 18 to a range obtained by adding a predetermined margin in each direction from the blood vessel narrowing position (step S38). The predetermined margin is stored in advance in storage unit 12 and can be appropriately changed in accordance with a user's instruction via input unit 16.

  When the “branch range” is selected as the color display range (step S39), the blood vessel region extraction unit 17 extracts the blood vessel region from the morphological image. Then, the blood vessel bifurcation position is specified from the extracted blood vessel region (step S40). Then, the display range setting unit 18 sets the display range to a predetermined size range with the blood vessel bifurcation position as the center of display (step S41). The predetermined size is set to, for example, “a range of 5 cm from the blood vessel bifurcation position” or the like, and data of the setting is stored in advance in the storage unit 12. However, the setting data can be appropriately changed in accordance with the user's instruction via the input unit 16.

  In the case where the display method is not any of the above, the color display range is the “specific blood vessel range”. The blood vessel area extraction unit 17 extracts the blood vessel area from the morphological image. Then, a specific blood vessel range is specified from the extracted blood vessel area (step S42). The specific blood vessel range is, for example, a range of a blood vessel region in which the inner diameter is larger than a predetermined value, or a range of a blood vessel region in which the blood vessel inner diameter is smaller than a predetermined value. The display range setting unit 18 sets the display range to a range obtained by adding a margin to four sides of the specific blood vessel range (step S43).

  Then, the display unit 20 displays a superimposed image in which a plurality of color maps and a plurality of morphological images corresponding to time phases respectively overlap the plurality of color maps with the color display range as a display target (step S44) .

  In step S17, step S27, and step S44, the display unit 20 displays a superimposed image in which the plurality of morphological images and the plurality of color maps are aligned with respect to the plurality of myocardial perfusion images. You may Similarly, in step S17, step S27, and step S44, the display unit 20 displays a superimposed image in which a plurality of morphological images and a plurality of color maps are aligned and phase-aligned on a plurality of polar maps. May be These display and non-display can be appropriately switched in accordance with a user instruction via the input unit 16.

  FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of display of a superimposed image in which a morphological image and a color map are superimposed on a myocardial perfusion image. As shown in FIG. 5, a superimposed image in which a morphological image (3D coronary artery model) and a color map are superimposed on the myocardial perfusion image is displayed. As shown in FIG. 5, the myocardial perfusion image may be one in which a partial range of the myocardial perfusion image is displayed. At this time, the partial range to be displayed can be set in accordance with a user instruction via the input unit 16. In addition, the display unit 20 may automatically display so as to include the ischemic area on the myocardial perfusion image. The color scale bar for FFR values is displayed according to the LUT used to convert the FFR distribution map to a color map, and is for representing the magnitude of the FFR value in color. A color scale bar for blood flow is applied to color display of myocardial perfusion image and is for expressing blood flow in color. With the display in FIG. 5, the user can display temporal changes in the FFR value of the coronary artery and changes in the state of the myocardium by aligning and displaying a functional image regarding the myocardium supplying the blood to the superimposed image of the coronary artery. And can be read together. This makes it possible to improve the interpretation efficiency by the user and the examination accuracy. Therefore, the myocardial perfusion image may be another image as long as it is a functional image representing the condition of the myocardium. The functional image may be, for example, a functional image generated by functional imaging diagnosis using SPECT, delayed contrast examination using MRI, functional imaging diagnosis using PET, or the like. The functional image representing the state of the myocardium may be, for example, a polar map or the like corresponding to the myocardial perfusion image. At this time, a functional image representing the state of the myocardium may be stored in the storage unit 12 or may be stored in a PACS or the like connected via the communication interface unit 11.

  FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of display of a superimposed image in which a morphological image and a color map are superimposed on a polar map. At this time, it is assumed that data of a plurality of polar maps respectively corresponding to a plurality of myocardial perfusion images regarding a myocardium through which a coronary artery of a subject supplies blood are stored in the storage unit 12. As shown in FIG. 6, a superimposed image in which the morphological image and the color map are superimposed on the polar map is displayed. The color scale bar for FFR values is displayed according to the LUT used to convert the FFR distribution map to a color map, and is for representing the magnitude of the FFR value in color. The color scale bar for blood flow is applied to the color display of polar map and is for expressing blood flow in color.

Next, a blood vessel display mode provided in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.
(Blood vessel display mode)
The blood vessel display mode is a mode for displaying a temporal change of the FFR result for each blood vessel in the coronary artery of the subject.

  FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure in the blood vessel display mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. First, data of a plurality of morphological images related to the coronary artery of the subject and data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps are received from the external device via the communication interface unit 11 (step S61). The first LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the received plurality of FFR distribution maps (step S62).

Then, the blood vessel region extraction unit 17 extracts a blood vessel region from the morphological image, and a blood vessel core line is extracted from the extracted blood vessel region (step S63). Then, the branch position of the extracted blood vessel core line is identified. The extracted blood vessel region is divided into a plurality of blood vessel portions in accordance with the branch position of the blood vessel core (step S64). The blood vessel portion to be displayed is set in accordance with the user's instruction via the input unit 16 (step S65). The setting of the blood vessel portion can be performed, for example, by a mouse operation by the user on the displayed morphological image. The blood vessel region extraction unit 17 sets a plurality of points along the blood vessel core line, starting from the branch position on the blood vessel core line of the blood vessel portion to be displayed (step S66).

  Then, the display unit 20 displays a three-dimensional graph in which the distance, the elapsed time, and the FFR value are three axes (step S67). The distance indicates, for example, the distance of each of the plurality of points from the blood vessel bifurcation position from the predetermined position of the displayed blood vessel portion. The passage of time indicates the passage of time based on a predetermined time in time series. The predetermined time here is, for example, the end systole, end diastole of the heart, and the like. The FFR value indicates the FFR value at a certain point in time.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a three-dimensional graph. As shown in FIG. 8, the three-dimensional graph may be a color graph according to the FFR value, and at this time, the LUT used for color graph display is, for example, the first LUT or the like. In addition, the LUT created by the LUT creation unit 13 may be used based on the FFR value included in the blood vessel portion to be displayed. The color scale bar relating to the FFR value indicates color information according to the FFR value based on the LUT used for the color graph. In the blood vessel display mode, the three-dimensional graph may be any graph as long as it is easy for the user to read the position of the blood vessel portion to be displayed, the position of the blood vessel portion to be displayed, and the FFR value. It may be a two-dimensional color map converted by the color map conversion unit 14 according to the first LUT, in which a two-dimensional map in which the progress and the distance from the branch position are two axes.

(FFR limited mode)
The FFR value limiting mode is a mode for displaying a temporal change of a superimposed image in a specific FFR value range in a coronary artery of a subject.

  FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure in the FFR value limited mode of the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. First, data of a plurality of morphological images related to the coronary artery of the subject and data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps are received from the external device via the communication interface unit 11 (step S71). The first LUT is created by the LUT creation unit 13 based on the received plurality of FFR distribution maps (step S72).

  The color map conversion unit 14 converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into the corresponding plurality of color maps based on the first LUT (step S73).

  Next, according to the user's instruction via the input unit 16, the input of the range of the FFR value for setting the color display range is accepted (step S74).

  The display range setting unit 18 extracts a range corresponding to the range of the FFR value set in step S74 (or step S77) from each of the plurality of color maps (step S75). The extracted range is a color display range.

  Then, the display unit 20 displays a superimposed image in which a plurality of color maps and a plurality of morphological images corresponding to time phases respectively overlap the plurality of color maps with the color display range as a display target (step S76) .

  Then, when the range of the FFR value is changed by the user, the process proceeds to step S75 (step S77).

  Note that, among the plurality of display modes described above, the specific period display mode and the thinning display mode are modes for limiting the superimposed image to be displayed. Further, the local display mode and the FFR value limiting mode are modes for limiting the display range in color of the color map to be displayed overlapping with the morphological image. These modes are not modes that can only be used alone, but display in a mode combining them is possible. For example, when the specific period display mode and the FFR value limiting mode are combined, the superimposed image corresponding to the specific period according to the user instruction is displayed, and the color display range of the superimposed color map is limited. .

According to the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment including the display mode described above, the following effects can be obtained.
The medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can display the temporal change of the FFR result of the coronary artery limited to the specific period in one cycle of the heartbeat in the specific period display mode. In the thinning process mode, by adjusting the thinning rate, it is possible to display the temporal change of the FFR result of the coronary artery in a state in which the fluctuation of the FFR value per unit time is reduced. In the local display mode, only a region of interest (a blood vessel narrowing position, a blood vessel bifurcation position, and a range of blood vessels having a predetermined width or more) of the user's interest is displayed in a color according to the FFR value. On the other hand, the above-mentioned uninteresting area is not displayed in color, and the morphological image is displayed as it is. Thus, the user can interpret the temporal change in FFR results for the area of interest in the coronary artery. In the blood vessel display mode, it is possible to display the time change of the FFR result for each blood vessel. In the FFR value limited mode, only the range corresponding to the set range of FFR values is displayed in a color corresponding to the size of the FFR value. On the other hand, in the range corresponding to the outside of the set range of FFR values, the morphological image is displayed as it is. Thus, the user can interpret the temporal change of FFR results for the region corresponding to the range of FFR values of interest. Also, in order to convert the FFR distribution map into a color map, a pre-registered LUT may be used, or another LUT created based on the FFR values included in the color map to be displayed as described above. May be used. The range of FFR values included in the correspondence table is different between the LUT and the other LUTs. For example, in the LUT, the upper limit value of the FFR value is 1 and the lower limit value is 0.2, but in the other LUTs, the upper limit value of the FFR value is 1 and the lower limit value is 0.7 or the like. Therefore, by using another LUT, the distribution of FFR values of the color map to be displayed can be easily viewed.

  The above-described plurality of display modes and display methods are display modes corresponding to any one of three types of limitation: limitation of the number of superimposed images to be displayed, limitation of the range to be displayed, and limitation of the range to be displayed in color. . These limitations make it easy to see temporal changes in the rapidly changing FFR results of coronary arteries. Therefore, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment including the above-described display mode can improve the interpretation efficiency of the user in the display regarding the time change of the FFR result.

(Modification)
Next, a medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a modification of the present embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a modification of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the difference from the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is that an image processing unit 21 is added to the components.

  The storage unit 12 stores a plurality of volume data constituting a time series regarding the myocardium to which the coronary artery of the subject supplies blood. Volume data is collected by a CT apparatus, an MRI apparatus, a SPECT apparatus, a PET apparatus, and the like.

  The image processing unit 21 generates, based on a plurality of volume data stored in the storage unit 12, a plurality of functional images each having a time phase corresponding to a plurality of superimposed images. The functional image is, for example, a myocardial perfusion image, a polar map or the like.

  The display unit 20 positions a plurality of superimposed images in which a plurality of color maps and a plurality of morphological images corresponding to time phases respectively overlap a plurality of color maps with respect to a plurality of functional images corresponding to the time phases. Align and overlap and display. An example of display using myocardial perfusion as a functional image is shown in FIG. 5, and an example of display using polar map as a functional image is shown in FIG.

  In the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, data of a functional image, for example, data of a myocardial perfusion image and data of a polar map are stored in the storage unit 12 in advance. On the other hand, in the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the modification of the present embodiment, the storage unit 12 stores a plurality of volume data constituting a time series related to the myocardium to which the coronary artery of the subject supplies blood. Then, the image processing unit 21 can appropriately create a functional image, for example, a myocardial perfusion image, a polar map or the like according to a user instruction. Therefore, when the superimposed image is displayed superimposed on the functional image by the display unit 20, the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the modification improves the display freedom more than the medical image diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment. can do.

  While certain embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in other various forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the process relating to switching of the color map included in the flowcharts shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 9 can be omitted. Further, in the present embodiment and the modified example of the present embodiment, the target (range) displayed in the color of the color map is automatically determined based on the FFR value, the blood vessel narrowing position, the blood vessel branching position, and the blood vessel region having a predetermined width The superimposed image to be limited and displayed is automatically limited based on the heartbeat phase from the plurality of superimposed images. However, objects to be converted to a color map may be limited in the same manner. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof as well as included in the scope and spirit of the invention.

The above embodiment can be described as, for example, the following appendices.
[1] A storage unit for storing data of an FFR distribution map of a predetermined phase of a coronary artery and data of a morphological image of the coronary artery corresponding to the phase,
A color map converter for converting the FFR distribution map into a color map;
A display range setting unit configured to set a range in which the color map is displayed based on a blood vessel inner diameter included in the morphological image;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising: a color map for displaying the range; and a display unit for displaying a superimposed image obtained by overlapping the morphological image.
[2] The blood vessel region extraction unit for specifying the range of blood vessels having a predetermined inner diameter from the morphological image is further provided,
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to [1], wherein the display range setting unit sets a range in which the color map is displayed based on the specified range.
[3] The storage unit stores data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps constituting a time series related to a coronary artery, and data of a plurality of morphological images corresponding to the time series.
The color map conversion unit converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps,
The display range setting unit sets a range in which the plurality of color maps are displayed, based on the inner diameter of the blood vessel included in the plurality of morphological images.
The display unit displays a plurality of superimposed images in which a plurality of color maps for display of the range and a plurality of morphological images respectively corresponding to the plurality of color maps correspond to the plurality of color maps. The medical image diagnostic apparatus as described in [2].
[4] A storage unit for storing data of an FFR distribution map of a predetermined phase of a coronary artery and data of a morphological image of the coronary artery corresponding to the phase,
A color map converter for converting the FFR distribution map into a color map;
A display range setting unit configured to set a range for displaying the color map based on a blood vessel bifurcation position included in the morphological image;
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising: a color map for displaying the range; and a display unit for displaying a superimposed image obtained by overlapping the morphological image.
[5] The blood vessel region extraction unit for specifying a blood vessel bifurcation position from the morphological image is further provided,
The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to [4], wherein the display range setting unit sets a range in which the color map is displayed based on the identified position.
[6] The storage unit stores data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps constituting a time series related to a coronary artery, and data of a plurality of morphological images corresponding to the time series.
The color map conversion unit converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps,
The display range setting unit sets a range in which the plurality of color maps are displayed, based on the blood vessel bifurcation positions included in the plurality of morphological images.
The display unit displays a plurality of superimposed images in which a plurality of color maps for display of the range and a plurality of morphological images corresponding to time phases respectively correspond to the plurality of color maps, [4] or The medical image diagnostic apparatus as described in [5].
[7] The time series at least includes one cycle of heartbeats,
The display unit targets the plurality of color maps extracted from the plurality of color maps on the basis of the cardiac phase, and the at least two color maps correspond in time to the at least two color maps, respectively. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to [3] or [6], which displays at least two superimposed images obtained by overlapping two morphological images.
[8] LUT generation for generating data of a correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are associated with a plurality of FFR values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of FFR values included in the plurality of FFR distribution maps Further equipped with
The color map conversion unit converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps based on the correspondence table, any one of [3], [6], and [7] Medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1.
[9] Data of another correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are associated with a plurality of FFR values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the FFR values included in the display targets of the plurality of color maps It further comprises a generated LUT generator,
The color map conversion unit converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps based on the correspondence table, any one of [3], [6], and [7] Medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to claim 1.
[10] Data of a correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are made to correspond to a plurality of FFR values determined by upper limit values and lower limit values of FFR values included in the plurality of FFR distribution maps, and the plurality of A LUT generation unit that generates data of another correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are associated with a plurality of FFR values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the FFR values included in the display target of the color map Further equipped,
The display unit displays a color superimposed on the plurality of morphological images among the plurality of color maps created based on the correspondence table and the plurality of color maps created based on the other correspondence table The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of [3], [6], and [7], wherein the map is switched according to a user instruction.
[11] The storage unit stores a plurality of volume data constituting a time series regarding the myocardium through which the coronary artery supplies blood,
The image processing unit further includes an image processing unit that generates a plurality of functional images constituting a time series related to the myocardium based on the plurality of volume data.
The display unit displays the plurality of superimposed images in position alignment with the corresponding plurality of functional images, and displays the superimposed image on any one of [3], [6], and [7] to [10]. The medical image diagnostic device of description.
[12] The storage unit stores data of a plurality of functional images constituting a time series regarding the myocardium through which the coronary artery supplies blood,
The display unit displays the plurality of superimposed images in position alignment with the corresponding plurality of functional images, and displays the superimposed image on any one of [3], [6], and [7] to [10]. The medical image diagnostic device of description.
[13] The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to [11] or [12], wherein the functional image is a myocardial perfusion image or a polar map.
[14] The storage unit stores data of a plurality of FFR distribution maps constituting a time series regarding a coronary artery, and data of a plurality of morphological images corresponding to the time series.
The color map conversion unit converts the plurality of FFR distribution maps into a plurality of corresponding color maps,
The display range setting unit sets a range in which the plurality of color maps are displayed, based on the blood vessel bifurcation positions included in the plurality of morphological images.
The display unit displays a plurality of superimposed images in which the plurality of color maps and the plurality of morphological images corresponding to time phases respectively overlap each other based on the range.
The blood vessel region extraction unit divides the coronary artery into a plurality of blood vessel portions based on the specified blood vessel bifurcation position,
The display unit is configured to calculate a distance from the blood vessel bifurcation position as a start point, a time from the predetermined time of the time series as a start point, and a distance from the blood vessel bifurcation position as one of the plurality of blood vessel parts. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to [5], which displays a graph in which three axes have an FFR value corresponding to a time starting from the predetermined time in the time series.
[15] storing data of an FFR distribution map of a predetermined phase of the coronary artery, and data of a morphological image of the coronary artery corresponding to the phase,
Converting the data of the FFR distribution map into a color map,
Identify a range of blood vessels of a predetermined inner diameter from the morphological image,
Setting a range for displaying the color map based on the specified range;
A display method, comprising displaying a superimposed image in which a color map whose display target is the range and the morphological image are superimposed.
[16] storing data of an FFR distribution map of a predetermined phase of a coronary artery, and data of a morphological image of the coronary artery corresponding to the phase,
Converting the data of the FFR distribution map into a color map,
Identify a blood vessel bifurcation position from the morphological image,
Setting a range for displaying the color map based on the blood vessel bifurcation position;
A display method, comprising displaying a superimposed image in which a color map whose display target is the range and the morphological image are superimposed.

Reference Signs List 1 medical image diagnostic apparatus 11 communication interface unit 12 storage unit 13 LUT creation unit 14 color map conversion unit 15 control unit 16 input unit 17 blood vessel region extraction unit 18 Display range setting unit, 19: image selection unit, 20: display unit, 21: image processing unit

Claims (9)

Acquiring data indicating a spatial distribution of blood vessel structure based on a morphological image including a coronary artery of a subject;
Set a display range based on the blood vessel structure;
Acquiring data indicating a spatial distribution of functional indicators regarding the myocardium based on volume data regarding the myocardium of the subject;
Restricting to the display range, a spatial distribution of pressure index values acquired for the coronary artery and a spatial distribution of functional indicators are both color coded to produce a color map.
How to create a color map.   The method for generating a color map according to claim 1, wherein setting the display range based on the blood vessel structure includes setting the display range based on a branch position of a blood vessel. Data of a correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are made to correspond to a plurality of pressure index values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the pressure index value is generated,
The color map generation method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a color corresponding to the pressure index value is set based on the correspondence table. Data of another correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors are made to correspond to a plurality of index values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the functional index is generated,
The color map generation method according to claim 1, wherein a color corresponding to the index value is set based on the correspondence table. The data of the correspondence table in which the data of a plurality of colors correspond to a plurality of pressure index values determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the pressure index value are determined by the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the function index Generate data of another correspondence table in which data of a plurality of colors correspond to a plurality of index values,
The method for generating a color map according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the color map created based on the correspondence table and the color map created based on the other correspondence table are switched according to a user instruction.   The generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the data indicating the spatial distribution of the functional index is a myocardial perfusion image or a polar map. A blood vessel region extraction unit that acquires data indicating spatial distribution of blood vessel structure based on a morphological image including a coronary artery of a subject;
A display range setting unit configured to set a display range based on the blood vessel structure;
An image processing unit that acquires data indicating a spatial distribution of the functional index related to the myocardium based on volume data related to the myocardium of the subject;
A color map conversion unit that generates a color map in which both a spatial distribution of pressure index values acquired for the coronary artery and a spatial distribution of the functional index are color-coded, with limitation to the display range;
Medical image processing apparatus equipped with An external device for transmitting a topographical image including a coronary artery of the subject;
A blood vessel region extraction unit that acquires data indicating a spatial distribution of blood vessel structure based on the morphological image transmitted from the external device;
A display range setting unit configured to set a display range based on the blood vessel structure;
An image processing unit that acquires data indicating a spatial distribution of the functional index related to the myocardium based on volume data related to the myocardium of the subject;
A color map conversion unit that generates a color map in which both a spatial distribution of pressure index values acquired for the coronary artery and a spatial distribution of the functional index are color-coded, with limitation to the display range;
Medical image processing system equipped with A process of acquiring data indicating a spatial distribution of blood vessel structure based on a morphological image including a coronary artery of a subject;
A process of setting a display range based on the blood vessel structure;
A process of acquiring data indicating a spatial distribution of functional indicators on the myocardium based on volume data on the myocardium of the subject;
A process of generating a color map in which both of the spatial distribution of pressure index values acquired for the coronary artery and the spatial distribution of the functional index are color-coded, limited to the display range;
A program that causes a processor to execute