JP2019208741A - Medical image diagnostic device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a medical image diagnostic device that allows for efficient imaging diagnostic.SOLUTION: A medical image diagnostic device includes an input circuit and a control circuit. The input circuit receives an operation for selecting an examination to a subject. The control circuit controls a display unit to display information indicating elements constituting the examination and including an operation by an operator while aligning pieces of the information in chronological order for the examination that is received by the input circuit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

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

  Conventionally, in image diagnosis using a medical image diagnosis apparatus such as an X-ray CT apparatus (CT) or an MRI apparatus (MRI; Magnetic Resonance Imaging), collection of patient images, interpretation of collected images, and report Various operations such as creation and explanation of diagnosis results and treatment policies based on reports are performed. These operations are performed by specialists such as doctors in charge and engineers in charge.

  For example, the doctor in charge creates an examination order based on an inquiry with a patient and notifies the technician in charge. The technician in charge performs an examination using a predetermined medical image diagnostic apparatus on the patient based on the examination order received from the doctor in charge, and collects images related to the affected area. Thereafter, a radiology interpreting doctor creates a report corresponding to the examination order. Here, the interpretation doctor confirms the points to be interpreted with reference to the request contents included in the examination order, the report and image of the previous examination, and creates a report. The doctor in charge refers to the created report, determines the result of the image diagnosis, determines the treatment policy, and gives an explanation to the patient.

JP 2012-179447 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medical image diagnostic apparatus that can perform an image diagnosis efficiently.

  The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes a reception unit and a display control unit. The accepting unit accepts an operation for selecting an examination for the subject. The display control unit displays, on the display unit, information indicating elements constituting the inspection including the operation by the operator in time series for the inspection received by the reception unit.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an X-ray CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an authentication screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a patient selection screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an inspection protocol selection screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example (1) of the scanning screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an example (2) of the scanning screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example (3) of the scanning screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example (4) of the scanning screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example (5) of the scanning screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image review screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an end option screen displayed by the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an imaging operation screen displayed on the display according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed by the display according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a patient selection screen displayed by a display according to the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of a medical image diagnostic apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus will be described as an example of the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the present application.

(First embodiment)
First, the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a gantry device 10, a couch device 20, and a console device 30. Here, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is connected to another apparatus by, for example, an in-hospital LAN (Local Area Network) installed in the hospital, and can communicate with each other directly or indirectly. . For example, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) server that stores medical images and processes medical images, other medical image diagnostic apparatuses, and a doctor in charge for referring images. Each device is connected to a terminal device or the like, and each device transmits and receives medical images and the like in accordance with DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) standards, for example.

  Further, in a system having each of the above-described devices, HIS (Hospital Information System), RIS (Radiology Information System), etc. are introduced to manage various information. For example, the examination order created by the terminal device by the above-described system is transmitted to each medical image diagnostic apparatus. Each medical image diagnostic apparatus acquires patient information from an examination order received directly from a terminal device or a patient list (modality work list) for each modality created by a PACS server that has received the examination order.

  The gantry device 10 is a device that irradiates the subject P with X-rays, detects X-rays transmitted through the subject P, and outputs the detected X-rays to the console device 30. The gantry device 10 and the X-ray generator 12, a detector 13, a data collection circuit 14, a rotating frame 15, and a gantry drive circuit 16.

  The rotating frame 15 supports the X-ray generator 12 and the detector 13 so as to face each other with the subject P interposed therebetween, and is rotated at high speed in a circular orbit around the subject P by a gantry driving circuit 16 described later. It is an annular frame.

  The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 controls a high voltage generator (not shown) to supply a high voltage to the X-ray tube 12a. The X-ray tube 12 a generates X-rays using the high voltage supplied from the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11. The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 adjusts the X-ray dose irradiated to the subject P by adjusting the tube voltage and tube current supplied to the X-ray tube 12a.

  The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 switches the wedge 12b. The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 adjusts the X-ray irradiation range (fan angle and cone angle) by adjusting the aperture of the collimator 12c. In addition, this embodiment may be a case where an operator manually switches a plurality of types of wedges.

  The X-ray generator 12 is an apparatus that generates X-rays and irradiates the subject P with the generated X-rays, and includes an X-ray tube 12a, a wedge 12b, and a collimator 12c.

  The X-ray tube 12 a is a vacuum tube that irradiates the subject P with an X-ray beam with a high voltage supplied by a high voltage generator (not shown). The X-ray beam is applied to the subject P as the rotating frame 15 rotates. Irradiate. The X-ray tube 12a generates an X-ray beam that spreads with a fan angle and a cone angle. For example, under the control of the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11, the X-ray tube 12 a continuously exposes X-rays around the subject P for full reconstruction or exposure that can be reconfigured for half reconstruction. It is possible to continuously expose X-rays in the irradiation range (180 degrees + fan angle). Further, the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 can control the X-ray tube 12a to intermittently emit X-rays (pulse X-rays) at a preset position (tube position). The X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 can also modulate the intensity of the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 12a. For example, the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 increases the intensity of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 12a at a specific tube position, and exposes from the X-ray tube 12a at a range other than the specific tube position. Reduce the intensity of the emitted X-rays.

  The wedge 12b is an X-ray filter for adjusting the X-ray dose of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 12a. Specifically, the wedge 12b transmits the X-rays exposed from the X-ray tube 12a so that the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 12a to the subject P have a predetermined distribution. Attenuating filter. For example, the wedge 12b is a filter obtained by processing aluminum so as to have a predetermined target angle or a predetermined thickness. The wedge is also called a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter.

  The collimator 12c is a slit for narrowing the X-ray irradiation range in which the X-ray dose is adjusted by the wedge 12b under the control of the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11 described later.

  The gantry driving circuit 16 rotates the rotary frame 15 to rotate the X-ray generator 12 and the detector 13 on a circular orbit around the subject P.

  The detector 13 is a two-dimensional array type detector (surface detector) that detects X-rays transmitted through the subject P, and a detection element array formed by arranging X-ray detection elements for a plurality of channels is the subject P. A plurality of rows are arranged along the body axis direction (Z-axis direction shown in FIG. 1). Specifically, the detector 13 in the first embodiment includes X-ray detection elements arranged in multiple rows such as 320 rows along the body axis direction of the subject P. For example, the lungs of the subject P It is possible to detect X-rays transmitted through the subject P over a wide range, such as a range including the heart and the heart.

  The data acquisition circuit 14 is a DAS (Data Acquisition System), and collects projection data from the X-ray detection data detected by the detector 13. For example, the data collection circuit 14 generates projection data by performing amplification processing, A / D conversion processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and the like on the X-ray intensity distribution data detected by the detector 13. The projection data thus transmitted is transmitted to the console device 30 described later. For example, when X-rays are continuously emitted from the X-ray tube 12a during the rotation of the rotating frame, the data acquisition circuit 14 collects projection data groups for the entire circumference (for 360 degrees). In addition, the data collection circuit 14 associates the tube position with each collected projection data and transmits the projection data to the console device 30 described later. The tube position is information indicating the projection direction of the projection data. Note that the sensitivity correction processing between channels may be performed by the preprocessing circuit 34 described later.

  The couch device 20 is a device on which the subject P is placed, and includes a couch driving device 21 and a top plate 22 as shown in FIG. The couch driving device 21 moves the subject P into the rotary frame 15 by moving the couchtop 22 in the Z-axis direction. The top plate 22 is a plate on which the subject P is placed.

  For example, the gantry device 10 performs a helical scan that rotates the rotating frame 15 while moving the top plate 22 to scan the subject P in a spiral shape. Alternatively, the gantry device 10 performs a conventional scan in which the subject P is scanned in a circular orbit by rotating the rotating frame 15 while the position of the subject P is fixed after the top plate 22 is moved. Alternatively, the gantry device 10 executes a step-and-shoot method in which the position of the top plate 22 is moved at regular intervals and a conventional scan is performed in a plurality of scan areas.

  The console device 30 is a device that accepts an operation of the X-ray CT apparatus by an operator and reconstructs X-ray CT image data using the projection data collected by the gantry device 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the console device 30 includes an input circuit 31, a display 32, a scan control circuit 33, a preprocessing circuit 34, a projection data storage circuit 35, an image reconstruction circuit 36, and an image storage circuit. 37 and a control circuit 38.

  The input circuit 31 includes a mouse, a keyboard, and the like that are used by the operator of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 to input various instructions and various settings, and transfers instructions and setting information received from the operator to the control circuit 38. For example, the input circuit 31 receives imaging conditions for X-ray CT image data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing X-ray CT image data, image processing conditions for X-ray CT image data, and the like from the operator. The input circuit 31 receives an operation for selecting an examination for the subject. The input circuit 31 further accepts an operation for selecting information indicating scans displayed in time series.

  The display 32 is a monitor that is referred to by the operator, displays X-ray CT image data to the operator under the control of the control circuit 38, and provides various instructions and various settings from the operator via the input circuit 31. For example, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for accepting and the like is displayed. The display 32 displays a plan screen for a scan plan, a screen being scanned, and the like. Details of the scan planning screen and the screen during scanning will be described later.

  The scan control circuit 33 controls the operations of the X-ray irradiation control circuit 11, the gantry driving circuit 16, the data collection circuit 14, and the bed driving device 21 under the control of the control circuit 38 to be described later. Controls the process of collecting projection data.

  The preprocessing circuit 34 performs logarithmic conversion processing and correction processing such as offset correction, sensitivity correction, and beam hardening correction on the projection data generated by the data acquisition circuit 14 to obtain corrected projection data. Generate.

  The projection data storage circuit 35 stores the projection data generated by the preprocessing circuit 34. The image reconstruction circuit 36 reconstructs X-ray CT image data using the projection data stored in the projection data storage circuit 35. As the reconstruction method, there are various methods, for example, back projection processing. Further, as the back projection process, for example, a back projection process by an FBP (Filtered Back Projection) method can be cited. Alternatively, the image reconstruction circuit 36 may reconstruct X-ray CT image data using a successive approximation method.

  Further, the image reconstruction circuit 36 generates image data by performing various image processing on the X-ray CT image data. Then, the image reconstruction circuit 36 stores the reconstructed X-ray CT image data and image data generated by various image processes in the image storage circuit 37. The image storage circuit 37 stores the image data generated by the image reconstruction circuit 36.

  The control circuit 38 performs overall control of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 by controlling operations of the gantry device 10, the couch device 20, and the console device 30. Specifically, the control circuit 38 controls the CT scan performed by the gantry device 10 by controlling the scan control circuit 33. Further, the control circuit 38 controls the generation of projection data by controlling the preprocessing circuit 34. The control circuit 38 controls the image reconstruction circuit 36 to control image reconstruction processing and image generation processing in the console device 30. The control circuit 38 controls the display 32 to display various image data stored in the image storage circuit 37.

  The overall configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment has been described above. Under such a configuration, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment can perform an image diagnosis efficiently. Here, a case in which the image diagnosis cannot be performed efficiently in the related art will be described. As described above, in image diagnosis using a medical image diagnostic apparatus such as an X-ray CT apparatus, an operator (for example, a technician in charge or a radiologist) who operates the medical image diagnostic apparatus is sent from the doctor in charge. The inspection content is determined based on the inspection order, and the inspection is performed.

  For example, in an image diagnosis using an X-ray CT apparatus, an inspection protocol along an inspection order is selected from a plurality of preset inspection protocols by an operator, and a scan included in the selected inspection protocol is executed. Is done. Here, the inspection protocol includes, for example, a positioning scan, a non-contrast scan for each part, or a contrast scan for each part. That is, when X-ray CT image data is collected based on one examination protocol, a plurality of scans are executed, and X-ray CT image data corresponding to each scan is collected. The X-ray CT image data collected by one scan is also called series data.

  Here, when the inspection is performed by the inspection protocol as described above, in the conventional X-ray CT apparatus, detailed parameter information for collecting the X-ray CT image data is displayed on the display. For example, in a conventional X-ray CT apparatus, scanning conditions, reconstruction conditions, an editing screen for each condition, and the like are displayed on a display. That is, in the conventional X-ray CT apparatus, parameter information relating to each scan is simply listed, so that the operator can easily grasp the examination flow, the current state, the next operation, and the like. In some cases, image diagnosis cannot be performed efficiently. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment makes it easy to grasp the inspection flow, the current state, the next operation, and the like by the control of the control circuit 38 described in detail below. It is possible to perform image diagnosis efficiently.

  Specifically, the control circuit 38 in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment displays information indicating elements constituting the examination in time series, thereby displaying the examination flow, the current state, This makes it possible to grasp at a glance the operation to be performed next and to perform the image diagnosis efficiently. Hereinafter, an example of collection of X-ray CT image data by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described in order with reference to FIGS.

  First, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 authenticates an operator when collecting X-ray CT image data. Specifically, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display an authentication screen for authenticating the operator. Then, the input circuit 31 receives an operator's input operation for authentication information, and transmits the received authentication information to the control circuit 38. The control circuit 38 compares the authentication information received from the input circuit 31 with operator information registered in advance, and determines whether or not the operator currently operating is a person permitted to operate the device. judge. Here, when the input authentication information is included in the operator information registered in advance, the control circuit 38 determines that the operator currently operating is a person who is permitted to operate the device. judge. On the other hand, when the input authentication information is not included in the operator information registered in advance, the control circuit 38 determines that the operator currently operating is not a person permitted to operate the device. To do.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an authentication screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 (A), the control circuit 38 makes “Enter your username” that allows an operator to input a user name, “Password” that allows a user to input a password, “Role” that allows a user to select a role, and the like. The area is displayed on the display 32. In addition, the control circuit 38 displays a “Login” button on the display 32 for starting the authentication process after each information is input.

  On the authentication screen (login screen) shown in FIG. 2A, the operator performs an input operation and selection operation of each information via the input circuit 31. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the operator inputs “user A” in the “Enter your username” area and “12345678” in the “Password” area. Then, the operator selects his / her role in the “Role” area. Here, the roles selected in the “Role” area are, for example, working hours such as “Day duty” and “Night duty” as shown in FIG. Bands, specific individuals such as “Prof. Mike”, and applications such as “Research” are included. The option “Role” shown in FIG. 2B is merely an example, and the role displayed as the option can be arbitrarily set. For example, a job type such as “radiologist” may be set, or “service maintenance” may be set.

  In this manner, the control circuit 38 selects the role of the operator along with the user name and password input areas for user authentication on the login screen, so that information to be subsequently displayed on the display 32 is changed to the selected role. It becomes possible to change based on. An example in which the information to be displayed on the display 32 is changed based on the selected role will be described later.

  When the operator inputs authentication information such as a user name and password on the login screen as shown in FIG. 2, the control circuit 38 performs authentication by comparing the input information with operator information registered in advance. . Here, if the authentication is successful, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display a screen including a GUI for performing various settings for operating the device itself. Specifically, the control circuit 38 includes a GUI related to scanning for collecting X-ray CT image data, and a GUI related to imaging for displaying or processing image data generated from the collected X-ray CT image data. A screen including the above is displayed on the display 32.

  For example, the control circuit 38 displays the patient selection screen shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a patient selection screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit 38 according to the first embodiment includes a patient name “Name”, a patient ID “Patient ID”, an examination date “Exam Date”, an affected part “Organ”, and an access number “Accession”. A patient selection image in which “Number”, birthday “DOB”, age “Age”, weight “Weight”, height “Height”, sex “Gender” and the like are displayed for each patient is displayed on the display 32.

  Here, the information on the patient selection screen (patient list) shown in FIG. 3 is acquired from, for example, a modality work list (MWM) created based on the examination order. That is, the control circuit 38 accesses the PACS server after authenticating the operator, acquires information from the current modality work list, and causes the display 32 to display a patient selection screen. Note that the patient selection screen may be displayed based on the directly received examination order.

  Further, the control circuit 38 according to the first embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, displays a screen related to scanning for collecting X-ray CT image data in a screen displayed on the display 32. 51 and an “Imaging” tab 52 for displaying a screen relating to imaging for displaying and processing image data. Accordingly, the operator can easily switch between the operation screen related to scanning and the operation screen related to imaging by selecting a tab, and can easily perform an input operation.

  The control circuit 38 displays a GUI for filtering the patient list by “All / Today”. In other words, the control circuit 38 describes “All” patient list in which information of all subjects (patients) registered at present is recorded, and information on only the subject (patient) to be examined today. In addition, a GUI for switching the patient list of “Today” is displayed. As a result, the operator can concentrate on the information on the day of the inspection and carry out the inspection.

  Further, the control circuit 38 includes a patient name “Name”, a patient ID “Patient ID”, an examination date “Exam Date”, an affected part “Organ”, an access number “Accession Number”, a birthday “DOB”, an age “Age”, Register a GUI for sorting by weight "Weight", height "Height", gender "Gender", GUI for searching by keyword, "Emergency" button for shortcut in emergency, and new patients not in the list "New Patient" button etc. are displayed on the screen.

  The operator selects the next patient to be examined using each GUI displayed on the patient selection screen via the input circuit 31. For example, the operator selects “WILLIAMS Zachary Edward” as the patient to be examined next from the patient selection screen, and presses the “Next” button arranged at the lower right. The “Close” button at the lower left of the screen is pressed to close the patient selection screen. Thereafter, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display a screen corresponding to the operation by the operator.

  Note that the control circuit 38 displays the flow under examination on the screen as shown in a region 53 of FIG. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit 38 includes a patient registration “Patient Registration”, a protocol selection “Protocol Selection”, a scanning “Scanning”, an image review “Image Review”, a termination option “Finishing Options”, and the like. Display the flow in the screen. Here, the control circuit 38 highlights and displays the current process in the inspection flow. For example, in the screen of FIG. 3 for performing patient selection, the control circuit 38 displays a portion of the patient registration “Patient Registration” to be emphasized in comparison with other portions.

  When the patient to be examined next is selected on the patient selection screen shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display a selection screen for selecting an examination protocol. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an inspection protocol selection screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, when a patient is selected on the patient selection screen shown in FIG. 3 and the “Next” button is pressed, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display the examination protocol selection screen shown in FIG. On the examination protocol selection screen, the control circuit 38 highlights the “Protocol Selection” area as indicated by an arrow 54 in FIG.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4A, the control circuit 38 displays a selection area “Preset Protocols” for selecting an inspection protocol to be executed from preset inspection protocols in the inspection protocol selection screen. Let The operator selects the examination protocol for the examination to be performed on the current patient (for example, WILLIAMS Zachary Edward) on the examination protocol selection screen displayed on the display 32. For example, the operator selects the examination protocol “Chest and Abdomen CE” via the input circuit 31 as shown in FIG.

  When the inspection protocol is selected by the operator, the control circuit 38, as shown in FIG. 4B, scan information “3D Scano”, “Sure” included in the selected inspection protocol “Chest and Abdomen CE”. “Start”, “Arterial Chest”, and “Portal Abdomen” are displayed on the display 32. Thereby, the operator can confirm the content of the inspection protocol selected by the operator. The inspection protocol displayed here is set and registered in advance so that an optimum scan can be performed according to the content of the inspection. These inspection protocols can be arbitrarily set and registered by an authorized operator.

  Furthermore, the test protocol options displayed on the test protocol selection screen may be changed according to the role of the operator. That is, the control circuit 38 can change the displayed options by clicking the selection area “Preset Protocols” for selecting the inspection protocol according to the role of the operator selected on the login screen. For example, when the role selected by the operator is “Day duty”, the control circuit 38 displays all examination protocols corresponding to the affected part included in the examination order as options. On the other hand, when the role selected by the operator is “Night duty”, the control circuit 38 selects the inspection protocol mainly selected from the inspection protocols corresponding to the affected part included in the inspection order. Display as an option.

  By doing this, the operator of “Day duty” who is accustomed to using the device is made to display all the options, and the optimum inspection protocol is selected from among them, and the device is not so familiar. For possible "Night Duty" operators, select the inspection protocol to be performed from among the mainly used inspection protocols so that unnecessary time is not required for selecting the inspection protocol. Can be made. It should be noted that the examination protocol options displayed on the examination protocol selection screen can be arbitrarily set for each role, such as for a specific individual, for research, or for service maintenance.

  As described above, when the inspection protocol to be executed is selected on the inspection protocol selection screen and the “Next” button is pressed, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display a screen related to scanning. Here, the control circuit 38 according to the first embodiment arranges information indicating the elements constituting the examination performed on the subject (patient) in time series and displays the information on the display 32, thereby allowing the examination flow. In addition, it is possible to grasp the current state and the next operation at a glance and to perform an image diagnosis efficiently.

  FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an example (1) of the scanning screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display information indicating elements constituting the inspection including the operation by the operator in time series for the inspection protocol received by the input circuit 31. Here, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display information indicating the operation by the operator and information indicating the scan included in the elements constituting the examination.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the control circuit 38 includes an icon 55 indicating an ON operation of an exposure switch, which is an operation by an operator, and a scan included in the selected examination protocol “Chest and Abdomen CE”. Icons 56 indicating “3D Scano”, “Sure Start”, “Arterial Chest”, and “Portal Abdomen” are displayed side by side in chronological order. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5A, the control circuit 38 displays the icon 55 and the icon 56 in different forms to distinguish between information indicating the operation by the operator and information indicating the scan. In FIG. 5A, information indicating an operation by the operator is indicated by a circular icon, and information indicating a scan is indicated by a rectangular icon. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and each information is It can be shown in any shape.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the control circuit 38 displays the icon 55 indicating the ON operation of the exposure switch and the icon 56 indicating the scan, arranged from left to right in the order of execution. By referring to this screen, the operator can grasp at a glance the flow of examination, the current state, the operation to be performed next, and the like, and can perform image diagnosis efficiently. When the inspection protocol is selected and the scanning screen is displayed, the “Scanning” area in the inspection flow is highlighted as shown by the arrow 54 in FIG. 5A.

  Here, in FIG. 5A, the case where the exposure switch ON operation and scanning are displayed as an example of the constituent elements of the inspection has been described as an example. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the other These elements may be displayed in chronological order or various information may be displayed on the scanning screen. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating an example (2) of the scanning screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the control circuit 38 depresses the icon 57 indicating the standby time and the second exposure switch in addition to the icon 55 indicating the ON operation of the exposure switch and the icon 56 indicating the scan. An icon 58 indicating the time from the start of each scan to the start of each scan, an icon 59 indicating the injection of contrast medium, and the like are displayed in a time series on the scanning screen.

  By referring to the scanning screen shown in FIG. 5B, in the currently executed inspection protocol, the operator first presses the exposure button to collect a scan positioning image (scanogram). The scan of “3D Scano” is performed for “6 seconds (6 seconds)”, positioning is executed based on the acquired scanogram, and then the scan of the affected area is started by pressing the exposure button again. Can be grasped. Further, by referring to the scanning image shown in FIG. 5B, the operator injects the contrast medium at the same timing as the second exposure switch is pressed, and after “10 seconds (10.0 S)”, the contrast medium is injected. A scan “Sure Start” for confirming the flow is performed for “40.25 seconds (40.25 seconds)”, and after “10 seconds (10.0 S)”, “4.5 seconds (4.5 seconds)” It can be seen at a glance that a thoracic artery scan “Arterial Chest” and an abdominal department pulse scan “Portal Abdomen” of “7.3 seconds (7.3 seconds)” are sequentially performed.

  Furthermore, in the scanning image shown in FIG. 5B, the time until each scan is started can be visualized by referring to an icon 58 indicating the time from when the exposure switch is pressed until each scan is started. It is possible to grasp. Then, the control circuit 38 displays the scan currently being executed in a state different from the other scans. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5B, the control circuit 38 highlights an icon 56 indicating “3D Scano” scan. As a result, the operator can grasp the current state at a glance.

  The above-described example is merely an example, and other information may be displayed in time series. For example, information indicating sound generated from the apparatus at the start and end of the scan may be displayed in time series. In addition, each icon may be displayed including various information (for example, a scanning method such as a helical scan).

  Further, on the scanning screen, in addition to the elements constituting the above-described examination, the control circuit 38, as shown in FIG. 5B, information indicating the scan range on the human body model, position information of the subject (Patient Position) and detailed information (Scan Details) of the currently executed scan can be displayed at the same time. Furthermore, the control circuit 38 can display the electrocardiographic waveform of the subject indicated by the arrow 60 in FIG. 5B and the exposure dose information indicated by the arrow 61 on the scanning screen. By referring to such a scanning screen, the operator can perform the examination while comprehensively confirming the details of the scan and the state of the subject in addition to the information regarding the progress of the examination and the operation of the operator. Can do.

  Further, the control circuit 38 can display an image collected by scanning, a scan result, and the like on the scanning screen. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example (3) of the scanning screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, when the scan “Sure Start” is performed, the control circuit 38 generates the three-dimensional X-ray CT image data collected by “3D Scano” in the upper stage of the scanning screen as shown in FIG. The image data is displayed, and the position of the ROI 1 for observing the state of the CT value in “Sure Start” is displayed on the image data. Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the control circuit 38 displays a TDC (Time Density Curve) 62 indicating the time change of the CT value in the ROI 1 next to the icon 56.

  In addition, the control circuit 38 can display parameter information corresponding to each scan included in the inspection protocol. Specifically, the input circuit 31 further accepts an operation for selecting information (for example, an icon or the like) indicating scans displayed in time series. The control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display scan conditions and information for editing the scan corresponding to the information selected by the input circuit 31 together with the information arranged in time series. That is, the control circuit 38 displays the detailed parameter information of the selected scan on the display 32 in a state where the elements constituting the inspection (contents included in the inspection) are displayed in chronological order.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example (4) of the scanning screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the control circuit 38 causes the scan parameter information 63 to be displayed on the scanning screen together with information arranged in time series. For example, the icons for each scan arranged in time series are configured as push buttons, and the input circuit 31 accepts a push operation for the push buttons for each scan. The control circuit 38 displays parameter information corresponding to the scan for which the pressing operation has been received on the scanning screen. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, when the button of the currently executed scan “Arterial Chest” is pressed, the control circuit 38 displays “Scan” and “Scan” of the currently executed scan “Arterial Chest”. Parameter information is displayed for “Adv. Scan”, “Reconstruction”, and “Adv. Reconstruction”.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the control circuit 38 displays the parameter information while maintaining the display of the components of the examination arranged in time series. Thereby, the operator can confirm the parameters of each scan along with the progress of the examination. Further, the operator can edit detailed parameters.

  Further, the control circuit 38 can display information on the X-ray dose and execution time in each scan, together with display information in which elements constituting the examination are arranged in time series. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example (5) of the scanning screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the control circuit 38 is included in the examination protocol “Chest and Abdomen CE” on a graph with the real time (seconds) on the horizontal axis and the X-ray dose (mA) on the vertical axis. Information on the X-ray dose and execution time of each of the scans “3D Scano”, “Sure Start”, “Arterial Chest” and “Portal Abdomen” is displayed.

  Here, these pieces of information are displayed in conjunction with display information arranged in chronological order. For example, in the display information arranged in time series, the control circuit 38 highlights the information (for example, icon) of the scan currently being executed, and in the information regarding the X-ray dose and the execution time, The X-ray dose of the scan currently being executed is highlighted and displayed.

  Note that the display information arranged in chronological order and the information regarding the X-ray dose and the execution time can be switched by a button indicated by an arrow 64 in FIG. For example, when display information arranged in chronological order is displayed, when a button indicating a graph indicated by an arrow 64 is pressed via the input circuit 31, the control circuit 38 is as shown in FIG. In addition, information on the X-ray dose and execution time is displayed on the scanning screen. On the other hand, when the information regarding the X-ray dose and the execution time is displayed, when the rectangular button on the button indicating the graph indicated by the arrow 64 is pressed via the input circuit 31, the control circuit 38 is pressed. For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, display information arranged in chronological order is displayed on the scanning screen.

  Here, the display form of the display information arranged in time series and the information related to the X-ray dose and the execution time may be not only the switching display as shown in FIG. 8 but also the display form arranged on the same screen. For example, information regarding the X-ray dose and execution time may be displayed below the display information arranged in time series. In addition, for example, a corresponding icon may be displayed on the upper side of each scan graph in the information regarding the X-ray dose and the execution time.

  Further, the display information arranged in chronological order and the information regarding the X-ray dose and the execution time may be switched automatically according to the examination protocol (or the type of scan) to be performed. In such a case, whether to display display information arranged in chronological order in advance for each examination protocol and scan type, or to display information about the X-ray dose and the execution time is stored in the image storage circuit 37 in association with each other. In addition, the control circuit 38 automatically switches the information to be displayed based on the stored information. For example, the control circuit 38 displays information on the X-ray dose and execution time when performing a scan for brain perfusion analysis.

  As described above, the control circuit 38 according to the first embodiment can display icons indicating elements constituting the examination side by side in chronological order and also display various information. Here, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the scan included in the initially selected inspection protocol and the operation executed by the operator at that time are displayed in chronological order has been described. In such an X-ray CT apparatus 1, it is possible to add an inspection protocol or scan during scanning. In such a case, the control circuit 38 also displays the information indicating the elements constituting the inspection in time series order for the added inspection protocol as in the above example. In addition, the control circuit 38 further displays an icon corresponding to the added scan in the display information in the time series order indicating the examination protocol currently being executed.

  When all the scans using the selected inspection protocol are completed, the control circuit 38 displays an operation screen for selecting whether to continue the scan or to proceed to the next process. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the control circuit 38 displays a push button 65 for continuing the scan at the end of the time-series information of the completed examination protocol.

  Here, when further scanning is performed, the operator presses the pressing button 65 via the input circuit 31. When the push button 65 is pressed by the operator, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display an inspection protocol selection screen shown in FIG. When an additional inspection protocol is selected, the control circuit 38 performs a scan on the selected inspection protocol in the same manner as in the above example.

  On the other hand, when ending the scan, the operator presses a “Next” button arranged at the lower right of the scanning screen via the input circuit 31. When the “Next” button is pressed by the operator, the control circuit 38 generates image data from the X-ray CT image data collected by the examination protocol scan executed so far and displays the image data on the display 32. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image review screen displayed on the display 32 according to the first embodiment.

  For example, the control circuit 38 controls the image reconstruction circuit 36 to reconstruct the X-ray CT image data from the collected projection data and execute various image processing on the X-ray CT image data. Display image data is generated. For example, the control circuit 38 displays various image data on the display 32 as shown in FIG. Here, the control circuit 38 automatically selects and generates the type of image data based on the attribute information (role) of the operator or the doctor in charge, the affected area, and the selected examination protocol.

  For example, correspondence information in which an application for generating image data is previously associated with a specific individual, an affected part, and an examination protocol is stored in the image storage circuit 37. When the scan is completed, the control circuit 38 refers to the correspondence information stored in the image storage circuit 37 and refers to the attribute of the person (operator or doctor in charge who issued the examination order) who has performed the scan that has been performed so far. The image reconstruction circuit 36 is controlled so as to acquire information, information on an application corresponding to an affected part and an examination protocol, and generate image data using the application.

  Then, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display various image data generated by the image reconstruction circuit 36. At this time, as shown at the left end of FIG. 10, the control circuit 38 can also display image data collected in the past of the same patient so as to be selectable for each series data. The operator observes the image review and past series data displayed on the display 32 and confirms the image data collected this time. When the image review screen is displayed, the “Image Review” area in the examination flow is highlighted as shown by an arrow 66 in FIG.

  When the image review ends, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display an option screen before the end of scanning. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an end option screen displayed by the display 32 according to the first embodiment. For example, as indicated by an arrow 67 in FIG. 11, the control circuit 38 highlights the “Finishing Options” area in the inspection flow and displays subsequent processing options. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the control circuit 38 adds a push button “Perform Another Scan for the Current Patient” for executing another scan for the current patient, or adds the current patient to imaging. , A push button “Add Current Patient to Imaging (and Scan a New Patient)” for scanning a new patient, a push button “Scan a New Patient” for scanning a new patient, and a push button “ “Finish Scanning” is displayed.

  The operator presses the push button displayed on the display 32 to perform the subsequent processing. Note that the options displayed on the end option screen illustrated in FIG. 11 are merely examples, and the embodiment is not limited thereto. That is, the options displayed on the end option screen can be arbitrarily set by the operator.

  In the above, the example which displays GUI regarding the scan which collects X-ray CT image data was demonstrated. Next, a case where a screen including a GUI related to imaging is displayed on the display 32 will be described. For example, when the operator presses the “Imaging” tab 52 via the input circuit 31, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display an operation screen related to imaging. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an imaging operation screen displayed on the display 32 according to the first embodiment.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the control circuit 38 displays an operation screen in which various image data are displayed on the “Imaging” tab 52. Here, as shown in FIG. 12, the control circuit 38 displays a selection area 68 for performing patient selection on the “Imaging” tab 52. The operator can select the patient whose image data is to be displayed by operating the selection area 68 via the input circuit 31. The control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display the patient image data selected by the operator.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the input circuit 31 receives an operation for selecting a test for a subject. The control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display information indicating elements constituting the inspection including operations by the operator in time series for the inspection received by the input circuit 31. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment can make the operator easily grasp the flow of examination, the current state, the next operation, and the like, and can perform image diagnosis efficiently. Make it possible.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display the information indicating the operation by the operator and the information indicating the scan included in the elements constituting the examination in distinction. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to grasp at a glance the operation (action) of the operator in the examination.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the control circuit 38 further displays the standby time as information indicating the elements constituting the inspection. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment enables an operator to perform an inspection efficiently. For example, the operator can accurately grasp the waiting time, and when the waiting time is long, the operator can also perform confirmation work by generating image data from the collected X-ray CT image data.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the information indicating the operation by the operator includes information indicating that the operator presses the button and information indicating that the operator is to inject the contrast medium. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment enables the operator to grasp the operation timing.

  In addition, according to the first embodiment, the control circuit 38 compares the information indicating the currently executed scan with the information indicating the other scans among the information indicating the scans displayed in time series. Highlight and display. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to grasp the currently executed scan at a glance.

  Further, according to the first embodiment, the input circuit 31 further accepts an operation for selecting information indicating scans displayed in time series. The control circuit 38 causes the display 32 to display scan conditions and information for editing the scan corresponding to the information selected by the input circuit 31 together with the information arranged in time series. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to simultaneously confirm detailed scan information.

  The control circuit 38 further displays information on the X-ray dose and the execution time in each scan on the display 32 in conjunction with information indicating elements constituting the examination. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment makes it possible to simultaneously confirm information on the X-ray dose over time.

(Second Embodiment)
The first embodiment has been described so far, but may be implemented in various different forms other than the first embodiment described above.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which buttons (for example, “Back” button, “Next” button, etc.) related to screen transition are displayed on the lower left and lower right of the screen is shown. Since these buttons are arranged at substantially the same position even when the screen is changed, the buttons are designed so that the operator does not have to search for the buttons. Therefore, when getting used to the operation screen displayed on the display 32, the operator naturally sees the button positions. Therefore, what is displayed at the lower left and lower right of the screen may be not only a button related to screen transition but also other cases.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed by the display 32 according to the second embodiment. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the control circuit 38 according to the second embodiment displays a message area 69 in the lower right position of the screen and displays various messages in the message area 69. The message displayed in the message area is arbitrarily set. For example, a specific message may be set and displayed for each type of operation screen (login screen, protocol selection screen, scanning screen, etc.).

  Further, in the first embodiment described above, the case where only the patient list is displayed on the patient selection screen has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, various information may be displayed in association with each patient. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a patient selection screen displayed by the display 32 according to the second embodiment. For example, when the operator selects a patient via the input circuit 31, the control circuit 38 according to the second embodiment simultaneously displays thumbnails of series data collected by the selected patient in the past, as shown in FIG. Display. The operator can display corresponding image data by selecting a thumbnail of the series data. By referring to the series data collected in the past, the operator can easily select the optimal inspection protocol for the inspection to be performed this time.

  Here, the thumbnails of the series data shown in FIG. 14 can be referred to in the thumbnail state. For example, the series data indicated by the leftmost thumbnail includes 600 pieces of image data collected from the chest to the abdomen. The operator can sequentially display 600 images in a thumbnail state by performing a mouse operation on the leftmost thumbnail. That is, the control circuit 38 sequentially displays cross-sectional images from the chest to the abdomen based on operation information of the mouse as the input circuit 31. In other words, the control circuit 38 sequentially displays the image data at different positions in a thumbnail state based on the mouse operation information.

  Furthermore, it is possible to arbitrarily set the range of images to be displayed in the thumbnail state. For example, a bar for setting a range is displayed beside the thumbnail shown in FIG. The operator can also set the image range by operating the bar via the input circuit 31. For example, the input circuit 31 performs an operation for setting a range from the 100th image to the 500th image for 600 image data included in the series data indicated by the leftmost thumbnail in FIG. Accept. Thereafter, when the mouse is operated on the leftmost thumbnail, the control circuit 38 displays the image data from the 100th image to the 500th image in a thumbnail state.

  The above-described range setting can be executed separately for each thumbnail, and the range can be set for a desired thumbnail at once. For example, after the range from the 100th image to the 500th image is set for the leftmost thumbnail, the second thumbnail from the left and the third thumbnail from the left are selected, and the range is applied to them. Thus, the range from the 100th to the 500th is also set for the second and third thumbnails. The application of the above range may be executed when a dedicated push button is provided and pressed, or may be executed by a mouse operation.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the X-ray CT apparatus is used as the medical image diagnostic apparatus has been described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and may be applied to an MRI apparatus, a PET apparatus, a SPECT apparatus, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. That is, the control circuit of each medical image diagnostic apparatus performs the same control as the control circuit 38 described above.

  In addition, each component of each device illustrated in the first embodiment is functionally conceptual and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution / integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or a part thereof may be functionally or physically distributed or arbitrarily distributed in arbitrary units according to various loads or usage conditions. Can be integrated and configured. Further, all or a part of each processing function performed in each device may be realized by a CPU and a program that is analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware by wired logic.

  Further, the control method described in the first embodiment can be realized by executing a control program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This control program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. The control program can also be executed by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD and being read from the recording medium by the computer.

  As described above, according to each embodiment, it is possible to perform image diagnosis efficiently.

  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 embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

1 X-ray CT apparatus 31 Input circuit 32 Display 38 Control circuit

Claims (8)

A reception unit that receives an operation for selecting an examination for the subject;
For the examination accepted by the accepting unit, a display control unit that displays information indicating elements constituting the examination including operations by an operator in time series on the display unit,
A medical image diagnostic apparatus comprising:   The medical image diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit distinguishes and displays information indicating an operation by the operator and information indicating a scan included in an element constituting the examination on the display unit. .   The medical image diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit further displays a waiting time as information indicating an element constituting the examination.   The information indicating the operation by the operator includes information indicating that the operator presses a button and information indicating that the operator is to inject a contrast medium. The medical image diagnostic apparatus described.   The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit further displays an electrocardiographic waveform of the subject on the display unit.   The display control unit highlights and displays information indicating scans currently performed among information indicating scans displayed side by side in comparison with information indicating other scans. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of 5. The reception unit further receives an operation for selecting information indicating scans displayed in time series,
The display control unit causes the display unit to display a scan condition corresponding to the information selected by the receiving unit and information for editing the scan, together with the information arranged in time series. The medical image diagnostic apparatus of any one of -6.   8. The display control unit according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit further causes the display unit to display information related to the X-ray dose and the execution time in each scan in conjunction with information indicating elements constituting the examination. The medical image diagnostic apparatus described.

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