JP2021159337A - Medical image processing device and medical image diagnostic device - Google Patents

Abstract

To enhance efficiency of a work flow in image diagnosis.SOLUTION: A medical image processing device according to an embodiment comprises a generation unit and a display control unit. The generation unit generates a plurality of first preview images based on second data that is a portion of first data collected by using a medical image diagnostic device in accordance with a plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to a first item. The generation unit executes preview image generation processing for generating a plurality of second preview images based on the second data in accordance with a plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to a second item, and at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns. The display control unit hierarchically displays the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

One of the embodiments disclosed in the present specification and the like relates to a medical image processing device and a medical diagnostic imaging device.

For example, in the imaging process using an X-ray computer tomography imaging device (hereinafter, referred to as “X-ray CT device”), which is a medical image diagnostic device, a positioning image is first acquired by positioning imaging. After the positioning imaging, the main imaging for the purpose of acquiring a diagnostic image is executed for the imaging range determined by using the positioning image, and the projection data related to the imaging range is acquired. After the main imaging, a reconstruction process using the acquired projection data is executed and displayed as a reconstruction image on a monitor or the like.

The image quality of the reconstructed image changes depending on conditions such as whether or not the reconstructing function and the filter processing are applied, and the type of the filter processing to be applied. Further, depending on conditions such as the size of the target projection data and the filter processing, a long time may be required for the reconstruction processing. Conventionally, the image quality improvement effect of the reconstruction function, the filter processing, or the like can only be confirmed by the reconstruction image generated by the reconstruction processing. On the other hand, depending on the subject, as a result of observing the generated reconstructed image, the reconstructed process may have to be performed again because the conditions used are not suitable for the diagnosis. In such a case, the executed reconstruction process is wasted, which is a factor that hinders the workflow in diagnostic imaging.

Patent No. 44933323

One of the issues disclosed in the present specification and the like is to realize the efficiency of the workflow in diagnostic imaging.

The medical image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment includes a generation unit and a display control unit. The generation unit produces a plurality of first preview images based on the second data which is a part of the first data collected by the medical image diagnostic apparatus according to the plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the first item. Generate. The generation unit generates a plurality of second preview images based on the second data according to the plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to the second item and at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns. Execute the preview image generation process. The display control unit hierarchically displays the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray computer tomography incorporating the medical image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a flow of a series of operations from the imaging of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 to the display of the reconstructed image. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the hierarchical display of the preview image according to the first application example. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the hierarchical display of the preview image according to the second application example. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the hierarchical display of the preview image according to the application example 3. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining another example of hierarchical display of the preview image according to the application example 3. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the hierarchical display of the preview image according to the application example 5. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the hierarchical display of the preview image according to the application example 6.

Hereinafter, the medical image processing apparatus and the medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the attached drawings. In the embodiment, in order to make the explanation concrete, a case where the medical image diagnosis device is an X-ray CT device will be taken as an example.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 incorporating the medical image processing apparatus 50 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT device 1 includes a gantry device 10, a bed device 30, and a console device 40.

In the present embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotation frame 13 in the non-tilt state or the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 of the sleeper device 30 is orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and the Z-axis direction, and is horizontal to the floor surface. It is assumed that the directions are orthogonal to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction, and the axial direction perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction, respectively.

The gantry device 10 has an imaging system for capturing a medical image used for diagnosis. That is, the gantry device 10 is a device having an imaging system that irradiates the subject P with X-rays and collects projection data from the detection data of the X-rays transmitted through the subject P. The X-ray tube 11 and the wedge 16 A collimator 17, an X-ray detector 12, an X-ray high voltage device 14, a DAS (Data Acquisition System) 18, a rotating frame 13, a control device 15, and a sleeper device 30.

The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube that irradiates thermoelectrons from the cathode (filament) toward the anode (target) by applying a high voltage from the X-ray high voltage device 14.

The wedge 16 is a filter for adjusting the X-ray dose of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the wedge 16 transmits and attenuates the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 so that the X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P have a predetermined distribution. It is a filter to do.

The wedge 16 is, for example, a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, which is a filter obtained by processing aluminum so as to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness.

The collimator 17 is a lead plate or the like for narrowing the irradiation range of X-rays transmitted through the wedge 16, and a slit is formed by a combination of a plurality of lead plates or the like.

The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 and passed through the subject P, and outputs an electric signal corresponding to the X-ray dose to the data acquisition device (DAS18). The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element trains in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc centering on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element trains in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction along one arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube. The X-ray detector 12 has, for example, a structure in which a plurality of X-ray detection element sequences in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements are arranged in the channel direction are arranged in a slice direction (also referred to as a body axis direction or a column direction).

Further, the X-ray detector 12 is an indirect conversion type detector having, for example, a grid, a scintillator array, and an optical sensor array. The scintillator array has a plurality of scintillators, and the scintillator has a scintillator crystal that outputs a photon amount of light according to an incident X dose. The grid is arranged on the surface of the scintillator array on the X-ray incident side and has an X-ray shielding plate having a function of absorbing scattered X-rays. The optical sensor array has a function of converting into an electric signal according to the amount of light from the scintillator, and has, for example, an optical sensor such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). The X-ray detector 12 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electric signal.

The X-ray high-voltage device 14 has an electric circuit such as a transformer and a rectifier, and has a function of generating a high voltage applied to the X-ray tube 11, and the X-ray tube 11 irradiates the X-ray tube 11. It has an X-ray control device that controls an output voltage according to the X-ray. The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 13 or on the fixed frame (not shown) side of the gantry device 10. The fixed frame is a frame that rotatably supports the rotating frame 13.

The DAS 18 has an amplifier that amplifies the electric signal output from each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 12, and an A / D converter that converts the electric signal into a digital signal, and has detection data. To generate. The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is transferred to the console device 40.

The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 so as to face each other and rotates the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 by the control device 15. The rotating frame 13 may further support the X-ray high voltage device 14 and the DAS 18 in addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12. The detection data generated by the DAS 18 is, for example, a photodiode provided in a non-rotating portion of the gantry device 10 such as a fixed frame by optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode provided in the rotating frame 13. Is transmitted to a receiver having a diode and is transferred to the console device 40. The method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 13 to the non-rotating portion of the gantry device 10 is not limited to optical communication, and other non-contact type data transmission methods may be used.

The control device 15 has a processing circuit having a CPU and the like, and a drive mechanism such as a motor and an actuator. The control device 15 has a function of receiving an input signal from the input interface 43 attached to the console device 40 or the input interface attached to the gantry device 10 and controlling the operation of the gantry device 10 and the sleeper device 30. Further, the control device 15 controls to rotate the rotating frame 13 in response to the input signal and controls to operate the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30.

For example, the control device 15 rotates the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on the tilt angle (tilt angle) information input by the input interface attached to the gantry device 10. By causing the gantry device 10 to be tilted. The operation control function 45a included in the control device 15 or the processing circuit 45 is an example of the control unit.

The bed device 30 is a device for placing and moving the subject P to be scanned, and includes a base 31, a bed drive device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 is a housing that supports the support frame 34 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The bed drive device 32 is a motor or actuator that moves the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed in the long axis direction (Z-axis direction in FIG. 1). The top plate 33 provided on the upper surface of the support frame 34 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. In addition to the top plate 33, the bed drive device 32 may move the support frame 34 in the long axis direction of the top plate 33.

The bed drive device 32 moves the base 31 in the vertical direction according to a control signal from the control device 15. The bed drive device 32 moves the top plate 33 in the long axis direction according to the control signal from the control device 15.

The console device 40 is a device that accepts the operation of the X-ray CT device 1 by the user and reconstructs the X-ray CT image data from the X-ray detection data collected by the gantry device 10. The console device 40 includes a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 45.

Here, the medical image processing apparatus 50 according to the present embodiment is realized by at least a processing circuit 45. The medical image processing device 50 according to the present embodiment may further include, for example, a memory 41, a display 42, and an input interface 43.

The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory 41 stores, for example, projection data and reconstructed image data. The memory 41 is an example of a storage unit.

Further, the memory 41 stores a dedicated program for realizing the operation control function 45a, the preprocessing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the management function 45d, and the display control function 45e, which will be described later.

The display 42 is a monitor referred to by the user and displays various information. For example, the display 42 outputs a medical image (CT image) generated by the processing circuit 45, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from the user, and the like. For example, the display 42 is a liquid crystal display or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. The display 42 is an example of a display unit.

The input interface 43 receives various input operations from the user, converts the received input operations into electric signals, and outputs the received input operations to the processing circuit 45. For example, the input interface 43 receives from the user collection conditions for collecting projection data, reconstruction conditions for reconstructing a CT image, image processing conditions for generating a post-processed image from a CT image, and the like. Further, for example, the input interface 43 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, or the like. The input interface 43 is an example of an input unit.

The processing circuit 45 controls the operation of the entire X-ray CT apparatus 1. The processing circuit 45 has, for example, an operation control function 45a, a preprocessing function 45b, a reconstruction processing function 45c, a management function 45d, and a display control function 45e. In the embodiment, each processing function performed by the operation control function 45a, the preprocessing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the management function 45d, and the display control function 45e, which are the constituent elements, is in the form of a program that can be executed by a computer. It is stored in the memory 41. The processing circuit 45 is a processor that realizes a function corresponding to each program by reading a program from the memory 41 and executing the program. In other words, the processing circuit 45 in the state where each program is read has each function shown in the processing circuit 45 of FIG.

In FIG. 1, a single processing circuit 45 realizes the processing functions performed by the operation control function 45a, the preprocessing function 45b, the reconstruction processing function 45c, the management function 45d, and the display control function 45e. However, a plurality of independent processors may be combined to form the processing circuit 45, and each processor may execute a program to realize the function.

In other words, each of the above-mentioned functions may be configured as a program, and one processing circuit may execute each program, or a specific function may be implemented in a dedicated and independent program execution circuit. You may.

The term "processor" used in the above description refers to, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing unit), an integrated circuit for a specific application (Application Special Integrated Circuit: ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, a simple programmable logic device). A circuit of a programmable logic device (Single Programmable Logic Device: SPLD), a composite programmable logic device (Complex Programmable Logic Device: CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (field programmable gate array (meaning FPGA)). The processor realizes the function by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 41. Instead of storing the program in the memory 41, the program may be directly incorporated in the circuit of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes the function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit.

The processing circuit 45 controls various functions of the processing circuit 45 based on the input operation received from the user via the input interface 43 by the operation control function 45a. For example, the processing circuit 45 is controlled by the operation control function 45a. The input of user information (for example, user ID, etc.), subject information, imaging protocol, etc. for login is received via the input interface 43. Further, the processing circuit 45 controls the positioning image pickup, the main image pickup, and the like by the operation control function 45a.

The processing circuit 45 generates data obtained by performing preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset processing, interchannel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from DAS18 by the preprocessing function 45b. .. The data before preprocessing (detection data) and the data after preprocessing may be collectively referred to as projection data.

The processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform reconstruction processing on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 45b using a filter correction back projection method, a successive approximation reconstruction method, or the like according to the reconstruction conditions. To generate CT image data. The reconstruction processing function 45c is an example of a generation unit.

Here, in the present embodiment, the reconstruction condition is a condition determined by a combination of a plurality of items (FOV, reconstruction function, reconstruction range, reconstruction pitch, filter processing used in the reconstruction process, etc.). It shall mean. If the filtering process has an intensity level, the intensity level can also be included. The filter processing used in the reconstruction processing is, for example, noise reduction processing, metal artifact reduction processing, scattered radiation correction processing, and the like. The noise reduction processing includes, for example, at least three types of noise reduction processing of the first to third types described below, in addition to the normal noise reduction processing using a band filter or the like. That is, it is assumed that the first noise reduction process is a noise reduction process using the successive approximation applied reconstruction method. It is assumed that the second noise reduction process is a noise reduction process using the successive approximation reconstruction method. It is assumed that the third noise reduction process is a noise reduction process using a model by machine learning.

Further, the processing circuit 45 is one of the projection data (first data) collected by the reconstruction processing function 45c using the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to, for example, a plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the first item. A plurality of first preview images are generated based on the data (second data) which is a part. Further, the processing circuit 45 has a plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to the second item and at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns by the reconstruction processing function 45c, based on the second data. The preview image generation process for generating the second preview image is executed.

That is, first, the processing circuit 45 determines at least one item to be added (or can be added or changed) with respect to the current reconstruction condition by the reconstruction processing function 45c. The "at least one item to be added (hereinafter, simply referred to as" item to be added ") determined here can be added to the current reconstruction condition (or default reconstruction condition). Or it is a changeable item. The items to be added correspond to functions for improving the quality (image quality) of the reconstructed image, such as a reconstruction function and a filter processing (filter processing function) used in the reconstruction processing. The processing circuit 45 determines the items to be added to the current reconstruction conditions based on the input subject information, the imaging protocol, the positioning image, the imaging range, and the like by the reconstruction processing function 45c. The imaging protocol is information including a diagnostic site, positioning imaging and imaging conditions in the main imaging, a contrast method, a reconstruction condition, an image display method, and the like.

Specifically, it is assumed that the noise reduction processing is not included in the current reconstruction conditions (when the noise reduction processing is OFF). In such a case, the processing circuit 45 refers to the subject information, the imaging protocol, and the like by the reconstruction processing function 45c, and determines, for example, noise reduction processing as an item to be added. Further, under the current reconstruction conditions, the noise reduction processing is included (noise reduction processing is ON), but the metal artifact reduction processing is not included (metal artifact reduction processing is OFF). If there is). In such a case, the processing circuit 45 refers to the subject information, the imaging protocol, etc. by the reconstruction processing function 45c, and if, for example, a metal or the like is present in the imaging range, the metal artifact reduction processing should be added. Judge as.

If there are a plurality of items to be added, the priority of each item is also determined. That is, when it is determined that there are a plurality of items to be added, each item has a priority. In this embodiment, items A, B, and C are referred to in descending order of priority. Further, the determination of the item to be added can be realized by an arithmetic process using a table or the like, an arithmetic operation using the past reconstruction conditions of the subject, or the like. In addition, the determination of the item to be added may be realized by, for example, an AI model represented by a deep neural network. As the AI model for determining such items to be added, for example, training data using subject information, imaging protocol, positioning image, imaging range, etc. as input data and items to be added as teacher data was used. It can be realized by learning.

Further, the processing circuit 45 determines a preview pattern corresponding to each of the items to be added by the reconstruction processing function 45c, and executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the preview pattern. Here, the preview pattern is a pattern of a new reconstruction condition defined by the current reconstruction condition and the item to be added. Between the preview patterns, for example, at least one of the reconstruction function and the filter used in the reconstruction process is different. The pre-reconstruction process is executed according to a preview pattern using data (for example, a part of the data) included in the projection data acquired in the main imaging (imaging performed to acquire a diagnostic image). It is a reconstruction process to be performed. In the present embodiment, the reconstructed image generated by the pre-reconstruction process is referred to as a preview image. Further, the normal reconstruction process performed using the projection data acquired in the present imaging is referred to as the main reconstruction process, and the reconstruction image generated by the present reconstruction process is referred to as the present reconstruction image.

When the pre-reconstruction process and the main reconstruction process are compared, the pre-reconstruction process is executed using a smaller amount of data than the main reconstruction process. Further, in the pre-reconstruction process, not only the preview image according to the current reconstruction condition but also the preview image according to the new reconstruction condition in which the item to be added to the current reconstruction condition is added is displayed before the main reconstruction process. Generated. On the other hand, in the present reconstruction process, the present reconstruction image is generated according to one kind of reconstruction condition. Therefore, the pre-reconstruction process can generate a preview image to which various items are applied in a shorter reconstruction time (processing load) than the main reconstruction process. A specific example of the pre-reconstruction process executed by the reconstruction process function 45c will be described in detail later.

In the pre-reconstruction process, which part of the projection data (first data) acquired in the main imaging (second data) is used depends on the input subject information, imaging protocol, positioning image, and imaging range. Etc. are decided. Specific examples include the central portion of the diagnostic site in the body axis direction, the central portion of the imaging range in the body axis direction, the position of the ROI set in the imaging range, the position of the metal of the subject within the imaging range, and the like. The projection data used for the pre-reconstruction process can be determined.

Regarding the determination of the projection data used for such pre-reconstruction processing, an operation using a table or the like in which the input subject information, the imaging protocol, the positioning image, the imaging range, etc. and the position of the projection data are associated with each other is calculated. , AI model can be used. Such an AI model is, for example, by learning using training data in which subject information, an imaging protocol, a positioning image, an imaging range, etc. are used as input data, and a reference position of projection data used for pre-reconstruction processing is used as teacher data. It can be realized.

Further, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to display the SD value of each preview image and the reconstruction time in the main reconstruction process when the reconstruction conditions corresponding to each preview pattern are used (the first data as a whole). (Example) of the processing time required for processing in (1) is calculated respectively. The reconstruction time in the main reconstruction process can be calculated based on, for example, the data size used in the pre-reconstruction process, the data size used in the main reconstruction process, and the reconstruction time in the pre-reconstruction process.

Further, the processing circuit 45 sets the reconstruction condition in response to the reconstruction condition setting process using the preview image by the reconstruction processing function 45c, and executes the main reconstruction process.

Further, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to obtain the reconstructed CT image data based on the input operation received from the user via the input interface 43 by a known method, such as tomographic image data of an arbitrary cross section. Convert to 3D image data.

The processing circuit 45 executes the display processing of the preview image for displaying the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images hierarchically on the display 42 by the display control function 45e. In the present embodiment, the pre-reconstruction process and the preview image display process are collectively referred to as a preview process. The display processing of the preview image executed by the display control function 45e will be described in detail in each application example described later.

The processing circuit 45 manages the necessity of preview processing by the management function 45d. For example, the processing circuit 45 determines the necessity of the preview processing by the management function 45d, and if it is determined that it is necessary, causes the reconstruction processing function 45c to execute the preview processing.

(Preview process)
Next, the preview process included in the medical image processing device 50 according to the embodiment will be described according to each application example.

(Application example 1)
Application example 1 is an item in which noise reduction processing and metal artifact reduction processing having different levels should be added to the processing circuit 45 under the current reconstruction conditions in which the noise reduction processing is turned off by the reconstruction processing function 45c. This is a preview process when a judgment is made.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a flow of a series of operations from the imaging of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 to the display of the reconstructed image. As shown in FIG. 2, first, the processing circuit 45 accepts the input of user information for login by the operation control function 45a (step S1). Next, the processing circuit 45 receives inputs such as subject information and an imaging protocol by the operation control function 45a (step S2). Here, as an imaging protocol, the diagnostic site (for example, chest), imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current, X-ray tube rotation speed, collected slice thickness, etc.) in positioning imaging and main imaging, and the presence or absence of contrast are performed via the input interface 43. , Contrast method, reconstruction conditions, etc. are input.

Next, the processing circuit 45 executes positioning imaging with a low dose by the operation control function 45a and acquires positioning image data (step S3). The processing circuit 45 receives the input of the imaging range for the positioning image by the operation control function 45a (step S4). The processing circuit 45 executes the main imaging based on the imaging range, imaging conditions, and the like by the operation control function 45a, and acquires projection data (step S5).

The processing circuit 45 determines the items to be added to the current reconstruction conditions based on the subject information, the imaging protocol, the positioning image, the imaging range, and the like by the reconstruction processing function 45c (step S6). Here, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform noise reduction processing (item A) and metal artifact reduction processing (item B) in which the intensity levels are set to two stages of L1 and L2 with respect to the current reconstruction conditions. Is determined as an item to be added. Further, it is assumed that the priority of the item to be added is determined by item A (noise reduction processing) as the first priority and item B (metal artifact reduction processing) as the second priority.

The processing circuit 45 determines the preview pattern for the noise reduction processing by the reconstruction processing function 45c (step S7).

For example, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to reduce noise at level L1 according to the current reconstruction condition as a plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the item A. Three patterns are determined: "noise reduction L1" with an added function and "noise reduction L2" with a level L2 noise reduction function added to the current reconstruction conditions. Further, the processing circuit 45 determines, as a plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to the item B, three patterns to which the metal artifact reduction function is applied to each of the first preview patterns by the reconstruction processing function 45c.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the above six preview patterns by the reconstruction process function 45c (step S8). By this pre-reconstruction process, 6 preview images corresponding to the 6 preview patterns are generated.

Further, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to set the SD value of the preview image corresponding to each preview pattern and the reconstruction time in the main reconstruction process when the reconstruction conditions corresponding to each preview pattern are used. Calculate (step S9).

The processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to display the preview images according to the six preview patterns on the display 42 in a hierarchical (or stepwise) manner (step S9). The processing circuit 45 assigns the first preview pattern to the first layer and the second preview pattern to the second layer according to the priority by the display control function 45e. As a result, in the first layer, the three patterns of "Curent", "Noise reduction L1", and "Noise reduction L2" are displayed, and in the second layer, "Curent: Metal artifact reduction ON" and "Noise reduction L1: Metal". Three patterns of "artifact reduction ON" and "noise reduction L2: metal artifact reduction ON" will be developed respectively.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the display of the preview image according to the first application example. In FIG. 3, the preview image “Current” generated by the pre-reconstruction process according to the current reconstruction conditions is displayed in the upper left. In parallel with the preview image "Current", the preview images "Noise Reduction L1" and "Noise Reduction L2" according to the pattern in which the noise reduction function is added to the current reconstruction conditions are displayed along the horizontal direction of the screen. It is displayed as one layer 61. Further, the item 65 with "noise reduction" at the lower left indicates that the noise removal function is turned off under the current reconstruction conditions.

Further, under each preview image of the first layer 61, a preview image corresponding to the pattern to which the metal artifact reduction correction function is further added is displayed as the second layer 62 so that the noise reduction level corresponds. There is.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, each preview image includes information indicating an ON or OFF state of an item to be added, such as "metal artifact reduction ON", and a reconstruction time in this reconstruction process. Is displayed.

Next, the processing circuit 45 receives the setting input of the reconstruction condition using the preview image by the operation control function 45a (step S11). That is, the processing circuit 45 sets the same reconstruction conditions as the preview image by referring to the preview pattern corresponding to the preview image selected by the user among the preview images displayed on the display 42 by the operation control function 45a. do. Therefore, for example, when the user selects the preview image on the right side of the second layer 62 in FIG. 3, the reconstruction condition including the noise reduction at the level L2 and the metal artifact reduction processing is set. Become.

The processing circuit 45 executes the main reconstruction process using the reconstruction conditions set in step S11 by the reconstruction processing function 45c, and generates the main reconstruction image (step S12). The processing circuit 45 causes the display control function 45e to display the generated reconstructed image on the display 42 (step S13). That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the processing circuit 45 is previewed by the display control function 45e, such as a comparative display of noise reduction filters on the first layer 61 and a comparative display of metal artifact reduction correction on the second layer 62. Images are classified into preview patterns and displayed hierarchically.

(Application example 2)
In the application example 2, the processing circuit 45 adds the metal artifact reduction processing and the scattered radiation correction in step S2 of FIG. 2 under the current reconstruction condition in which the noise reduction processing is turned off by the reconstruction processing function 45c. This is the case when it is judged as an item to be considered. In the following, only the processing different from the application example 1 will be described.

That is, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform noise reduction processing (item A) and metal artifact reduction processing (item B) in which the intensity levels are set to two stages of L1 and L2 with respect to the current reconstruction conditions. It is assumed that the three items of scattered radiation correction (item C) are determined as items to be added. As for the priority of the items to be added, item A (noise reduction processing) is the first priority, item B (metal artifact reduction processing) is the second priority, and item C (scattered radiation correction) is the third priority. It is assumed that it is determined as. In such a case, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform the metal corresponding to the item B for each preview pattern of the “Current”, the “noise reduction L1”, and the “noise reduction L2” corresponding to the item A. Determine the preview pattern to which the artifact reduction correction is added. Further, the processing circuit 45 determines the preview pattern to which the scattered radiation correction corresponding to the item C is added for each preview pattern of the item B by the reconstruction processing function 45c.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the preview patterns of the items A, B, and C in step S8 by the reconstruction process function 45c. By this pre-reconstruction process, nine preview images corresponding to the nine preview patterns are generated.

The processing circuit 45 hierarchically displays nine preview images on the display 42 in step S9 by the display control function 45e.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the display of the preview image according to the second application example. As shown in FIG. 4, the processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to display a comparative display of noise reduction filters on the first layer 61, a comparative display of metal artifact reduction correction on the second layer 62, and scatter on the third layer 63. Preview images are classified into preview patterns and displayed hierarchically, such as in a line correction comparison display.

(Application example 3)
In the application example 3, the processing circuit 45 is not in the two stages of ON and OFF of the noise reduction processing under the current reconstruction condition in which the noise reduction processing is OFF by the reconstruction processing function 45c, but a plurality of other steps. This is an example of a case where noise reduction processing can be selected. In the following, only the processing different from the application example 1 will be described.

For example, in step S6, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to turn off the noise reduction processing for the current reconstruction conditions, instead of turning off the noise reduction processing, the first noise reduction processing (item A), and the second. It is assumed that the noise reduction process (item B) and the third noise reduction process (item C) are determined as items to be added. In such a case, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to set, for example, three patterns due to the difference in the level of the first noise reduction processing as a preview pattern corresponding to the item A. Similarly, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to set, for example, three patterns due to the difference in the level of the second noise reduction processing as a preview pattern corresponding to the item B. The processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to set, for example, three patterns due to a difference in the level of the third noise reduction processing as a preview pattern corresponding to the item C.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the preview patterns of the items A, B, and C in step S8 by the reconstruction process function 45c. By this pre-reconstruction process, nine preview images corresponding to the nine preview patterns are generated.

The processing circuit 45 hierarchically displays nine preview images on the display 42 in step S9 by the display control function 45e.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a display example of the preview image according to the application example 3. As shown in FIG. 5, the processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to perform comparative display on the first layer 61 according to the difference in the level of the first noise reduction processing, and to display the second noise reduction processing on the second layer 62. The preview images are classified into preview patterns and displayed hierarchically, such as a comparative display based on the difference in level and a comparative display based on the difference in the level of the third noise reduction processing in the third layer 63. Further, the processing circuit 45 displays the preview image 60 (preview image according to the default reconstruction condition) according to the current reconstruction condition in parallel with, for example, the first layer 61 by the display control function 45e.

The hierarchical display of the preview pattern in the present application example 3 is not limited to the above example. For example, the processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to set, for example, the first layer as three patterns of level 1 of the first to third noise reduction processing, and the second layer as the level of the first to third noise reduction processing. It is also possible to use 3 patterns of 2 and display the 3rd layer as 3 patterns of level 3 of the first to third noise reduction processing.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, for example, when the preview image displayed in the first layer 61 is selected, the second layer having three levels for the selected noise reduction processing is displayed. good.

(Application example 4)
Application example 4 is an example in which the reconstruction function is an item to be added (changeable). In the following, the case where the diagnosis site is the lung field will be taken as an example. Moreover, only the processing different from the application example 1 will be described.

For example, in step S6, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to compare the reconstruction function for the lung field set as the current reconstruction condition with the reconstruction function for another lung field (item A). ) Should be added (or can be changed). In such a case, the processing circuit 45 determines the preview pattern due to the difference in the reconstruction function, for example, by the reconstruction processing function 45c. Further, when the filter processing (item B) such as noise reduction processing is further determined as an item to be added, at least one of the preview patterns due to the difference in the reconstruction function is the preview pattern due to the difference in the filter processing level. Can also be expanded.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the preview pattern due to the difference in the reconstruction function in step S8 by the reconstruction processing function 45c. Further, the processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to each preview pattern corresponding to the item B, if necessary, by the reconstruction process function 45c.

The processing circuit 45 displays the preview image on the display 42 hierarchically (or stepwise) in step S9 by the display control function 45e.

(Application example 5)
Application example 5 is another example in which the reconstruction function is an item to be added (changeable). In Application Example 5, a diagnostic purpose or the like is determined based on subject information, an imaging protocol, a positioning image, an imaging range, etc., and a preview process using a plurality of reconstruction functions is executed according to the determination result. .. In the following, only the processing different from the application example 1 will be described.

For example, in an imaging protocol for imaging a body including the lung field, suppose that you want to see an image created by using different reconstruction functions for the lung field, body, and bone. In such a case, in step S6, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform a reconstruction function for the body and a reconstruction function for the bone, as opposed to the reconstruction function for the lung field set as the current reconstruction condition. Judge as item A to which the constituent function should be added.

The processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to, for example, as a preview pattern corresponding to item A, such as a reconstruction function for the lung field, a reconstruction function for the body, and a reconstruction function for the bone, for each part. Determine the preview pattern classified by the reconstruction function of. Further, for example, when the filter processing (item B) such as noise reduction processing is further determined as an item to be added, at least one preview pattern corresponding to the item A is set as the preview pattern corresponding to the item B. It can also be expanded according to the pattern due to the difference in filtering processing.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to the preview pattern due to the difference in the reconstruction function for each part in step S8 by the reconstruction processing function 45c. Further, the processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction processing according to the preview pattern corresponding to the difference in the filter processing, if necessary, by the reconstruction processing function 45c.

The processing circuit 45 hierarchically displays the preview image on the display 42 in step S9 by the display control function 45e.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a display example of the preview image according to the application example 5. As shown in FIG. 7, the processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to compare and display the preview images on the first layer 61 according to the preview pattern due to the difference in the reconstruction function for each part. Further, if necessary, the comparison display of the second layer and lower layers is executed, the preview images are classified into preview patterns, and the preview images are displayed hierarchically.

(Application example 6)
The application example 6 is a modification of the application example 5, and in the preview process using a plurality of reconstruction functions selected according to the diagnostic purpose and the like, the hierarchical display is performed by the tabs classified by the diagnostic site. .. In the following, only the processing different from the application example 1 will be described.

For example, when different reconstruction functions are set as the current reconstruction conditions for the lung field, body, and bone, and the noise reduction process (item A) determines as an item to be added in step S2 of FIG. Is assumed.

In such a case, the processing circuit 45 has added noise reduction processing to the reconstruction conditions using the reconstruction functions of the lung field, the body, and the bone as the preview pattern corresponding to the item A by the reconstruction processing function 45c. Determine the pattern. As a result, each pattern of "Curent", "noise reduction L1", and "noise reduction L2" is determined by using the reconstruction functions of the lung field, the body, and the bone.

The processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to use the reconstruction functions of the lung field, the body, and the bone in step S8 to perform the patterns of “Current”, “noise reduction L1”, and “noise reduction L2”. Execute the pre-reconstruction process according to. By this pre-reconstruction process, nine preview images corresponding to the nine preview patterns are generated.

The processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to display nine preview images hierarchically by tabs in step S9.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the display of the preview image according to the application example 6. As shown in FIG. 8, the processing circuit 45 uses the display control function 45e to perform pre-reconstruction processing using the lung field reconstruction function on the first tab 71, and the noise reduction processing “Curent” and “noise”. Three patterns of "reduction L1" and "noise reduction L2" are compared and displayed. In the second tab 72, the pre-reconstruction process using the body reconstruction function, and in the third tab 73, the pre-reconstruction process using the bone reconstruction function, similarly, three noise reduction processes. The patterns are compared and displayed. By selecting the desired tab, the user can observe a preview image using the reconstruction function tailored to each of the lung field, body, and bone. Further, for example, when the metal artifact reduction process (item B) is further determined as an item to be added, the metal artifact reduction is performed as a preview pattern corresponding to the item B for at least one preview pattern corresponding to the item A. It can also be developed according to the pattern due to the difference in processing.

(Application example 7)
Application example 7 is not a preview display for a specific function, but a comparison between a pattern that follows the current reconstruction conditions and a pattern that follows the reconstruction conditions newly determined by the items to be added (or can be changed). This is an example of displaying. For example, assume that there are two reconstruction conditions newly determined by the items to be added. In such a case, the preview image according to the current reconstruction condition and the two preview images according to the two newly determined reconstruction conditions are compared and displayed.

More specifically, it is assumed that the current reconstruction condition includes the first noise reduction process of level L1 and the metal artifact reduction process. On the other hand, in step S6, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to replace the first noise reduction processing of the level L1 with the first noise reduction processing of the level L2 as an item to be added to the current reconstruction condition. When the noise reduction process (item A) of 3 is determined as the first priority and the first noise reduction process (item B) of level L2 is determined as the second priority instead of the first noise reduction process of level L1. Is assumed.

In such a case, the processing circuit 45 uses the reconstruction processing function 45c to perform a preview pattern according to the current reconstruction conditions (that is, including the first noise reduction processing at level L1 and the metal artifact reduction processing), and the current reconstruction processing. In the preview pattern, the first noise reduction process of level L1 is the third noise reduction process of level L2, and the first noise reduction process of level L1 is the third noise reduction process of level L2 in the current reconstruction process. Determine the preview pattern.

The processing circuit 45 executes the pre-reconstruction process according to each preview pattern in step S8 by the reconstruction process function 45c. By this pre-reconstruction process, three preview images corresponding to the three preview patterns are generated.

In step S9, the processing circuit 45 displays three preview images hierarchically (or side by side) by tabs based on the priority by the display control function 45e.

The medical image processing apparatus according to the above-described embodiment includes a reconstruction processing function 45c as a reconstruction unit and a display control function 45e as a display control unit. The reconstruction processing function 45c is a second data which is a part of the first data collected by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to a plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the item A (for example, corresponding to the first item). Generate a plurality of first preview images based on. Further, the reconstruction processing function 45c is based on the second data according to the plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to the item B (for example, corresponding to the second item) and at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns. A preview image generation process for generating a plurality of second preview images is executed. The display control function 45e causes the display 42 to display the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images hierarchically.

Therefore, using data (second data) whose data size is smaller than the projection data (first data) acquired by this imaging, it corresponds to a plurality of preview patterns classified by a plurality of items to be added. Multiple preview images can be generated. The generated preview image is classified into a preview pattern and displayed hierarchically. By observing the preview images displayed by classifying them into preview patterns, the user can determine which image is appropriate to apply in the main reconstruction process of this inspection. It can be easily and quickly visually recognized in advance of this reconstruction process. As a result, it is possible to efficiently find the optimum settings such as the reconstruction function, whether or not the filter processing is applied, and the parameters when applying the filter processing, etc. for each subject, and it is possible to make a setting error of the parameters, etc. Can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the workflow in image diagnosis and contribute to the improvement of the quality of image diagnosis.

(Modification example 1)
In the above embodiment, when the preview image is displayed hierarchically, the intensity level of the filtering process is displayed as quantitative information together with the corresponding preview image, such as “noise reduction L1” and “noise reduction L2”. On the other hand, for example, the intensity level of the filtering process may be expressed as the appearance (qualitative information) of the preview image, such as "Smooth", "Standard", and "Sharp".

(Modification 2)
The preview function described in the above embodiment can be turned ON / OFF at any timing. Further, for example, it is possible to manage the use or non-use of the preview function for each user or each device. That is, when managing the use or non-use of the preview function for each user, the memory 41 stores a management table that manages whether each user uses or does not use the preview function. The processing circuit 45 determines whether or not the user uses the preview function based on the user ID and the management table input at the time of login of the medical image processing device 50 by the management function 45d. Can be done.

Further, for example, the use or non-use of the preview function of each user can be managed in detail by setting. For example, the preview function can be automatically turned off when the number of inspections of each user exceeds a certain number of times. Further, normally, the preview function can be turned off, and the preview function can be automatically turned on when the number of retries of the main reconstruction process of each user reaches a certain number or more.

Further, when managing the use or non-use of the preview function for each device, for example, the preview function is automatically turned off at the timing when the reference period elapses after the introduction of the preview function (that is, the elapsed time from the reference time). be able to. Further, in each device into which the preview function is introduced, the preview function can be automatically turned off when the cumulative number of inspections exceeds the reference number. These reference periods and reference times can be set arbitrarily.

(Modification example 3)
The medical image processing apparatus 50 according to the embodiment is not limited to the X-ray CT apparatus 1, and includes, for example, a PET-CT system, an angio-CT system, a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, a nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and the like. May be good. That is, the medical image processing device 50 according to the embodiment can be applied to any medical image diagnostic device as long as it uses the conditions determined by the combination of a plurality of items in the image generation processing. ..

(Modification example 4)
In the above embodiment, the case where the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has a function as a medical image processing apparatus 50 has been illustrated. On the other hand, the medical image processing device 50 capable of communicating with the X-ray CT device 1 may be realized by a medical workstation, a personal computer, or the like. Such a medical image processing device 50 can be installed not only in the hospital but also in a facility outside the hospital or on the cloud.

(Modification 5)
In the above embodiment, when there are a plurality of items to be added, a case where a plurality of preview images corresponding to each item are all displayed hierarchically is illustrated. On the other hand, among the plurality of items to be added, a plurality of preview images corresponding to at least two selected items can be displayed hierarchically.

Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of preview images of the second layer 62 corresponding to the item B are folded (not displayed), and a plurality of preview images of the first layer 61 corresponding to the item A (not displayed). An example of the first preview image) and a plurality of preview images (an example of the second preview image) of the third layer 63 corresponding to the item C may be displayed hierarchically. In such a case, the plurality of preview patterns corresponding to the item C are determined via at least one of the plurality of preview patterns corresponding to the item A and the plurality of preview patterns corresponding to the item B. Therefore, the plurality of preview patterns corresponding to the item C are determined based on at least one of the plurality of preview patterns corresponding to the item A.

Similarly, in the example shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of preview images of the first layer 61 corresponding to the item A are folded (not displayed), and a plurality of preview images of the second layer 62 corresponding to the item B (first). An example of the preview image) and a plurality of preview images (an example of the second preview image) of the third layer 63 corresponding to the item C may be displayed hierarchically. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of preview images of the third layer 63 corresponding to the item C are folded (not displayed), and a plurality of preview images of the first layer 61 corresponding to the item A (first preview). An example of an image) and a plurality of preview images (an example of a second preview image) of the second layer 62 corresponding to the item B may be displayed hierarchically.

In the present modification 5, the preview image 60 according to the current reconstruction conditions may be displayed by including the preview pattern according to the current reconstruction conditions in the first preview pattern and including it in the first preview image. Further, as shown in FIG. 5 and the like, the preview image 60 according to the current reconstruction conditions can be displayed in parallel with the first preview image.

(Modification 6)
In the above embodiment, the items to be added are, for example, a reconstructed image such as "noise reduction processing (item A)", "metal artifact reduction processing (item B)", and "scattered ray correction (item C)". An example is shown in which one function for improving the quality of the noise is supported. On the other hand, the items to be added are "noise reduction processing and metal artifact reduction processing (item A)", "noise reduction processing and scattered radiation correction (item B)", and the like to improve the quality of the reconstructed image. It may correspond to two or more functions for.

According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the workflow in diagnostic imaging.

In addition, although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples 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 gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, as well as in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

1 X-ray CT device 10 Mount device 11 X-ray tube 12 X-ray detector 13 Rotating frame 14 X-ray high voltage device 15 Control device 16 Wedge 17 Collimator 18 DAS (Data Acquisition System)
30 Sleeper device 31 Base 32 Sleeper drive device 33 Top plate 34 Support frame 40 Console device 41 Memory 42 Display 43 Input interface 45 Processing circuit 45a Operation control function 45b Preprocessing function 45c Reconstruction processing function 45d Management function 45e Display control function 50 Medical image processing device

Claims (11)

A plurality of first preview images are generated based on the second data which is a part of the first data collected by using the medical diagnostic imaging apparatus according to the plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the first item, and the second A preview image generation process for generating a plurality of second preview images based on the second data is executed according to the plurality of second preview patterns corresponding to the items and at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns. Generator and
A display control unit that hierarchically displays the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images,
Medical image processing device equipped with. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the reconstruction function and the filter used in the reconstruction process differs between the plurality of first preview patterns or the plurality of second preview patterns. .. The generation unit has the first item, the plurality of the first preview patterns, the second item, and the plurality of the second items based on at least one of the subject information, the imaging protocol, the positioning image, and the imaging range. The medical image processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, which determines at least one of the preview patterns. The generation unit is any one of claims 1 to 3 that determines the second data in the first data based on at least one of the subject information, the imaging protocol, the positioning image, and the imaging range. The medical image processing apparatus according to. The plurality of first preview patterns include a default preview pattern.
The display control unit simultaneously displays the plurality of first preview images.
The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The generation unit calculates the processing time required when the first data is processed as a whole for each preview pattern.
The display control unit displays the processing time for each of the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images.
The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The first item and the second item each have a priority.
The priority of the first item is higher than the priority of the second item.
The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The generation unit is an image generation condition corresponding to the preview image selected by the selection unit among the first data, the plurality of first preview images displayed on the display unit, and the plurality of second preview images. And generate multiple images based on,
The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7. A storage unit that stores a table that manages whether or not the preview image generation process is executed for each user or each device.
A management unit that manages whether or not the preview image generation process is executed according to the table, and
The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The medical image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a management unit that manages whether or not the preview image generation process is executed based on the elapsed time from the reference time or the cumulative number of examinations. A collection unit that collects first data representing structural or functional information inside the subject,
According to a plurality of first preview patterns corresponding to the first item, a plurality of first preview images based on the second data which is a part of the first data are generated, and a plurality of second previews corresponding to the second item are generated. A pattern, a generation unit that executes a preview image generation process for generating a plurality of second preview images based on the second data according to at least one of the plurality of first preview patterns, and a generation unit.
A display control unit that hierarchically displays the plurality of first preview images and the plurality of second preview images,
Medical diagnostic imaging equipment equipped with.

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