JP2022026261A - X-ray ct apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce a risk of exposing a photographer and a carer to radiation in a case of imaging by using an X-ray CT apparatus.SOLUTION: The X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment comprises an imaging condition acquisition unit and an information presentation unit. The imaging condition acquisition unit acquires an imaging condition in performing X-ray imaging. On the basis of correspondence information obtained by associating the imaging condition with previously measured X-ray distribution information within a three-dimensional space in which the X-ray CT apparatus is placed and the acquired imaging condition, the information presentation unit acquires X-ray distribution information within the three-dimensional space, and controls an output apparatus to superimpose the acquired X-ray distribution information on an image showing the three-dimensional space, to visualize.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The embodiments disclosed in the present specification and drawings relate to an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus.

In image diagnosis using an X-ray CT device, there is concern about exposure to the photographer, the imaging assistant (hereinafter, at least one of the photographer and the imaging assistant), etc. due to scattered X-rays generated during imaging. To. In particular, in the case of a mobile CT device, it is assumed that imaging will be performed in an environment such as a hospital room where X-ray shielding is not applied. In this case, the photographer does not know how far away from the X-ray CT apparatus should be in order to reduce the exposure, and the exposure dose may increase.

As a technique for notifying the photographer of the state of scattered X-rays, it is known that the X-ray CT device displays the scattered X-ray distribution on the floor surface of the installation room in the installation room where the X-ray CT device is arranged. .. However, in this conventional technique, the display location of the scattered X-ray distribution is limited to the floor surface, so that when the gantry device of the X-ray CT device is tilted or in the case of the standing CT device, the scattered X-rays are displayed. The status could not be displayed. Further, in the prior art, it is not possible to display the scattered X-ray distribution in three dimensions in the space where the image is taken, only displayed on the floor. In addition, the prior art has not been able to support mobile CT devices.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-325909

An object to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification and the drawings is to reduce the risk of exposure when taking a picture using an X-ray CT apparatus. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in the present specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. The problem corresponding to each effect by each configuration shown in the embodiment described later can be positioned as another problem.

The X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment has an imaging condition acquisition unit and an information presentation unit. The shooting condition acquisition unit acquires the shooting conditions for performing X-ray shooting. The information presenting unit is a tertiary based on the correspondence information in which the imaging conditions and the pre-measured X-ray distribution information in the three-dimensional space where the X-ray CT device is placed are associated with each other and the acquired imaging conditions. The output device is controlled so as to acquire the X-ray distribution information in the original space and superimpose the acquired X-ray distribution information on the image showing the three-dimensional space to visualize it.

The figure which shows an example of the structure of the X-ray CT system in 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the structure of the image output apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of correspondence information stored in an X-ray CT apparatus. The figure which shows the example of the photographed image which the X-ray CT apparatus stores. The figure which shows the example of the presentation information which the X-ray CT apparatus stores. The figure which shows an example of the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus in embodiment. The flowchart which shows an example of the processing procedure performed in advance of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The flowchart which shows an example of the processing procedure performed at the time of the actual scan of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the presentation information which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The figure which shows the other example of the presentation information which concerns on 1st Embodiment. The perspective view of the X-ray CT apparatus when the subject is standing. The figure which shows an example of the scattered X-ray distribution map around the X-ray CT apparatus when the subject is standing. The perspective view of the X-ray CT apparatus when the gantry device and the bed device are tilted. The figure which shows an example of the scattered X-ray distribution map around the X-ray CT apparatus when the gantry device and the bed apparatus are tilted. The figure which shows the example of the photographing apparatus. The figure which shows an example of the configuration when the image output device is AR glass. The figure which shows the appearance example of the image output apparatus which concerns on embodiment, and the image example which is displayed. The figure which shows an example of the setting screen of the presentation information.

Hereinafter, the X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, an example in which the X-ray CT device is mobile will be described. The X-ray CT device 10 may be a fixed type. Further, in the following embodiment, the room in which the inspection is performed by the X-ray CT apparatus 10 is referred to as an inspection room. The examination room includes, for example, a hospital room and the like, and also includes a room without X-ray shielding.

(First Embodiment)
[Configuration of X-ray CT system]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray CT system 1 in the embodiment. The X-ray CT system 1 includes, for example, an X-ray CT device 10, a photographing device 60, a measuring device 70, an image output device 80, and a terminal device 90. The X-ray CT device 10, the photographing device 60, the measuring device 70, the image output device 80, and the terminal device 90 are communicably connected via, for example, a communication network NW.

The X-ray CT device 10 includes, for example, a gantry device 20, a bed device 30, and a console device 40.

The communication network NW means an information communication network in general using telecommunications technology. The communication network NW includes, for example, a wireless / wired LAN such as a hospital backbone LAN (Local Area Network) and an Internet network, as well as a telephone communication line network, an optical fiber communication network, a cable communication network, a satellite communication network, and the like.

The imaging device 60 is attached to, for example, the ceiling or wall of the CT room in which the X-ray CT device 10 is used. The photographing apparatus 60 photographs, for example, a three-dimensional space in a CT room according to the control of the X-ray CT apparatus 10, and transmits the captured spatial image to the X-ray CT apparatus 10 via the communication network NW. The image of the photographing apparatus 60 may be a still image or a moving image. The photographing apparatus 60 includes, for example, an optical system mechanism such as a lens and an aperture, and an electronic system mechanism such as a light receiving element. The imaging device 60 may be a surveillance camera or the like installed in an examination room or the like.

The measuring device 70 measures, for example, measurement information for each imaging condition of the X-ray CT device 10, and transmits the measured measurement information to the X-ray CT device 10 via the communication network NW. The imaging conditions are, for example, the model of the X-ray CT device 10, the length of the scan time, the magnitude of the tube current, the magnitude of the tube voltage, the body thickness of the subject, the attributes of the subject (age, gender, etc.), and the gantry. At least one of the tilt angle of the device 20 and the position of the sleeper device 30 is included as an item. The measurement information is scattered X-ray information, for example, X-ray distribution information, exposure dose distribution, and the like. Further, the measurement information includes those generated from the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 and includes those generated from the subject. The measuring device 70 measures, for example, at a predetermined position, or outputs the measured position to the X-ray CT device 10. The measuring device 70 may collect measurement information by preparing a plurality of phantoms imitating subjects having different sizes, shapes, etc. and measuring each of them. Alternatively, the measuring device 70 may actually measure a subject having a different size, shape, or the like.

The X-ray CT apparatus 10 presents X-ray distribution information (presentation information) based on the imaging conditions set at the time of actual scanning and the measured measurement information. The method of presenting the presented information will be described later. The X-ray CT apparatus 10 generates a medical image by scanning the subject, and diagnoses the subject based on the medical image. The X-ray CT apparatus 10 stores the measurement position of the measuring apparatus 70 in advance. Alternatively, the X-ray CT device 10 acquires and stores the measurement position of the measuring device 70.

The gantry device 20 is a device that photographs a subject. The bed device 30 is a device on which the subject lies. The bed device 30 may be, for example, a bed or the like that is manually moved by the photographer (at least one of the photographer and the photographing assistant). The console device 40 is a device that sets and controls the X-ray CT device 10. The other components of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 will be described later with reference to FIG.

The console device 40 includes, for example, a memory 41, an input interface 42, a network connection circuit 43, and a processing circuit 50. The processing circuit 50 includes, for example, a shooting condition acquisition function 55 and an information presentation function 56. In the embodiment, the console device 40 will be described as a separate body from the gantry device 20, but the gantry device 20 may include a part or all of each component of the console device 40. In the embodiment, the shooting condition acquisition function 55 is an example of the mode of the shooting condition acquisition unit, and the information presentation function 56 is an example of the mode of the information presentation unit.

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, an image taken by the photographing device 60, measurement information measured by the measuring device 70, and presentation information. The memory 41 stores, for example, shooting conditions, measurement information, detection data and projection data, reconstructed image data, CT image data, and the like. These data may be stored in an external memory with which the X-ray CT apparatus 10 can communicate, instead of the memory 41 (or in addition to the memory 41). The external memory is controlled by the cloud server, for example, when the cloud server that manages the external memory receives a read / write request.

The input interface 42 receives various input operations by an inspection engineer or the like, and outputs operation information indicating the contents of the received input operations to the processing circuit 50. The input interface 42 acquires the shooting conditions at the time of actual scanning. For example, the input interface 42 has a collection condition for collecting detection data or projection data (described later), a reconstruction condition for reconstructing a CT image, an image processing condition for generating a post-processed image from a CT image, and the like. Accepts input operations. For example, the input interface 42 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a drag ball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a camera, an infrared sensor, a microphone, and the like. Further, the input interface 42 may be realized by a display device (for example, a tablet terminal) capable of wireless communication with the main body of the console device 40.

In the present specification, the input interface 42 is not limited to the one provided with physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an example of the input interface 42 includes a processing circuit that receives operation information corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the operation information to the processing circuit 50.

The network connection circuit 43 includes, for example, a network card having a printed circuit board, a wired or wireless communication module, and the like. The network connection circuit 43 implements an information communication protocol according to the form of the network to be connected. The network connection circuit 43 receives data from, for example, the photographing device 60 and the measuring device 70, and transmits the data to the image output device 80 and the terminal device 90. For example, when the network connection circuit 43 is a wireless communication interface, it is provided with an antenna for connecting to a mobile phone line such as 4G or 5G, an antenna for performing Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication, a transmitter / receiver, and the like, and data with the outside. Send and receive. When the network connection circuit 43 is a wireless communication interface, a wireless communication line other than the mobile phone line may be used as long as it has a required band.

The processing circuit 50 generates presentation information for each shooting condition based on the measurement information measured by the measuring device 70, and outputs the generated presentation information to the image output device 80. The processing circuit 50 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 10. The processing circuit 50 realizes these functions by, for example, the hardware processor executing various programs such as a scan workflow stored in the memory 41.

These components are realized, for example, by the hardware processor executing a program (software) stored in the memory 41. The hardware processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a programmable logic device (for example, a simple programmable logic device (Simple Programmable Logic)). It means a circuit (circuitry) such as a Device (SPLD) or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Instead of storing the program in the memory 41, the program may be configured to be directly embedded in the circuit of the hardware processor. In this case, the hardware processor realizes the function by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. The hardware processor is not limited to the one configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as one hardware processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize each function. Further, a plurality of components may be integrated into one hardware processor to realize each function.

The shooting condition acquisition function 55 acquires the shooting conditions for performing X-ray shooting based on the operation result acquired by the input interface.

The information presentation function 56 is acquired by the imaging condition acquisition function 55 and the correspondence information in which the imaging conditions are associated with the X-ray distribution information measured in advance in the three-dimensional space in which the X-ray CT device 10 is placed. The X-ray distribution information in the three-dimensional space is acquired based on the shooting conditions. The correspondence information may be acquired by reading the correspondence information stored in the memory 41, or the correspondence information stored in the cloud may be acquired via the communication network NW. The information presentation function 56 controls the image output device 80 so as to superimpose and visualize the X-ray distribution information in the three-dimensional space on the image showing the three-dimensional space.

Each component included in the console device 40 or the processing circuit 50 may be distributed and realized by a plurality of hardware. The processing circuit 50 may be realized by a processing device capable of communicating with the console device 40, instead of the configuration provided in the console device 40. The processing device is connected to, for example, a workstation connected to one X-ray CT device 10 or a plurality of X-ray CT devices 10, and collectively executes the same processing as the processing circuit 50 described below. A device (eg, a cloud server).

The image output device 80 displays the presentation information output by the X-ray CT device 10. An example of the presentation information displayed by the image output device 80 will be described later. The image output device 80 displays various information. For example, the image output device 80 is a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that accepts medical images (CT images) generated by the processing circuit 50 and various operations by an operator such as an inspection engineer (hereinafter referred to as “inspection engineer or the like”). Display images, etc. The image output device 80 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device, or the like. The image output device 80 may be provided on the gantry device 20. The image output device 80 may be a desktop type or a terminal device 90 capable of wireless communication with the main body of the console device 40. The image output device 80 may be included in the X-ray CT device 10 or may be attached to the X-ray CT device 10. In the embodiment, the image output device 80 is an example of the mode of the output device.

The terminal device 90 includes, for example, a processing circuit 91, an operation unit 93, a display 94, a camera 95, and a storage unit 96. The terminal device 90 is used by the photographer and is, for example, a terminal device such as a dedicated terminal, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, or a mobile phone.

The processing circuit 91 transmits / receives data to / from the X-ray CT apparatus 10 via the communication network NW. The received data is, for example, presentation information output by the X-ray CT apparatus 10. The transmission data is, for example, an image of an examination room taken by a camera 95. The processing circuit 91 displays the received presentation information on the display 94. The processing circuit 91 causes the camera 95 to take a picture based on the operation result detected by the operation unit 93. The processing circuit 91 transmits the captured image to the X-ray CT apparatus 10. The processing circuit 91 changes the presented image according to the operation result, and displays the changed presented image on the display 94. The processing circuit 91 is a hardware processor.

The operation unit 93 is, for example, a touch panel sensor provided on the display 94. The operation unit 93 detects the user's operation.

The display 94 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL. The display 94 displays, for example, presentation information according to the control of the processing circuit 91.

The camera 95 takes an image of, for example, a CT room according to the control of the processing circuit 91.

The storage unit 96 stores, for example, a program used for controlling the processing circuit 91.

[Configuration example of image output device 80]
Next, a configuration example of the image output device 80 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image output device 80 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the image output device 80 includes, for example, a processing circuit 81 and a display 83.

The processing circuit 81 is, for example, a communication interface, and acquires the presentation information or various information output by the X-ray CT apparatus 10 via the communication network NW. The processing circuit 81 causes the display 83 to display the acquired presentation information or various kinds of information. The display 83 is, for example, a liquid crystal display device, a CRT, an organic EL display device, or the like.

The configuration example of the image output device 80 shown in FIG. 2 is an example, and is not limited to this. For example, the image output device 80 may include an input interface using a touch panel sensor provided on the display 83, an output unit that outputs the input instructions to the X-ray CT device 10, and the like. In this case, the inspection engineer may operate the input interface, for example, to instruct the change or rotation of the display position of the presented information. Then, the image output device 80 changes the image in response to this instruction, or outputs the instruction to the X-ray CT device 10 via the communication network NW, and reacquires the changed presentation information in response to the instruction. You may do it.

[Example of information stored in the X-ray CT apparatus 10]
Next, an example of information stored in the X-ray CT apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of correspondence information stored in the X-ray CT apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the memory 41 of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 stores, for example, correspondence information associated with the measurement information measured by the measuring apparatus 70 for each subject and each imaging condition. The subject may be classified based on, for example, age, physique, gender, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a captured image stored by the X-ray CT apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 4, the memory 41 of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 stores, for example, a photographed image in association with each examination room. The number of image information may be at least one for each examination room. The first image is, for example, an image taken from the ceiling of the examination room. The second image is, for example, an image taken horizontally with respect to the floor in an examination room.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of presentation information stored in the X-ray CT apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the memory 41 of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 stores, for example, the presented information in association with each shooting condition. The examples shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 are examples, and the information stored in the X-ray CT apparatus 10 is not limited to this. Further, the memory 41 does not have to store the presented information in association with each other for each shooting condition. In this case, for example, the information presentation function 56 may generate and present presentation information for each shooting condition.

[Configuration example of X-ray CT apparatus 10]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 in the embodiment. In FIG. 6, for convenience of explanation, both a view of the gantry device 20 as viewed from the Z-axis direction and a view as viewed from the X-axis direction are shown, but in reality, the gantry device 20 is one. In the embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotation frame 27 in the non-tilt state or the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 of the sleeper device 30 is the Z-axis direction, and an axis orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface is used. The X-axis direction, the direction orthogonal to the Z-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the floor surface are defined as the Y-axis direction.

The gantry device 20 includes, for example, an X-ray tube 21, a wedge 22, a collimator 23, an X-ray high voltage device 24, an X-ray detector 25, and a data acquisition system (hereinafter, DAS: Data Acquisition System) 26. , A rotating frame 27 and a control device 28.

The X-ray tube 21 generates X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from the cathode (filament) toward the anode (target) by applying a high voltage from the X-ray high voltage device 24. The X-ray tube 21 includes a vacuum tube. For example, the X-ray tube 21 is a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermions.

The wedge 22 is a filter for adjusting the X-ray dose applied to the subject P from the X-ray tube 21. The wedge 22 attenuates the X-rays passing through itself so that the distribution of the X-ray dose radiated from the X-ray tube 21 to the subject P becomes a predetermined distribution. The wedge 22 is also called a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter. The wedge 22 is made by processing aluminum so as to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness, for example.

The collimator 23 is a mechanism for narrowing the irradiation range of X-rays transmitted through the wedge 22. The collimator 23 narrows down the X-ray irradiation range by forming a slit, for example, by combining a plurality of lead plates. The collimator 23 is sometimes called an X-ray diaphragm.

The X-ray high voltage device 24 includes, for example, a high voltage generator and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has an electric circuit including a transformer, a rectifier, and the like, and generates a high voltage applied to the X-ray tube 21. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage of the high voltage generator according to the X-ray dose to be generated in the X-ray tube 21. The high voltage generator may be one that boosts the voltage by the transformer described above, or may be one that boosts the voltage by an inverter. The X-ray high voltage device 24 may be provided on the rotating frame 27, or may be provided on the side of the fixed frame (not shown) of the gantry device 20.

The X-ray detector 25 detects the intensity of X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 21 and passed through the subject P and incident. The X-ray detector 25 outputs an electric signal (which may be an optical signal or the like) according to the intensity of the detected X-ray to the DAS 26. The X-ray detector 25 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element trains. Each of the plurality of X-ray detection element trains is an arrangement of a plurality of X-ray detection elements in the channel direction along an arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 21. The plurality of X-ray detection element sequences are arranged in the slice direction (column direction, row direction). The X-ray detector 25 is an indirect detector having, for example, a grid, a scintillator array, and an optical sensor array. The scintillator array has a plurality of scintillators. Each scintillator has a scintillator crystal. The scintillator crystal emits light in an amount corresponding to the intensity of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the plane on which the X-rays of the scintillator array are incident and has an X-ray shielding plate having a function of absorbing scattered X-rays. The grid may also be called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The optical sensor array has, for example, an optical sensor such as a photomultiplier tube (PMT). The optical sensor array outputs an electric signal according to the amount of light emitted by the scintillator. The X-ray detector 25 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into an electric signal.

The DAS 26 has, for example, an amplifier, an integrator, and an A / D converter. The amplifier performs amplification processing on the electric signal output by each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 25. The integrator integrates the amplified electrical signal over the view period (discussed below). The A / D converter converts an electric signal indicating the integration result into a digital signal. The DAS 26 outputs the detection data based on the digital signal to the console device 40. The detection data is a digital value of the X-ray intensity identified by the channel number, the column number, and the view number indicating the collected view of the X-ray detection element of the generation source. The view number is a number that changes according to the rotation of the rotation frame 27, and is, for example, a number that is incremented according to the rotation of the rotation frame 27. Therefore, the view number is information indicating the rotation angle of the X-ray tube 21. The view period is a period within the period from the rotation angle corresponding to a certain view number to the arrival of the rotation angle corresponding to the next view number. The DAS 26 may detect the change of view by a timing signal input from the control device 28, by an internal timer, or by a signal acquired from a sensor (not shown). .. When X-rays are continuously exposed by the X-ray tube 21 in the case of performing a full scan, the DAS 26 collects the detection data group for the entire circumference (360 degrees). When X-rays are continuously exposed by the X-ray tube 21 in the case of performing a half scan, the DAS 26 collects detection data for a half circumference (180 degrees).

The rotating frame 27 is an annular rotating member that rotates the X-ray tube 21, the wedge 22, the collimator 23, and the X-ray detector 25 while holding them facing each other. The rotating frame 27 is rotatably supported by the fixed frame around the subject P introduced inside. The rotating frame 27 further supports the DAS 26. The detection data output by the DAS 26 is, for example, a photodiode provided in a non-rotating portion (for example, a fixed frame) of the gantry device 20 by optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided in the rotating frame 27. Is transmitted to a receiver having a diode, and is transferred to the console device 40 by the receiver. The method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 27 to the non-rotating portion is not limited to the above-mentioned method using optical communication, and any non-contact transmission method may be adopted. The rotating frame 27 is not limited to an annular member as long as it can support and rotate an X-ray tube 21 or the like, and may be a member such as an arm.

The control device 28 has, for example, a processing circuit having a processor such as a CPU, and a drive mechanism including a motor, an actuator, and the like. The control device 28 receives operation information from the input interface 42 attached to the console device 40 or the gantry device 20, and controls the operation of the gantry device 20 and the bed device 30. The control device 28, for example, rotates the rotating frame 27, tilts the gantry device 20, and moves the top plate 33 of the bed device 30. When tilting the gantry device 20, the control device 28 rotates the rotating frame 27 about an axis parallel to the Z-axis direction based on the tilt angle (tilt angle) input to the input interface 42. The control device 28 grasps the rotation angle of the rotation frame 27 by the output of a sensor (not shown) or the like. Further, the control device 28 outputs the rotation angle of the rotation frame 27 to the processing circuit 50 at any time. The control device 28 may be provided in the gantry device 20 or in the console device 40. The control device 28 makes the gantry device 20 self-propelled along the moving rail to perform the main scan shooting or the scanno shooting which is the positioning shooting performed before the execution of the main scan shooting.

The bed device 30 is a device on which the subject P to be scanned is placed and introduced into the rotating frame 27 of the gantry device 20. The bed device 30 includes, for example, a base 31, a bed drive device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 includes, for example, a housing that movably supports the support frame 34 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction). The bed drive device 32 includes, for example, a motor or an actuator. The bed driving device 32 moves the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed along the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) of the top plate 33. The top plate 33 is a plate-shaped member on which the subject P is placed.

The console device 40 includes, for example, a memory 41, an input interface 42, a network connection circuit 43, and a processing circuit 50. The processing circuit 50 includes, for example, a system control function 51, a preprocessing function 52, a reconstruction processing function 53, an image processing function 54, a shooting condition acquisition function 55, an information presentation function 56, and an output function 57. Be prepared.

The system control function 51 controls various functions of the processing circuit 50 based on the operation information received by the input interface 42. The system control function 51 controls the photographing device 60 to acquire an image and acquire the image. The system control function 51 controls the measuring device 70 to perform measurement for each shooting condition and acquire measurement information.

The preprocessing function 52 performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction processing, sensitivity correction processing between channels, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from the DAS 26, and generates projection data. , The generated projection data is stored in the memory 41.

The reconstruction processing function 53 generates CT image data by performing reconstruction processing on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 52 by, for example, a filter correction back projection method or a successive approximation reconstruction method. The generated CT image data is stored in the memory 41.

The image processing function 54 converts CT image data into three-dimensional image data or cross-sectional image data of an arbitrary cross section by a known method based on the input operation received by the input interface 42. The conversion to the three-dimensional image data may be performed by the preprocessing function 52. Further, the image processing function 54 has a function of performing a predetermined image recognition process on the state image.

The output function 57 outputs and displays the presentation information generated by the information presentation function 56 to the image output device 80 or the terminal device 90 via the network connection circuit 43.

In the present embodiment, since the distribution of the measurement information of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 changes depending on the imaging conditions, the memory 41 is measured in advance by the measuring apparatus 70 with each imaging condition and several reference subjects. Remember it. The measurement information is not limited to the measured value, and may be a value calculated by the simulation. The X-ray CT apparatus 10 projects the measurement information diagram onto, for example, the floor of an examination room by a projection mapping method. Alternatively, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 causes a photographing apparatus 60 installed in the examination room to capture a still image or a moving image in the vicinity, and displays a three-dimensional exposure distribution on the image.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed in advance of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. In the following example, a processing procedure example in which a still image or a moving image in the vicinity is photographed by an imaging device 60 installed in the examination room and a three-dimensional exposure distribution is displayed on the image will be described.

The system control function 51 controls the imaging device 60 to perform imaging in the examination room where imaging is performed (step S1). The system control function 51 stores the captured image of the examination room in the memory 41 (step S2).

The system control function 51 controls the measuring device 70 to measure the measurement information for each subject and each imaging condition (step S3). The system control function 51 stores the measured measurement information in the memory 41 (step S4).

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure performed at the time of actual scanning of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

The shooting condition acquisition function 55 acquires the input information output from the input interface 42 (step S11). The input information includes imaging conditions, imaging room information, subject information, and the like. The information presentation function 56 generates presentation information based on the acquired input information and the information stored in the memory 41 (step S12). The information presentation function 56 outputs the generated presentation information to the image output device 80 via the output function 57 and the network connection circuit 43. The image output device 80 presents the acquired presentation information (step S13).

The X-ray CT apparatus 10 does not have to store the measurement information measured in advance in the memory 41. In this case, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 may acquire measurement information according to the set imaging conditions from the cloud, for example, via the communication network NW at the time of actual scanning.

[Example of generating presentation information]
Here, an example of generating presentation information will be described. Measuring all available combinations of shooting conditions is time consuming and labor intensive and impractical. Therefore, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 may measure a combination of several measurement conditions and calculate it by using interpolation processing or the like. The interpolation process may be a simple average, a function may be defined, or the interpolation may be performed with a predetermined weighting. For example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 measures the measurement information of the first tube current and the measurement information of the second tube current larger than the first tube current. Then, when the X-ray CT apparatus 10 acquires an imaging condition having a magnitude between the first tube current and the second tube current, the X-ray CT device 10 performs interpolation processing on the first tube current and the second tube current. , The measurement information of the tube current having a magnitude between the first tube current and the second tube current may be obtained. Alternatively, when the measurement positions are at predetermined intervals, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 may obtain the measurement information between the predetermined positions by interpolation processing. In this way, the X-ray CT apparatus 10 may perform interpolation processing between the X-ray distribution information measured in advance.

[Example of presentation information]
Next, an example of the presented image will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the presented information according to the present embodiment. In the example of FIG. 9, the first image output device 80A attached to the X-ray CT device 10 is made to display the presentation information, the second image output device 80B is made to present the presentation information, or the terminal device 90 is made to present the presentation information. This is an example of displaying the presented information. The X-ray CT device 10 causes at least one of the first image output device 80A, the second image output device 80B, and the terminal device 90 to display the presentation information. The presented image may be three-dimensional or two-dimensional. Further, the presented image is changed according to the inclination of the gantry device 20. In FIG. 9, the bed device 30 is omitted.

The first image output device 80A is attached to, for example, a gantry device 20. The first image output device 80A displays the presented image on the display 83.

The second image output device 80B (80Ba, 80Bb) is attached to, for example, a gantry device 20, and is, for example, a projection device. The second image output device 80B projects the presented information onto, for example, the space and floor of the examination room.

The terminal device 90 is, for example, a tablet terminal used by the photographer. The terminal device 90 displays the presented information on the display 94.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the presented information according to the present embodiment. The presented information includes, for example, an image g21 of a laboratory and an X-ray distribution map g22. In the X-ray distribution map g22, the image g13 is an image of the X-ray CT device 10, and the image g14 is an image of the bed device 30. The X-ray distribution map g22 of FIG. 9 is a scattered ray distribution map of X-rays in the examination room. The unit of the intensity of the scattered radiation is [μSv (microsievert) / s]. The X-ray distribution map g22 is, for example, the one having the largest measured value among the subjects under the same imaging conditions (for example, the worst case). As described above, the X-ray distribution map g22 is, for example, a scattered ray distribution map of X-rays around the worst-case X-ray CT apparatus 10 for each imaging condition. The information presentation function 56 controls the image output device 80 so as to visualize the image g21 in the examination room and the X-ray distribution map g22 by superimposing an image showing the X-ray distribution on the spatial image.

In the above-mentioned example, an example of selecting the subject having the largest measured value has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. When the subject information is obtained, the information presenting function 56 may select the measurement information according to the subject.

The X-ray scattering ray distribution map shown in FIG. 10 is two-dimensional with respect to the floor of the examination room, but the presented information may be three-dimensional. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 10, the X-ray distribution map g22 may be displayed together with numerical values, or may be a numerical distribution map.

[Example when standing or tilting the gantry device]
Here, an example of a scattered X-ray distribution diagram when the subject is standing or the gantry device is tilted will be described. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the X-ray CT apparatus 10 when the subject is standing. As shown in FIG. 11, when the subject is standing, the bed device 30 does not have to be used, and the pedestal device 20 moves up and down in the Y-axis direction according to the control of the control device 28.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a scattered X-ray distribution map around the X-ray CT apparatus 10 when the subject is standing. The example of FIG. 12 is an example of a scattered X-ray distribution map around the two-dimensional X-ray CT apparatus 10 in the XY plane. Even in this case, the information presentation function 56 may generate such a two-dimensional scattered X-ray distribution map by interpolating the measurement information. Further, in the example of FIG. 12, the X-ray scattering line distribution map is a two-dimensional example, but the X-ray scattering line distribution map may be three-dimensional.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the X-ray CT device 10 when the gantry device 20 and the bed device 30 are tilted. The bed device 30 may be attached to the pedestal device 20. As shown in FIG. 13, the pedestal device 20 and the bed device 30 are tilted in the YZ plane according to the control of the control device 28.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a scattered X-ray distribution map around the X-ray CT device 10 when the gantry device 20 and the bed device 30 are tilted. The example of FIG. 14 is an example of a scattered X-ray distribution map around the two-dimensional X-ray CT apparatus 10 in the YZ plane. Further, in the example of FIG. 14, the X-ray scattering line distribution map is a two-dimensional example, but the X-ray scattering line distribution map may be three-dimensional.

The console device 40 may measure the measurement information for obtaining the scattered X-ray distribution map as shown in FIGS. 12 and 14 in advance and store it in the memory 41. Even in this case, the information presentation function 56 may generate such a three-dimensional or two-dimensional X-ray scattered ray distribution map by interpolating the measurement information. Alternatively, the console device 40 may generate the presentation information at the time of tilting by simulation using the measurement information in which the gantry device 20 is not tilted.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the presenting information including at least the X-ray distribution map is presented to the photographer for each imaging condition. Thereby, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to inform the photographer of the state of the scattered radiation distribution of the X-rays around the X-ray CT apparatus 10 in real time for each examination room and each imaging condition.

(Second embodiment)
In the first embodiment, an example in which the photographing apparatus 60 is attached to the ceiling or the like of the examination room has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in FIG. 15, the photographing apparatus 60 may be attached to, for example, the X-ray CT apparatus 10. Alternatively, the camera 95 of the terminal device 90 may be used instead of the photographing device 60. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the photographing apparatus 60.

First, an example in which the photographing apparatus 60 is attached to the X-ray CT apparatus 10 will be described. When the imaging device 60 is attached to the X-ray CT apparatus 10 in this way, when the X-ray CT apparatus 10 is tilted, imaging in the examination room is performed at an angle and a state corresponding to the tilt of the X-ray CT apparatus 10. It can be carried out. Even in this case, the photographing apparatus 60 may be attached to the ceiling of the examination room or the like.

Next, an example in which the camera 95 of the terminal device 90 is used instead of the photographing device 60 will be described. As described above, when the camera 95 is used instead of the photographing device 60, the photographer operates the operation unit 93 of the terminal device 90 to take an image of a state of taking an image in a standing position as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13. can do. Even in this case, the photographing apparatus 60 may be attached to the ceiling of the examination room or the like.

Also in this embodiment, the captured image is output to the X-ray CT apparatus 10 via the communication network NW. Then, the information presentation function 56 synthesizes the measurement information with the acquired image to generate the presentation information. The information presentation function 56 causes the generated presentation information to be displayed on, for example, the image output device 80 or the terminal device 90 attached to the gantry device 20. Thereby, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to inform the photographer of the state of the scattered radiation distribution of the X-rays around the X-ray CT apparatus 10 for each examination room and each imaging condition.

(Third embodiment)
In the above embodiment, an example in which the image output device 80 is attached to the X-ray CT device 10 and an example of the terminal device 90 used by the photographer have been described, but the image output device 80 is not limited to this. .. The image output device 80 or the terminal device 90 may be, for example, an AR (Augmented Reality) glass or the like. In the following example, the image output device 80 will explain an example of AR glass.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration when the image output device 80C is an AR glass. As shown in FIG. 16, the image output device 80C includes, for example, a processing circuit 81C, a display 83C, and a glass 84C (84Ca, 84Cb).

The processing circuit 81C is, for example, a communication interface, and acquires the presentation information or various information output by the X-ray CT apparatus 10 via the communication network NW. The processing circuit 81C outputs the acquired presentation information or various information to the display 83C. The display 83C is, for example, a transmissive display device. The glass 84C is, for example, a glass lens or a plastic lens. Alternatively, the display 83C and the glass 84C may be, for example, an organic EL display device. When the display 83C and the glass 84C are organic EL display devices, the presentation information is displayed on the glass 84C. The configuration example of the image output device 80C shown in FIG. 16 is an example, and is not limited to this.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an appearance example and an image example displayed of the image output device 80C according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the display 83C is a transmissive display device, and the glass 84C is a lens. As shown in FIG. 17, the user visually recognizes the image g31 of the presentation information displayed by the display 83A through the glass 84Ca. The display 83C may be attached to the glass 84Cb side, or may be attached to both sides of the glasses 84Ca and 84Cb.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the AR glass is used to present the photographer with the presentation information including at least the X-ray distribution map for each imaging condition. Thereby, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to inform the photographer in real time of the state of the scattered radiation distribution of the X-rays around the X-ray CT apparatus 10 for each examination room and each imaging condition.

(Fourth Embodiment)
For example, the X-ray distribution map g22 described with reference to FIG. 10 may be a monochrome image, a gray scale image, or a color image. When the X-ray distribution map g22 is a color image, the color, display width, display scale, and the like of the displayed distribution map may be set and changed by the user. The presented information is at least one of a color image, an X-ray distribution map, and a numerical distribution map.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting presentation information. When the touch panel sensor is provided on the image output device 80, an image as shown in FIG. 18 is displayed on the image output device 80. The display image includes, for example, a color map setting 42a, a display width setting 42b, and a display scale setting 42c. The user operates the input interface 42 to make each setting.

The color map setting 42a is, for example, an item for setting a color for each intensity in an X-ray distribution map. The display width setting 42b is, for example, an item for setting the display width of the distribution line for each intensity in the X-ray distribution map. The display scale setting 42c is, for example, an item for setting a display scale in an X-ray distribution map.

The setting screen shown in FIG. 18 is an example and is not limited to this. The setting screen may include at least one of the color map setting 42a, the display width setting 42b, and the display scale setting 42c, and may include other setting items. Other setting items are, for example, a presentation destination setting of presentation information, an output method setting of presentation information (monochrome image, gray scale image, color image), and the like.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the color, display width, display scale, and the like of the color map displayed by the user can be freely set and changed. Thereby, according to the present embodiment, the setting can be changed according to the environment of the examination room and the person performing the inspection.

According to each of the above-described embodiments, it is possible to reduce or avoid the exposure of the photographer in the imaging in a hospital room not shielded by X-rays. Further, according to each embodiment, it is possible to cope with the tilt of the gantry and the standing CT.

In each of the above-described embodiments, an example in which the measurement information is actually measured by the measuring device 70 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The measurement information may be, for example, information simulated by a simulation device. In this case, for example, the measuring device 70 may be a simulation device. Then, the measuring device 70 may output the measurement information obtained by the simulation to the X-ray CT device 10.

According to at least one embodiment described above, a three-dimensional image recording condition acquisition unit (imaging condition acquisition function 55) for acquiring an X-ray imaging condition, an imaging condition, and an X-ray CT device are placed. Based on the correspondence information associated with the X-ray distribution information measured in advance in the space and the acquired radiography conditions, the X-ray distribution information in the three-dimensional space is acquired and the acquired X-ray distribution. It includes an information presentation unit (information presentation function 56) that controls an output device (image output device 80, terminal device 90) so as to superimpose information on an image showing a three-dimensional space and visualize it. This makes it possible to reduce the risk of exposure to the photographer when taking a picture using the X-ray CT apparatus 10.

Although some embodiments 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 embodiments, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and variations thereof are included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof, as are included in the scope and gist of the invention.

1 ... X-ray CT system, 10 ... X-ray CT device, 20 ... gantry device, 21 ... X-ray tube, 22 ... wedge, 23 ... collimeter, 24 ... X-ray high voltage device, 25 ... X-ray detector, 26 ... Data collection system, 27 ... rotating frame, 28 ... control device, 30 ... sleeper device, 31 ... base, 32 ... sleeper drive device, 33 ... top plate, 34 ... support frame, 40 ... console device, 41 ... memory, 42 ... Input interface, 43 ... Network connection circuit, 50 ... Processing circuit, 51 ... System control function, 52 ... Preprocessing function, 53 ... Reconstruction processing function, 54 ... Image processing function, 55 ... Shooting condition acquisition function, 56 ... Information Presentation function, 57 ... Output function, 60 ... Imaging device, 70 ... Measuring device, 80, 80A, 80B, 80C, 80Ba, 80Bb ... Image output device, 90 ... Terminal device, 81, 81C ... Processing circuit, 83, 83C ... Display, 84Ca, 84Cb ... Glass, 91 ... Processing circuit, 93 ... Operation unit, 94 ... Display, 95 ... Camera, 96 ... Storage unit

Claims (10)

The shooting condition acquisition unit that acquires the shooting conditions when performing X-ray shooting, and the shooting condition acquisition unit
In the three-dimensional space based on the correspondence information in which the imaging conditions and the pre-measured X-ray distribution information in the three-dimensional space where the X-ray CT device is placed are associated with each other and the acquired imaging conditions. An information presentation unit that controls the output device to acquire the X-ray distribution information of the above and superimpose the acquired X-ray distribution information on the image showing the three-dimensional space to visualize it.
X-ray CT apparatus. The imaging conditions are the model of the own device, the length of the scan time, the magnitude of the tube current, the magnitude of the tube voltage, the body thickness of the subject, the age of the subject, the gender of the subject, the tilt angle of the gantry device, and the like. And include at least one of the positions of the sleeper as an item,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1. The output device is at least one of a device attached to the gantry device of the own device and a terminal device.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. The information presenting unit controls the output device so as to superimpose and visualize an image showing the X-ray distribution information on a spatial image obtained by photographing the three-dimensional space.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Further equipped with a photographing device for photographing the three-dimensional space,
The imaging device is attached to the gantry device of the X-ray CT device.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 4. The information presenting unit displays at least one of an image showing an X-ray distribution in a tilted state of the gantry device of the X-ray CT device and an image showing an X-ray distribution information in a standing position of a subject. Output to the output device,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5. The image showing the X-ray distribution information is at least one of a color image, an X-ray distribution map, and a numerical distribution map.
When the method of presenting the image showing the X-ray distribution information is changed, the information presenting unit changes the image showing the X-ray distribution information according to the changed content and outputs the image to the output device.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The information presenting unit performs interpolation processing between the X-ray distribution information measured in advance.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The output device is an AR (Augmented Reality) glass.
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The X-ray CT device is mobile,
The X-ray CT apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images