JP2022122761A - X-ray diagnostic apparatus and x-ray diagnostic method - Google Patents

Abstract

To efficiently perform long imaging with a simple configuration.SOLUTION: An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment comprises: acquisition means; display control means; and imaging execution means. The acquisition means acquires a partial image expressing a portion of a subject being an X-ray imaging object. The display control means displays a superimposition image in which imaging guide information expressing a prescribed position within an imaging range is superimposed on the partial image on a display unit. The imaging execution means sets a position of the imaging guide information in the superimposition image and executes X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The embodiments disclosed in the specification and drawings relate to an X-ray diagnostic apparatus and an X-ray diagnostic method.

A plurality of X-ray images are acquired by irradiating the subject with X-rays while moving the C-arm or the bed along the body axis direction of the subject, and the acquired plurality of X-ray images are stitched together. Long-form photography that generates long-form images is known.

In long-dimension radiography, an X-ray diaphragm is narrowed in a slit shape to acquire images in order to reduce artifacts due to differences in Table To Object Distance (TOD) of a target object. Prior to image collection for long-length photography, the user needs to set a long-length photography range such as a photography start position and a photography end position. However, the setting is complicated for the user because it is difficult to grasp the whole image in the slit state.

JP 2010-167263 A

One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the like is to efficiently perform long-length imaging with a simple configuration. However, the problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and drawings is not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems.

An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes acquisition means, display control means, and imaging execution means. The acquiring means acquires a partial image representing a part of a subject to be X-rayed. The display control means causes the display unit to display a superimposed image obtained by superimposing shooting guide information representing a predetermined position in the shooting range on the partial image. The imaging executing means sets the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, and executes X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining long image capturing according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a long shot image according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of guide information position setting processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen including shooting guide information according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of imaging processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen including a live image according to the embodiment; FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining generation of a long photographed image according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, each embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, portions denoted by the same reference numerals perform similar operations, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. The X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 includes, as shown in FIG. 27. The processing circuit 21, the memory circuit 23 and the input interface 27 are built in the console device 10, for example. The imaging unit 3 includes an X-ray tube 13 that irradiates an X-ray to the subject P, an X-ray diaphragm 15, an aperture controller 16 that controls driving of the X-ray diaphragm 15, and an X-ray detector that detects X-rays. 17 and a holding device 19 . The bed 5 is provided with an operation unit 9 for operating the photographing unit 3 and the bed 5 . The drive unit 7 includes a drive control unit 70 that controls driving of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 , an imaging system movement drive unit 71 , and a top board movement drive unit 73 .

The X-ray high voltage device 11 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, a high voltage generator, and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has a function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 13 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 13 . The X-ray control device controls the output voltage according to the X-rays emitted by the X-ray tube 13 . The high voltage generator may be of a transformer type or an inverter type. Note that the X-ray high voltage device 11 may be provided in the holding device 19 .

The X-ray tube 13 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermal electrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by applying a high voltage and supplying a filament current from the X-ray high voltage device 11. is. X-rays are generated by the impingement of thermal electrons on the target. The X-ray tube 13 is, for example, a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermal electrons. Note that the X-ray tube 13 is not limited to the rotating anode type, and any type of X-ray tube can be applied.

The X-ray diaphragm 15 is provided in front of the X-ray radiation window in the X-ray tube 13 . The X-ray diaphragm 15 has, for example, four diaphragm blades made of metal plates such as lead. The aperture blades are driven by a driving device (not shown) under the control of the aperture control section 16 according to the region of interest input by the user via the operation section 9 or the input interface 27 . The X-ray diaphragm 15 slides these diaphragm blades by a driving device to adjust the size of the X-ray shielded area to any size. Due to the adjusted diaphragm blades, the X-ray diaphragm 15 blocks X-rays outside the aperture area. Thereby, the X-ray diaphragm 15 narrows down the X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 13 so that the region of interest of the subject P is irradiated. The diaphragm controller 16 controls driving of the X-ray diaphragm 15 according to instructions from the processing circuit 21 .

The X-ray detector 17 detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 13 . The X-ray detector 17 is, for example, a flat panel detector (Flat Panel Detector: hereinafter referred to as FPD). The FPD has multiple semiconductor detector elements. There are two types of semiconductor detection elements: a direct conversion system in which X-rays are directly converted into electric signals, and an indirect conversion system in which X-rays are converted into light by phosphors and the light is converted into electric signals. Any method may be used for the FPD. Electrical signals generated by a plurality of semiconductor detection elements accompanying the incidence of X-rays are output to an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter referred to as an A/D converter), not shown. The A/D converter converts electrical signals into digital data. The A/D converter outputs digital data to the processing circuit 21 . An image intensifier may be used as the X-ray detector 17 .

The holding device 19 is a C-arm that supports the X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray detector 17 . The holding device 19 is rotated around the subject P lying on the bed 5 by a motor (not shown). Here, the holding device 19 is rotatably supported with respect to XYZ axes, which are three orthogonal axes, and is rotated around each axis by a drive section (not shown).

The processing circuit 21 controls the operation of the entire X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 in accordance with the electric signal of the input operation output from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 . For example, the processing circuit 21 includes, as hardware resources, processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory). etc. memory.

Various processing functions executed by the processing circuit 21 are stored in the storage circuit 23 in the form of programs executable by a computer. The processing circuit 21 is a processor that implements a function corresponding to each program by reading the program from the storage circuit 23 and executing the program. In other words, each circuit with each program read has a function corresponding to the read program.

Specifically, the processing circuit 21 executes an operation control function 211, an image generation function 212, and a display control function 213 by means of a processor that executes programs loaded into the memory. Here, the processing circuit 21 is an example of a control section. Also, the processing circuit that implements the operation control function 211 is an example of an acquisition unit. Also, the processing circuit that realizes the operation control function 211 and the image generation function 212 is an example of the photographing executing means. Also, the processing circuit that realizes the display control function 213 is an example of display control means.

Note that the operation control function 211, the image generation function 212, and the display control function 213 are not limited to being realized by a single processing circuit. A processing circuit may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and the operation control function 211, the image generation function 212, and the display control function 213 may be realized by each processor executing a program.

In addition, the processing circuit 21 may be an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or other Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD). ), a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), or the like.

In the operation control function 211, the processing circuit 21 controls the driving unit 7, the X-ray high-voltage device 11, the aperture control unit 16 (X-ray aperture 15 ), the X-ray detector 17, the memory circuit 23, the display unit 25, and the like.

The processing circuit 21 acquires setting information related to main imaging (long-length imaging) and a partial image such as an X-ray fluoroscopic image taken for alignment of the subject P, for example. Here, the partial image is assumed to be an image representing a part of the subject P, which is the object of X-ray imaging in the main radiography (long radiography). Also, the imaging range of the partial image is larger than the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 that shields the X-rays in the main imaging of the subject P. Here, “fluoroscopy” refers to a moving image of X-rays obtained by continuously irradiating an object with X-rays. On the other hand, “main imaging (long-length imaging)” is a still image of X-rays obtained by irradiating a subject with X-rays. Here, long-length imaging is defined as imaging in which a plurality of X-ray images are acquired based on the acquisition range by changing the position of the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 in the subject P. can do.

Further, the processing circuit 21 changes the display position of the imaging guide information superimposed on the partial image such as the positioning X-ray image based on the user's operation. In the following description, a partial image on which shooting guide information is superimposed may be simply referred to as a superimposed image. The processing circuit 21 determines whether or not at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 has been moved according to the user's operation, that is, whether or not the subject P represented by the partial image has moved. When it is determined that the subject P represented by the partial image has moved, the processing circuit 21 newly acquires the partial image after movement. Further, the processing circuit 21 executes X-ray imaging of the subject P according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, that is, the display position of the imaging guide information superimposed on the partial image. Specifically, the processing circuit 21 sets the start position of the long-length photographing (main photographing) according to the setting of the position of the photographing guide information in the superimposed image. Also, the processing circuit 21 executes X-ray imaging from the set start position.

In the image generation function 212 , the processing circuitry 21 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17 . Specifically, processing circuitry 21 generates projection data based on the output from X-ray detector 17 . Next, the processing circuit 21 receives an input signal from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27, and performs processes such as defective pixel correction, gain correction, offset correction, etc. on the output signal of the X-ray detector 17 to obtain X-rays. Generate image data. The processing circuit 21 performs synthesis processing, subtraction processing, and the like using X-ray image data. The processing circuit 21 outputs the generated X-ray image data to the display control function 213 and the storage circuit 23 . Note that the processing circuit 21 may generate image data for display using the generated X-ray image data and output this image for display to the display section 25 .

For example, as synthesizing processing using X-ray image data, the processing circuit 21 combines a plurality of X-ray images acquired in long-length radiography according to their imaging positions to obtain a long-length radiographed image (X-ray image). perform reconstruction processing to generate the data of Further, for example, the processing circuit 21 generates radiographing guide information (image) for long-length radiography on the image of the X-ray image for positioning based on the setting information for main radiography and the aperture opening for positioning radiography. do. In other words, the processing circuit 21 generates the imaging guide information indicating the long imaging range such as the imaging start position and the imaging end position on the positioning X-ray image. That is, the shooting guide information is information representing a predetermined position in the long shooting range. Note that the processing circuit 21 may generate a display image using the generated shooting guide information and output the display image to the display section 25 .

In the display control function 213, the processing circuit 21 generates an X-ray image for display using the X-ray image data generated by the image generation function 212, and displays this image for display on the display 251 of the display unit 25. . For example, the processing circuit 21 uses the shooting guide information generated by the image generating function 212 to generate shooting guide information (image) for display, and displays the shooting guide information (image) on the display 251 of the display unit 25. It is displayed superimposed on the X-ray image for display. Note that the processing circuit 21 may generate the shooting guide information (image) based on the setting information regarding the main shooting and the aperture opening for the positioning shooting. Further, the processing circuit 21 may generate an image showing the shooting guide information when the shooting guide information that is not imaged is supplied from the image generation function 212 . The processing circuit 21 also changes the display position of the imaging guide information on the X-ray image based on the input operation received from the user via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 . In addition, the processing circuit 21 changes the X-ray image for positioning on which the imaging guide information is superimposed according to acquisition of a new projection image by the operation control function 211 .

The storage circuit (memory) 23 is a storage device such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an integrated circuit storage device, or a circuit combining a plurality of these storage devices. The storage circuit 23 has, for example, a temporary storage and a long-term storage. Note that the medical image data sequentially temporarily stored in the temporary storage is updated, for example, at regular intervals. The storage circuit 23 also stores, for example, projection data, image data, and programs corresponding to various functions read and executed by the processing circuit 21 . In the present embodiment, storing or saving various information in the memory circuit 23 may also be referred to as "recording".

The storage circuit 23 is compatible with portable storage media such as CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs), flash memories, semiconductor memory devices such as RAMs (Random Access Memory), etc., in addition to HDDs and SSDs. It may be a driving device that reads and writes various information between them. Alternatively, the storage circuit 23 may be in an external storage device connected via a network. Furthermore, if the storage circuit 23 includes a plurality of storage devices, some of them may be storage devices connected via a network network.

The display unit 25 includes a display 251 that displays medical images and the like, an internal circuit that supplies display signals to the display 251, and peripheral circuits such as connectors and cables that connect the display 251 and the internal circuit. The internal circuit generates display data by superimposing incidental information such as object information and projection data generation conditions on the image data. The internal circuit then performs D/A conversion and TV format conversion on the obtained display data. The internal circuit displays the converted display data on the display 251 as a medical image. In addition to this, the display unit 25 displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like for accepting various operations from the user.

As the display 251, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, an organic EL display (OELD: Organic Electro Luminescence Display), a plasma display, or any other arbitrary display can be used as appropriate. is. The display 251 may be of a desktop type, or may be configured by a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 21 .

Each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 accepts various input operations from the user, converts the accepted input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 21 . For example, each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 provides an operation for operating at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5, an X-ray condition regarding the generation of X-rays, and an image to be executed by the image generation function 212. Receives conditions and the like regarding processing from the user. As each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27, for example, a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, footswitch, touch pad, touch panel display, etc. can be used as appropriate. The operation unit 9 is provided, for example, in an examination room. The input interface 27 is mounted, for example, on the console device 10 installed in an operating room different from the examination room.

In the present embodiment, each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 is not limited to physical operation components such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, touch pad, and touch panel display. . For example, an electric signal processing circuit that receives an electric signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the apparatus and outputs the electric signal to the processing circuit 21 is also provided for the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27. Included in each example. Note that each of the operation unit 9 and the input interface 27 may be configured by a tablet terminal or the like capable of wireless communication with the processing circuit 21 .

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining long image capturing according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a long shot image (X-ray image) according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 exemplifies a case where long-length imaging in the imaging direction D1 is performed with respect to the imaging range R1 from the position G1 corresponding to one end of the X-ray diaphragm 15 at the imaging start position. FIG. 2 also illustrates a case where positioning imaging including the imaging start position of main imaging (long-length imaging) is performed.

In the long-length imaging, at least one of the holding device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 is moved along the body axis direction of the subject P (imaging direction D1 in FIG. 2), and the subject is X-rayed with respect to the subject. This is radiography in which a plurality of X-ray images are collected by irradiating with rays, and a long image is generated by pasting the collected X-ray images together. In FIG. 2, a long image is generated by pasting together a plurality of X-ray images corresponding to each imaging range. That is, each imaging range is an acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 that shields X-rays during X-ray imaging of the subject P. FIG.

The stitching of the X-ray images in the longitudinal radiography is performed, for example, based on the target object in the image. FIG. 3 illustrates each image (IMG21, IMG22, . . . ) for each region (R11, R12, . . . ) on the detection surface. For example, each region (R21, R22, . . . ) of each image (IMG21, IMG22, . A scale photographed image IMG2 is generated. Note that the generation of the elongated photographed image may be performed by a known method, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. When stitching together a plurality of X-ray images in this way, in order to reduce artifacts due to TOD (Table To Object Distance) differences in the target object, in the actual radiography, image acquisition is performed in a slit state with a narrowed X-ray aperture. is done.

Under such circumstances, the user needs to set the long image capturing range prior to collecting the long image. However, the setting is complicated for the user because it is difficult to grasp the whole image in the slit state. On the other hand, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is configured to superimpose and display imaging guide information on an X-ray image for positioning in positioning imaging.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of guide information position setting processing according to the embodiment. Here, a case is exemplified in which the imaging guide information is displayed superimposed on the LIH (Last Image Hold) display image of the fluoroscopic image. The LIH display image is a capture image (still image) of a fluoroscopic image acquired by positioning imaging. Here, the LIH display image will be described as an example, but instead of the LIH display image, the imaging guide information may be superimposed on the fluoroscopic image, or may be displayed on a still image or moving image captured by an optical camera. On the other hand, shooting guide information may be superimposed and displayed. Here, the various images on which the imaging guide information is superimposed and displayed are examples of partial images representing part of the subject P to be subjected to X-ray imaging. In the following description, the LIH display image of the fluoroscopic image may be simply referred to as LIH.

The flow of FIG. 4 is performed prior to long-length imaging. The flow of FIG. 4 is started in response to a user's operation from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27, for example.

The operation control function 211 acquires the setting information for the actual photographing (step S101). The setting information for the actual imaging includes the opening degree of the X-ray diaphragm 15, the moving direction and moving speed of the X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray detector 17, and the like. In addition, the setting information for main photography includes stroke information for long-length photography. The stroke information is a stroke length that defines a long imaging range (the length between the imaging start position and the imaging end position).

The stroke length can also be expressed as the length of the imaging range in the imaging direction of long imaging. The stroke length is set to a distance, such as 100 cm in imaging of the entire spine, according to the body shape of the subject P, the region to be imaged, and the like.

It is assumed that the stroke length is predetermined and stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like, for example, for each body shape of the subject P or each body part to be imaged. In this case, the motion control function 211 acquires the stroke length from the storage circuit 23 or the like according to subject information or the like input by the user.

Note that the motion control function 211 may correct the stroke length acquired from the storage circuit 23 or the like according to the user's input operation via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 . Also, the stroke length may be directly input by the user via the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27, for example.

The operation control function 211 drives the X-ray diaphragm 15 so that the diaphragm opening for positioning is larger than the diaphragm opening for actual imaging (step S102). It is assumed that the aperture opening for positioning is determined in advance and stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like.

After the X-ray diaphragm reaches the opening for positioning, the operation control function 211 starts acquiring X-ray image data (step S103). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17 and temporarily stores it in the storage circuit 23, that is, temporarily stores it.

The display control function 213 superimposes the shooting guide information on the LIH (step S104). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates shooting guide information based on the setting information for the main shooting acquired by the operation control function 211 and the aperture opening for positioning. The display control function 213 also displays the LIH superimposed with the shooting guide information on the display 251 .

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 300 including shooting guide information 330 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates a display screen 300 including subject information 301 , current acquisition conditions 303 , information 305 regarding main imaging, and positioning images 310 .

Current acquisition conditions 303 include, for example, perspective conditions. The information 305 related to the main imaging includes, for example, a protocol name for long-length imaging and typically reconstruction conditions. Typically, the reconstruction conditions can include, for example, a stitching mode and a blend width (width of the overlap region) for generating long shot images. Here, the positioning image 310 is the LIH 311 of the fluoroscopic image on which the imaging guide information 330 is superimposed. The shooting guide information 330 has guides 331, 333, 335, and 337 in the example shown in FIG.

A guide 331 is a display that indicates shooting start position information. In FIG. 5, a guide 331 is a display that guides the shooting start position of the long shot image. A guide 333 indicates a position defined based on the guide 331 and the aperture opening (irradiation range) of the X-ray aperture 15 . That is, the guides 331 and 333 indicate the first image range of the elongated photographed image. Also, at the time of actual imaging, X-ray imaging is sequentially performed for each image range indicated by the guides 331 and 333 .

A guide 335 is a display indicating the shooting direction. In the example of FIG. 5, the guide 335 is an image of an arrow indicating the direction of long image capturing.

A guide 337 is a display indicating shooting range information. The imaging range information is, for example, information for explicitly indicating on the LIH a range that is not imaged by actual imaging. In the example of FIG. 5, the guide 337 is a mask image (diagonal hatching in FIG. 5) showing the range not imaged by the actual photographing by masking the LIH 311. In FIG. In other words, the guide 337 is an image for performing translucent masking (masking) on the LIH 311 . Note that the translucent mask process is a process of displaying a position on the LIH that is not imaged because the X-ray is blocked by the X-ray diaphragm 15 with a lower illuminance (pixel value) on the image than the position on the LIH that is to be imaged. It can also be expressed as Note that the imaging range information may be, for example, information for explicitly indicating on the LIH the range to be imaged by the actual imaging.

After the display screen 300 is displayed, the operation control function 211 sets the imaging start position (step S105). First, the user moves at least one of the photographing unit 3 and the bed 5 while looking at the display screen 300 so that the range where he/she wants to start photographing fits between the two lines (guides 331 and 333). adjust. The operation control function 211 sets the position of the guide 331 at that time as the shooting start position in response to an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 according to the user's operation after the adjustment is completed. The flow of FIG. 4 then ends.

After the flow of FIG. 4 is finished, the actual photographing is performed. In the actual imaging, by moving at least one of the holding device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 in the body axis direction of the subject P, the position specified by the user in the guide information position setting process according to the present embodiment. Long-length imaging can be started from the determined imaging start position. That is, the shooting range for long-length shooting according to the present embodiment is a range set based on preset stroke information and the position of shooting guide information set in the superimposed image.

Although the start position information is displayed in the center of the LIH 311 image in the example shown in FIG. 5, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 213 may perform display according to the position where collection is actually performed, such as when collection is started after the acceleration operation is completed. For example, when moving the bed 5 to the head side and starting long-length imaging, the start position information is displayed at the top of the display screen 300 in the example shown in FIG.

In addition, although the case where the shooting guide information 330 is superimposed on the LIH 311 and displayed has been exemplified in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. The image on which the imaging guide information 330 is superimposed is not limited to the LIH of the fluoroscopic image, and may be a captured image or an image obtained by a visible light camera or the like.

It should be noted that the image for positioning may be superimposed and displayed with shooting guide information regarding two or more shooting positions.

As the imaging guide information, an overlapping area between adjacent imaging positions at the time of actual imaging, which is secured for long-length gluing (reconstruction), can be superimposed on the image for positioning.

Regarding acquisition of the LIH of the fluoroscopic image on which the imaging guide information is superimposed, there is no restriction on the opening degree (vertical blade, horizontal blade) of the X-ray diaphragm 15 or the size of the collimator. Therefore, the opening degree of the aperture for positioning may be fully open, or the shape of the aperture may be, for example, a rectangular shape elongated in the imaging direction D1 (body axis direction of the subject P), A predetermined opening predetermined by the user may be used. In either case, the slit width of the actual imaging is converted to the size on the detection surface of the X-ray detector 17, and superimposed display is performed.

In the present embodiment, the stroke length is set, and the long imaging range is set according to the designation of the imaging start position by the user, but the present invention is not limited to this. The stroke length may not be used in setting the long imaging range.

For example, the position of the end in the body axis direction of the subject P that can be imaged by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 can be used as the imaging end position. Even in this case, the long imaging range can be set according to the designation of the imaging start position by the user. For example, in imaging the lower limbs, when imaging is started from the head side, the position of the end of the subject P in the body axis direction is the end of the lower limbs opposite to the head. In such a case, the positions of the ends of the subject P in the body axis direction can be defined by the positions of the ends of the bed 5 .

In this embodiment, the case where the shooting guide information that guides the shooting start position is displayed on the LIH has been exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. According to the technology according to the present embodiment, it is also possible to display shooting guide information for guiding the shooting end position on the LIH.

For example, the stroke length may be set, and the long imaging range may be set according to the designation of the imaging end position by the user. In this case, in the actual imaging, by moving at least one of the holding device 19 (C-arm) and the bed 5 in the body axis direction of the subject P, the imaging end position specified by the user and the stroke length Long-length imaging can be started from the imaging start position defined by the setting of . In other words, the stroke information is selected and set from predetermined positions such as the extreme end (start position, end position) and the middle part of the range in which long shots can be taken, in addition to the stroke length set by a numerical value. may

Note that, according to the present embodiment, it is also possible to display on the LIH the shooting guide information that guides positions other than the shooting start position and the shooting end position. For example, there may be an imaging intermediate position between the imaging start position and the imaging end position. In other words, the user can also specify the shooting intermediate position using the guide information display according to the present embodiment.

For example, when a stroke length is set, a long imaging range that extends from the imaging intermediate position to both sides in the body axis direction of the subject P by 1/2 times the stroke length in accordance with the designation of the imaging intermediate position by the user. set. Similarly, for example, the position of the end in the body axis direction of the subject P that can be imaged by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 can be used as the imaging intermediate position.

Note that the user can also specify both the shooting start position and the shooting end position using the guide information display according to the present embodiment. That is, in the guide information position setting process according to the present embodiment, the long imaging range may be set in accordance with the designation of the imaging start position and the imaging end position by the user.

As described above, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment provides an imaging guide that indicates the range on the LIH to be imaged by the main imaging based on the setting information regarding the main imaging and the aperture opening for positioning. Information is generated, and the generated shooting guide information is superimposed on the LIH for positioning and displayed. According to this configuration, the user can position with a wide aperture opening. Also, in positioning, it is possible to easily grasp from which position the positioning image is imaged. That is, according to the technique according to the embodiment, in the positioning imaging performed prior to the main imaging, the long imaging range can be easily set by displaying the imaging guide information. Therefore, according to the technique according to the embodiment, it is possible to efficiently perform long image capturing with a simple configuration.

(Second embodiment)
Next, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to a second embodiment will be described. Here, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described.

In the present embodiment, after setting the position of the shooting guide information in the guide information position setting process according to the first embodiment, long-length shooting is performed.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of imaging processing according to the embodiment.

Prior to the processing (steps S202 to S210) related to the actual photographing, position setting processing for the photographing guide information is performed (step S201). The position setting process of the shooting guide information has been described with reference to FIG. 4 in the first embodiment, so the description is omitted here.

After that, the operation control function 211 determines whether or not to start the main imaging (long-length imaging), for example, based on an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 according to the user's operation (step S202). As an example, when the user starts pressing a button for instructing photographing, it is determined that the actual photographing is to be started. When it is not determined to start the main imaging (step S202: No), the flow of FIG. 6 returns to the process of step S201. On the other hand, when it is determined to start the main imaging (step S202: Yes), the flow of FIG. 6 proceeds to the process of step S203.

The operation control function 211 drives the X-ray diaphragm 15 to the aperture opening for actual imaging, for example, in the same manner as in the process of step S102 in FIG. 4 (step S203). It should be noted that the aperture opening for actual photographing is, for example, determined in advance and stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like.

After the X-ray aperture reaches the aperture opening for actual imaging, the operation control function 211 starts acquiring X-ray image data (step S204). At this time, the image generation function 212 generates X-ray image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 17 and temporarily stores it in the storage circuit 23 . In addition, the image generation function 212 sequentially generates elongated images by performing temporary reconstruction by combining X-ray image data with previously acquired photographed images every time X-ray image data is acquired. That is, the image generation function 212 acquires an X-ray image at each position in the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture 15 on the subject P during long-dimension imaging. Long images are sequentially generated based on the obtained X-ray images. The image generation function 212 temporarily stores the sequentially generated long images in the storage circuit 23 (step S205). In addition, the display control function 213 causes the display 251 to display the live image generated in the process of step S205, that is, the provisionally reconstructed elongated photographed image (step S206).

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen 400 including a live image 410 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 illustrates a display screen 400 including subject information 401 , protocol selection screen 403 , reconstruction conditions 405 , reconstruction condition change screen 407 and live image 410 .

A protocol selection screen 403 is, for example, an operation screen for selecting a preset long-length imaging protocol. The reconstruction conditions 405 can include, for example, a stitching mode and a blend width (width of overlap region) for generating long shot images according to the selected protocol. The reconstruction condition change screen 407 is an operation screen for changing the settings of the reconstruction conditions such as the stitching mode and the blend width of the reconstruction conditions 405 .

The live image 410 is generated by provisional reconstruction in which newly obtained captured images are sequentially added along the imaging direction D1 without changing the size of the already generated elongated captured images (captured images). It is a long photographed image. Therefore, the size of the elongated photographed image generated by the temporary reconstruction increases by the size of the photographed image at each position each time photographing is performed at each position.

In the example shown in FIG. 7, the newly obtained photographed image is pasted, for example, at the position indicated by the dashed frame. In the example shown in FIG. 7, each captured image is indicated by a solid-line frame in order to explain how newly obtained captured images are sequentially added along the capturing direction D1. That is, the solid-line and dashed-line frames in the live image 410 in FIG. 7 are not included in the live image 410 .

It is assumed that the size of each photographed image in the temporary reconstruction is determined in advance and stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like. In this case, the size of each captured image is, for example, the longitudinal length of the long imaging range of the bed 5 set in the guide information position setting process in step S201, and the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 at the time of actual imaging. determined based on the degree and Also, the size of each captured image may be determined based on the longitudinal length of the bed 5 that can be captured by the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 and the aperture opening of the X-ray diaphragm 15 during actual imaging. For example, the size of each photographed image becomes smaller as the length of the bed 5 in the longitudinal direction increases with respect to the long photographing range assumed before the end of the long photographing.

Note that the display screen 400 may be displayed as a display screen including subject information 301, current acquisition conditions 303, information 305 regarding actual imaging, and a live image 410, like the display screen 300 in FIG. In this case, the current acquisition conditions 303 include, for example, information about the sequence of long shots. Further, the information 305 related to the main imaging includes, for example, a protocol name for long-length imaging and typically reconstruction conditions. Typically, the reconstruction conditions can include, for example, a stitching mode and a blend width (width of the overlap region) for generating long shot images.

The operation control function 211 determines whether or not to end the actual photographing (step S207). As an example, when the user finishes pressing the button for instructing shooting, that is, when the user releases the button that started pressing in the process of step S202, it is determined that the main shooting is finished. In other words, the operation control function 211 accepts an operation to stop X-ray imaging until acquisition of X-ray images in the long imaging range according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information is completed. As an example, it is determined that the actual photographing is finished when the photographing up to the photographing end position set in the guide information position setting process in step S201 is completed. When it is not determined to end the main imaging (step S207: No), the flow of FIG. 6 returns to the process of step S204.

On the other hand, when it is determined to end the main imaging (step S207: Yes), the image generation function 212 acquires all the projection image data obtained in the main imaging and the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image data. (step S208). Here, the provisionally reconstructed X-ray image data to be obtained means that until an operation to stop X-ray imaging is performed, or until imaging of the imaging range corresponding to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image is completed. This is image data based on long images generated and stored until In addition, the image generation function 212 generates long image data through main reconstruction by pasting all the X-ray images (photographed images) obtained in the main radiography, and saves it in the storage circuit 23, that is, stores it ( step S209). In addition, the display control function 213 displays on the display 251 the long shot image reconstructed in the process of step S209 (step S210). The flow of FIG. 6 then ends.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the generation of the elongated photographed images 500 and 600 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 exemplifies a live image (long shot image 500) at the end of main imaging and a long shot image 600 generated by main reconstruction.

Prior to the main reconstruction, the image generation function 212 acquires the image size L1 of the tentatively reconstructed X-ray image and the predetermined image size L2 of the long shot image. The image size L1 of the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image is acquired based on the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image data stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like. It is assumed that the image size L2 of the long photographed image generated by this reconstruction is determined in advance and stored in the storage circuit 23 or the like, for example. Here, each image size L1, L2 is the number of pixels of each image. More specifically, each of the image sizes L1 and L2 is the number of pixels in the shooting direction of long shooting of each image, that is, the stitching direction.

The image generation function 212 acquires the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 per pixel of the live image based on the image size L1 of the temporarily reconstructed X-ray image, that is, the live image obtained by the temporary reconstruction. . In addition, the image generation function 212 generates each X-ray image to be stitched together in this reconstruction based on the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 per pixel of the live image and the size ratio between the two image sizes L1 and L2. Determine size. Then, the image generation function 212 performs main reconstruction by pasting all the X-ray images obtained in the main radiography. In this way, the image generation function 212 generates a long image of a predetermined image size based on the X-ray image acquired by X-ray imaging, based on the image size of the X-ray image generated by the temporary reconstruction. This reconstruction is performed to generate

Although the case where the processing related to the main reconstruction (steps S208 to S210) is performed as a series of the processing of the main imaging (steps S202 to S207) has been exemplified, the present invention is not limited to this. The processing related to this reconstruction may be implemented as post-processing.

It should be noted that the processing related to this reconstruction (steps S208 to S210) may not be executed. That is, in the temporary reconstruction performed during long-length imaging, since the captured images at each position are pasted together in the same way as in the main reconstruction, A live image can also be treated as a long shot image generated by actual shooting. At this time, processing for converting the elongated captured image generated by the temporary reconstruction into an image size suitable for display may be performed.

In addition, although the case where the bonding similar to this reconstruction is performed in the temporary reconstruction has been exemplified, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the temporary reconstruction may be a process of arranging and displaying the captured images at each position in the shooting direction without considering the blending width or the like. In this case, the long photographed image is generated in consideration of the blend width in the processing related to this reconstruction. Of course, in the processing related to this reconstruction, the reconstruction for grasping the image size and the reconstruction for generating the long shot image may be executed. Even with these configurations, the user can easily confirm the shooting position even at that time during long-length shooting. That is, since the user can easily confirm to which position of the subject the imaging has been completed, the user can easily determine the timing of releasing the button for instructing imaging to end the imaging. can.

It should be noted that image quality improvement processing such as noise reduction processing may be performed on the elongated photographed image generated by this reconstruction. Further, for example, when the main reconstruction is not performed, image quality improvement processing such as noise reduction processing may be performed on the elongated captured image generated by the temporary reconstruction.

Although the display 251 displays the live image generated in the process of step S205 during long-length photography, that is, the temporarily reconstructed long-length photographed image, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the display control function 213 may sequentially display the captured images at each position at the same position on the display screen during long-length imaging. In this display mode, unlike the live monitor mode in which live images are displayed, the size of the image displayed at each time point is constant from the start to the end of the long image capturing. It should be noted that there is a possibility that captured images such as live images may not be displayed during long image capturing, for example, depending on user settings.

In this way, the image generation function 212 acquires the number of pixels of the X-ray detector 17 corresponding to the imaging range of long-length imaging based on the provisionally reconstructed X-ray image. In addition, the image generation function 212 generates a main reconstructed image based on a live image stitched together with reference to a target object in the image, that is, a temporary reconstructed image in which the width of the overlap region in stitching is taken into consideration. (long shot image 600) is generated. As a result, with a simple configuration, in addition to efficiently performing long-length radiography, the range generated as a long-length radiographed image by main radiography with the X-ray aperture 15 narrowed down, that is, the range to be imaged. can be easily grasped. Further, it is possible to generate a long photographed image that matches the predetermined image size L2 with higher accuracy than when estimating the image size from the encoder of the photographing unit 3 or the bed 5 . In other words, according to the technology according to the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a blank area that does not include a captured image in the elongated captured image. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the image quality of the elongated photographed image generated by the main photographing with the X-ray diaphragm 15 narrowed.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the case where the long-length photographing is performed as the main photographing was exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this. The technique according to the first embodiment can also be applied to BMD (Bone Mineral Density) measurement.

BMD measurement may be performed in the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 , but the size of a BMD measurement target such as a femur is often smaller than the detector size of the X-ray detector 17 of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 . many. For this reason, in BMD measurement, from the viewpoint of analysis accuracy, images are collected with the X-ray aperture 15 narrowed down, as in the above-described elongated imaging. Also in BMD measurement, the user needs to set the imaging range prior to image acquisition.

Under such circumstances, for example, in BMD measurement, the user changes the display position of the shooting guide information so that the range to be shot falls between the two lines (guides 331 and 333) on the display screen 300. . In other words, the user adjusts the display position of the shooting guide information on the LIH image. Note that when the display position of the shooting start position information is changed, the size of the shooting range information is also changed.

Note that in BMD measurement, the imaging start position information may be, for example, an image of a rectangular frame. In this case, the user adjusts the size and position of the frame so that the range to be photographed fits within the frame.

In addition, in the BMD measurement, the operation control function 211 responds to an instruction from the operation unit 9 or the input interface 27 according to the user's operation after the adjustment is completed, and sets the position of the guide 331 at that time as the shooting start position. set. In other words, the operation control function 211 can also set the imaging range (imaging field of view) for bone density measurement as actual imaging according to the display position on the image of the LIH of the imaging guide information.

Note that in long-length imaging, the display position of the imaging guide information 330 on the image of the LIH 311 may be adjustable, as in the BMD measurement. In this case, the user can set the shooting start position for long-length shooting by changing the display position of the shooting guide information on the display screen 300 .

Further, in the BMD measurement, the user moves at least one of the imaging unit 3 and the bed 5 while looking at the display screen 300, so that the range to be photographed is defined between the two lines (guides 331 and 333) or the frame. may be adjusted to fit.

Thus, according to the technique according to the first embodiment, it is possible to efficiently perform BMD measurement with a simple configuration.

In the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to each of the above-described embodiments, the X-ray image may be acquired with the subject P standing or lying down. .

According to at least one embodiment described above, it is possible to efficiently perform long-length imaging with a simple configuration.

While several embodiments of the invention have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.

1 X-ray diagnostic device 3 Imaging unit 5 Bed 7 Driving unit 9 Operation unit 10 Console device 11 X-ray high voltage device 13 X-ray tube 15 X-ray diaphragm 16 Aperture control unit 17 X-ray detector 19 Holding device 21 Processing circuit (control part)
23 storage circuit (memory)
25 display unit 27 input interface 70 drive control unit 71 photographing system movement drive unit 73 tabletop movement drive unit 211 operation control function (acquisition means, photographing execution means)
212 image generation function (shooting execution means)
213 display control function (display control means)
251 display

Claims (12)

Acquisition means for acquiring a partial image representing a part of a subject to be X-rayed;
display control means for causing a display unit to display a superimposed image in which shooting guide information representing a predetermined position in the shooting range is superimposed on the partial image;
an imaging execution means for setting the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, and performing X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information;
X-ray diagnostic equipment. The X-ray imaging is imaging in which a plurality of X-ray images are acquired based on the acquisition range by changing the position of the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of the X-ray aperture in the subject,
The imaging execution means sequentially generates a long image based on the acquired X-ray image each time the X-ray image is acquired,
The display control means causes the display unit to display the generated long image.
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. The imaging execution means receives an operation to stop the X-ray imaging until acquisition of the X-ray image in the long imaging range corresponding to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information is completed.
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2. In response to an operation to stop the X-ray imaging, the imaging execution means records image data based on the elongated image generated until the operation is performed.
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3. The long imaging range is determined based on preset stroke information and the position of the imaging guide information set in the superimposed image,
If the operation is not performed, the imaging execution means executes X-ray imaging of the subject until the long imaging range is reached, and performs X-ray imaging of the subject until reaching the long imaging range. recording image data based on the scale image;
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3 or 4. The imaging execution means generates a long image of a predetermined image size based on the X-ray image acquired by the X-ray imaging, based on the image size of the long image.
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5. The shooting guide information includes a start position or an end position in the long shooting range,
The imaging executing means sets a start position or an end position in the long imaging range based on the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, and executes X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting. do,
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The imaging guide information includes an acquisition range corresponding to an aperture opening of an X-ray aperture that shields X-rays during X-ray imaging of the subject, a direction of X-ray imaging of the subject, and the acquisition range in the partial image. further including either a mask range for masking, or a mask range for masking areas other than the collection range in the partial image;
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7. The photographing executing means receives an operation to change the position of the photographing guide information, and sets a predetermined position in the photographing range based on the position of the photographing guide information after being changed according to the operation.
The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The acquiring means determines whether or not the subject represented by the partial image has moved, and when determining that the subject has moved, newly acquires the partial image after the movement,
The display control means causes the display unit to display a superimposed image in which the shooting guide information is superimposed on the partial image after movement.
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The imaging range of the partial image is larger than the acquisition range corresponding to the aperture opening of an X-ray aperture that shields X-rays in X-ray imaging of the subject.
X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10. The control unit acquires a partial image representing a part of the subject to be X-rayed,
The control unit causes the display unit to display a superimposed image in which shooting guide information representing a predetermined position in the shooting range is superimposed on the partial image,
The control unit sets the position of the imaging guide information in the superimposed image, and executes X-ray imaging of the subject according to the setting of the position of the imaging guide information.
X-ray diagnostic method.

Images