JP5262152B2 - Diagnostic system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a diagnostic system including a nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus and a data collection apparatus, and more particularly to a technology of each apparatus structure.

  As the above-described nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus, that is, an ECT (Emission Computed Tomography) apparatus, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) apparatus will be described as an example. The PET apparatus detects a plurality of gamma rays generated by annihilation of positrons, that is, positrons, and reconstructs a tomographic image of a subject only when the gamma rays are simultaneously detected by a plurality of detectors. It is configured.

  In this PET apparatus, after a radiopharmaceutical is administered to a subject, the process of drug accumulation in the target tissue is measured over time, whereby quantitative measurement of various biological functions is possible. Therefore, the tomographic image obtained by the PET apparatus has functional information.

  However, in the tomographic image described above, there is a lack of morphological information such as position information. Therefore, a diagnosis is obtained by combining a PET apparatus and an X-ray CT apparatus, and superimposing a tomographic image obtained by the X-ray CT apparatus and a tomographic image obtained by the PET apparatus to obtain two pieces of information, that is, functional information and morphological information. In recent years, a system (PET-CT apparatus) has been used (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). In addition to the X-ray CT apparatus, there is also a diagnostic system that combines a data acquisition apparatus typified by a nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or transmission and a PET apparatus. When the transmission and the PET device are combined, the same radiation source as the radiopharmaceutical administered to the subject is arranged outside the subject, and the subject is irradiated with γ rays from the same source, Absorption correction data (also referred to as “transmission data”) is obtained based on the γ rays, and a tomographic image obtained by the PET apparatus is corrected based on the absorption correction data (see, for example, Patent Document 3).

As shown in Patent Documents 1 and 2 described above, in the conventional PET-CT apparatus, an X-ray CT gantry and a PET gantry are attached to the same top plate (bed) on which the subject is placed. They are arranged side by side in the axial direction. The top plate is moved with respect to the X-ray CT gantry and the PET gantry to acquire respective data. As shown in Patent Document 3 described above, some devices in which a conventional transmission and a PET device are combined include a transmission detector and a PET detector (emission detector). Similar to the above-described PET-CT apparatus, a transmission detector and a PET detector are arranged side by side in the body axis direction of the subject on the same top plate. Then, the top plate is moved with respect to the transmission detector and the PET detector to acquire respective data.
Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-31930 (4th, 5th, 8th pages, FIG. Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-121530 (page 4, FIG. 1) JP 2007-86089 A (4th and 5th pages, FIG. 1)

  However, since the data acquisition apparatus (X-ray CT apparatus or transmission) of a different type from the PET apparatus is arranged in the body axis direction as described above, the gantry becomes longer in the body axis direction and the apparatus becomes large. When collecting data with a gantry arranged behind the gantry as viewed from the top, when the subject is a human body (patient), the patient is inserted into a long tunnel of the gantry and feels pressure. Also, it is difficult to use when it is necessary to wear a gas mask. Moreover, the visibility of the patient under examination is poor due to being blocked by a long gantry.

  This invention is made | formed in view of such a situation, Comprising: It aims at providing the diagnostic system which can shorten a gantry and can collect different types of data with nuclear medicine data.

In order to achieve such an object, the present invention has the following configuration.
That is, the invention according to claim 1 is a nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus for obtaining nuclear medicine data of a subject based on radiation generated from the subject to which a radiopharmaceutical is administered, and data collection for collecting data on the subject. A detection system for nuclear medicine comprising a detector group for detecting radiation generated from the subject, and detection for collected data for detecting data relating to the subject. The collected data detecting means is disposed in a gantry having an opening through which the subject passes, and a detector group of the nuclear medicine detecting means is accommodated in the collected data detecting means. by opening of the gantry through so that it can, the detector group of the nuclear medicine detection means arranged so as to be inserted into an opening of the gantry, the nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus, A support unit that is slidable relative to the base; and the nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support unit, and the nuclear medicine supported by the support unit as the support unit moves. The detection means is disposed so as to be insertable into the opening of the gantry.
The invention according to claim 2 is a nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus for obtaining nuclear medicine data of a subject based on radiation generated from the subject to which a radiopharmaceutical is administered, and data collection for collecting data relating to the subject. A detection system for nuclear medicine comprising a detector group for detecting radiation generated from the subject, and detection for collected data for detecting data relating to the subject. And a detector group of the detection means for nuclear medicine is arranged so that it can be inserted into the opening of the gantry. The nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus includes a base, a support portion standing on the base, and the nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support portion, the support portion and the nuclear medicine Detection means The gantry is erected on the base, and the gantry is configured to be slidable with respect to the base so that the nuclear medicine detection means can be inserted into the opening of the gantry. It is characterized by being arranged.

[Actions and Effects] According to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the detection means for collected data is arranged in the gantry, and the detector group of the detection means for nuclear medicine can be inserted into the opening of the gantry. Arrange. In the detection means for nuclear medicine, the detector group constituting it is usually arranged in a circle around the axis, so the sensitivity and spatial resolution can be improved by bringing the detector group close to the subject. In order to increase, it is preferable that the diameter of the detector group is small. Therefore, by arranging the detection means for collected data in the gantry and disposing the detector group of the detection means for nuclear medicine so that it can be inserted into the opening of the gantry, the detector group smaller than the inner diameter of the gantry can be formed. Each can be arranged, and the detector group can be brought close to the subject to increase sensitivity and spatial resolution.
Therefore, in the invention described in claim 1, the nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus includes a base, a support portion that is slidable with respect to the base, and a nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support portion. A nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support portion is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening of the gantry as the support portion moves. As a result, data collection by any of the detection means is performed by one gantry, and the gantry can be shortened to collect different types of data together with nuclear medicine data.

Further, in the invention according to claim 2, in order to dispose the collected data detecting means in the gantry and to dispose the detector group of the detecting means for nuclear medicine in the opening of the gantry, The medical diagnostic apparatus includes a base, a support part standing on the base, and a nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support part, and the support part and the nuclear medicine detection means are fixed, The gantry is erected on the base, and the gantry is configured to be slidable with respect to the base, so that the nuclear medicine detection means can be inserted into the opening of the gantry. As a result, data collection by any of the detection means is performed by one gantry, and the gantry can be shortened to collect different types of data together with nuclear medicine data.

According to the diagnostic system of the present invention, the collection data detection means is arranged in the gantry, and the detector group of the nuclear medicine detection means is arranged so as to be inserted into the opening of the gantry . Data collection by the detection means is also performed in one gantry, and the gantry can be shortened to collect different types of data together with nuclear medicine data.
In addition, the detection unit for collected data is arranged in the gantry, and the detector group of the detection unit for nuclear medicine is arranged to be inserted into the opening of the gantry so that the detector group is smaller than the inner diameter of the gantry. Each can be arranged, and the detector group can be brought close to the subject to increase sensitivity and spatial resolution.

Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a side view of the PET-CT apparatus according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the PET-CT apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) apparatus will be described as an example of a nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus, and an X-ray CT apparatus will be described as an example of a data collection apparatus, and PET as a diagnosis system. A PET-CT apparatus combining an apparatus and an X-ray CT apparatus will be described as an example.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the PET-CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a bed 2 having a top plate 22 on which a subject M in a horizontal posture (for example, a supine posture (a supine posture)) is placed. . A PET apparatus 3 and an X-ray CT apparatus 4 are provided to diagnose the head of the subject M placed on the top 1. The PET-CT apparatus 1 corresponds to the diagnostic system in the present invention, the PET apparatus 3 corresponds to the nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus in the present invention, and the X-ray CT apparatus 4 corresponds to the data collection apparatus in the present invention.

  The bed 2 includes a bed 21 that supports the above-described top plate 22 and a top plate 22. The top plate 22 is slidable with respect to the bed 21. In the first embodiment, the top plate 22 is moved before starting a series of diagnoses (imaging) or only when a series of diagnoses (imaging) is completed, and at the time of diagnosis with the PET apparatus 3 and with the X-ray CT apparatus 4 The top plate 22 is not moved at the time of diagnosis, but of course, the top plate 22 may be moved.

  The PET apparatus 3 detects a γ-ray generated from the base 31, a PET detector support part 32 that can be slid relative to the base 31, and the subject M, and is supported by the PET detector support part 32. The PET detector 33 is provided. The PET detector support 32 is slidable relative to the base 31 from the position shown in FIG. 1A to the position shown in FIG. As the PET detector support portion 32 moves, the PET detector 33 supported thereby also moves.

  The structure of the PET detector support 32 is not particularly limited. For example, a groove portion is provided in the base 31, and a rack that fits into the groove portion is disposed at the bottom of the PET detector support portion 32, and a motor is disposed in the PET detector support portion 32, and the base is driven by driving the motor. The PET detector support 32 may be slid by moving the rack fitted in the groove of the table 31. In addition, a rail is provided on the base 31, a motor is provided on the PET detector support 32, and a wheel or the like is provided on the bottom of the PET detector support 32 so that the rail is driven by driving the motor. You may make it move on.

  The PET detector 33 is composed of a plurality of γ-ray detector groups, and the γ-ray detector groups are arranged in a circle around the body axis of the subject M and arranged along the body axis direction. The PET detector 33 is thus configured. The PET detector 33 corresponds to the detection means for nuclear medicine in the present invention.

  The γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 includes a scintillator block, a light guide, and a photomultiplier tube (all not shown). The scintillator block is composed of a plurality of scintillators. The scintillator block converts the γ-rays generated from the subject M to which the radiopharmaceutical has been administered into light, the light guide guides the converted light, and the photomultiplier tube photoelectrically converts it into an electrical signal. To do.

  On the other hand, the X-ray CT apparatus 4 includes a gantry 41 having an opening 41 a through which the head of the subject M passes. In the gantry 41, an X-ray tube 42 for irradiating the subject M with X-rays and an X-ray detector 43 for detecting X-rays transmitted through the subject M are disposed. The X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 are arranged so as to face each other, and the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 are covered in the gantry 41 by driving a motor (not shown). Rotate around the body axis of the specimen M. In the first embodiment, a flat panel X-ray detector (FPD) is employed as the X-ray detector 43. Of course, an X-ray detector other than the flat panel X-ray detector (FPD) may be used. The X-ray detector 43 corresponds to the collected data detection means in this invention.

  As described above, the X-ray detector 43 is disposed in the gantry 41. In the first embodiment, the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening 41 a of the gantry 41. When the PET detector 33 moves to the position shown in FIG. 1B, the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is inserted into the opening 41 a of the gantry 41.

  In the first embodiment, as described above, the top plate 22 is not moved at the time of diagnosis by the PET apparatus 3 or at the time of diagnosis by the X-ray CT apparatus 4, but the gantry 41 is synchronized with the movement of the top plate 22. The PET apparatus 3 may be fixed by moving along the body axis direction of the subject M. By moving the gantry 41 in the body axis direction of the subject M in synchronization with the movement of the top plate 22, the X-ray CT apparatus 4 having the gantry 41 with respect to the subject M is relatively at the same position. Will be located. Accordingly, the head of the subject M moves along the body axis direction of the subject M while being inserted into the opening 41 a of the gantry 41.

  Subsequently, a block diagram of the PET-CT apparatus 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the PET-CT apparatus 1 includes a PET console 5 and a CT console 6 in addition to the bed 2, the PET apparatus 3, and the X-ray CT apparatus 4 described above. In the first embodiment, the PET console 5 is provided as a console for the PET apparatus 3, and the CT console 6 is provided as a console for the X-ray CT apparatus 4. However, as in the second embodiment described later, the console is integrated as one console. It may be.

  The couch 2 includes a couch drive control unit 23 and a couch drive unit 24 in addition to the bed 21 and the top plate 22 described above. The PET apparatus 3 includes a position detection sensor 34, a PET drive control unit 35, a PET drive unit 36, and a PET data collection unit 37 in addition to the base 31, the PET detector support unit 32, and the PET detector 33 described above. ing. In addition to the gantry 41, the X-ray tube 42, and the X-ray detector 43, the X-ray CT apparatus 4 includes an X-ray CT drive control unit 44, an X-ray CT drive unit 45, a CT data collection unit 46, and an X-ray tube. And a control unit 47.

  The PET console 5 includes a data collection unit 51, an image reconstruction unit 52, an input unit 53, an output unit 54, and an imaging control unit 55. Similarly to the PET console 5, the CT console 6 also includes a data collection unit 61, an image reconstruction unit 62, an input unit 63, an output unit 64, and an imaging control unit 65.

  The couch drive control unit 23 controls the couch drive unit 24. The bed driving unit 24 is configured by a motor or the like, and the top plate 22 is slidable relative to the bed 21 by driving the motor. As described above, in the first embodiment, the top plate 22 is not moved at the time of diagnosis by the PET apparatus 3 and at the time of diagnosis by the X-ray CT apparatus 4, but the top plate 22 is moved as in the second embodiment to be described later. In the case of making it, the couch drive control unit 23 controls the couch drive unit 24, so that the top plate 22 moves. The bed drive control unit 23, the PET drive control unit 35, the X-ray CT drive control unit 44, the X-ray tube control unit 47, the imaging control unit 55, and the imaging control unit 65 are configured by a central processing unit (CPU) or the like. Yes.

  The position detection sensor 34 is provided, for example, as a photosensor on the above-described PET detector support portion 32, and when the PET detector support portion 32 slides to the position shown in FIG. The position shown in FIG. 1B is obtained by utilizing the fact that light from the optical element is blocked (shielded) by the gantry 41 in the case of the transmission type or reflected by the gantry 41 in the case of the reflection type. It is detected that the PET detector 33 has moved together with the PET detector support 32. Further, when the position detection sensor 34 detects that the PET detector 33 has moved to the position shown in FIG. 1B, it outputs the movement end timing of the PET detector 33 to the PET drive control unit 35. The position detection sensor 34 may be a non-contact type sensor typified by the above-described photosensor or the like, or a contact type sensor typified by a microswitch or the like.

  The PET drive control unit 35 controls the PET drive unit 36 and outputs a braking command to the PET drive unit 36 when receiving the movement end timing from the position detection sensor 34 described above, or instructs the imaging control unit 55 to collect data. Is output. The PET driving unit 36 is configured by the above-described motor or the like disposed on the PET detector support unit 32, and the PET detector support unit 32 is slidable relative to the base 31 by driving the motor. is there. When the PET detector 33 is moved together with the PET detector support unit 32, the PET drive control unit 35 controls the PET drive unit 36 so that the PET detector 33 is moved together with the PET detector support unit 32.

  On the other hand, the X-ray CT drive control unit 44 controls the X-ray CT drive unit 45 and outputs a data collection command to the imaging control unit 65 when the X-ray detector 42 finishes detecting X-rays. The X-ray CT drive unit 45 includes the motor as described above, and the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 are driven around the body axis of the subject M in the gantry 41 by driving the motor. It can be rotated. When the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 are rotated around the axis of the body axis of the subject M, the X-ray CT drive control unit 44 controls the X-ray CT drive unit 45, thereby The tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 rotate.

  The PET data collection unit 37 collects PET data (nuclear medicine data) based on the γ rays detected by the PET detector 33. The PET data collection unit 37 has a function of a coincidence counting circuit (not shown) and the like. The PET data collected by the PET data collection unit 37 is sent to the data collection unit 51. It is also possible to send data to the data collection unit 61 via the data collection unit 51. The CT data collection unit 46 collects projection data as CT data (data for X-ray CT) based on the X-rays detected by the X-ray detector 43. The CT data collected by the CT collection unit 44 is sent to the data collection unit 61. It is also possible to send data to the data collection unit 51 via the data collection unit 61. The X-ray tube controller 47 applies a tube voltage or a tube current to the X-ray tube 42 to generate X-rays, or issues an instruction to start or end X-ray irradiation from the X-ray tube 42 to the X-ray tube 42. Output.

  The data collection unit 51 collects the PET data collected by the PET data collection unit 37, and the data collection unit 61 collects the CT data collected by the CT data collection unit 46. At this time, PET data is sent from the data collection unit 51 to the data collection unit 61, or CT data is sent from the data collection unit 61 to the data collection unit 51, and the PET data and CT data are superimposed. Further, the CT data collected by the CT data collection unit 46 may be made to act on the PET data as transmission data to perform absorption correction of the PET data. The data collection units 51 and 61 send the superimposed projection data to the image reconstruction units 52 and 62. The image reconstruction units 52 and 62 reconstruct the projection data superimposed by the data collection units 51 and 61 to generate a tomographic image.

  The input unit 53 sends data and commands input by the operator to the imaging control unit 55. Similarly, the input unit 54 sends data and commands input by the operator to the imaging control unit 56. The input units 53 and 63 are configured by pointing devices represented by a mouse, a keyboard, a joystick, a trackball, a touch panel, and the like. The output units 54 and 64 are configured by a display unit represented by a monitor or the like, a printer, or the like.

  The imaging controllers 55 and 65 perform overall control of each part constituting the PET-CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. Specifically, the imaging control unit 55 causes the couch driving unit 24 to be driven at the time of diagnosis by the PET apparatus 3 via the couch driving control unit 23 and the PET driving unit 36 to drive the PET. This is performed via the drive control unit 35. The imaging control unit 65 causes the bed driving unit 24 to be driven at the time of diagnosis by the X-ray CT apparatus 4 via the bed driving control unit 23, and the X-ray CT driving unit 45 to drive the X-ray. This is performed via the CT drive control unit 44. When the PET drive control unit 35 receives the timing of the end of movement of the PET detector 33 based on the position detection sensor 34, the imaging control unit 55 receives the data collection command output from the PET drive control unit 35, and the PET Each data collection command is output to the data collection unit 37, CT data collection unit 6, and data collection units 51 and 61, and projection data reconstruction commands are output to the image reconstruction units 52 and 62. In addition, the imaging control units 55 and 65 capture the data collected by the PET data collection unit 37, the CT data collection unit 46, and the data collection units 51 and 61 and the tomographic images reconstructed by the image reconstruction units 52 and 62, respectively. To the output units 54 and 64 for output. When the output units 54 and 64 are display units, output display is performed, and when the output units 54 and 64 are printers, output printing is performed.

  The γ-rays generated from the subject M to which the radiopharmaceutical is administered are converted into light by the scintillator block of the corresponding γ-ray detector in the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33, and the converted light is converted into γ The photomultiplier tube of the line detector performs photoelectric conversion and outputs an electrical signal. The electric signal is sent to the PET data collection unit 37 as image information (pixel value).

  Specifically, when a radiopharmaceutical is administered to the subject M, two γ rays are generated due to the disappearance of the positron of the positron emission type RI. The PET data collection unit 37 checks the position of the scintillator block of the γ-ray detector and the incident timing of the γ-ray, and when the γ-rays are simultaneously incident on two scintillator blocks that are opposed to each other with the subject M interposed therebetween. Only when the simultaneous counting is performed, the sent image information is determined as appropriate data. When γ-rays enter only one of the scintillator blocks, the PET data collection unit 37 treats the image information sent at that time as noise instead of γ-rays generated by the disappearance of the positron, and treats it as noise. Dismiss.

  The image information sent to the PET data collection unit 37 is sent to the data collection units 51 and 61 as projection data (PET data). On the other hand, the X-ray CT drive unit 45 irradiates the subject M with X-rays from the X-ray tube 42 while rotating the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43, and the subject M is irradiated from the outside of the subject M. The X-ray is detected by the X-ray detector 43 converting the X-ray transmitted through M into an electric signal. The electrical signal converted by the X-ray detector 43 is sent to the CT data collection 46 as image information (pixel value). The CT data collection unit 46 collects the distribution of the sent image information as projection data (CT data) projected on the projection surface of the X-ray detector 44 and sends it to the data collection units 51 and 61.

  The data collection units 51 and 61 perform absorption correction of PET data and superimposition of PET data and CT data, and send them to the image reconstruction units 52 and 62. The image reconstruction units 52 and 62 reconstruct the sent projection data. Configure to generate a tomographic image.

  Next, an imaging mode in a series of diagnosis (imaging) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1A shows an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the CT apparatus, and FIG. 1B shows an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the PET apparatus.

  The couch driving control unit 23 (see FIG. 2) is configured to administer a radiopharmaceutical to the subject M and insert the head of the subject M into the opening 41a of the gantry 41 in a horizontal posture. 2) is controlled to move and set the top plate 22 on which the subject M is placed. On the other hand, the operator inputs imaging conditions to the input unit 63 (see FIG. 2) of the CT console 6 (see FIG. 2) at the time of diagnosis using the X-ray CT apparatus 4, and the input imaging conditions are input to the imaging control unit. 65 (refer to FIG. 2), and at the time of diagnosis by the PET apparatus 3, the imaging condition is input to the input unit 53 (refer to FIG. 2) of the PET console 5 (refer to FIG. 2). The image is sent to the imaging control unit 55 (see FIG. 2). Based on the input imaging conditions, the imaging control unit 55 sends a data collection command to the PET data collection unit 37 (see FIG. 2), the CT data collection unit 46 (see FIG. 2), the data collection unit 51, 61 (see FIG. 2), a drive command relating to the PET drive unit 36 (see FIG. 2) such as installation of the PET detector 33 is output to the PET drive control unit 35 (see FIG. 2). Similarly, based on the input imaging conditions, the imaging control unit 65 sends a data collection command to the PET data collection unit 37, the CT data collection unit 46, and the data collection units 51 and 61 (for example, tube voltage). And the tube current) to the X-ray tube control unit 47 (see FIG. 2), and a drive command related to the X-ray CT drive unit 45 (see FIG. 2) such as installation of the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 It outputs to the line CT drive control part 44 (refer FIG. 2), respectively.

  First, diagnosis with the X-ray CT apparatus 4 is performed in the manner shown in FIG. The imaging control unit 65 outputs the X-ray condition input from the input unit 63 of the CT console 6 to the X-ray tube control unit 47, and for driving the X-ray CT drive unit 45, the X-ray CT drive control unit 44 is operated. Through. Under such X-ray conditions, the X-ray CT driving unit 45 rotates the X-ray tube 42 and the X-ray detector 43 around the body axis of the subject M while rotating the subject M from the X-ray tube 42. The X-ray detector 43 converts the X-ray irradiated from the outside of the subject M and transmitted through the subject M into an electrical signal, thereby detecting the X-ray. The CT data collection unit 46 collects the electrical signals converted by the X-ray detector 43 as image information (pixel values), and projects the distribution of the sent image information onto the projection plane of the X-ray detector 44. The projection data (CT data) is sent to the data collection units 51 and 61.

  Next, diagnosis with the PET apparatus 3 is performed in the mode shown in FIG. The imaging control unit 55 causes the PET driving unit 36 to be driven via the PET driving control unit 35. Specifically, the PET drive controller 35 controls the PET detector 33 so that the PET detector 33 moves to the position shown in FIG. When the position detection sensor 34 (see FIG. 2) provided in the PET detector support 32 detects that the PET detector 33 has moved to the position shown in FIG. 1B together with the PET detector support 32, The movement end timing of the PET detector 33 is output to the PET drive controller 35. When the PET drive control unit 35 receives the movement end timing based on the position detection sensor 34, the PET drive unit 36 receives the braking command output from the PET drive control unit 35, and is output from the PET drive control unit 35. The imaging control unit 55 receives a data collection command. When the PET driving unit 36 receives the braking command, the PET driving unit 36 stops driving, and performs braking for stopping the PET detector 33 together with the PET detector support unit 32.

  The γ-ray detector of the PET detector 33 detects γ-rays generated from the subject M to which the radiopharmaceutical has been administered, and the imaging control unit 55 outputs a data collection command to the PET data collection unit 37. The PET data collection unit 37 collects the γ-ray count value, the γ-ray incident position, and the γ-ray generation position simultaneously counted by the γ-ray detector of the PET detector 33 as image information. Then, the image information sent to the PET data collection unit 37 is sent to the data collection units 51 and 61 as projection data (PET data).

  When the diagnosis of the PET apparatus 3 and the X-ray CT apparatus 4 is completed, the imaging control units 55 and 65 output data collection commands to the data collection units 51 and 61, and the data collection units 51 and 61 Data absorption correction and superposition of PET data and CT data are performed and sent to the image reconstruction units 52 and 62 (see FIG. 2). The image reconstruction units 52 and 62 reconstruct the sent projection data. A tomographic image is generated. The generated tomographic image is sent to the output unit 54 (see FIG. 2) via the imaging control unit 55 and output, or sent to the output unit 64 (see FIG. 2) via the imaging control unit 65. Output. Note that the projection data collected by the PET data collection unit 37 and the CT data collection unit 46 may be sent to the output unit 54 via the imaging control units 55 and 56 and output as necessary.

  According to the PET-CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, either the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 or the X-ray detector 43 is connected to the subject M (this embodiment). 1 is disposed in a gantry 41 having an opening 41a through which the head M of the subject M passes, and the other is disposed so as to be insertable into the opening 41a of the gantry 41. Either collection of PET data (data for nuclear medicine) by detection with a group of ray detectors or collection of CT data (data for X-ray CT) by detection with an X-ray detector 43 is performed in the gantry 41. The other is a detection means (X-ray detector 43 in the first embodiment), and the other is a detection means (PET detector in the first embodiment) arranged to be inserted into the opening 41a of the gantry 41. 33). As a result, data collection by any of the detection means is performed by one gantry 41, and as shown in FIG. 1B, the gantry 41 is shortened and different types of data (present data) together with PET data (nuclear medicine data). In the first embodiment, CT data) can be collected.

  In the first embodiment, preferably, the X-ray detector 43 is disposed in the gantry 41 described above, and the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening 41 a of the gantry 41. ing. In the PET detector 33, the γ-ray detector group constituting it is usually arranged in a circular shape around the axis, so that the γ-ray detector group is brought close to the subject M for sensitivity. In order to increase the spatial resolution, it is preferable that the diameter of the γ-ray detector group is small. Therefore, by arranging the X-ray detector 43 in the gantry 41 and arranging the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 so that it can be inserted into the opening 41 a of the gantry 41, the inner diameter of the gantry 41 can be increased. Small γ-ray detector groups can be provided, and the γ-ray detector groups can be placed close to the subject M to increase sensitivity and spatial resolution.

Next, Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 is a side view of the transmission-type PET apparatus according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the transmission-type PET apparatus according to the second embodiment. In this second embodiment, as a nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) apparatus will be described as an example as in the first embodiment, and a transmission apparatus will be described as an example of a data collection apparatus. As a diagnostic system, a transmission type PET apparatus in which a PET apparatus and a transmission apparatus are combined will be described as an example.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3, the transmission-type PET apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment includes a bed 2 and a PET apparatus 3 as in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, a transmission device 7 is provided instead of the X-ray CT apparatus 4 of the first embodiment described above. The transmission type PET apparatus 1 corresponds to the diagnostic system in the present invention, the PET apparatus 3 corresponds to the nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus in the present invention, and the transmission apparatus 7 corresponds to the data collection apparatus in the present invention.

  In the second embodiment, the top plate 22 can be moved even at the time of diagnosis by the PET apparatus 3 and at the time of diagnosis by the X-ray CT apparatus 4, and particularly, as shown in FIG. The top plate 22 is moved and set for diagnosis. The head of the subject M is inserted into the opening 71 a of the gantry 71 by moving a gantry 71 of the transmission device 7 described later in synchronization with the movement of the top plate 22 along the body axis direction of the subject M. In this state, it moves along the body axis direction of the subject M.

  In the second embodiment, the PET detector support 32 and the PET detector 33 of the PET apparatus 3 are fixed. Of course, the PET detector support 32 and the PET detector 33 may be moved as in the first embodiment. A gantry 71 is erected on the base 31, and the gantry 71 is slidable relative to the base 31. The rest of the bed 20 and the PET apparatus 3 are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

  The transmission device 7 includes a gantry 71 having an opening 71a through which the head of the subject M passes. In the gantry 71, a radiopharmaceutical to be administered to the subject M, that is, a radiation source 72 for irradiating the same kind of radiation as the radioisotope (RI) (γ rays in the second embodiment), and γ that has passed through the subject M A transmission detector 73 for detecting a line is provided. The radiation source 72 is rotated around the body axis of the subject M in the gantry 71 by driving a motor (not shown). The transmission detector 73 is arranged in a circle around the body axis of the subject M and is stationary. Of course, similarly to the radiation source 72, the transmission detector 73 may be rotated around the body axis of the subject M. The transmission detector 73 corresponds to the collected data detecting means in this invention.

  As described above, the gantry 71 is slidable relative to the base 31 from the position shown in FIG. 3A to the position shown in FIG. As the gantry 71 moves, the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 disposed thereon also move. The structure of the gantry 71 is not particularly limited as in the case of the PET detector support portion 32 of the first embodiment described above. For example, a groove portion is provided in the base 31 and a rack that fits into the groove portion is disposed at the bottom of the gantry 71, and a motor is disposed in the gantry 71, and is fitted into the groove portion of the base 31 by driving the motor. The gantry 71 may be slid by moving the rack. In addition, a rail is provided on the base 31, a motor is provided on the gantry 71, and a wheel or the like is provided on the bottom of the gantry 71 so as to move on the rail by driving the motor. Good.

  Note that the transmission detector 73 is disposed in the gantry 71 as described above. In the second embodiment, the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening 71 a of the gantry 71. When the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 are moved together with the gantry 71 to the position shown in FIG. 3B, the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is inserted into the opening 71 a of the gantry 71.

  Next, a block diagram of the transmission type PET apparatus 1 will be described. As shown in FIG. 4, the transmission-type PET apparatus 1 includes a PET console 5 in addition to the bed 2, the PET apparatus 3, and the transmission apparatus 7 described above. In the second embodiment, the PET console 5 is integrated as one console.

  Since the block diagram of the bed 2 and the PET apparatus 3 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. The PET console 5 includes a data collection unit 51, an image reconstruction unit 52, an input unit 53, an output unit 54, and an imaging control unit 55, and processing related to transmission data is also performed by the PET console 5.

  In addition to the gantry 71, the radiation source 72, and the transmission detector 73, the transmission device 7 includes a position detection sensor 74, a transmission drive control unit 75, a transmission drive unit 76, a transmission data collection unit 77, and a radiation source drive unit 78. It has.

  The position detection sensor 74 is provided, for example, as a photosensor in the gantry 71 described above, and light from the light projecting element of the photosensor is transmitted when the gantry 71 slides to the position shown in FIG. In the case of a mold, the position shown in FIG. 3 (b) is obtained by using the fact that it is shielded (light-shielded) by the PET detector support 32 or reflected by the PET detector support 32 in the case of a reflective type. It is detected that the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 are moved together with the gantry 71. Further, when the position detection sensor 74 detects that the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 have moved to the position shown in FIG. 3B, the timing of the end of movement of the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 is indicated by the transmission drive control unit. Output to 75. Similar to the position detection sensor 34 described in the first embodiment, the position detection sensor 74 may be a non-contact type sensor typified by the above-described photosensor or the like, or a contact type typified by a microswitch or the like. It may be a sensor.

  The transmission drive control unit 75 controls the transmission drive unit 76 and outputs a braking command to the transmission drive unit 76 upon receiving the movement end timing from the position detection sensor 74 described above, or a data collection command to the imaging control unit 55. Is output. The transmission drive unit 76 is configured by the above-described motor or the like disposed on the gantry 71, and the gantry 71 is slidable relative to the base 31 by driving the motor. When the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 are moved together with the gantry 71, the transmission drive control unit 75 controls the transmission drive unit 76, so that the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 are moved together with the gantry 71. The transmission drive control unit 75 includes a central processing unit (CPU) and the like, like the imaging control unit 55 described in the first embodiment.

  The transmission drive control unit 75 controls the radiation source drive unit 78 and outputs a data collection command to the imaging control unit 55 when the transmission detector 73 finishes detecting γ rays. The radiation source driving unit 78 includes the motor as described above, and the radiation source 72 can rotate around the body axis of the subject M in the gantry 71 by driving the motor. When rotating the radiation source 72 around the axis of the body axis of the subject M, the imaging control unit 55 controls the radiation source driving unit 78 to rotate the radiation source 72.

  The PET data collection unit 37 collects PET data (nuclear medicine data) based on the γ rays detected by the PET detector 33. The PET data collection unit 37 has a function of a coincidence counting circuit (not shown) and the like. The PET data collected by the PET data collection unit 37 is sent to the data collection unit 51. The transmission data collection unit 77 collects γ-ray absorption coefficient distribution data as transmission data (absorption correction data) based on the γ-rays detected by the transmission detector 73. Transmission data collected by the transmission data collection unit 77 is sent to the data collection unit 51.

  The data collection unit 51 causes the transmission data collected by the transmission data collection unit 77 to act on the PET data collected by the PET data collection unit 37 to take into account the absorption of γ rays in the body of the subject M. Correct the data. That is, the transmission data is applied to the PET data to correct the PET data. The data collection unit 51 reconstructs the projection data subjected to the absorption correction and generates a tomographic image. Since the input unit 53 and the output unit 54 are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, description thereof is omitted.

  The imaging control unit 55 performs overall control of each part of the transmission-type PET apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment. Specifically, when moving the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 together with the gantry 71 to the position shown in FIG. 3B, the imaging control unit 55 drives the bed driving unit 24 in synchronization with the movement. The top plate 22 is moved through the couch drive control unit 23 and the transmission drive unit 76 is driven through the transmission drive control unit 75. When the transmission drive control unit 75 receives the timing of the end of movement of the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 based on the position detection sensor 74, the imaging control unit 55 receives the data collection command output from the transmission drive control unit 75. Then, each data collection command is output to the PET data collection unit 37, the transmission data collection unit 77, and the data collection unit 51, and the projection data reconstruction command is output to the image reconstruction unit 52. The data collected by the PET data collection unit 37, the transmission data collection unit 77, and the data collection unit 51 and the tomographic image reconstructed by the image reconstruction unit 52 are output via the imaging control unit 55 to the output unit 54. To output. When the output unit 54 is a display unit, output is displayed. When the output unit 54 is a printer, output printing is performed.

  As described in the first embodiment, the radioactive drug is administered to the subject M, and the PET data collection unit 37 uses the image information based on the γ rays detected by the PET detector 33 as projection data (PET data). The data is sent to the data collection unit 51. On the other hand, while the radiation source driving unit 78 rotates the radiation source 72, the subject M is irradiated with γ rays from the source 72, and transmission of γ rays irradiated from the outside of the subject M and transmitted through the subject M is detected. The device 73 detects the γ-ray by converting it into an electric signal. The electric signal converted by the transmission detector 73 is sent to the transmission data collecting unit 77 as image information (pixel value). The transmission data collection unit 77 obtains transmission data (absorption correction data) based on the sent image information. The transmission data collection unit 77 uses the calculation representing the relationship between the absorption coefficient of γ-rays or X-rays and the energy to convert the projection data for CT, that is, the distribution data of the X-ray absorption coefficient, into the distribution of the γ-ray absorption coefficient The data is converted into data, and the distribution data of the γ-ray absorption coefficient is collected as transmission data (absorption correction data). The transmission data collection unit 77 sends transmission data to the data collection unit 51.

  The data collection unit 51 performs the absorption correction of the PET data and sends it to the image reconstruction unit 52. The image reconstruction unit 52 reconstructs the projection data after the absorption correction that has been sent into the body of the subject M. A tomographic image taking into account the absorption of γ rays is generated.

  Next, an imaging mode in a series of diagnosis (imaging) will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3A shows an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the transmission device, and FIG. 3B shows an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the PET device.

  The couch drive control unit 23 (see FIG. 4) is configured to administer a radiopharmaceutical to the subject M and place the head of the subject M into the opening 71a of the opening 71a of the gantry 71 in a horizontal posture. The driving unit 24 (see FIG. 4) is controlled to move and set the top plate 22 on which the subject M is placed. On the other hand, the operator inputs imaging conditions to the input unit 53 (see FIG. 4) of the console 5 (see FIG. 4), and sends the input imaging conditions to the imaging control unit 55 (see FIG. 4). Based on the input imaging conditions, the imaging control unit 55 sends a data collection command to the PET data collection unit 37 (see FIG. 4), the transmission data collection unit 77 (see FIG. 4), and the data collection unit 51 (see FIG. 4). 4), a drive command such as the installation of the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 is transmitted to the transmission drive control unit 75 (see FIG. 4), and a drive command such as rotation of the radiation source 72 is transmitted to the radiation source drive unit 78. (See FIG. 4).

  First, the transmission device 7 performs diagnosis in the manner shown in FIG. The imaging control unit 55 drives the radiation source driving unit 78 under the imaging conditions input from the input unit 53 of the PET console 5, and rotates the radiation source 72 by the radiation source driving unit 78. The subject M is irradiated with γ rays, and the transmission detector 73 converts the γ rays irradiated from the outside of the subject M and transmitted through the subject M into an electrical signal, thereby detecting the γ rays. Then, the transmission data collecting unit 77 collects the electrical signals converted by the transmission detector 73 as image information (pixel values), and the distribution data of the γ-ray absorption coefficient based on the sent image information is transmitted to the transmission data (absorption). Correction data) is sent to the data collection unit 51.

  Next, diagnosis with the PET apparatus 3 is performed in the manner shown in FIG. When moving the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 together with the gantry 71 to the position shown in FIG. 3B, the imaging control unit 55 drives the bed driving unit 24 in synchronization with the movement to move the top plate 22. The movement is performed via the bed drive control unit 23. Specifically, the imaging control unit 55 drives the bed driving unit 24 via the bed driving control unit 23, and the bed driving control unit 23 controls the bed driving unit 24 to mount the subject M. The placed top plate 22 is moved. In synchronization with the movement of the top plate 22, the imaging control unit 55 drives a transmission drive unit 76 (see FIG. 4) via the transmission drive control unit 75, and the transmission source 76 and the gantry 71 together with the radiation source 72 and The transmission detector 73 is moved along the body axis direction of the subject M. When the position detection sensor 74 (see FIG. 4) provided in the gantry 71 detects that the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 have moved to the position shown in FIG. The timing of the end of movement of the transmission detector 73 is output to the transmission drive control unit 75. When the transmission drive control unit 75 receives the movement end timing based on the position detection sensor 74, the transmission drive unit 76 receives the braking command output from the transmission drive control unit 75 and is output from the transmission drive control unit 75. The imaging control unit 55 receives a data collection command. When the transmission command is received by the transmission drive unit 76, the transmission drive unit 76 stops driving, and performs braking for stopping the radiation source 72 and the transmission detector 73 together with the gantry 71.

  The γ-ray detector of the PET detector 33 detects γ-rays generated from the subject M to which the radiopharmaceutical has been administered, and the imaging control unit 55 outputs a data collection command to the PET data collection unit 37. The PET data collection unit 37 collects the γ-ray count value, the γ-ray incident position, and the γ-ray generation position simultaneously counted by the γ-ray detector of the PET detector 33 as image information. Then, the image information sent to the PET data collection unit 37 is sent to the data collection unit 51 as projection data (PET data).

  When the diagnosis of the PET device 3 and the transmission device 7 is completed, the imaging control unit 55 outputs a data collection command to the data collection unit 51, and the data collection unit 51 performs absorption correction of the PET data, The image reconstruction unit 52 (see FIG. 4) sends the projection data (after absorption correction), and the image reconstruction unit 52 reconstructs and generates a tomographic image. Then, the generated tomographic image is sent to the output unit 54 (see FIG. 4) via the imaging control unit 55 and output. Note that projection data collected by the PET data collection unit 37 and the transmission data collection unit 77 may be sent to the output unit 54 via the imaging control unit 55 and output as necessary.

  According to the transmission-type PET apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment having the above-described configuration, either the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 or the transmission detector 73 is connected to the subject M (the present embodiment). 2 is disposed in the gantry 71 having an opening 71a through which the head M of the subject M passes, and the other is disposed so as to be insertable into the opening 71a of the gantry 71. Either the collection of PET data (nuclear medicine data) by detection by the line detector group or the collection of transmission data (absorption correction data) by detection by the transmission detector 73 is arranged in the gantry 71. The other detection means (transmission detector 73 in the present embodiment 2) is used, and the other is detected in such a manner that it can be inserted into the opening 71a of the gantry 71. This is performed by the exit means (PET detector 33 in the second embodiment). As a result, data collection by any of the detection means is performed by one gantry 71, and as shown in FIG. 3 (b), the gantry 71 is shortened so that different types of data (present data) together with PET data (nuclear medicine data). In the second embodiment, transmission data) can be collected.

  In the second embodiment, preferably, the transmission detector 73 is disposed in the gantry 71 described above, and the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening 71 a of the gantry 71. Yes. In the PET detector 33, the γ-ray detector group constituting it is usually arranged in a circular shape around the axis, so that the γ-ray detector group is brought close to the subject M for sensitivity. In order to increase the spatial resolution, it is preferable that the diameter of the γ-ray detector group is small. Accordingly, the transmission detector 73 is disposed in the gantry 71 and the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33 is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening 71 a of the gantry 71, thereby reducing the inner diameter of the gantry 71. Each of the γ-ray detector groups can be disposed, and the sensitivity and spatial resolution can be increased by bringing the γ-ray detector group close to the subject M.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be modified as follows.

  (1) In each of the above-described embodiments, a description has been given by taking as an example a combination of a PET apparatus and a data collection apparatus (X-ray CT apparatus 4 in Embodiment 1 and transmission apparatus 7 in Embodiment 2). The invention can also be applied to an apparatus combining a SPECT (Single Photon Emission CT) apparatus that detects a single γ-ray and reconstructs a tomographic image of a subject and a data acquisition apparatus.

  (2) In each of the above-described embodiments, the device for diagnosing the head of the subject has been described as an example. However, the device may be applied to a device for diagnosing other portions (for example, legs).

  (3) In each of the above-described embodiments, the collection data detection means (the X-ray detector 43 in the first embodiment, the transmission detector 73 in the second embodiment) is disposed in the gantry, and the detection means for nuclear medicine ( In the first and second embodiments, the γ-ray detector group of the PET detector 33) is disposed so as to be insertable into the opening of the gantry. However, the sensitivity and spatial resolution are increased by bringing the γ-ray detector group close to the subject. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. Conversely, the nuclear medicine detection means (PET detector 33) is arranged in the gantry, and the collected data detection means (X-ray detector 43 in the first embodiment, transmission detector 73 in the second embodiment) is arranged in the gantry. You may arrange | position so that insertion in this opening part is possible.

  (4) In the above-described first embodiment, the X-ray CT apparatus 4 is described as an example of the data collection apparatus, and in the above-described second embodiment, the transmission apparatus 7 is described as an example of the data collection apparatus. The present invention is not limited to these data collection devices. A nuclear magnetic resonance apparatus or the like as long as it is a data collection device having a collection data detection means for detecting data related to a subject in order to collect data related to the subject, which is different from nuclear medicine data As illustrated in FIG.

It is a side view of the PET-CT apparatus which concerns on Example 1, (a) is the imaging aspect at the time of diagnosis with a CT apparatus, (b) is the imaging aspect at the time of diagnosis with a PET apparatus. 1 is a block diagram of a PET-CT apparatus according to Example 1. FIG. FIG. 4 is a side view of a transmission-type PET apparatus according to a second embodiment, where (a) illustrates an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the transmission apparatus, and (b) illustrates an imaging mode at the time of diagnosis with the PET apparatus. 6 is a block diagram of a transmission type PET apparatus according to Embodiment 2. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... PET-CT apparatus, transmission type PET apparatus 3 ... PET apparatus 4 ... X-ray CT apparatus 7 ... Transmission apparatus 33 ... PET detector 41, 71 ... Gantry 43 ... X-ray detector 47 ... Rotating part 73 ... Transmission detection Vessel M… Subject

Claims (2)

A diagnostic system comprising a nuclear medicine diagnostic device for obtaining nuclear medical data of a subject based on radiation generated from a subject to which a radiopharmaceutical is administered, and a data collecting device for collecting data on the subject. An opening for passing a subject, comprising: a nuclear medicine detection means configured with a detector group for detecting radiation generated from the subject; and a collection data detection means for detecting data relating to the subject. The collection data detection means is disposed in a gantry having a gantry, and an opening of the gantry is provided so that a detector group of the nuclear medicine detection means can be accommodated in the collection data detection means. by penetrating, the detector group of the nuclear medicine detecting means insertably disposed in the opening of the gantry, the nuclear medicine diagnostic apparatus includes a base, a slide moves relative to the base A support unit capable of supporting the detection unit and the detection unit for nuclear medicine supported by the support unit, and the detection unit for nuclear medicine supported by the support unit is inserted into the opening of the gantry as the support unit moves. A diagnostic system characterized in that it can be arranged.   A diagnostic system comprising a nuclear medicine diagnostic device for obtaining nuclear medical data of a subject based on radiation generated from a subject to which a radiopharmaceutical is administered, and a data collecting device for collecting data on the subject. An opening for passing a subject, comprising: a nuclear medicine detection means configured with a detector group for detecting radiation generated from the subject; and a collection data detection means for detecting data relating to the subject. The collected data detection means is disposed in a gantry having a gantry, and a detector group of the nuclear medicine detection means is disposed so as to be insertable into an opening of the gantry. A stand, a support portion erected on the base, and the nuclear medicine detection means supported by the support portion, the support portion and the nuclear medicine detection means are fixed, and the gantry Said The diagnosis is characterized in that the detection means for nuclear medicine is disposed so as to be inserted into the opening of the gantry by being erected on a stand and configured such that the gantry is slidable relative to the base. system.

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