JP6061497B2 - Medical device, display device, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a medical device that acquires image data of a photographing object, a display device that displays image data, and a program used for the medical device or the display device.

  In recent years, medical devices such as magnetic resonance devices and CT devices have been used for diagnosis of hand arthritis (such as rheumatism) (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2009-254702 A

  In the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, it is necessary to perform left-hand shooting and right-hand shooting separately. Therefore, since it is necessary to divide imaging | photography into 2 times, there exists a problem that imaging | photography time becomes long and a patient is burdened. Therefore, a method for photographing the left hand and the right hand at the same time has been proposed. When photographing the left hand and the right hand at the same time, generally, the patient has the left hand and the right hand overlapped, and a coil is attached to both hands in the overlapped state. Thereby, since the left hand and the right hand can be photographed simultaneously, the image data of both hands can be acquired by one photographing. Therefore, the imaging time can be shortened and the burden on the patient can be reduced.

  After the imaging is completed, an interpreter (for example, an interpreting doctor) displays the image data on the monitor, and diagnoses the patient with reference to the displayed image data. However, when both hands are photographed at the same time, the image data may not be displayed in an easy-to-read direction for the interpreter depending on how the left and right hands are overlapped and the positions of the left and right hands. Therefore, the interpreter needs to adjust the orientation of the image by rotating or inverting the displayed image. However, operations that rotate the image or invert the image are difficult for the interpreter. It becomes a troublesome work. In addition, as the number of images to be interpreted increases, the number of times the image interpreter rotates or inverts the image increases, further increasing the work load on the image interpreter. For these reasons, it is desirable to reduce the work burden on the reader.

A first aspect of the present invention is a medical device for acquiring image data of a photographing object,
A display unit;
An input unit for inputting information of coordinate axes when displaying the image data on the display unit;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the coordinate axis based on the information;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the image data;
Association means for associating the coordinate axes with the image data;
Display control means for displaying the image data on the display unit based on coordinate axes associated with the image data;
Is a medical device.

A second aspect of the present invention is a display device that displays image data of a photographing object acquired by a medical device,
The medical device comprises:
An input unit for inputting information of coordinate axes when displaying the image data on the display device;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the coordinate axis based on the information;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the image data;
Association means for associating the coordinate axes with the image data;
Have
The display device
A display unit;
Display control means for displaying the image data on the display unit based on coordinate axes associated with the image data;
It is a display apparatus which has.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a display unit, an input unit for inputting information on coordinate axes when displaying image data of a photographing object on the display unit, and an imaging scan for acquiring the image data are executed. A medical device program having scanning means for performing
A coordinate axis setting process for setting the coordinate axes based on the information;
It is a program for causing a computer to execute association processing for associating the coordinate axes with the image data.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is a program for a display device that displays image data of a photographing object acquired by a medical device,
The medical device comprises:
An input unit for inputting information of coordinate axes when displaying the image data on the display device;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the coordinate axis based on the information;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the image data;
Association means for associating the coordinate axes with the image data;
The program is
A program for causing a computer to execute a display control process for displaying the image data on a display unit of the display device based on coordinate axes associated with the image data.

  By inputting information on the coordinate axes when displaying the image data on the display unit and associating the coordinate axes with the image data, the image data can be displayed so that it can be easily seen by the interpreter.

1 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic resonance apparatus and a display device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows schematically the scan performed with a 1st form. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow from when the scan illustrated in FIG. 2 is performed until an image interpreter 40 interprets image data. It is a figure which shows a mode when the to-be-examined object 11 is laid on the table 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the set slice position. It is a figure which shows roughly the image data D1 (slice position P1) of the left hand, and the image data D2 (slice position P2) of the right hand. 4 is an explanatory diagram when image data is stored in a server 20. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing image data D1 and D2 displayed on a display unit 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode when image data D1 is reversed with respect to the AP axis. It is a figure which shows the flow for making it possible to save as much as possible the trouble when the image interpretation person 40 performs image interpretation work. It is explanatory drawing when a coordinate axis is set. 4 is an explanatory diagram when image data is stored in a server 20. FIG. It is explanatory drawing when displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display part 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display part 31. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a case where a display control means 32a is also provided in the control unit 8 of the MR apparatus 100. FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode when the to-be-examined object 11 is laid on the table 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the set slice position. It is a figure which shows roughly the image data D1 (slice position P1) of the left hand, and the image data D2 (slice position P2) of the right hand. 4 is an explanatory diagram when image data is stored in a server 20. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing image data D1 and D2 displayed on a display unit 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode when image data D1 and D2 are rotated 90 degrees. It is explanatory drawing when a coordinate axis is set. 4 is an explanatory diagram when image data is stored in a server 20. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the process performed with respect to the image data D1 of left hand. It is explanatory drawing of the process performed with respect to the image data D2 of a right hand. It is a figure which shows the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display part 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the flow when imaging | photography a rat. It is a figure which shows a mode when the rat A and B put on the cradle 3a is seen from the upper side of the cradle 3a. It is a figure which shows an example of the set slice position. It is a figure which shows roughly the image data D1 (slice position P1) of the rat A, and the image data D2 (slice position P2) of the rat B. 4 is an explanatory diagram when image data is stored in a server 20. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing image data D1 and D2 displayed on a display unit 31. FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode when the image data D1 and D2 of the rat A and B are rotated 90 degrees. It is a figure which shows the mode after inverting image data D2 with respect to SI axis. It is a figure which shows the flow for making it possible to save as much as possible the trouble when the image interpretation person 40 performs image interpretation work. It is explanatory drawing when a coordinate axis is set. 3 is a diagram schematically showing image data stored in a server 20. FIG. It is explanatory drawing when processing the image data D1 of the rat A. It is explanatory drawing when processing the image data D2 of the rat B. FIG. It is a figure which shows the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display part 31. FIG.

  Hereinafter, although the form for inventing is demonstrated, this invention is not limited to the following forms.

(1) First Embodiment FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic resonance apparatus and a display device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
A magnetic resonance apparatus (hereinafter referred to as “MR apparatus”, MR: Magnetic Resonance) 100 includes a magnet 2, a table 3, a receiving coil 4, and the like.

  The magnet 2 has a bore 21 in which a subject (imaging object) 11 is accommodated. The magnet 2 includes a superconducting coil, a gradient coil, an RF coil, and the like.

  The table 3 has a cradle 3a. The cradle 3a is configured to be able to move into the bore 21. The subject 11 is transported to the bore 21 by the cradle 3a.

  The reception coil 4 is attached to both hands of the subject 11. How the receiving coil 4 is attached to both hands will be described later.

  The MR apparatus 100 further includes a transmitter 5, a gradient magnetic field power source 6, a receiver 7, a control unit 8, an operation unit 9, a display unit 10, and the like.

The transmitter 5 supplies a current to the RF coil of the magnet 2.
The gradient magnetic field power supply 6 supplies a current to the gradient coil of the magnet 2.
The receiver 7 performs signal processing such as detection on the signal received from the receiving coil 4. A combination of the magnet 2, the transmitter 5, the gradient magnetic field power source 6, the receiving coil 4, and the receiver 7 corresponds to the scanning means.

  The control unit 8 transmits necessary information to the display unit 10 and reconstructs an image based on data received from the receiver 7 so as to realize various operations of the MR device 100. Control the operation of each part. The control unit 8 is configured by, for example, a computer. The control unit 8 includes a coordinate axis setting unit 81, an association unit 82, and the like. The coordinate axis setting means 81 sets coordinate axes based on the coordinate axis information input from the operation unit 9. The association unit 82 associates the coordinate axis with the image data.

  The control unit 8 is an example constituting the coordinate axis setting unit 81 and the association unit 82, and functions as these units by executing a predetermined program.

  The operation unit (input unit) 9 is operated by the operator 12 and inputs various information to the control unit 8. The display unit 10 displays various information.

  Further, the image data acquired by the MR apparatus 100 is stored in the server 20. A display device 30 is connected to the server 20.

  The display device 30 includes a display unit 31, a control unit 32, an operation unit 33, and the like. The control unit 32 includes a display control unit 32 a for controlling the display unit 31.

  The radiogram interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 and inputs a command for causing the display unit 31 to display the image data stored in the server 20. When this command is input, the display control unit 32a controls the display unit 31 so that the image data is displayed on the display unit 31 based on the input command. The image interpreter 40 performs image interpretation while viewing the image data displayed on the display unit 31. The control unit 32 is an example constituting the display control unit 32a, and functions as a display control unit by executing a predetermined program.

Next, a scan performed when the MR apparatus 100 images the subject 11 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing a scan executed in the first form.
In the first form, a localizer scan LS and an imaging scan MS are executed.

  The localizer scan LS is a scan for acquiring localizer image data used when setting a slice position. The imaging scan MS is a scan for acquiring image data based on the slice position set using the localizer image data. Image data acquired by the imaging scan MS is stored in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). The image interpreter 40 interprets the image data stored in the server 20. In the following, an example of a flow from the scanning shown in FIG. 2 until the image interpreter 40 interprets image data will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow from the scanning shown in FIG. 2 until the image interpreter 40 interprets image data.

In step ST1, the receiving coil 4 is attached to the subject 11 and laid down on the table 3 (see FIG. 4).
FIG. 4 is a view showing a state when the subject 11 is laid on the table 3. 4A is a diagram when the table 3 is viewed from the side surface, and FIG. 4B is a diagram when the table 3 is viewed from the top surface.

  The receiving coil 4 is attached to both hands of the subject 11. In the first embodiment, the subject 11 is overlapped with the left and right palms, and the receiving coil 4 is attached. After the receiving coil 4 is attached, the process proceeds to step ST2.

  In step ST2, the subject 11 is carried into the magnet 2 and a localizer scan LS (see FIG. 2) is executed. By executing the localizer scan LS, localizer image data used when setting the slice position can be acquired. After executing the localizer scan LS, the process proceeds to step ST3.

  In step ST3, the operator 12 sets a slice position based on the localizer image data acquired in step ST2 (see FIG. 5).

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the set slice positions. In FIG. 5, the direction passing through the head and legs of the subject 11 is set as the SI (superior-inferior) axis, and the direction passing through the right and left half of the subject 11 is RL (right-left). A direction that passes through the back and abdomen of the subject 11 is set as an AP (anterior-posterior) axis.

FIG. 5 shows a case where the slice position P1 is set on the left hand and the slice position P2 is set on the right hand. FIG. 5 shows a case where only one slice position is set for both the left hand and the right hand. However, a plurality of slice positions may be set for the left hand and a plurality of slice positions may be set for the right hand. Good. In the first embodiment, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that only one slice position P1 is set for the left hand and only one slice position P2 is set for the right hand. The right side of FIG. 5 schematically shows the slice plane S1 at the slice position P1 set to the left hand and the slice plane S2 at the slice position P2 set to the right hand. FIG. 5 shows a state when the slice planes S1 and S2 are viewed from the R side of the RL axis. The palm of the right hand and the left hand is overlapped, so the right hand is facing the R side and the palm is facing the L side, but the left hand is opposite to the right hand, the back of the hand is facing the L side, and the palm is R Facing the side.
After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, left-hand image data and right-hand image data are obtained. FIG. 6 schematically shows left-hand image data D1 (slice position P1) and right-hand image data D2 (slice position P2). In FIG. 6, the left hand portion and the right hand portion are indicated by hatching. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, in addition to the image data D1 and D2, the server 20 also stores information on coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis). After storing the coordinate axes and the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the display control unit 32a controls the display unit 31 so that the image data D1 and D2 are displayed on the display unit 31 based on the input command.

FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. As shown in FIG.
The display unit 31 displays a window W representing slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3, and further displays image data D1 and D2, and the like.

  In the right hand, since the back of the hand faces the R side and the palm faces the L side, the display unit 31 displays the image data D2 of the right hand as data when viewed from the back of the right hand. On the other hand, since the left hand has the back of the hand facing the L side and the palm faces the R side, the display unit 31 displays the image data D1 of the left hand as data when viewed from the left palm side. The radiogram interpreter 40 makes a diagnosis while viewing the image data displayed on the display unit 31.

  In FIG. 8, the radiogram interpreter 40 is viewing the right hand image data D2 from the back of the right hand and viewing the left hand image data D1 from the left palm. However, the image interpreter 40 often thinks that it is easier to diagnose when the right hand and the left hand are viewed from the back of the hand. Therefore, the image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 of the display device 30 to invert the left-hand image data D1 with respect to the AP axis (see FIG. 9).

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state when the image data D1 is inverted with respect to the AP axis.
By inverting the left hand image data D1 with respect to the AP axis, both the left hand image data D1 and the right hand image data D2 are displayed as image data when viewed from the back of the hand. Accordingly, the image interpreter 40 can see both the left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2 from the back of the hand.

  However, in FIG. 9, the image interpreter 40 needs to perform an inversion operation for inverting the image data D <b> 1, and such an operation is troublesome for the image interpreter 40. In the above description, only one slice position is set for the right hand and only one slice position is set for the left hand. However, when two or more slice positions are set, Since it is necessary to invert the image data at each slice position, the image interpreter 40 feels more troublesome. Therefore, in the first embodiment, instead of the flow shown in FIG. 3, another flow is executed in order to save as much time as possible when the image interpreter 40 performs the image interpretation work. Hereinafter, another flow will be described.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a flow for saving as much as possible the trouble of the image interpreter 40 when performing the image interpretation work.
Steps ST1 to ST3 are the same as the flow in FIG. The slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 are shown in FIG. After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST31.

In step ST31, a coordinate axis for displaying the left-hand image data is set (see FIG. 11).
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram when setting coordinate axes.
The operator 12 operates the operation unit 9 and inputs information for setting a new coordinate axis in the left hand. Here, the operator 12 inputs new AP axis information so that the thumb of the left hand is located on the A side of the AP axis and the little finger of the left hand is located on the P side. When this information is input, the coordinate axis setting unit 81 (see FIG. 1) sets a new AP axis for displaying the left-hand image data based on the information input from the operation unit 9. When the new AP axis set by the coordinate axis setting means 81 is compared with the original AP axis before being set by the coordinate axis setting means 81, it can be seen that the axis direction is reversed. After setting the AP axis in this way, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, as shown in FIG. 6, left-hand image data D1 and right-hand image data D2 are obtained. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. At this time, the association unit 82 includes both the original AP axis before being set by the coordinate axis setting unit 81 and the new AP axis after being set by the coordinate axis setting unit 81 in the left-hand image data D1. Associate. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, regarding the AP axis of the image data D1 of the left hand, information on both the original AP axis and the new AP axis is stored in the server 20. After storing the coordinate axes and the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the control unit 32 reads the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20, performs the following processing, and displays the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 (FIG. 13).

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are displayed on the display unit 31. FIG.
The control unit 32 reads the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. Then, the display control unit 32a of the control unit 32 displays the image data D1 with respect to the original AP axis so that the original AP axis associated with the left-hand image data D1 matches the new AP axis. Perform inversion processing to invert. By performing the inversion process, the original AP axis can be matched with the new AP axis.

  The display control unit 32a performs a reversal process on the left-hand image data D1, and causes the display unit 31 to display the image data D1 after the reversal process. On the other hand, since the new coordinate axis is not set for the right-hand image data D2, the original coordinate axis is displayed on the display unit 31 as it is. FIG. 14 shows image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. Since the left-hand image data D1 is displayed in an inverted state with respect to the AP axis, the image interpreter 40 views the left-hand image data D1 from the back of the hand, like the right-hand image data D2. It can be visually recognized as image data. Therefore, it is not necessary for the image interpreter 40 itself to perform an operation for inverting the image data D1, and the work load on the image interpreter 40 can be reduced.

  In the first embodiment, the case where the display control unit 32a is provided in the display device 30 of the radiogram interpreter 40 has been described, but the display control unit 32a may be provided in the control unit 8 of the MR apparatus 100. FIG. 15 shows a case where the display control means 32 a is also provided in the control unit 8 of the MR apparatus 100. Thereby, when displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 10 of the MR apparatus 100, the image data D1 and D2 after the rotation operation and the reversal operation are displayed, thereby reducing the work load on the operator 12. can do.

(2) Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the left and right hands are stacked differently from the first embodiment. Note that the hardware configuration of the MR apparatus of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  Similarly to the first embodiment, the second embodiment is divided into image data displayed when the flow shown in FIG. 3 is executed and image data displayed when the flow shown in FIG. 10 is executed. To do.

(A) Image data displayed when the flow shown in FIG. 3 is executed In step ST1, the receiving coil 4 is attached to the subject 11, and the table 3 is laid down (see FIG. 16).

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a state when the subject 11 is laid on the table 3. FIG. 16A is a diagram when the table 3 is viewed from the top surface, and FIG. 16B is a diagram when the table 3 is viewed from the side surface.

  In the second embodiment, the right palm is placed on the back of the left hand on the abdomen of the subject 11, and the receiving coil 4 is attached. After the receiving coil 4 is attached, the process proceeds to step ST2.

  In step ST2, the subject 11 is carried into the magnet 2 and a localizer scan LS (see FIG. 2) is executed. By executing the localizer scan LS, localizer image data used when setting the slice position can be acquired. After executing the localizer scan LS, the process proceeds to step ST3.

In step ST3, the operator 12 sets a slice position based on the localizer image data acquired in step ST2 (see FIG. 17).
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the set slice positions. In FIG. 17, the direction through the head and legs of the subject 11 is set as the SI (superior-inferior) axis, and the direction through the right and left half of the subject 11 is RL (right-left). The axis is set, and the direction passing through the back and chest of the subject 11 is set as an AP (anterior-posterior) axis.

FIG. 17 shows a case where the slice position P1 is set on the left hand and the slice position P2 is set on the right hand. Note that FIG. 17 shows a case where only one slice position is set for both the left hand and the right hand, but a plurality of slice positions may be set for the left hand and a plurality of slice positions may be set for the right hand. Good. In the second embodiment, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that only one slice position P1 is set for the left hand and only one slice position P2 is set for the right hand. The right side of FIG. 17 schematically shows the slice plane S1 at the slice position P1 set to the left hand and the slice plane S2 at the slice position P2 set to the right hand. FIG. 17 shows a state when the slice planes S1 and S2 are viewed from the A side of the AP axis. In the right hand, the finger faces the L side and the wrist faces the R side, but the left hand, contrary to the right hand, the finger faces the R side and the wrist faces the L side.
After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, left-hand image data and right-hand image data are obtained. FIG. 18 schematically shows left-hand image data D1 (slice position P1) and right-hand image data D2 (slice position P2). In FIG. 18, the left hand portion and the right hand portion are indicated by hatching. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, in addition to the image data D1 and D2, the server 20 also stores information on coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis). After storing the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the display control unit 32a controls the display unit 31 so that the image data D1 and D2 are displayed on the display unit 31 based on the input command.

FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically showing the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. As shown in FIG.
The display unit 31 displays a window W representing slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3, and further displays image data D1 and D2, and the like.

  In the left hand, the finger faces the R side and the wrist faces the L side. On the other hand, the right hand has the finger facing the L side and the wrist facing the R side, contrary to the left hand. The radiogram interpreter 40 makes a diagnosis while viewing the image data displayed on the display unit 31.

  In FIG. 20, the left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2 are displayed such that the finger is turned sideways. However, the image interpreter 40 often thinks that it is easier to diagnose if the image data D1 and D2 are displayed so that the finger is oriented vertically. Therefore, the radiogram interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 of the display device 30 to rotate the left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2 by 90 ° (see FIG. 21).

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a state when the image data D1 and D2 are rotated by 90 °.
The image interpreter 40 rotates the left-hand image data D1 by 90 ° clockwise, while rotating the right-hand image data D2 by 90 ° counterclockwise. Thereby, the finger of the hand is displayed vertically in both the left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2. Therefore, the radiogram interpreter 40 can make a diagnosis while viewing the image data D1 and D2 in which the finger is displayed vertically.

  However, in FIG. 21, the image interpreter 40 needs to perform a rotation operation for rotating the image data D <b> 1 and D <b> 2, and such an operation is troublesome for the image interpreter 40. In the above description, only one slice position is set for the right hand and only one slice position is set for the left hand. However, when two or more slice positions are set, Since it is necessary to rotate the image data at each slice position, the image interpreter 40 feels more troublesome. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the flow shown in FIG. 10 is executed instead of the flow shown in FIG. The image data displayed when the flow shown in FIG. 10 is executed will be described below.

(B) Image data displayed when the flow shown in FIG. 10 is executed Steps ST1 to ST3 are the same as the flow shown in FIG. The slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 are shown in FIG. After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST31.

  In step ST31, a coordinate axis for displaying the left-hand image data and a coordinate axis for displaying the right-hand image data are set (see FIG. 22).

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram when setting coordinate axes.
The operator 12 operates the operation unit 9 to input information for setting a new SI axis and RL axis in the left hand and information for setting a new SI axis and RL axis in the right hand. When this information is input, the coordinate axis setting means 81 (see FIG. 1), based on the information input from the operation unit 9, creates a new SI axis and RL axis for displaying the left hand image data, and the right hand. The new SI axis and RL axis when displaying the image data are set. Referring to FIG. 22, it can be seen that the new SI axis is set parallel to the original RL axis, and the new RL axis is set parallel to the original SI axis. After setting the SI axis and the RL axis in this way, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, as shown in FIG. 18, left-hand image data D1 and right-hand image data D2 are obtained. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 23 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. At this time, regarding the SI axis and the RL axis, the associating unit 82 not only includes the original SI axis and the original RL axis, but also the new SI axis and the new RL axis set by the coordinate axis setting unit 81. Associate. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, regarding the SI axis and the RL axis, not only information on the original SI axis and the original RL axis but also information on the new SI axis and the new RL axis are stored in the server 20. After storing the coordinate axes and the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the control unit 32 reads the left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2 stored in the server 20, performs the following processing, and displays the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit. 31 (see FIGS. 24 and 25).

FIG. 24 is an explanatory diagram of processing performed on the left-hand image data D1.
The control unit 32 reads the left-hand image data D1 stored in the server 20. Next, the display control means 32a of the control unit 32 uses the AP axis as the central axis so that the original SI axis coincides with the new SI axis and the original RL axis coincides with the new RL axis. The image data D1 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise. By performing this rotation process, the original SI axis can be matched with the new SI axis, and the original RL axis can be matched with the new RL axis. The image data D1 after the rotation processing is performed is displayed on the display unit 31.

FIG. 25 is an explanatory diagram of processing performed on the right-hand image data D2.
The control unit 32 reads the right-hand image data D2 stored in the server 20. Next, the display control means 32a of the control unit 32 uses the AP axis as the center axis so that the original SI axis coincides with the new SI axis and the original RL axis coincides with the new RL axis. The image data D2 is rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise. By performing the rotation process, the original SI axis can be matched with the new SI axis, and the original RL axis can be matched with the new RL axis. The image data D2 after this rotation processing is displayed on the display unit 31.

  FIG. 26 shows the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. The left-hand image data D1 and the right-hand image data D2 are displayed so that the finger is oriented vertically, so that the image interpreter 40 does not need to perform a rotation operation for rotating the image data D1 and D2, and the image interpretation is performed. The work burden on the person 40 can be reduced.

(3) Third Embodiment In the first and second embodiments, the case where the object to be imaged is a human has been described. In the third embodiment, the case where the object to be imaged is a rat will be described. Note that the hardware configuration of the MR apparatus of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a flow when photographing a rat.
In step ST1, a coil is attached to the rat and placed on the cradle 3a (see FIG. 28).

  FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a state where the rats A and B placed on the cradle 3a are viewed from the upper side of the cradle 3a. FIG. 28 (a) is a diagram showing the case where the heads of rats A and B are directed to the magnet 2 side, and FIG. 28 (b) is the rat A head being directed to the magnet 2 side. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a case where the tail is directed to the magnet 2 side.

  The shapes of the rats A and B become thinner from the tail toward the head. Therefore, when the rats A and B are arranged as shown in FIG. 28A, the distance Δd between the rat A and the rat B is increased, so that the size of the receiving coil 4 needs to be increased. However, since the SNR tends to decrease as the size of the receiving coil 4 increases, the distance Δd between the rat A and the rat B is desirably as short as possible. Therefore, in the third embodiment, the rats A and B are arranged as shown in FIG. In FIG. 28 (b), the head is directed to the magnet 2 side for rat A, but the tail is directed to the magnet 2 side for rat B, so the distance Δd between rat A and rat B is Can be shortened. Therefore, since the size of the receiving coil 4 can be reduced, the SNR can be increased.

After the rats A and B are arranged as shown in FIG. 28 (b), the process proceeds to step ST2.
In step ST2, the rats A and B are carried into the magnet 2 and a localizer scan LS (see FIG. 2) is executed. By executing the localizer scan LS, localizer image data used when setting the slice position can be acquired. After executing the localizer scan LS, the process proceeds to step ST3.

In step ST3, the operator 12 sets a slice position based on the localizer image data acquired in step ST2 (see FIG. 29).
FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating an example of a set slice position. In FIG. 29, the direction passing through the head and tail of rat A is set as the SI (superior-inferior) axis, and the direction passing through the right and left half of rat A is set as the RL (right-left) axis. The direction passing through the back and abdomen of rat A is set to the AP (anterior-posterior) axis.

FIG. 29 shows a case where the slice position P1 is set for the rat A and the slice position P2 is set for the rat B. FIG. 29 shows a case where only one slice position is set for rat A and rat B, but a plurality of slice positions are set for rat A and a plurality of slice positions are set for rat B. It may be set. In the third embodiment, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that only one slice position P1 is set for the rat A and only one slice position P2 is set for the rat B. 29 schematically shows a slice plane S1 at the slice position P1 set for the rat A and a slice plane S2 at the slice position P2 set for the rat B. FIG. 29 shows a state when the slice planes S1 and S2 are viewed from the R side of the RL axis. In rat A, the head is directed to the S side and the tail is directed to the I side. In contrast to rat A, in rat B, the head is directed to the I side and the tail is directed to the S side.
After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, image data of rat A and image data of rat B are obtained. FIG. 30 schematically shows image data D1 (slice position P1) of rat A and image data D2 (slice position P2) of rat B. In FIG. 30, the rat A portion and the rat B portion are indicated by hatching. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 31 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, in addition to the image data D1 and D2, the server 20 also stores information on coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis). In the image data D1 of the rat A, the head of the rat A is facing up, but in the image data D2 of the rat B, the head of the rat B is facing down. After storing the coordinate axes and the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the display control unit 32a controls the display unit 31 so that the image data D1 and D2 are displayed on the display unit 31 based on the input command.

FIG. 32 is a diagram schematically showing the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. As shown in FIG.
The display unit 31 displays a window W representing slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3, and further displays image data D1 and D2, and the like. The radiogram interpreter 40 makes a diagnosis while viewing the image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31.

  In FIG. 32, the image data D1 of rat A is displayed with the head facing up, while the image data D2 of rat B is displayed with the head facing down. However, the radiogram interpreter 40 often thinks that it is easier to diagnose if the image data D1 and D2 are displayed so that the rat faces sideways. Therefore, the radiogram interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 of the display device 30 to rotate the image data D1 and D2 so that the rats A and B face sideways (see FIG. 33).

  FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a state when the image data D1 and D2 of the rats A and B are rotated by 90 °.

  The image interpreter 40 rotates the image data D1 of the rat A by 90 ° in the clockwise direction, and also rotates the image data D2 of the rat B by 90 ° in the clockwise direction. Thereby, the rat A and the rat B can be aligned sideways. However, in FIG. 33, rat A faces the right side while rat B faces the left side. Therefore, the image interpreter 40 inverts the image data D2 with respect to the SI axis in order to turn the rat B to the right side like the rat A (see FIG. 34).

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating a state after the image data D2 is inverted with respect to the SI axis.
By inverting the image data D2 with respect to the SI axis, the rat B can be turned to the right side in the same manner as the rat A. The image interpreter 40 makes a diagnosis while looking at the rats A and B aligned rightward.

  However, in FIG. 33 and FIG. 34, the image interpreter 40 needs to perform a rotation operation for inverting the image data and an inversion operation for inverting the image data. Such an operation is troublesome for the image reader 40. . In the above description, only one slice position is set for rat A and only one slice position is set for rat B. However, when two or more slice positions are set, Since the image data at each slice position needs to be rotated or reversed, the image interpreter 40 feels more troublesome. Therefore, in the third embodiment, instead of the flow shown in FIG. 27, another flow is executed for saving as much as possible the trouble that the image interpreter 40 performs the image interpretation work. Hereinafter, another flow will be described.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing a flow for saving as much as possible the trouble when the image interpreter 40 performs the image interpretation work.
Steps ST1 to ST3 are the same as the flow of FIG. The slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 are shown in FIG. After setting the slice positions P1 and P2, the process proceeds to step ST31.

  In step ST31, a coordinate axis for displaying the image data of rat A and a coordinate axis for displaying the image data of rat B are set (see FIG. 36).

FIG. 36 is an explanatory diagram when setting coordinate axes.
The operator 12 operates the operation unit 9 to input information for setting a new SI axis and AP axis for the rat A and information for setting a new SI axis and AP axis for the rat B. When this information is input, the coordinate axis setting means 81 (see FIG. 1), based on the information input from the operation unit 9, a new SI axis and AP axis when displaying the image data of the rat A, A new SI axis and AP axis when displaying the image data of rat B are set. Referring to FIG. 36, it can be seen that the new SI axis is set parallel to the original AP axis, and the new AP axis is set parallel to the original SI axis. After setting the SI axis and the AP axis in this way, the process proceeds to step ST4.

  In step ST4, an imaging scan MS (see FIG. 2) for acquiring image data at the slice positions P1 and P2 set in step ST3 is executed. By executing the imaging scan MS, as shown in FIG. 30, image data D1 of rat A and image data D2 of rat B are obtained. After executing the imaging scan MS, the process proceeds to step ST5.

  In step ST5, the operator 12 stores the image data D1 and D2 obtained by the imaging scan MS in the server 20 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 37 is an explanatory diagram when the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20.

  The association unit 82 (see FIG. 1) associates the coordinate axes (SI axis, RL axis, and AP axis) with the image data D1 and D2. At this time, regarding the SI axis and the AP axis, the associating unit 82 not only includes the original SI axis and the original AP axis, but also the new SI axis and the new AP axis after being set by the coordinate axis setting unit 81. Associate. The coordinate axes are thus associated, and the image data D1 and D2 are stored in the server 20. Therefore, regarding the SI axis and the AP axis, not only information on the original SI axis and the original AP axis but also information on the new SI axis and the new AP axis are stored in the server 20. After storing the coordinate axes and the image data D1 and D2, the process proceeds to step ST6.

  In step ST6, the image interpreter 40 interprets the image data D1 and D2 stored in the server 20. The image interpreter 40 operates the operation unit 33 (see FIG. 1) of the display device 30 and inputs a command for displaying the image data D1 and D2 on the display unit 31 in order to interpret the image data D1 and D2. To do. When this command is input, the control unit 32 reads the rat A image data D1 and the rat B image data D2 stored in the server 20, performs the following processing, and stores the image data D1 and D2 as follows. It displays on the display part 31 (refer FIG. 38 and FIG. 39).

FIG. 38 is an explanatory diagram of processing performed on the image data D1 of the rat A.
The control unit 32 reads the rat A image data D1 stored in the server 20. Next, the display control means 32a of the control unit 32 uses the RL axis as the central axis so that the original SI axis matches the new SI axis and the original AP axis matches the new AP axis. A rotation process for rotating the image data D1 of the rat A by 90 ° clockwise is performed. By performing the rotation process, the original SI axis can be matched with the new SI axis, and the original AP axis can be matched with the new AP axis. The image data D1 after the rotation processing is performed is displayed on the display unit 31.

FIG. 39 is an explanatory diagram of processing performed on the image data D2 of rat B.
The control unit 32 reads the rat B image data D <b> 2 stored in the server 20. Next, the display control unit 32a of the control unit 32 performs a rotation process for rotating the image data D2 of the rat B by 90 ° clockwise with the RL axis as the central axis. By performing the rotation process, the original AP axis can be matched with the new AP axis.

  However, only by rotating the image data D2 clockwise by 90 °, the original SI axis direction is opposite to the new SI axis direction. Therefore, the display control unit 32a performs a reversing process for reversing the image data D2 of rat B with respect to the SI axis so that the original SI axis direction coincides with the new SI axis direction. By performing the inversion process, the original SI axis direction can be matched with the new SI axis direction. The image data D2 after the rotation process and the inversion process are performed is displayed on the display unit 31.

  FIG. 40 shows image data D1 and D2 displayed on the display unit 31. Since both the image data D1 and the image data D2 are displayed so that the rat faces the right side, it is not necessary for the image interpreter 40 to rotate or invert the image data D1 and D2. Work burden can be reduced.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where image data acquired by a magnetic resonance apparatus is displayed on a display device has been described. However, the present invention is acquired by another medical apparatus such as a CT apparatus. The present invention can also be applied when image data is displayed on a display device.

2 Magnet 3 Table 3a Cradle 4 Receiving coil 5 Transmitter 6 Gradient magnetic field power supply 7 Receiver 8 Control unit 9 Operation unit 10 Display unit 11 Subject 21 Bore 81 Image data creation means 82 Correction means 100 MR apparatus

Claims (13)

A medical device for acquiring image data of a photographing object,
A display unit;
Information on the first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data in the left half part of the object to be imaged on the display unit and the second image data in the right body part of the object to be imaged are displayed. An input unit for inputting information on the second coordinate axis when displayed on the unit;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit ;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data ;
Associating means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data ;
Together to display the first image data on the display unit based on the first coordinate axis associated with said first image data, the second coordinate axis associated with said second image data Display control means for causing the display unit to display the second image data based on
A medical device.   A first imaging object and a second imaging object are arranged in the cradle, and first image data of the first imaging object and second image data of the second imaging object are acquired. A medical device for
  A display unit;
  An input unit for inputting information on a first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data on the display unit and information on a second coordinate axis when displaying the second image data on the display unit When,
  Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit;
  Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data;
  Associating means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data;
  Based on the first coordinate axes associated with the first image data, the first image data is displayed on the display unit, and the second coordinate axes associated with the second image data. Display control means for causing the display unit to display the second image data based on
A medical device. The display control means includes
Based on the first coordinate axis associated with said first image data, a rotation process for rotating the first image data, at least any one of an inversion processing for inverting the first image data The medical apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the first image data subjected to at least one of the processes is displayed on the display unit.   The display control means includes
  Based on the second coordinate axis associated with the second image data, at least one of a rotation process for rotating the second image data and an inversion process for inverting the second image data. The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the processes is performed, and the second image data subjected to the at least one of the processes is displayed on the display unit. The scanning means includes
Run the localizer scan to acquire localizer image data to be used when setting the slice position,
The coordinate axis setting means includes
The medical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis are set after the localizer scan is performed and before the imaging scan is performed. apparatus. Previous site Kihidari body half is left, part of the right body is right, medical device of claim 1. Wherein the each of the first coordinate axis and a second coordinate axis, SI axis, RL axis, and at least one of the axis of the AP axis is included, any one of claims 1-6 one The medical device according to item. A display device for displaying image data of a photographing object acquired by a medical device,
The medical device comprises:
Information on the first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data in the left half part of the object to be imaged on the display unit and the second image data in the right body part of the object to be imaged are displayed. An input unit for inputting information on the second coordinate axis when displayed on the unit;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit ;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data ;
Associating means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data ;
Have
The display device
A display unit;
Together to display the first image data on the display unit based on the first coordinate axis associated with said first image data, the second coordinate axis associated with said second image data Display control means for causing the display unit to display the second image data based on
A display device.   A first imaging object and a second imaging object are arranged in the cradle, and first image data of the first imaging object and second image data of the second imaging object are acquired. A display device that displays the first image data and the second image data acquired by the medical device,
  The medical device comprises:
  An input unit for inputting information on a first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data on the display unit and information on a second coordinate axis when displaying the second image data on the display unit When,
  Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit;
  Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data;
  Associating means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data;
Have
  The display device
  A display unit;
  Based on the first coordinate axes associated with the first image data, the first image data is displayed on the display unit, and the second coordinate axes associated with the second image data. Display control means for causing the display unit to display the second image data based on
A display device. Information on the first coordinate axis when displaying the display unit, the first image data on the left body part of the imaging object on the display unit, and the second image on the right body part of the imaging object An input unit for inputting information on a second coordinate axis when displaying data on the display unit, and a scanning unit for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data A medical device program comprising:
A coordinate axis setting process for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit ;
Associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data ;
A program to make a computer execute.   A first imaging object and a second imaging object are arranged in the cradle, and first image data of the first imaging object and second image data of the second imaging object are acquired. When displaying the display unit, the information on the first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data on the display unit, and the second image data on the display unit A program for a medical apparatus, comprising: an input unit that inputs information on the second coordinate axis; and a scanning unit that executes an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data. ,
  A coordinate axis setting process for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit;
  Associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data;
A program to make a computer execute. A program for a display device that displays image data of a photographing object acquired by a medical device,
The medical device comprises:
Information on the first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data in the left half part of the object to be imaged on the display unit and the second image data in the right body part of the object to be imaged are displayed. An input unit for inputting information on the second coordinate axis when displayed on the unit;
Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit ;
Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data ;
An association means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data ;
The program is
Together to display the first image data on the display unit based on the first coordinate axis associated with said first image data, the second coordinate axis associated with said second image data A program for causing a computer to execute a display control process for displaying the second image data on the display unit based on the above .   A first imaging object and a second imaging object are arranged in the cradle, and first image data of the first imaging object and second image data of the second imaging object are acquired. A program for a display device for displaying the first image data and the second image data acquired by the medical device,
  The medical device comprises:
  An input unit for inputting information on a first coordinate axis when displaying the first image data on the display unit and information on a second coordinate axis when displaying the second image data on the display unit When,
  Coordinate axis setting means for setting the first coordinate axis and the second coordinate axis based on information input by the input unit;
  Scanning means for executing an imaging scan for acquiring the first image data and the second image data;
  An association means for associating the first coordinate axis with the first image data and associating the second coordinate axis with the second image data;
  The program is
  Based on the first coordinate axes associated with the first image data, the first image data is displayed on the display unit, and the second coordinate axes associated with the second image data. A program for causing a computer to execute a display control process for displaying the second image data on the display unit based on the above.