JP6132493B2 - X-ray CT apparatus, image display apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an X-ray CT apparatus and an image display apparatus.

  An X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) apparatus is an apparatus that scans a subject using X-rays and processes the collected data by a computer, thereby imaging the inside of the subject.

  Specifically, the X-ray CT apparatus emits X-rays to a subject a plurality of times from different directions, detects X-rays transmitted through the subject with an X-ray detector, and generates a plurality of detection data. collect. The collected detection data is A / D converted by the data collection unit and then transmitted to the console device. The console device pre-processes the detection data and creates projection data. And a console apparatus performs the reconstruction process based on projection data, and produces CT image data.

  By the way, when an X-ray CT apparatus scans an object having a motion such as the heart, there is a possibility that a CT image obtained by the influence of the motion is blurred (motion artifacts may occur). In order to reduce the influence of this movement, for example, there is a technique called electrocardiographic synchronization reconstruction. In the ECG synchronization reconstruction, an X-ray scan is performed in a state where the heart or the like is moving, and ECG waveform data is acquired by an electrocardiograph in parallel with the X-ray scan. And there exists a method of specifying the detection data acquired at the timing with little influence of movement in the electrocardiogram waveform data among the acquired detection data, and reconstructing only the detection data. In this way, the X-ray CT apparatus creates CT image data by reconstructing only detection data acquired at a timing with little influence of motion. That is, a CT image based on this CT image data is an image in which motion artifacts and the like are reduced.

JP 2006-158444 A

  Here, when observing a CT image based on detection data obtained by electrocardiographic synchronization reconstruction, it may be desired to confirm an electrocardiographic waveform image corresponding to the CT image. For this purpose, the CT image and the electrocardiographic waveform image need to be associated with each other.

  The embodiment has been made to solve the above-described problems, and can easily associate a CT image (CT image data) with a corresponding electrocardiographic waveform image (electrocardiographic waveform image data). An object is to provide an X-ray CT apparatus and an image display apparatus.

The X-ray CT apparatus of the embodiment performs X-ray scanning on a subject and acquires detection data. The X-ray CT apparatus includes a setting unit, a specifying unit, a reconstruction processing unit, and a control unit. The setting unit sets a desired range for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan. The specifying unit specifies detection data acquired at a timing included in a desired range from the detection data. The reconstruction processing unit performs ECG-synchronized reconstruction processing on the projection data based on the identified detection data, and creates CT image data. The controller associates the electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the electrocardiographic waveform data in which a desired range is set with the CT image data based on the specified detection data, using a signal for starting the electrocardiographic synchronization reconstruction process as a trigger. To remember.

1 is a block diagram of an X-ray CT apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a figure which supplements description of the setting part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which supplements description of the specific part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the display part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the display part which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of operation | movement of the X-ray CT apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows the electrocardiogram waveform which concerns on the modification 1. It is a figure which shows the display screen of the display part which concerns on the modification 1. FIG.

(Embodiment)
The configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

<Device configuration>
As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a gantry device 10, a bed device 30, and a console device 40. In addition to the X-ray CT apparatus 1, an electrocardiograph 50 is provided.

[Mounting device]
The gantry device 10 is an apparatus that irradiates the subject E with X-rays and collects detection data of the X-rays transmitted through the subject E. The gantry device 10 includes an X-ray generator 11, an X-ray detector 12, a rotating body 13, a high voltage generator 14, a gantry driver 15, an X-ray diaphragm 16, a diaphragm driver 17, And a data collection unit 18.

  The X-ray generator 11 includes an X-ray tube that generates X-rays (for example, a vacuum tube that generates a conical or pyramidal beam (not shown)). The generated X-ray is exposed to the subject E. That is, the X-ray generator 11 emits X-rays to the subject E.

  The X-ray detection unit 12 includes a plurality of X-ray detection elements (not shown). The X-ray detection unit 12 detects X-ray intensity distribution data (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “detection data”) indicating the intensity distribution of X-rays transmitted through the subject E with an X-ray detection element, and the detection data is Output as a current signal. That is, the X-ray detection unit 12 detects X-rays that have passed through the subject E and outputs detection data. As the X-ray detection unit 12, for example, a two-dimensional X-ray detector (plane detector) in which a plurality of detection elements are arranged in two directions (slice direction and channel direction) orthogonal to each other is used. The plurality of X-ray detection elements are provided, for example, in 320 rows along the slice direction. By using a multi-row X-ray detector in this way, it is possible to image a three-dimensional imaging region having a width in the slice direction by one rotation scan (volume scan). The slice direction corresponds to the body axis direction of the subject E, and the channel direction corresponds to the rotation direction of the X-ray generation unit 11.

  The rotating body 13 is a member that supports the X-ray generation unit 11 and the X-ray detection unit 12 so as to face each other with the subject E interposed therebetween. The rotating body 13 has an opening 13a penetrating in the slice direction. In the gantry device 10, the rotating body 13 is arranged so as to rotate in a circular orbit around the subject E.

  The high voltage generator 14 applies a high voltage to the X-ray generator 11. The X-ray generator 11 generates X-rays based on the high voltage. The gantry driving unit 15 drives the rotating body 13 to rotate. The X-ray diaphragm section 16 has a slit (opening) having a predetermined width, and by changing the width of the slit, the fan angle (expansion angle in the channel direction) of X-rays exposed from the X-ray generation section 11 and X Adjust the cone angle of the line (the spread angle in the slice direction). The diaphragm drive unit 17 drives the X-ray diaphragm unit 16 so that the X-rays generated by the X-ray generation unit 11 have a predetermined shape.

  A data collection unit 18 (DAS: Data Acquisition System) collects detection data from the X-ray detection unit 12 (each X-ray detection element). The data collection unit 18 converts the collected detection data (current signal) into a voltage signal, periodically integrates and amplifies the voltage signal, and converts the voltage signal into a digital signal. Then, the data collecting unit 18 transmits the detection data converted into the digital signal to the console device 40 (image processing unit 44 (described later)).

[Bed equipment]
The couch device 30 is a device for placing and moving the subject E to be imaged. The couch device 30 includes a couch 31 and a couch driving unit 32. The couch 31 includes a couch top 33 for placing the subject E and a base 34 that supports the couch top 33. The couch top 33 can be moved by the couch driving unit 32 in the body axis direction of the subject E and in the direction perpendicular to the body axis direction. That is, the bed driving unit 32 can insert and remove the bed top plate 33 on which the subject E is placed with respect to the opening 13 a of the rotating body 13. The base 34 can move the bed top 33 in the vertical direction (a direction perpendicular to the body axis direction of the subject E) by the bed driving unit 32.

[Console device]
The console device 40 is used for operation input to the X-ray CT apparatus 1. Further, the console device 40 has a function of reconstructing CT image data (tomographic image data and volume data) representing the internal form of the subject E from the detection data collected by the gantry device 10. The console device 40 includes a scan control unit 41, a setting unit 42, a specifying unit 43, an image processing unit 44, a control unit 45, a display control unit 46, an input unit 47, a storage unit 48, and a display unit. 49.

  The scan control unit 41 controls various operations related to X-ray scanning. For example, the scan control unit 41 controls the gantry driving unit 15 to rotationally drive the rotating body 13. The scan control unit 41 controls the aperture driving unit 17 to operate the X-ray aperture unit 16. The scan control unit 41 controls the bed driving unit 32 to move the bed 31.

  In the present embodiment, the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E is acquired by the electrocardiograph 50 in parallel with the X-ray scan by the X-ray CT apparatus 1. That is, the time axis of the X-ray scan and the time axis of the electrocardiographic waveform data are synchronized. The detection data acquired by the X-ray scan and the electrocardiographic waveform data are associated on the same time axis and stored in the storage unit 48 or the like.

  The setting unit 42 sets a desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan.

The electrocardiographic waveform data is data indicating the state of electrical activity of the heart. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E as a graph G. In FIG. 2, the vertical axis represents voltage, and the horizontal axis represents time (t). By referring to the graph G, the surgeon can confirm that the R waves r _k (k = 1 to n) are detected at regular intervals with the movement of the heart of the subject E (in FIG. 2, Only the R waves r _{1 to} r ₃ are shown). Further, the surgeon can confirm that a wave Ar indicating an arrhythmia is detected between the R wave r ₂ and the R wave r ₃ .

  The desired range R is a range corresponding to the time phase of the electrocardiogram waveform data (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “timing”), and is a range for specifying detection data used for creating a CT image (CT image data). It is. The desired range R is a range indicating a timing at which the influence of movement of the heart or the like is small. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can create a CT image with less influence of motion based on detection data acquired at a timing included in a desired range R (details will be described later).

The desired range R can be set manually. In this case, the display control unit 46 causes the display unit 49 to display the graph G indicating the electrocardiographic waveform data shown in FIG. The surgeon designates an arbitrary region in the graph G (region corresponding to the desired range R) via the input unit 47 or the like. FIG. 2 shows an example in which a region where there is no influence of arrhythmia (a partial region between R wave r ₁ and R wave r ₂ ) is designated. The setting unit 42 sets an arbitrary region designated by the input unit 47 or the like as the desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data. The designation of an arbitrary area by the input unit 47 can be directly written in the graph G by using a marker or the like, for example. Alternatively, the R wave interval is divided into a plurality of regions (for example, 1 to 100) in advance, and an arbitrary region is designated by inputting a numerical value (for example, 50 to 90) corresponding to the region through the input unit 47. May be.

The desired range R can also be set automatically. For example, when there is an abnormality in the motion of the heart, the interval between R waves may vary. A CT image based on detection data obtained in a state where there is an abnormality in the motion of the heart is highly likely to be affected by motion artifacts. Therefore, general intervals S between R waves are classified in advance in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 by age, body type, etc., and registered as a part of the expert plan. Setting unit 42 compares the distance S that has been registered, the spacing S'R-wave adjacent the acquired electrocardiographic waveform data (interval between R-wave r _k-1 and R-wave r _k). When the interval S and the interval S ′ are substantially equal, the heart motion is likely to be normal. In this case, the setting unit 42 sets the region in the interval S ′ as the desired range R. The expert plan is an inspection plan including various conditions in a series of operations in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 such as a scan condition for performing an X-ray scan. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 performs X-ray scanning and reconstruction processing based on a preset expert plan, and creates a CT image.

The ratio of the desired range R in the interval S ′ can be arbitrarily set. For example, a range to be set as a desired range R in the expert plan is stored in advance. When the setting unit 42 determines that the interval S and the interval S ′ are equal, the setting unit 42 sets the desired range R by applying the stored range to be set to the electrocardiographic waveform data. Also good. For example, "out between R-wave r _{k-1 to R-wave} r _k, the area corresponding from R-wave r _k 75%" as a range to be set and is stored in the expert plan. In this case, setting unit 42, among the regions in interval S', it sets the area corresponding from R-wave r _k to 75% as the desired range R.

  Note that the setting unit 42 may set the exclusion range R ′ for a region affected by arrhythmia by the same method as that for setting the desired range R (see FIG. 2). By observing the electrocardiogram waveform image in which the exclusion range R ′ is set, the surgeon confirms that the detection data acquired at the timing included in the exclusion range R ′ is not used for creating the CT image data. Yes (details below). Desirably, the desired range R and the excluded range R ′ can be identified when displayed as an electrocardiographic waveform image H (described later). In this case, the setting unit 42 performs setting so that the marker indicating the desired range R and the marker indicating the exclusion range R ′ have different forms and colors.

  The specifying unit 43 specifies detection data acquired at a timing included in a desired range R among detection data obtained by X-ray scanning.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the correspondence between the electrocardiogram waveform data and the detection data (the upper part shows the electrocardiogram waveform data, the lower part shows the detection data, and the horizontal axis shows time (t)). As described above, the time axis of the X-ray scan and the time axis of the electrocardiogram waveform data are synchronized. Therefore, when the desired range R is set in the electrocardiogram waveform data, the specifying unit 43 can specify the detection data D acquired at the time (timing) included in the desired range R.

  The image processing unit 44 performs various processes on the detection data transmitted from the gantry device 10 (data collection unit 18). In the present embodiment, the image processing unit 44 performs various processes on the detection data D specified by the specifying unit 43. The image processing unit 44 includes a preprocessing unit 44a, a reconstruction processing unit 44b, and a rendering processing unit 44c.

  The preprocessing unit 44a performs preprocessing such as logarithmic conversion processing, offset correction, sensitivity correction, and beam hardening correction on the detection data detected by the gantry device 10 (X-ray detection unit 12) to create projection data. To do.

  The reconstruction processing unit 44b creates CT image data (two-dimensional tomographic image data and three-dimensional volume data) based on the projection data created by the preprocessing unit 44a. For reconstruction of tomographic image data, any method such as a two-dimensional Fourier transform method, a convolution / back projection method, or the like can be employed. Volume data is created by interpolating a plurality of reconstructed tomographic image data. For the reconstruction of volume data, for example, an arbitrary method such as a cone beam reconstruction method, a multi-slice reconstruction method, an enlargement reconstruction method, or the like can be adopted. As described above, a wide range of volume data can be reconstructed by volume scanning using a multi-row X-ray detector.

  The rendering processor 44c performs a rendering process on the volume data created by the reconstruction processor 44b. For example, the rendering processing unit 44c displays the MPR by rendering the volume data created by the reconstruction processing unit 44b in an arbitrary direction. That is, the rendering processing unit 44c creates an MPR image (MPR image data).

  The control unit 45 performs overall control of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 by controlling operations of the gantry device 10, the couch device 30, and the console device 40. For example, the control unit 45 controls the image processing unit 44 to perform various processing (preprocessing, reconstruction processing, MPR processing, etc.) on the detected data. Alternatively, the control unit 45 performs various controls related to image display. For example, the control unit 45 causes the display unit 49 to display a CT image based on the image data stored in the storage unit 48.

  In addition, the control unit 45 in the present embodiment is based on the electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is designated and the detected data D specified based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process. The CT image data is associated and stored in the storage unit 48 or the like.

  For example, when a surgeon inputs an instruction to start the reconstruction process via the input unit 47 or the like, the control unit 45 causes the reconstruction processing unit 44b to control the reconstruction unit 44b based on the instruction input. This is an instruction signal that causes the reconstruction processing to be executed. Alternatively, when the reconstruction process is automatically started based on the expert plan, the signal for starting the reconstruction process is an instruction signal for the control unit 45 to cause the reconstruction processing unit 44b to perform the reconstruction process based on the expert plan. It is.

  Based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process, the control unit 45 acquires the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is set by the setting unit 42 as electrocardiographic waveform image data. Specifically, the control unit 45 captures the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is set as an image, and acquires it as electrocardiographic waveform image data. That is, the electrocardiographic waveform image data in the present embodiment is integral image data including the electrocardiographic waveform data and information indicating the desired range R. The electrocardiographic waveform image data may include information indicating the exclusion range R ′.

  The control unit 45 obtains the acquired electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data generated by the image processing unit 44 (the preprocessing unit 44a and the reconstruction processing unit 44b) based on the detection data specified by the specifying unit 43. The data are stored in the storage unit 48 in association with each other. The CT image data is created based on a signal for starting the reconstruction process. In the present embodiment, for a plurality of CT image data, one image data indicating the entire electrocardiographic waveform data in which a desired range R is set is stored as electrocardiographic waveform image data.

  As described above, the control unit 45 uses the signal for starting the reconstruction process (reconstruction process request) as a trigger to generate the ECG waveform image data and the CT image data based on the detection data identified based on the ECG waveform. Perform the association automatically. Therefore, since it is not necessary for the surgeon to instruct the association every time, the operation in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is simplified. The electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data are also associated with the patient ID of the subject. Therefore, by inputting the patient ID, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 (control unit 45) can read the corresponding electrocardiographic waveform image data and CT image data.

  The display control unit 46 performs various controls related to image display. For example, the display unit 49 is controlled to display a CT image based on the CT image data created by the reconstruction processing unit 44b. In addition, the display control unit 46 can display one piece of information or an image in each display area by setting one screen (display screen) of the display unit 49 as one page and providing a plurality of display areas in one page. . The view page VP described below is an example.

  The view page VP is a screen for observing and processing a CT image based on the reconstructed CT image data. In the view page VP, CT images based on a plurality of tomographic image data constituting one volume data can be displayed in parallel. It is also possible to designate an arbitrary cross section on the displayed CT image. In this case, the rendering processing unit 44c creates an MPR image corresponding to the designated cross section. The display control unit 46 displays the created MPR image on the display unit 49 (view page VP).

In the present embodiment, the display control unit 46 causes the display unit 49 to display an ECG waveform image based on the stored ECG waveform image data and a CT image based on the stored CT image data. For example, FIGS. 4A and 4B are screens showing an example of the view page VP. View page VP has a display area _{P 1} and _{P 2.} Note that the view page VP shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B shows only a part of the display area necessary for describing the present embodiment.

For example, when the patient ID of the subject E is input, the control unit 45 reads the ECG waveform image data in which the desired range R corresponding to the patient ID is set and the CT image data based on the specified detection data. . The display control unit 46 converts the CT image (tomographic image) I _k (k = 1 to n) based on the CT image data read into the display area P ₁ of the view page VP and the read ECG waveform image data. The electrocardiographic waveform images H based on the images are displayed side by side (see FIG. 4A). Is this way, by displaying the electrocardiographic waveform image H associated with the CT image I _k on one screen, the operator was created on the basis of what electrocardiographic waveform CT image being displayed Can be easily understood. For example, the operator who viewed the electrocardiographic waveform image H in Figure 4A, the display of the predetermined range R, the detection data CT image I _k is acquired at a timing between the R-wave r ₁ and R-wave r ₂ It can be confirmed that it was created based on this. On the other hand, the operator who viewed the electrocardiographic waveform image H in Figure 4A, the display of the exclusion range R', the detection data obtained at the timing between the CT image I _k is R wave r ₂ and R wave r ₃ You can confirm that you are not using it.

When the displayed electrocardiographic waveform image H or CT image _Ik is selected by the input unit 47 or the like, the display control unit 46 can also display the selected image in an enlarged manner. For example, if the electrocardiographic waveform image H is selected, the display control unit 46, it is possible to enlarge the electrocardiographic waveform image H in the display area P ₂ in view page VP (see FIG. 4B). By enlarging and displaying the image, it is possible to easily specify the MPR cross section for the CT image and confirm the details of the electrocardiographic waveform.

  The input unit 47 is used as an input device that performs various operations on the console device 40. The input unit 47 is composed of, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, and the like. As the input unit 47, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on the display unit 49 can be used.

  The storage unit 48 is configured by a semiconductor storage device such as a RAM or a ROM. The storage unit 48 stores detection data, projection data, or CT image data after reconstruction processing. In the present embodiment, as described above, the storage unit 48 stores CT image data and electrocardiographic waveform image data in association with each other.

  The display unit 49 includes an arbitrary display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display. For example, the reconstructed CT image is displayed on the display unit 49.

  The scan control unit 41, the setting unit 42, the specifying unit 43, the image processing unit 44, the control unit 45, and the display control unit 46 are, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), or an ASIC (Application). A processing device (not shown) such as a specific integrated circuit (ROM) and a storage device (not shown) such as a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), or an HDD (hard disc drive) are included. The storage device stores a control program for executing the function of each unit. A processing device such as a CPU executes the functions of each unit by executing each program stored in the storage device.

[Electrocardiograph]
The electrocardiograph 50 is connected to the subject E and detects a weak electrical signal generated by the heartbeat of the subject E. The electrocardiograph 50 outputs the time change of the detected electrical signal as electrocardiographic waveform data.

<Operation>
Next, the operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, an example will be described in which the X-ray CT apparatus 1 executes an electrocardiogram synchronization reconstruction process based on a certain expert plan.

  When starting the X-ray scan, the operator selects an expert plan suitable for the subject E (S10). In the expert plan, conditions for setting a desired range R in the electrocardiographic waveform data are determined together with the scanning conditions and the reconstruction processing conditions.

  The X-ray CT apparatus 1 starts an X-ray scan for the subject E based on the expert plan selected in S10 (S11). The electrocardiograph 50 acquires electrocardiographic waveform data in parallel with the X-ray scan in S11 (S12).

  The setting unit 42 sets a desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data obtained in S12 based on the expert plan selected in S10 (S13).

  The specifying unit 43 specifies the detection data D acquired at the timing included in the predetermined range R set in S13 (S14).

  The reconstruction processing unit 44b reconstructs the projection data based on the detection data D identified in S14 based on the expert plan selected in S10, and creates CT image data (S15).

  Based on the signal for starting reconstruction processing in S15, the control unit 45 generates electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is set in S13, and the CT image data created in S15. Are stored in the storage unit 48 (S16).

After the X-ray scan is completed, the display control unit 46 displays the view page VP on the display unit 49 based on an instruction input from the operator. When the surgeon inputs the patient ID or the like of the subject E, the display control unit 46 reads out CT image data and electrocardiographic waveform image data corresponding to the input patient ID from the storage unit 48. Then, the display control unit 46 displays side by side on the display unit 49 electrocardiographic waveform image H based on the CT image I _k and electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the CT image data read out (S17. See Fig. 4A).

  In the present embodiment, the configuration of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 has been described. However, the configuration that achieves the action in the present embodiment is not limited to the X-ray CT apparatus 1. For example, the detection data acquired by the X-ray CT apparatus 1, the electrocardiographic waveform data acquired by the electrocardiograph 50, and the like are transmitted to an apparatus different from the X-ray CT apparatus 1 (for example, an image display apparatus such as an image viewer). The same function as that of the embodiment can be realized by performing similar processing in the apparatus. In this case, it is desirable that at least a setting unit 42, a specifying unit 43, a reconstruction processing unit 44b, a control unit 45, a display control unit 46, and a display unit 49 are provided in the image display device. Note that the control unit 45 provided in the image display device detects at least ECG waveform image data based on ECG waveform data in which a desired range R is set based on a signal for starting reconstruction processing. It is only necessary to have a function of storing the CT image data based on the above in association with each other. Further, the storage unit 48 may be in the image display apparatus or in the X-ray CT apparatus 1. Alternatively, an external server or the like may function as the storage unit 48.

<Action and effect>
The operation and effect of this embodiment will be described.

  The X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment performs an X-ray scan on the subject E and acquires detection data. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a setting unit 42, a specifying unit 43, a reconstruction processing unit 44b, and a control unit 45. The setting unit 42 sets a desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan. The specifying unit 43 specifies the detection data acquired at the timing included in the desired range R among the detection data. The reconstruction processing unit 44b reconstructs projection data based on the identified detection data, and creates CT image data. Based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process, the control unit 45 associates the electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is set with the CT image data based on the identified detection data. Remember.

  As described above, the control unit 45 automatically stores the electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process. Therefore, the electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data can be stored in association with each other even if the surgeon does not instruct the association each time. That is, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in the present embodiment, CT image data (CT image) and corresponding electrocardiographic waveform data (electrocardiographic waveform image) can be easily associated. Therefore, the operation in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 becomes simple.

  In addition, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has a display control unit 46. The display control unit 46 causes the display unit 49 to display an ECG waveform image based on the stored ECG waveform image data and a CT image based on the stored CT image data.

In this way, the display control unit 46 causes the display unit 49 to display the electrocardiographic waveform image H and the CT image _Ik together. Therefore, for example, by observing an electrocardiographic waveform image in which the region excluding the range where the arrhythmia is detected as the desired range R together with the CT image, the surgeon can display the displayed CT image as an arrhythmia. It can be confirmed that the image is based on detection data having no influence. That is, according to the X-ray CT apparatus 1 in the present embodiment, it is possible to confirm the CT image and the corresponding electrocardiographic waveform image together.

Further, the configuration of the present embodiment can be applied to an image display apparatus. Such an image display device includes a setting unit 42, a specifying unit 43, a reconstruction processing unit 44b, a control unit 45, a display control unit 46, and a display unit 49. The setting unit 42 sets a desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan for the subject E. The specifying unit 43 specifies the detection data acquired at the timing included in the desired range R among the detection data acquired by the X-ray scan. The reconstruction processing unit 44b reconstructs projection data based on the identified detection data, and creates CT image data. Based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process, the control unit 45 associates the electrocardiographic waveform image data based on the electrocardiographic waveform data in which the desired range R is set with the CT image data based on the identified detection data. Remember. The display control unit 46 displays together CT image I _k based on the CT image data heart is wave-shaped image H and the storage based on the stored electrocardiographic waveform image data to the display unit 49.

  Thus, also in the external device of the X-ray CT apparatus 1, the control unit 45 automatically stores the electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process. Therefore, the electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data can be stored in association with each other even if the surgeon does not instruct the association each time. That is, according to the image display apparatus in the present embodiment, CT image data (CT image) and corresponding electrocardiographic waveform data (electrocardiographic waveform image) can be easily associated. Therefore, the operation in the X-ray CT apparatus 1 becomes simple. Furthermore, according to the image display apparatus in the present embodiment, it is possible to confirm the CT image and the corresponding electrocardiographic waveform image together.

(Modification 1)
For example, a plurality of desired ranges R _k (k = 1 to n) may be set in the electrocardiographic waveform data obtained along with the X-ray scan (see FIG. 6). FIG. 6 shows an example in which two desired ranges R ₁ and R ₂ are set.

In this case, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 creates CT image data based on the detection data D _k (k = 1 to n) acquired at the timing included in each desired range R _k and the corresponding electrocardiogram waveform. It can be associated with image data.

More specifically, the control unit 45 to the CT image data based on the detection data D _k acquired at timing included in the respective desired range R _k, as electrocardiographic waveform image data, a desired range R _k is Of the set electrocardiographic waveform data, only the electrocardiographic waveform data indicating the desired range R _k corresponding to the timing at which the detection data D _{k that} is the basis of the CT image data is acquired are stored in association with each other.

For example, it is assumed that the setting unit 42 sets desired ranges R ₁ and R ₂ for the electrocardiographic waveform data based on an instruction input from the input unit 47.

At this time, the control unit 45 to the CT image data based on the detection data D ₁ acquired at timing included in the desired range R _1, the electrocardiographic waveform data including a desired range R ₁ (for example, R-wave r _{1 to} R wave r ₂ ) are associated as electrocardiographic waveform image data.

The control unit 45, with respect to the CT image data based on the detection data D ₂ acquired by the timing included in the desired range R _2, the electrocardiographic waveform data including a desired range R ₂ (e.g., R-wave r ₂ associate region) to ~R wave r ₃ as electrocardiographic waveform image data.

Then, the display control unit 46 displays the electrocardiographic waveform image H ₁ based on the electrocardiographic waveform image data including the desired range R ₁ and the CT image I _k based on the detection data D ₁ , and displays the desired range R ₂ . An electrocardiogram waveform image H ₂ based on the included electrocardiogram waveform image data and a CT image I _k ′ based on the detection data D ₂ are displayed (see FIG. 7). In view page VP shown in FIG. 7, the display control unit 46 displays an enlarged electrocardiographic waveform image H ₁ in the display area P _2.

In this modification, the display control unit 46, an electrocardiographic waveform images H ₁ and the desired range R ₂ based on the electrocardiographic waveform image data between the R-wave r ₁ -R wave r ₂ containing desired range R ₁ and to display the electrocardiographic waveform image H ₂ based on the electrocardiographic waveform image data between the R-wave r ₂ -R wave r ₃ including. However, the displayed electrocardiographic waveform image is not limited to this. That is, the electrocardiogram waveform image H ₁ (electrocardiogram waveform image H ₂ ) is at least a desired range corresponding to CT image data (CT image data based on the detection data D ₂ ) based on the detection data D ₁ stored in association therewith. R ₁ (desired range R ₂ ) may be indicated.

For example, the control unit 45 associates the electrocardiographic waveform data from the R wave r _{1 to the} R wave r ₃ including the desired range R ₁ to the CT image data based on the detection data D ₁ as the electrocardiographic waveform image data. On the other hand, the control unit 45 associates the electrocardiographic waveform data from R waves r _{1 to} r ₃ including the desired range R ₂ to the CT image data based on the detection data D ₂ as electrocardiographic waveform image data. In this case, the display control unit 46 includes an electrocardiographic waveform image H ₁ ′ based on electrocardiographic waveform image data between the R wave r _{1 and the} R wave r ₃ including the desired range R ₁ and R including the desired range R _2. An electrocardiographic waveform image H ₂ ′ based on the electrocardiographic waveform image data between the wave r _{1 and the} R wave r ₃ can be displayed. In this way, by using the same electrocardiogram waveform data, the detection data that is the basis of each CT image data is obtained at which timing in the entire electrocardiogram waveform, and in what state (for example, whether there is an arrhythmia It is possible to easily confirm whether it was acquired in (None).

(Modification 2)
As a technique for reducing the influence of the motion of the heart or the like in the X-ray scan, there is an electrocardiogram synchronous scan. An ECG-synchronized scan uses a previously acquired ECG waveform to specify a phase with little movement, and performs an X-ray scan (X-ray exposure) only within a predetermined range that includes the phase, thereby reducing the amount of exposure. On the other hand, this is a method of obtaining CT image data with little influence of motion. The configuration of the above embodiment can also be applied to this electrocardiogram synchronous scan.

  For example, first, the electrocardiogram waveform data of the subject E is acquired by the electrocardiograph 50. The surgeon selects an area with little movement while viewing the electrocardiogram waveform image based on the electrocardiogram waveform data. The setting unit 42 sets the selected area as a desired range R. That is, the setting unit 42 sets a desired range R for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject E.

  Thereafter, when an X-ray scan start instruction is given via the input unit 47 or the like, the scan control unit 41 instructs the X-ray generation unit 11 at a timing corresponding to the desired range R set by the setting unit 42. X-ray scanning is performed by generating X-rays. The detection data acquired by this X-ray scan is data (detection data D) acquired at a timing included in the desired range R.

  The reconstruction processing unit 44b reconstructs projection data based on the detection data D, and creates CT image data.

  Based on the signal for starting the reconstruction process, the control unit 45 stores the ECG waveform image data based on the ECG waveform data in which the desired range R is set and the CT image data in association with each other in the storage unit 48. .

Furthermore, even in the configuration corresponding to the electrocardiogram synchronous scan, the display control unit 46 displays the view page VP on the display unit 49 based on an instruction input from the operator. When the surgeon inputs the patient ID or the like of the subject E, the display control unit 46 reads out the CT image data and the electrocardiographic waveform image data corresponding to the input patient ID from the storage unit 48, and the CT image _Ik and the heart The radio wave image H can be displayed side by side on the display unit 49.

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

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 X-ray CT apparatus 10 Base apparatus 11 X-ray generation part 12 X-ray detection part 13 Rotating body 13a Opening part 14 High voltage generation part 15 Base drive part 16 X-ray aperture part 17 Aperture drive part 18 Data collection part 30 Bed apparatus 32 Sleeper drive unit 33 Sleeper top plate 34 Base 40 Console device 41 Scan control unit 42 Setting unit 43 Identification unit 44 Image processing unit 44a Preprocessing unit 44b Reconfiguration processing unit 44c Rendering processing unit 45 Control unit 46 Display control unit 47 Input unit 48 storage unit 49 display unit 50 electrocardiograph

Claims (7)

An X-ray CT apparatus that performs X-ray scanning on a subject and acquires detection data,
A setting unit for setting a desired range for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan;
Of the detection data, a specifying unit that specifies detection data acquired at a timing included in the desired range;
A reconstruction processing unit that performs ECG-synchronized reconstruction processing on the projection data based on the identified detection data, and creates CT image data;
Triggered by a signal for starting the ECG synchronization reconstruction process, the ECG waveform image data based on the ECG waveform data in which the desired range is set and the CT image data based on the specified detection data A control unit to store the associated information;
An X-ray CT apparatus comprising:   When a plurality of the desired ranges are set, the control unit sets the desired ranges for each of the CT image data based on the detection data acquired at a timing included in each of the desired ranges. 2. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one piece of image data indicating the electrocardiographic waveform data is stored in association with the electrocardiographic waveform image data.   When a plurality of the desired ranges are set, the control unit, for each of the CT image data based on the detection data acquired at the timing included in each of the desired ranges, as the electrocardiographic waveform image data, 2. The X-ray CT according to claim 1, wherein only the electrocardiographic waveform data indicating the desired range corresponding to the timing at which the detection data that is the basis of the CT image data is acquired is associated and stored. apparatus. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit reads the electrocardiographic waveform image data and the CT image data based on an input patient ID. Claim characterized in that it has a display control unit for displaying together the CT CT image based on the image data heart is wave-shaped images and stored based on the stored electrocardiographic waveform image data to the display unit 1-4 X-ray CT apparatus as described in any one of these. The X-ray CT apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein when the displayed electrocardiogram waveform image or the CT image is selected, the display control unit enlarges and displays the selected image. A setting unit that sets a desired range for the electrocardiographic waveform data of the subject obtained in parallel with the X-ray scan of the subject;
Among the detection data acquired by the X-ray scan, a specifying unit that specifies detection data acquired at a timing included in the desired range;
A reconstruction processing unit that performs ECG-synchronized reconstruction processing on the projection data based on the identified detection data, and creates CT image data;
Triggered by a signal for starting the ECG synchronization reconstruction process, the ECG waveform image data based on the ECG waveform data in which the desired range is set and the CT image data based on the specified detection data A control unit to store the associated information;
A display unit;
A display control unit for displaying an electrocardiogram waveform image based on the stored ECG waveform image data and a CT image based on the stored CT image data together on a display unit;
An image display device comprising:

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